Exercise and Diet Therapy: Psychotherapists' Beliefs and Practices

Two hundred thirty-two members of Division 29 of the American Psychological Association (46.4% of those randomly sampled) responded to a survey concerning their assessment and recommendation practices relating to nutrition and to exercise and physical fitness. Respondents reported assessing and recommending diet and exercise practices less frequently than other health behaviors, but many indicated conditions amenable to exercise and diet recommendations. Few therapists had received education in exercise and nutrition, but more than half believed that diet and exercise should be required as a component of the graduate school curriculum