What is TBT-S?

TBT-S is an innovative treatment approach for eating disorders that integrates the latest neurobiological and genetic research with practical clinical strategies. It focuses on how temperament—shaped by biology, brain function, genetics, and personality—affects an individual’s relationship with food and their body.

Through skills-based training, TBT-S helps individuals and their support systems manage these neurobiological factors, reducing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. The approach empowers individuals to harness their unique temperament as a strength in the recovery process. At its core, TBT-S is a person-centred model that sees the individual as the "expert" in their own recovery, guiding them to identify personal strengths, overcome challenges, and set meaningful, achievable goals.

Meet the Developers

  • Laura Hill, PhD

    Dr. Hill is the adult  TBT-S treatment developer.

    She is an Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at The Ohio State University and an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego.  Dr. Hill is one of the original founders of the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED).

  • Stephanie Knatz Peck, PhD

    Dr. Knatz Peck is the treatment developer for young adult and child/adolescent versions of TBT-S. She is an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California San Diego and Director of TBT-S and Intensive Family Treatment Programs at the UCSD Eating Disorder Center for Treatment and Research.

  • Christina Wierenga, PhD

    Dr. Wierenga is the  neuropsychologist who developed the brain based psychoeducation modules and is the TBT-S primary researcher. She  is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego, and Co-Director of Research, UCSD Eating Disorders Center for Treatment and Research. 

  • Walter Kaye, MD

    Dr. Kaye is the visionary and leader in Temperament Based Therapy research.  He is the Director of  the  University of California San Diego Eating Disorders Center for Treatment and Research, and Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego 

How is TBT-s different from other therapies?

TBT-S (Temperament-Based Treatment with Support) stands out from other treatment approaches for several key reasons:

  1. Focus on Neurobiological and Genetic Factors
    TBT-S addresses the genetic and neurobiological roots of eating disorders, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges, rather than just treating symptoms.

  2. Temperament-Centred Approach
    By focusing on an individual’s unique temperament—shaped by biology, genetics, and personality—TBT-S tailors treatment to each person’s specific needs, recognising the influence of inherent traits on their relationship with food and body image.

  3. Person-Centred & Strengths-Based
    TBT-S empowers individuals by viewing them as the "expert" in their own recovery. It emphasises collaboration with their support system to identify strengths, set goals, and actively shape the treatment process.

  4. Support System Involvement
    TBT-S actively engages family, friends, and loved ones in the recovery process, training them in skills to help manage neurobiological factors and reduce eating disorder behaviours, improving both recovery outcomes and relationships.

  5. Bridging Research and Practice
    TBT-S integrates cutting-edge neurobiological research with practical treatment strategies, ensuring that the approach is both scientifically grounded and highly applicable to real-world experiences. It also incorporates lived experience into program development and evaluation. Click here to find out more about the research into TBT-S