The nourish framework: exploration and application

Building on Mandy Atkinson’s 2023 Transactional Analysis Journal article, Nourish: A Framework for Nourishing Eating-Disordered Clients Using a Structural and Relational Methodology, this experiential workshop introduces Nourish, an integrative relational and structural framework for thinking about disordered eating and eating disorders.

The framework places the therapeutic relationship and sensitive attention to shame at its core. Building on shame as a basis for relational healing, participants will explore its concepts through reflection on practice, experiential activities and clinical case material, considering thoughtful application rather than a fixed or linear method.

What we will explore:

• Shame, humiliation and the importance of finding a sensitive bridge to difficult material;
• The relational realm: receptive, reliable contact, attunement and respect as a basis for the work;
• Nourish’s six core aspects: connection, curiosity, creativity, practicalities, possibilities and progress;
• Its linked outer aspects, including shame, permissions, dialogue, journey to health, Adult capacity, strokes and self-care;
• The framework as an emergent process that embraces unconscious process rather than a linear sequence;
• Experiential reflection, case-based discussion and small-group exploration of application;
• Safety, realistic contracting, supervision and the place of specialist or multidisciplinary support when required.