Eating Disorder: Pros and Cons
A motivational worksheet exploring perceived benefits and costs of an eating disorder, fears and hopes about recovery, and readiness.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Motivational interviewing
- Approach / concern
- Body Image & Eating
- Technique
- Motivational interviewing
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Eating Disorder: Pros and Cons?
Ambivalence is central in eating disorders, which can feel functional (control, coping, identity). Motivational approaches explore both sides without confrontation.
Why it works
Motivational interviewing helps resolve ambivalence (Miller & Rollnick, 2013). The Maudsley approach emphasizes motivational, non-confrontational support (Treasure et al., 2017).
When to use it
- Early engagement
- Ambivalent clients
- Relapse prevention
- Family sessions (adapted)
How to use it in session
- Validate the functions.
- List costs.
- Explore fears.
- Imagine gains.
- Rate readiness.
Clinician tips
- Don’t argue; reflect.
- Functions show what needs replacing.
- For eating disorders, use alongside specialist care and medical monitoring.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay that part of me doesn’t want to recover?
Yes. Ambivalence is common and understandable.
Will this force me to change?
No. It’s for understanding, not pressure.
References
Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
Treasure, J., Smith, G., & Crane, A. (2017). Skills-based caring for a loved one with an eating disorder: The new Maudsley method (2nd ed.). Routledge.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
