Episode 3
Exception seeking in action: Dr. Anita Federici on changing the system

In this episode of Exception Seekers, we welcome Dr. Anita Federici, a leading expert in eating disorders and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Dr. Federici shares her journey into the field, her passion for challenging conventional treatment models, and how she integrates DBT into eating disorder treatment. She discusses the systemic barriers in mental health care, the importance of lived experience in treatment approaches, and the development of her MED-DBT model.

Dr. Federici highlights the importance of being an Exception Seeker—challenging norms, questioning systems, and continuously striving to improve mental health care. Whether you're a clinician, caregiver, or someone navigating the system, her insights offer a fresh perspective on how we can do better.

Important Messages

The power of lived experience: People with firsthand experience of eating disorders provide invaluable insights, yet their voices have historically been dismissed. Traditional treatment models often fail to address the full spectrum of eating disorders, and innovative approaches like DBT can offer better support.

DBT as a transformational tool: DBT’s focus on emotional regulation, acceptance, and co-constructed treatment plans makes it an effective modality for complex cases.

Systemic barriers in mental health care: There is a disconnect between research, clinical practice, and accessibility, leaving many without adequate support.

Empowering caregivers: Educating parents and caregivers with practical skills can significantly impact recovery, even if the individual is not yet ready for treatment.

The importance of advocacy: Seeking alternatives, pushing against systemic limitations, and creating research-backed models can lead to better outcomes for those struggling with mental health challenges.

Resources Mentioned

• Dr. Anita Federici: The Center for Psychology and Emotion Regulation

• Organizations: Body Brave, NEDIC, Sheena’s Place, National Initiative for Eating Disorders (NIED)

• Training & Education: SickKids Learning Institute

Dr. Anita Federici (PhD, CPsych, FAED)

Anita Federici is a Clinical Psychologist and the Owner of The Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation. She serves an Adjunct Faculty position at York University and is a distinguished Fellow of the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED). She has provided more than 400  lectures, workshops, and invited talks on eating disorders, MED-DBT, and DBT.

She works extensively on an international level with hospitals and community organizations  offering team training, implementation support, and program development with a special focus on creating differential care pathways for clients who do not respond to traditional treatment approaches. Her work has been presented at international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals and invited book chapters. Her co-authored book on MED-DBT will be available through Guilford Publishers in 2025.