Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM) is an effective outpatient eating disorders treatment for anorexia nervosa, tested against evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT). Unlike CBT and IPT, SSCM allows for greater flexibility in sessions to address broader life issues and client goals as well as eating disorder behaviours. Ongoing research has confirmed SSCM as an effective, viable treatment option for eating disorders.

The two aims of SSCM are to:

1. Help clients make connections between their symptoms and life issues, and their eating behaviour and physical health/malnutrition-starvation
2. To support clients in a gradual return to normal eating, weight restoration (if required) and improved physical health.

SSCM builds on the existing core skills and strengths of mental health clinicians in clinical management and supportive psychotherapy to equip general mental health clinicians to apply their skills to working with clients experiencing eating disorders.

Core components of SSCM include:

• Person-Centred: Treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s specific challenges and circumstances.
• Symptom-Focused: SSCM addresses the eating disorder behaviours but doesn’t delve deeply into underlying causes.
• Psychoeducation: SSCM educates individuals about their eating disorder and the recovery process.
• Motivational Interviewing: Therapists use techniques to help individuals build a strong desire to recover and commit to treatment goals.
• Collaboration: The model encourages close collaboration between the individual, therapist, and other healthcare professionals involved.

Benefits of SSCM:

• Increased motivation for recovery.
• Improved understanding of the eating disorder.
• Development of self-management skills.
• Collaborative care environment.

SSCM provides valuable support for individuals with eating disorders, particularly those who may not be ready for or benefit from more theoretically-driven therapies.