Memory reconsolidation therapy for comorbid bulimia nervosa and traumatic memories: a case series study

Objective: Individuals with bulimia nervosa (BN) have a high comorbidity with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex posttraumatic stress disorder (cPTSD) or borderline personality disorder (BPD). This case series describes the proof of concept of a novel integrative psychotherapy for adults with comorbid BN and psychological trauma. Memory reconsolidation therapy (MRT) was developed as an evolution of classic prolonged exposure therapy. The aim of this study was an initial assessment of MRT for comorbid BN and psychological trauma in a case series study. Method: MRT was used in this study to reduce trauma symptoms which may maintain disordered eating behaviour. Two women with BN and PTSD, and an additional participant with comorbid BN and BPD/cPTSD, were offered 16 weekly sessions of MRT following baseline measures. Results: At 3-month follow-up, all participants experienced a decrease in trauma symptoms as measured by the Impact of Event Scale-Revised. All participants also experienced a decrease in the frequency of self-reported BN behaviour. Conclusions: In this case series patients with BN and PTSD/cPTSD/BPD showed improvement of BN and trauma symptoms. These results offer preliminary support for the inclusion of MRT for the treatment of psychological trauma in adults with BN.