My Eating Disorder Formulation
A CBT-E informed formulation worksheet mapping over-evaluation of shape, weight or control, dietary rules, checking, bingeing, compensation, other factors and a starting point.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · CBT-E informed formulation
- Approach / concern
- Body Image & Eating
- Technique
- CBT-E informed formulation
- 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 My Eating Disorder Formulation?
The transdiagnostic CBT model proposes that over-evaluation of shape, weight and eating control is the core maintaining factor, driving restriction, checking, bingeing and compensation.
Why it works
Fairburn’s (2008) transdiagnostic CBT-E uses a personalized formulation to guide treatment. Prevention research targets thin-ideal internalization and dieting (Stice et al., 2008).
When to use it
- Start of CBT-E
- Any eating disorder diagnosis
- Treatment planning
- Explaining maintenance to clients
How to use it in session
- Explore the core.
- Add behaviours.
- Note other factors.
- Choose a starting point.
- Revise as treatment progresses.
Clinician tips
- Draw it together in session.
- Keep it client-led and non-blaming.
- 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
What is a formulation?
A shared map explaining what keeps a problem going, used to plan treatment.
Do I need a diagnosis to use this?
No. It can be adapted for any eating difficulty.
References
Fairburn, C. G. (2008). Cognitive behavior therapy and eating disorders. Guilford Press.
Stice, E., Marti, C. N., Spoor, S., Presnell, K., & Shaw, H. (2008). Dissonance and healthy weight eating disorder prevention programs: Long-term effects from a randomized efficacy trial. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 76(2), 329-340.
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.
