Eating disorder symptoms rarely arise without reason. For many clients, these behaviors developed as creative—though costly—ways to survive emotional, relational, or developmental pain. 

This free worksheet is designed to help clinicians support clients in exploring the meaning beneath the symptom, using narrative therapy and metaphor rather than shame or control.

This worksheet is appropriate for:

• • Therapists working with eating disorders

• • Dietitians and treatment teams

• • Trauma-informed clinicians

• • Residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient settings

It can be used:

• • In-session

• • As between-session reflection

• • In individual or group therapy

What the Worksheet Includes

• • Guided narrative prompts to explore symptom purpose

• • Metaphor-based reflection questions

• • Gentle language that reduces shame

• • Clinician notes for pacing and containment

If you’re interested in collaboration or consultation, we welcome connection.