The objective of this study was to conduct a critical analysis of scientific knowledge on the use of psychotherapy as strategy for treatment of eating disorders. From searches in the databases PsycINFO, PePSIC and SciELO in the period 1999-2011, 35 articles were retrieved in full, categorized as brief psychotherapy, group, psychodynamic, alternative psychotherapy, and psychotherapy combined with other treatments such as those of a pharmacological nature. The most mentioned approaches were the psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral types. The predominant type of service was the group. Although the use of a combination of different strategies is recommended, the literature is unanimous in pointing out the importance of psychotherapy in treatment. The critical analysis showed the need for reading that transcends the mere identification of psychotherapeutic techniques considered most effective for the treatment of eating disorders. The broader context in which treatments are offered must be considered, as well as promoting an open dialogue between theoretical approaches, prioritizing the plurality of knowledge and the relevance of psychotherapy as a practice that changes constantly.
Anorexia nervosa; Bulimia; Psychotherapy; Eating disorders