Treatment Philosophy

Westwind is Supportive
The orientation is to provide support to clients in their attempts to confront their disordered eating behaviours, and increase satisfaction with life.

Westwind is Behavioural
Therapy will focus on behaviour strengths and deficits, as well as helping the client to become aware of the relationship between her behaviour and the consequences provided by her environment.

Westwind is Cognitive
Therapy will focus on helping people challenge and replace thought patterns that result in feelings of depression and anxiety, or lead to disordered eating behaviours. Specific styles of thinking will be identified to the client and the ways in which these may hinder recovery will be discussed.

Westwind is Skill-oriented
Structured skills in interpersonal relations, including assertiveness and communication skills are reviewed and rehearsed. Coping skills for stress management will be taught, and may include self-nurturance, seeking support, emotional expression, problem solving and journaling. Relaxation skills will also be addressed.

Westwind is Non-judgmental
We balance acceptance and change. We do not judge personal preferences as being examples of disordered values or thinking. These themes may be explored with the intent to provoke thought, not to impose therapist values.

Westwind is Collaborative
We require a collaborative relationship with our clients. Clients have a say in their therapy, and are expected to work constantly on evaluating progress, as well as on reducing elements that may hinder that progress. The client and therapist work toward functioning as a team, each having particular responsibilities.

Westwind is Spiritual
Spiritual counselling is an effective component in the treatment of eating disorders. Many clients have benefited from the healing, hope and strength that a Christian perspective brings to their lives. This component is completely optional and all faiths are welcome at our centre.