FBT start up Tip #2 - UNity

​RDN need to be prepared to strengthen the team that is not FBT informed or trained.  In rural communities RDNs may find themselves as the most seasoned expert in adolescent nutrition and eating disorders.  This work is not for the faint of heart.  Build relationships and use documentation as way to educate and train others on the approach.  Build a team that works in concert to bring about the best results and resist splitting due to misunderstandings or miscommunication. 

TWO:  Instill a unified approach and communication style with medical providers, therapists and parents.

• Approach your FBT team work with openness, education, mentoring, research and humility.

              1.  All team members should study and read: Jim Locke and Daniel LaGrange's treatment manual  and book for parents.
               2.  Provide websites and reference to help the team understand the phases of treatment.
​               3.  Share this article with MD's and pediatricians.
               4.  Strengthen yourself by getting supervision, training and mentoring.  

• Share what the RDN can bring to the table
  1. Setting treatment goal weights and provide interpretation of growth records to team members.
  2. Help the team and parents prioritize weight restoration.
  3. Coaching parents on caloric density. menu planning, grocery shopping and snack ideas.
  4. Understanding symptoms as it relates to metabolism and negative energy balance.
  5. Separate the ED food preferences from previous true dislikes.
  6. Modify nutrition for transition: school, trips, and special occasions.
  7. Manage changes in physical activity when the weight restored client resumes a sport.
  8. Support parents and the treatment team with consistent feedback, documentation of medical red flags, symptom assessment and reduction, and overall impressions.
• Utilize resources on parent advocate sites. FEAST-ED.org

​- Be aware that parent advocate sites do not always support the role of the RDN