328 pg, (paper) ‘07

The third edition of the Eating Disorder Sourcebook is a welcomed revision and update of this popular reference guide for both the lay public and professionals. Although not an academic researcher, author Carolyn Costin, recovered herself, has accumulated over 30 years of what she refers to as "field research" treating eating disorders and shares that in this edition.

Costin gives readers the important and practical information necessary to understand the different types of eating disorders, their causes, and who is at risk for developing these illnesses. In her chapter, "Genes or Jeans: What Causes Eating Disorders?" Carolyn helps readers understand the various contributions of genetics, biology and a thinness-obsessed cultural climate.

Carolyn brings this sourcebook alive with her own personal voice and those of sufferers and their loved ones. She uses case examples and actual excerpts from diaries and therapy sessions. What comes across in this book, with all the knowledge imparted, is empathy and passion that is helpful and inspiring to both clinicians and those who suffer from or have a loved one who suffers from an eating disorder. Reading this book, sufferers will feel understood and come to understand themselves better, family and friends will feel educated, guided and supported, and therapists will get supervision and guidance on numerous treatment issues. Professionals and educators in all arenas will gain valuable updated knowledge along with case examples for clarification. As an example, the chapter on nutrition and the role of the nutritionist in treatment, "Enough About Your Mother, What Did You Eat Today?" is co-written by seven well-seasoned experts in the area of nutrition and eating disorders. These experts from all over the country offer their combined strategies, guidelines, and advice on areas such as meal planning, weighing, weight gain, weight loss and intuitive eating.

Individuals with eating disorders learn about treatment options, how to find a therapist, and what takes place in individual, group, and family therapy. Readers are given information on how to put together a successful treatment team as well as alternative treatments and what to do when outpatient treatment is not enough.

The best thing about this book is that Costin writes like she is in the room having a conversation with you. Complex topics are dealt with in an informal style and readers can sense the personal touch that she brings to her work and to this book. This is a must-read for those needing information on the topic and a must addition to any clinician’s eating disorder library.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Carolyn Costin, MA, M.Ed, MFT., has been a specialist in the field of eating disorders for nearly thirty years. She directs the Monte Nido Residential Treatment Facility in Malibu, California, and all of its affiliates. She is also the clinical advisor to the Parent Family Network of the National Eating Disorder Association and an editor of Eating Disorders: The Journal of Treatment and Prevention.