Community groups for eating disorders

EDV’s community groups are a support option for people experiencing an eating disorder, informed by lived experience.

We periodically update the group formats and themes so hopefully you find an option that works for you. Each group is designed to run for a set timeframe, in a way that supports you to work towards your goals.

NOTE: we are currently in a ‘trial phase’ of these new groups, so we welcome your questions or feedback. You can contact [email protected].

Our July – September theme is connection. Connection is key in healing for people living with an eating disorder, and those in recovery. While it can look different for everyone, at its core, connection means feeling seen, heard, and valued.

WORKSHOP: Art therapy

6 weeks | In-person and online options | FREE

The art therapy groups aim to encourage connection to self, others and the world. We will use art activities for noticing values, our connection to others, and reconnecting with interests and strengths.

We will run two art therapy streams: one in person, and the other online. The content of both streams will be the same.

In-person art therapy

Held at the EDV office in Abbotsford, Melbourne. You will complete 6 sessions over 6 weeks. Starting from Monday 21 July, these sessions run during the day at 11am–12:15pm.

See the full calendar and workshop content on the registration page.

Register now

Online art therapy

Held online via Zoom. You will complete 6 sessions over 6 weeks. Starting from Tuesday 22 July, these sessions run in the evening at 6–7:15pm.

See the full calendar and workshop content on the registration page.

Register now

Who are these workshops for?

To participate in the art therapy workshops, you need to be someone currently experiencing an eating disorder, aged 18+, and have a GP who you engage with regularly.

How are the workshops run?

Each session is co-facilitated by a qualified art therapist and an EDV peer worker. You should only sign up for ONE of the streams – you cannot register for both the in-person and the online course.

What materials should I bring to the workshops?

In-person stream: all materials will be supplied.

Online stream: please prepare any drawing materials, including paper, pencils, paints, old magazines, glue and scissors. The registration page has a full material list.

Do I need to attend every week?

Yes. The workshops are designed so that you build on your learning each week.

TALKS: Recovery and reflection

One-off sessions | Online | FREE

These talks will feature EDV Stories of Recovery Ambassadors sharing their experience of an eating disorder, followed by guided reflection questions. You will not be expected to share your answers to the questions.

Each Ambassador is trained to use ‘intentional storytelling’. This means they share their experiences in a safe and constructive way.

30 July: Connection and re-engaging with the world

Explore how connection helps when re-engaging with the world. This might be after eating disorder treatment, or when looking for new ways to engage.

The Ambassador will reflect on how connection can help you learn to cope, without falling back on past behaviours. We will also explore how connection creates space for honesty, support and belonging.

Register now

27 August: Connection and relationships

Explore the vital role of connection and relationships in your eating disorder recovery/healing.

The Ambassador will reflect on how isolation, shame and disconnection can fuel eating disorders. But on the other hand, building safe and supportive relationships can foster lasting change.

Registration for this event opens on 1 August.

24 September: Connection and the caring role

When struggling with an eating disorder, it can be hard to let anyone in. You may feel ashamed, protective of your behaviours or not sure if people will understand. This may create further isolation or loneliness.

The Ambassador will reflect on how care from a loved one can become a powerful force in supporting you to feel less alone. Connection is at the core of care, and being with you in a way that’s steady and real.

Registration for this event opens on 2 September.

WORKSHOP: Pathways to Recovery

6 weeks |Online | FREE

This workshop is delivered by an EDV Educator and a lived experience staff member.

It will run weekly, 5:30–7pm on Mondays, from 25 August to 29 September.

More information on this workshop coming soon. Updates will be published on this page and in our eNews.