Testing Virtual and Self-Help Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Veterans and Active Duty Service Members with Binge Eating Disorders

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying ways to improve access to evidence-based treatments for eating disorders, specifically Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder, among active duty Service members and Veterans. This trial compares two types of cognitive behavioral therapy CBT delivered virtually or as self-help, aiming to reduce binge eating frequency and improve mental health outcomes. The study also seeks to inform VA Clinical Practice Guidelines to better serve diverse and underrepresented populations affected by eating disorders. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups Telehealth Cognitive Behavioral Therapy TeleCBT or Self-Help Cognitive Behavioral Therapy shCBT. TeleCBT involves 8 to 10 individual sessions conducted by a masters-level clinician over three months using an approved video platform. The shCBT group will receive the same treatment materials by mail and complete one chapter per week independently over 12 weeks. Both treatments use the same CBT manual adapted for Veterans. During the study, participants will have assessments at baseline, 3 months post-treatment, and 6 months to measure changes in binge frequency using interviews and questionnaires. Additional evaluations will track depression, PTSD symptoms, overall wellness, and participant engagement and satisfaction. Researchers will monitor progress via surveys and clinical interviews to understand treatment effects and support future implementation. The total participation duration spans at least six months, including follow-up evaluations.

Building an Equitable and Accessible System of Eating Disorder Care for VA, DoD, and Underrepresented Americans