Acceptance-based Group Intervention for Binge Eating

The ACT group protocol consists of four 2-hour weekly sessions focusing on a) thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations in the context of efforts to lose weight; b) limitations of efforts to control or eliminate negative thoughts or emotions, stress, or food cravings; c) changing expectations and goals from elimination of stress or cravings to living as well as possible with such feelings; d) mindfulness exercises to increase awareness; and e) identification of personal values and goals to achieve improved quality of life.

The MOVE-II protocol was designed to reinforce the weight-loss principles that patients learn in MOVE! and to provide support in continued weight loss. The brief MOVE-II active control group protocol will be delivered in four 2-hour weekly group sessions. This protocol includes a psycho-educational component that reinforces the key information from the medical, nutrition, and weight loss strategies modules of the MOVE! program. After review of the psycho-educational components, patients have the opportunity to share their challenges with binge eating and weight loss. Patients will then be able to receive support and feedback from other group members and the therapist. In addition to reinforcing the strategies taught during MOVE! and to provide support in implementing those strategies, the active control group focuses on increasing self-esteem and self-efficacy by exploring patient strengths and maintaining therapeutic alliance and optimism.