Eating Disorders Counselling in Haberfield, NSW

Photo of Tim Bullivant, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Tim Bullivant
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Haberfield, NSW 2045
My clinical practice focuses on children, adolescents and young adults. I have experience treating a wide range of presentations.. I would suit clients seeking an affable and approachable clinical psychologist. I use an attachment framework throughout my work, helping clients to understand interpersonal patterns and to develop strong and protective relationships. I have specific interests in treating eating disorders and trauma, and supporting neurodivergent clients using a neuroaffirming approach.
My clinical practice focuses on children, adolescents and young adults. I have experience treating a wide range of presentations.. I would suit clients seeking an affable and approachable clinical psychologist. I use an attachment framework throughout my work, helping clients to understand interpersonal patterns and to develop strong and protective relationships. I have specific interests in treating eating disorders and trauma, and supporting neurodivergent clients using a neuroaffirming approach.
(02) 9100 0279 View (02) 9100 0279
Photo of Tom Skotidas, ACA-L1, Psychotherapist
Tom Skotidas
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Haberfield, NSW 2045
In Individual Therapy, I help individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges such as Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, OCD, and Trauma.
As a Psychotherapist, I help individuals, couples, and families overcome their mental health and relationship challenges using evidence-based psychotherapy. I engage all of my clients with compassion, collaboration, and unconditional acceptance. My therapy approach enables my clients to discover their cognitive, emotional, and communication patterns, build new behaviours aligned to their core values, create meaning and purpose, and thrive.
In Individual Therapy, I help individuals manage and overcome mental health challenges such as Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, OCD, and Trauma.
As a Psychotherapist, I help individuals, couples, and families overcome their mental health and relationship challenges using evidence-based psychotherapy. I engage all of my clients with compassion, collaboration, and unconditional acceptance. My therapy approach enables my clients to discover their cognitive, emotional, and communication patterns, build new behaviours aligned to their core values, create meaning and purpose, and thrive.
(02) 9100 0129 View (02) 9100 0129
Photo of Sandhya Gaundar - Good Thinking Psychology
Good Thinking Psychology
Verified Verified
Haberfield, NSW 2045
If you’re seeking help to make positive change in your life, our friendly team of psychologists can work with you to uncover, treat and remedy a wide range of concerns. Our aim is to get to the heart of the problem and develop practical solutions that you can apply in real life. We work one on one with adults, teenagers and children, or collectively with couples and families. We use a collection of proven therapies to treat people on an individual level. There is only one of you, so we want to choose an effective strategy that resonates just with you, and helps you take back control of your life.
If you’re seeking help to make positive change in your life, our friendly team of psychologists can work with you to uncover, treat and remedy a wide range of concerns. Our aim is to get to the heart of the problem and develop practical solutions that you can apply in real life. We work one on one with adults, teenagers and children, or collectively with couples and families. We use a collection of proven therapies to treat people on an individual level. There is only one of you, so we want to choose an effective strategy that resonates just with you, and helps you take back control of your life.
(02) 8503 4420 View (02) 8503 4420
Photo of Dean Harrison - iflow Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
iflow Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Haberfield, NSW 2045
Confidential, advanced psychological counselling services. Invest in your psychological well-being and optimise your quality of life. Address issues in your life, grow and succeed. The first step, calling, is the hardest. We make the rest easy. Contact us and we will guide you the rest of the way. No obligation.
Confidential, advanced psychological counselling services. Invest in your psychological well-being and optimise your quality of life. Address issues in your life, grow and succeed. The first step, calling, is the hardest. We make the rest easy. Contact us and we will guide you the rest of the way. No obligation.
(02) 8766 0541 View (02) 8766 0541

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mona Mattar - Lighthouse Therapeutic, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Lighthouse Therapeutic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Ashfield, NSW 2131
I am an experienced clinical counsellor and psychotherapist working in private hospital settings and private practice with a special interest in eating disorders, addictions, OCD and couples counselling with a focus on distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and assertive communication as well body positivity, self compassion and acceptance.
Are you finding it hard to cope with day to day stressors. Do you have difficulty with food and body image, maybe you are restricting, binging, purging or yo-yo dieting. Have you found that your drug or alcohol intake has increased and is starting to feel out of control, or has been out of control for a while, have you just had a lapse/relapse. Is your anxiety holding you back or are you having difficulty with your relationships, emotion regulation or asserting boundaries?
I am an experienced clinical counsellor and psychotherapist working in private hospital settings and private practice with a special interest in eating disorders, addictions, OCD and couples counselling with a focus on distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and assertive communication as well body positivity, self compassion and acceptance.
Are you finding it hard to cope with day to day stressors. Do you have difficulty with food and body image, maybe you are restricting, binging, purging or yo-yo dieting. Have you found that your drug or alcohol intake has increased and is starting to feel out of control, or has been out of control for a while, have you just had a lapse/relapse. Is your anxiety holding you back or are you having difficulty with your relationships, emotion regulation or asserting boundaries?
(02) 8806 0119 View (02) 8806 0119
Photo of Dr Salena Bhanji, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Salena Bhanji
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
Dr Salena is a compassionate Clinical and Counselling Psychologist who has a genuine interest in supporting her clients heal from their mental health struggles and live peacefully in their bodies. Her main focus is providing therapy for disordered eating, eating disorders, body image issues, childhood trauma and self esteem issues. Dr Salena has undertaken extensive training over the past two decades in many mental health settings including the NHS in the UK, the Monte Nido treatment centres in the USA and the Butterfly Foundation in Sydney. Dr Salena ensures that every session delivers insight and practical skills to use.
Dr Salena is a compassionate Clinical and Counselling Psychologist who has a genuine interest in supporting her clients heal from their mental health struggles and live peacefully in their bodies. Her main focus is providing therapy for disordered eating, eating disorders, body image issues, childhood trauma and self esteem issues. Dr Salena has undertaken extensive training over the past two decades in many mental health settings including the NHS in the UK, the Monte Nido treatment centres in the USA and the Butterfly Foundation in Sydney. Dr Salena ensures that every session delivers insight and practical skills to use.
(02) 8503 4157 View (02) 8503 4157
Photo of Tanya Franic - Treat Yourself Well Psychology Sydney, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Treat Yourself Well Psychology Sydney
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
Our overarching goal is to cultivate compassion for self and we do this by working with to understand the impact of trauma and your unique brain style to and develop a pathway to recovery from eating disorders, shame and/ or guilt.
Treat Yourself Well Sydney is an established boutique Psychology Practice with a niche reputation in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma and neurodiversity. Our Psychologists have extensive experience in eating disorders and trauma and take a non diet, weight neutral, Health at Every Size approach. We also offer high quality assessment and treatment for a wide range of presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and interpersonal matters. We are compassion focused, mindfulness based and trauma informed focusing on mind and body wellness.
Our overarching goal is to cultivate compassion for self and we do this by working with to understand the impact of trauma and your unique brain style to and develop a pathway to recovery from eating disorders, shame and/ or guilt.
Treat Yourself Well Sydney is an established boutique Psychology Practice with a niche reputation in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma and neurodiversity. Our Psychologists have extensive experience in eating disorders and trauma and take a non diet, weight neutral, Health at Every Size approach. We also offer high quality assessment and treatment for a wide range of presentations including depression, anxiety, stress, relationships and interpersonal matters. We are compassion focused, mindfulness based and trauma informed focusing on mind and body wellness.
(02) 9158 6591 View (02) 9158 6591
Photo of Natalie Vertoudakis, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Natalie Vertoudakis
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Five Dock, NSW 2046
I particularly enjoy working with anxiety, eating disorders and relationship issues.
Open communication and rapport is essential. However, I believe long-term outcomes and goal attainment is achieved by providing clients with a psychological toolkit per se. A variety of strategies, coping and problem-solving skills that can be implemented in the future, and generalised to various issues. I believe in actively involving the client in the therapeutic process and assisting clients build confidence.
I particularly enjoy working with anxiety, eating disorders and relationship issues.
Open communication and rapport is essential. However, I believe long-term outcomes and goal attainment is achieved by providing clients with a psychological toolkit per se. A variety of strategies, coping and problem-solving skills that can be implemented in the future, and generalised to various issues. I believe in actively involving the client in the therapeutic process and assisting clients build confidence.
(02) 9159 6970 View (02) 9159 6970
Photo of Kelly Breen, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kelly Breen
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My therapy style is integrative, utilising evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I weave these practices along with somatic work into therapy. Additionally, I am appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration & preperation support.
I have extensive experience working with those impacted by trauma (c/PTSD), addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I also help people navigate the challenges associated with relationships, life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My therapy style is integrative, utilising evidence-based modalities like EMDR, Schema, IFS, psychodynamic approaches, Mindfulness, and ACT. As a trained yoga teacher, I weave these practices along with somatic work into therapy. Additionally, I am appropriately trained to provide psychedelic integration & preperation support.
(03) 9007 2718 View (03) 9007 2718
Photo of Julie Ryu, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Julie Ryu
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Strathfield, NSW 2135
Waitlist for new clients
I provide evidence-based psychotherapeutic services for clients presenting with a variety of concerns including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, stress management, interpersonal issues, trauma (interpersonal, childhood, PTSD), personality disorders, developmental issues, migrant issues, addictions, eating disorders and workplace issues.
I provide person-centered, evidence-based psychological treatments and counseling to clients from all walks of life. Clients often request short to medium term interventions to lessen the effects of psychological trauma or recent and/or old events on their lives. Clients attend sessions with clinical diagnoses or their current experiences of moderate to severe level of symptoms leading to their interest in receiving assessments for formal diagnoses. Specific needs and goals of therapy are usually discussed in the first session during intake assessment. I am currently studying Master of Psychology to further my clinical profession.
I provide evidence-based psychotherapeutic services for clients presenting with a variety of concerns including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, stress management, interpersonal issues, trauma (interpersonal, childhood, PTSD), personality disorders, developmental issues, migrant issues, addictions, eating disorders and workplace issues.
I provide person-centered, evidence-based psychological treatments and counseling to clients from all walks of life. Clients often request short to medium term interventions to lessen the effects of psychological trauma or recent and/or old events on their lives. Clients attend sessions with clinical diagnoses or their current experiences of moderate to severe level of symptoms leading to their interest in receiving assessments for formal diagnoses. Specific needs and goals of therapy are usually discussed in the first session during intake assessment. I am currently studying Master of Psychology to further my clinical profession.
(02) 7804 4481 View (02) 7804 4481
Photo of Fazeela Moghal, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Fazeela Moghal
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Strathfield, NSW 2135
I love to work with people who are interested in overcoming life challenges and keen on personal growth, gaining insight and self improvement. My areas of interest and expertise are Depression/Post Natal Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, OCD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Workplace injury Bullying, Stress, and anger management Interpersonal and relationship difficulties Parenting, Miscarriage / Loss of baby, Trauma/Abuse, Personality Disorders Domestic Violence, Disability, Self-harm Suicidal Ideation
I love to work with people who are interested in overcoming life challenges and keen on personal growth, gaining insight and self improvement. My areas of interest and expertise are Depression/Post Natal Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, OCD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, Workplace injury Bullying, Stress, and anger management Interpersonal and relationship difficulties Parenting, Miscarriage / Loss of baby, Trauma/Abuse, Personality Disorders Domestic Violence, Disability, Self-harm Suicidal Ideation
(02) 8105 5759 View (02) 8105 5759
Photo of Gabby Miguel, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Gabby Miguel
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Rozelle, NSW 2039
Gabby works with various presentations, such as depression, stress, anxiety, ASD, ADHD, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and emotion dysregulation. She sees clients on a short and long-term basis, utilising evidence-based modalities tailored to individual client needs and goals. She promotes the education of patients and their family members on mental and behaviour disorders, making use of psychoeducation as a supporting aspect of the client’s treatment.
Gabby works with various presentations, such as depression, stress, anxiety, ASD, ADHD, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and emotion dysregulation. She sees clients on a short and long-term basis, utilising evidence-based modalities tailored to individual client needs and goals. She promotes the education of patients and their family members on mental and behaviour disorders, making use of psychoeducation as a supporting aspect of the client’s treatment.
(02) 9158 6662 View (02) 9158 6662
Photo of Katrina English, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Katrina English
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
I am a registered psychologist working with young people (14+) and adults who experience mood and/or emotion dysregulation; struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviours, including substance use, suicidal thoughts and self-harm; eating disorders; and people who have experienced trauma, including painful early life experiences. I have experience working with individuals, groups and families across education, health and community settings. I aim to create a warm and validating space in which you can safely explore your challenges and work towards a greater sense of self-agency, and compassionate understanding of yourself.
I am a registered psychologist working with young people (14+) and adults who experience mood and/or emotion dysregulation; struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviours, including substance use, suicidal thoughts and self-harm; eating disorders; and people who have experienced trauma, including painful early life experiences. I have experience working with individuals, groups and families across education, health and community settings. I aim to create a warm and validating space in which you can safely explore your challenges and work towards a greater sense of self-agency, and compassionate understanding of yourself.
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Photo of Cassandra Gavel - GBY (Guided By You) Therapy, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
GBY (Guided By You) Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leichhardt, NSW 2040
Cassandra specialises in complex /single incident trauma and eating disorder treatments (ANZAED credentialed therapist), as well as performance psychology for elite athletes Eating Disorders, Relational issues, Childhood trauma, Executive functioning challenges, Parenting difficulties, Complex family issues, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss.
Cassandra is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and a Medicare provider. Cassandra provides a collaborative and safe space for her clients to reflect and grow. She is empathetic, warm and an intuitive person with a passion for supporting people to move forward from traumatic times in their life.
Cassandra specialises in complex /single incident trauma and eating disorder treatments (ANZAED credentialed therapist), as well as performance psychology for elite athletes Eating Disorders, Relational issues, Childhood trauma, Executive functioning challenges, Parenting difficulties, Complex family issues, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief & Loss.
Cassandra is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and a Medicare provider. Cassandra provides a collaborative and safe space for her clients to reflect and grow. She is empathetic, warm and an intuitive person with a passion for supporting people to move forward from traumatic times in their life.
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Photo of Johnny Kieran-Black, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnny Kieran-Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
Waitlist for new clients
I treat a broad range of mental health issues, including Complex PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, depression, anxiety, personality, psychotic and bipolar spectrum and eating disorders.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
I treat a broad range of mental health issues, including Complex PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, depression, anxiety, personality, psychotic and bipolar spectrum and eating disorders.
My name is Johnny (he/they). I am an Accredited EMDR and Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Practitioner. I am interested in working LGBTQIA+ people, young people, survivors of trauma, people experiencing relationship difficulties, people wanting to learn more about who they are, people who use addictive behaviours as a way of managing, including drugs, alcohol, self-harm, eating disordered behaviours and thoughts of suicide. I understand how hard it can be to talk about traumatic experiences and I strive to bring warmth, partnership, acceptance and compassion to all my work.
(02) 9100 0621 View (02) 9100 0621
Photo of Christine Hughes, PACFA, Counsellor
Christine Hughes
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain East, NSW 2041
Qualified and experienced Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor specialising in treatment for a broad range of people from adolescents to adults of all ages.- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions (Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
Qualified and experienced Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor specialising in treatment for a broad range of people from adolescents to adults of all ages.- If you are struggling with Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Mood Disorders, ADHD) - Addictions (Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Sex, Gaming, Work and Eating Disorders) - Trauma (Childhood Physical, Emotional and Sexual Abuse) - Grief and Loss (Unresolved Grief and Empty Chair Work Therapy) - Co-Dependency in Relationships (Conflict, Boundaries and Communication Issues) then I have the skill set to help you overcome these challenges if you are willing to do the work.
(02) 8403 1536 View (02) 8403 1536
Photo of David Robert James McCarthy - David McCarthy Counselling , PACFA, Counsellor
David McCarthy Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
I am an Addictions Specialist Therapist specialising in working with Executives. I work with executives wishing to reduce or cease their use of addictive substances and/ or behaviours. I recognise the more traditional substance abuse disorders (all drugs and alcohol). I also recognise the full spectrum of problem behaviours known as "process addictions". These include but are not limited to sex, gaming, exercise, gambling, self harm and overeating. People usually approach me because they are experiencing unmanageable associated consequences to their using such as overwhelming anxiety, depression, and relationship breakdown etc..
I am an Addictions Specialist Therapist specialising in working with Executives. I work with executives wishing to reduce or cease their use of addictive substances and/ or behaviours. I recognise the more traditional substance abuse disorders (all drugs and alcohol). I also recognise the full spectrum of problem behaviours known as "process addictions". These include but are not limited to sex, gaming, exercise, gambling, self harm and overeating. People usually approach me because they are experiencing unmanageable associated consequences to their using such as overwhelming anxiety, depression, and relationship breakdown etc..
(02) 9100 0579 View (02) 9100 0579
Photo of Yelka Saric, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Yelka Saric
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042  (Online Only)
Appointments available! My name is Yelka, I am a registered psychologist and lead practitioner at Eccentric Minds - Psychology. As a psychologist, I practice in an authentically human way, which means you will see my personality, eccentricities, my house plants and my cat during sessions. I have experience working therapeutically with clients from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way.
Appointments available! My name is Yelka, I am a registered psychologist and lead practitioner at Eccentric Minds - Psychology. As a psychologist, I practice in an authentically human way, which means you will see my personality, eccentricities, my house plants and my cat during sessions. I have experience working therapeutically with clients from many different backgrounds, mental health concerns and life experiences in a client-centered way.
(02) 7804 4300 View (02) 7804 4300
Photo of Megan Buys, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Megan Buys
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
Weekends and after hours sessions now available – Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through PACFA. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
Weekends and after hours sessions now available – Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through PACFA. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
(02) 9100 0798 View (02) 9100 0798
Photo of Amy Newsom, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Amy Newsom
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
“I am so looking forward to getting to know you as a unique individual, and working together to create the life you wish for. I believe that creating sustainable change is only possible when working with people holistically. I have always cringed at traditional, clinical styles of therapy, so instead I am committed to treating you as a real person and working together to help you live your best life. I love it when people take a proactive approach to their mental health. There isn’t a day that goes by where I don’t appreciate how much of a privilege it is to get to know my clients and work together with them in a meaningful way"
“I am so looking forward to getting to know you as a unique individual, and working together to create the life you wish for. I believe that creating sustainable change is only possible when working with people holistically. I have always cringed at traditional, clinical styles of therapy, so instead I am committed to treating you as a real person and working together to help you live your best life. I love it when people take a proactive approach to their mental health. There isn’t a day that goes by where I don’t appreciate how much of a privilege it is to get to know my clients and work together with them in a meaningful way"
(02) 8355 9708 View (02) 8355 9708

See more therapy options for Haberfield

Eating Disorders Counsellors

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviours, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behaviour affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counselling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioural disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behaviour, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognise they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behaviour has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.