Eating Disorder Assessment (Adults)

 
 

What is an Eating Disorder Assessment?

An Eating Disorder Assessment provides a comprehensive medical and psychological evaluation for adults experiencing difficulties with eating, weight, or body image.

It explores both the psychological and physical aspects of disordered eating — including emotional triggers, nutritional patterns, and the impact on health and daily life. The goal is to reach an accurate diagnosis, understand contributing factors, and create a clear, individualised plan for treatment and recovery.

Assessments are carried out by a specialist psychiatrist experienced in eating disorders and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.

 

Who is an Eating Disorder Assessment for?

This assessment is suitable for adults who:

  • Are concerned about eating habits, restriction, bingeing, or purging behaviours
  • Are feeling overwhelmed by thoughts about food and dieting
  • Experience distress about body image or weight
  • Have been told by a GP or therapist that an eating disorder may be present
  • Need a formal diagnosis or second opinion
  • Have a history of an eating disorder and want a current review
  • Are preparing to start therapy or treatment and need psychiatric input
  • Are unsure whether their symptoms “count” as an eating disorder
  • Are struggling with both physical and emotional health due to food-related issues

It’s also appropriate if your symptoms don’t fit a specific category — such as Atypical Anorexia Nervosa or OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder) — or if your experiences are complicated by trauma, neurodivergence, or medication effects.

 

What does an Eating Disorder Assessment involve?

  • Comprehensive 2-hour initial appointment with a consultant psychiatrist
  • Detailed discussion of your eating patterns, body image, and emotional wellbeing
  • Exploration of personal history, physical health, and treatment background
  • Review of weight history (including current weight), exercise habits, and any medical complications
  • Diagnosis (if appropriate) using DSM-5/ICD-11 criteria
  • Risk assessment and safety planning (if needed)
  • Treatment recommendations, including psychological therapy options
  • Consideration of medication support (if clinically indicated)
  • Coordination with your GP for physical health monitoring or blood tests
  • Guidance on referrals to therapists, dietitians, or specialist clinics
  • A written report summarising findings and recommendations
  • Option for online or in-person assessment
  • Follow-up appointments if further review or monitoring is required
Our approach
 

At Bloomfield Health, we believe in kind, collaborative, and evidence-based assessment.

We understand that eating difficulties are rarely just about food. They often reflect deeper emotional, psychological, or relational struggles. Our psychiatrists take a trauma-informed, non-judgmental approach, giving you space to talk openly and safely about your experiences.

Your assessment is not just about diagnosis — it’s about understanding why these patterns have developed, what maintains them, and how recovery can begin. We work closely with therapists, dietitians, and GPs to ensure that any care plan is integrated, holistic, and tailored to your stage of readiness.

 

You’ll meet with a psychiatrist for around two hours to discuss your experiences, medical and mental health history, and any current concerns. You’ll have time to ask questions and explore options for next steps.

No referral is required. You can self-book directly. However, if you wish, your psychiatrist can share the assessment summary with your GP after the appointment.

If specific criteria are met, your psychiatrist can provide a formal diagnosis. Sometimes, further medical or psychological information may be needed before confirming one.

We take a sensitive, person-centred approach. You will never be pressured to discuss or do anything that feels unsafe. All assessments are collaborative and respectful.

 

That’s okay — the purpose of the assessment is to explore this carefully. Many people seek help at an early stage when patterns are still forming, which can make recovery easier.

We focus on helping people understand and restore their relationship with food rather than on weight loss. At this point in time we do not offer prescription and monitoring for weight loss injections (e.g. Mounjaro, Wegovy). However, if you are already being prescribed these medications we can provide psychological support around the experience of appetite and body change. We can also help you prepare for the end of treatment with these injectables and how to maintain a positive relationship with food.Can the assessment be done online?

Yes. Many assessments are conducted securely online. If there are physical health concerns, your psychiatrist may recommend additional checks via your GP.

Yes. You’ll receive a written summary of the assessment, diagnosis (if applicable), and recommendations for next steps. This can be shared with your GP or therapist if you wish.

Depending on your needs, your psychiatrist may recommend therapy, nutritional support, medication review, or ongoing psychiatric follow-up. You’ll agree together on the next steps and level of support.

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