The development and clinical testing of an outpatient program for women with bulimia nervosa.

This article describes the development of a cost-effective treatment program for women with Bulimia Nervosa (BN). A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken to determine the most effective programs. The Time Limited Cognitive Behavioral Program (TLCBP) was developed and clinically tested on two groups of women to determine its cost-effectiveness. The program consisted of a 12-week intervention phase followed by a 14-week support/reinforcement phase. The clinical findings were that 9 of the 10 clients were abstinent following the 12-week intervention. Other symptoms improved following the 14-week phase of support/reinforcement. Utilizing an Advanced Practice Psychiatric-Mental Health Registered Nurse (APRN) significantly reduced the cost of the treatment, as did the use of a group model approach. APRN's have bio-behavioral knowledge as well as research skills. They are in a unique position to conduct outcome research with women with BN, as well as with clients who have other disorders with both biological and behavioral symptoms.