In this episode of ‘The Flex Factor,’  Dr. Mallory Frayn, who specializes in the treatment of impulse-related concerns, discusses the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for treating eating disorders, an increasingly prevalent mental health issue complicated by diet culture. She explores how ACT’s components—values, acceptance, distress tolerance, and mindfulness—can enhance traditional behavioral treatments like CBT by addressing the underlying emotional challenges associated with disordered eating. Dr. Frayn provides practical interventions, shares research insights, and answers questions about integrating ACT into therapy, particularly for individuals who have not responded to other treatments. The episode emphasizes the importance of a holistic, flexible approach to mental health and introduces valuable strategies for clinicians working with eating disorders.   00:00 Introduction to The Flex Factor Podcast 01:19 Meet Dr. Mallory Frayn 02:31 Understanding Eating Disorders 04:23 Behavioral Treatments for Eating Disorders 11:24 ACT and Its Application in Eating Disorders 16:53 Values in Eating Disorder Treatment 24:32 Acceptance and Distress Tolerance 29:05 Prioritizing Relationships Over Food Anxiety 29:54 Understanding Urge Surfing in Behavioral Therapy 30:56 Mindfulness and Acceptance in Eating Practices 32:58 Exploring Mindful Eating Techniques 34:30 Addressing Hunger and Satiety Cues 37:58 Food Exposures and Behavioral Experiments 39:51 Integrating Values, Acceptance, and Mindfulness 40:36 Q&A: Practical Applications and Research Insights 48:49 Confronting Diet Culture and Weight Bias 55:38 Closing Remarks and Future Directions