Transference and countertransference in anorexia nervosa care

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by refusal to maintain a healthy body weight and an obsessive fear of gaining weight. Gastrointestinal symptoms that can manifest due to a decrease in food intake include constipation and complications due to laxative abuse. The focus of biofeedback therapy is to holistically assess the patient's symptoms, provide education and return bowel and muscle control to normality. In this article, Anna Swatton discusses the complexities of caring for a patient with anorexia nervosa in a gastrointestinal care setting, by reflecting on a case study. The dynamics and the importance of the therapeutic relationship and its importance of this in ensuring optimal patient care will be discussed.