Eating Disorders Counselling in Ballarat Central, VIC

Photo of Marie Mirbach (The Present Place), ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Marie Mirbach (The Present Place)
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
(03) 4420 9044 View (03) 4420 9044
Photo of undefined - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350  (Online Only)
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
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Photo of Portia Kambasha, MSc
Portia Kambasha
MSc
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
(03) 4327 9085 View (03) 4327 9085
Photo of undefined - Heart and Hope Counselling, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heart and Hope Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101
Photo of undefined - Bloom Well-being, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bloom Well-being
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Do you struggle with relationships, with yourself and others? Maybe you find it hard to connect with your emotions or even your body? We value our clients as the expert of their lives, and acknowledge that reaching our for extra support isn't always easy. But our team have spent their entire careers dedicated to ongoing learning to ensure the people who enter our space feel seen, heard and believed. We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
Do you struggle with relationships, with yourself and others? Maybe you find it hard to connect with your emotions or even your body? We value our clients as the expert of their lives, and acknowledge that reaching our for extra support isn't always easy. But our team have spent their entire careers dedicated to ongoing learning to ensure the people who enter our space feel seen, heard and believed. We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
(03) 5316 7205 View (03) 5316 7205
Photo of Dr Joshua Comyn, PhD, ACA-L3, Psychotherapist
Dr Joshua Comyn
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350  (Online Only)
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
Something isn’t quite right. It may be that you can’t stop yourself from worrying. Or you are compulsively avoiding things (places, people, certain situations). Perhaps you find yourself flying into a sudden, uncontrollable, panic. It may be that you are feeling down: you can’t shake the sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness in your life. You may be feeling worthless and guilty too. It could be your relationships that aren’t working (partner, friends, family, boss, or colleagues). Perhaps past experiences are haunting you so that you lose your connection to the present and the people in it. Perhaps it's all of the above.
(03) 7003 2150 View (03) 7003 2150
Photo of Tamera Broughton, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamera Broughton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Hi, I’m Tamera. I’m an Accredit Mental Health Social Worker and owner and director of Centre Self Collective, a private mental health practice based in Brunswick, Melbourne and Daylesford. I am passionate about providing therapy, tools and resources to help you make sense of challenging times and develop ways to better manage difficulties and thrive in life. My approach to therapy is collaborative, strengths-based, sensitive and non-judgmental.
Hi, I’m Tamera. I’m an Accredit Mental Health Social Worker and owner and director of Centre Self Collective, a private mental health practice based in Brunswick, Melbourne and Daylesford. I am passionate about providing therapy, tools and resources to help you make sense of challenging times and develop ways to better manage difficulties and thrive in life. My approach to therapy is collaborative, strengths-based, sensitive and non-judgmental.
(03) 4420 3660 View (03) 4420 3660
Photo of Megan Pilon - Endeavour Psychology, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Megan Pilon - Endeavour Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Book online at www.endeavourpsychology.com.au - Megan is a Registered Psychologist with experience in clinical, community, and workplace settings. Megan has specific interests in helping young people and adults to identify and leverage their strengths, develop their understanding of themselves and their relationships, and meet personal, social, educational, and work-related goals. Megan has a deep interest in the way the mind, brain, and body work together to influence mental functioning, health, and wellbeing, and spends part of her time contributing to research projects for Deakin University’s Food and Mood Centre.
Book online at www.endeavourpsychology.com.au - Megan is a Registered Psychologist with experience in clinical, community, and workplace settings. Megan has specific interests in helping young people and adults to identify and leverage their strengths, develop their understanding of themselves and their relationships, and meet personal, social, educational, and work-related goals. Megan has a deep interest in the way the mind, brain, and body work together to influence mental functioning, health, and wellbeing, and spends part of her time contributing to research projects for Deakin University’s Food and Mood Centre.
(03) 4238 1789 View (03) 4238 1789

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Louise Jansz - Fourfold Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Louise Jansz - Fourfold Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Redan, VIC 3350
Louise is a PACFA registered psychotherapist and holistic counsellor. Using targeted interventions, including somatic experiencing and brainspotting, I guide you through life's transitions, fostering self-discovery and growth. I support both lifelong questing and short term crisis. You may be facing uncertainty, anxiety, depression, addiction or an identity crisis. We will work on strategies to manage emotions and adapt to changing circumstances. I create a safe haven to foster self-compassion, self-understanding as you learn to self-regulate, build resilience and communicate your needs as you gain momentum back in your life.
Louise is a PACFA registered psychotherapist and holistic counsellor. Using targeted interventions, including somatic experiencing and brainspotting, I guide you through life's transitions, fostering self-discovery and growth. I support both lifelong questing and short term crisis. You may be facing uncertainty, anxiety, depression, addiction or an identity crisis. We will work on strategies to manage emotions and adapt to changing circumstances. I create a safe haven to foster self-compassion, self-understanding as you learn to self-regulate, build resilience and communicate your needs as you gain momentum back in your life.
(03) 4240 3277 View (03) 4240 3277

Online Therapists

Photo of undefined - Veritas Art Therapy, MA, Psychotherapist
Veritas Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwick, VIC 3806
Other themes I regularly work with are relationships, trauma, grief, co-dependency, addiction, eating disorders and I can offer Faith Based Therapy.
My gift and desire to help others use creative expression is what has me leaping out of bed each day. I want to help others use creative expression to explore what's going on for them, helping them delve into their inner worlds. I grew up in an intensely creative and neurodiverse family, highly attuned to the beauty of nature, music, art and words. I've always loved the opportunities these forms of expression provide to express myself, and to feel deeply—beyond words.
Other themes I regularly work with are relationships, trauma, grief, co-dependency, addiction, eating disorders and I can offer Faith Based Therapy.
My gift and desire to help others use creative expression is what has me leaping out of bed each day. I want to help others use creative expression to explore what's going on for them, helping them delve into their inner worlds. I grew up in an intensely creative and neurodiverse family, highly attuned to the beauty of nature, music, art and words. I've always loved the opportunities these forms of expression provide to express myself, and to feel deeply—beyond words.
(03) 5910 5006 View (03) 5910 5006
Photo of Dr Bella Marker, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Bella Marker
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Middle Park, VIC 3206
Hello and welcome – My name is Bella; I am a clinical psychologist. I work with clients who experience negative self-talk. Many of us walk around with negative views of ourselves; which can lead to depression, anxiety, eating disorders and a wide range of other symptoms. I enjoy helping clients make sense of their negative inner voice - whether this was shaped by childhood trauma/neglect or a feeling of being different (for example growing up with ADHD, or growing up in a marginalised community such as LGBTIQA+ folks). The clients I see not only want to reduce their symptoms, but also wish to start seeing themselves more positively.
Hello and welcome – My name is Bella; I am a clinical psychologist. I work with clients who experience negative self-talk. Many of us walk around with negative views of ourselves; which can lead to depression, anxiety, eating disorders and a wide range of other symptoms. I enjoy helping clients make sense of their negative inner voice - whether this was shaped by childhood trauma/neglect or a feeling of being different (for example growing up with ADHD, or growing up in a marginalised community such as LGBTIQA+ folks). The clients I see not only want to reduce their symptoms, but also wish to start seeing themselves more positively.
(03) 7003 2670 View (03) 7003 2670
Photo of Dr Jessica Simons, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jessica Simons
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Glen Iris, VIC 3146  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist and a qualified Nutritionist. I have a passion for helping people find peace and contentment in their lives, free from emotional distress, and for providing clients with the tools they need to support themselves in the future. I have a particular interest in how diet influences mental health. I am open to seeing adults and adolescents with a range of mental health presentations including weight management, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep problems, anger, addictions, parenting issues and psychosomatic complaints.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and a qualified Nutritionist. I have a passion for helping people find peace and contentment in their lives, free from emotional distress, and for providing clients with the tools they need to support themselves in the future. I have a particular interest in how diet influences mental health. I am open to seeing adults and adolescents with a range of mental health presentations including weight management, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep problems, anger, addictions, parenting issues and psychosomatic complaints.
(03) 7500 5124 View (03) 7500 5124
Photo of Kati Hambleton, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Kati Hambleton
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Berwick, VIC 3806
eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, Post Natal depression, Affective disorders and anger management.
I am a mature age Psychologist, who has been in private practice since 1998. I have experience in many fields of Psychology and have assisted, both couples, adolescents and individuals to understand and work through the mental health obstacles they are facing.
eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, Post Natal depression, Affective disorders and anger management.
I am a mature age Psychologist, who has been in private practice since 1998. I have experience in many fields of Psychology and have assisted, both couples, adolescents and individuals to understand and work through the mental health obstacles they are facing.
(03) 8771 4774 View (03) 8771 4774
Photo of undefined - Mindspace Psychology, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Mindspace Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Beaconsfield, VIC 3807
Our Psychologists are able to provide therapy for adults experiencing difficulties including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, stress, anger issues, relationship problems, self-esteem issues and addiction issues and in children, issues such as school-based & behavioural concerns, eating disorders, childhood disorders (eg Autism, ADHD, Asperger's) etc.
At Mindspace Psychology we provide a range of therapies and assessments depending on your individual needs for children, adolescents, couples and adults. These sessions are usually 50mins in length. At your first appointment, a thorough assessment is conducted with your treating Psychologist, to allow the development of the best treatment plan. Treatment options will be discussed during the initial appointment and these will form the basis for future sessions. Our Psychologists are able to provide therapy to clients experiencing a number of difficulties using a warm and empathetic approach to help them reach their full potential.
Our Psychologists are able to provide therapy for adults experiencing difficulties including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, stress, anger issues, relationship problems, self-esteem issues and addiction issues and in children, issues such as school-based & behavioural concerns, eating disorders, childhood disorders (eg Autism, ADHD, Asperger's) etc.
At Mindspace Psychology we provide a range of therapies and assessments depending on your individual needs for children, adolescents, couples and adults. These sessions are usually 50mins in length. At your first appointment, a thorough assessment is conducted with your treating Psychologist, to allow the development of the best treatment plan. Treatment options will be discussed during the initial appointment and these will form the basis for future sessions. Our Psychologists are able to provide therapy to clients experiencing a number of difficulties using a warm and empathetic approach to help them reach their full potential.
(03) 9788 6802 View (03) 9788 6802
Photo of Claudia G, AThR, Psychotherapist
Claudia G
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Fairfield, VIC 3078
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
Claudia facilitates group, individual and dyadic art therapy sessions with families, children, infants and adults. Claudia focuses on person - centered, strength based, and trauma informed perspectives. She integrates elements from a range of theory into her practice. Her interests include trauma research, neuroscience, holistic, and psychodynamic therapies such as gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy. Claudia has most experience working with individuals experiencing trauma/ (symptoms), family violence, eating disorders, cPTSD/PTSD, sexual assault, with children, and Neurodivergent individuals.
(03) 7003 2134 View (03) 7003 2134
Photo of Michele McCallum, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Michele McCallum
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Croydon, VIC 3136
I provide support for children, young people, adults, couples, and families for issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, eating disorders, ASD, school refusal, Substance use, grief and loss and carer support. I will work with you to identify challenges and strengths, to consider options and implement strategies suited to your needs.
I provide support for children, young people, adults, couples, and families for issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, eating disorders, ASD, school refusal, Substance use, grief and loss and carer support. I will work with you to identify challenges and strengths, to consider options and implement strategies suited to your needs.
(03) 8797 2431 View (03) 8797 2431
Photo of Kate Mellody, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kate Mellody
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton East, VIC 3187
Caring Cove Psychology with Kate Mellody: For referral information, please visit caringcove.com.au. Kate has gained experience in diverse clinical settings across Victoria, including public healthcare (i.e., hospitals and outpatient programs), private practice, and not-for-profit organisations. Kate’s experience has allowed her to support individuals with a range of difficulties and mental health challenges. Kate is particularly passionate about working with people affected by eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns and anxiety.
Caring Cove Psychology with Kate Mellody: For referral information, please visit caringcove.com.au. Kate has gained experience in diverse clinical settings across Victoria, including public healthcare (i.e., hospitals and outpatient programs), private practice, and not-for-profit organisations. Kate’s experience has allowed her to support individuals with a range of difficulties and mental health challenges. Kate is particularly passionate about working with people affected by eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns and anxiety.
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Photo of Rodney Walsh, MPsych, MACPA, Psychologist
Rodney Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Verified Verified
Ringwood East, VIC 3135
Rodneys special interests include: Eating Disorders, Generalised Anxiety, Perfectionism, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (OCD), Social Anxiety.
Rodney is an experienced Clinical Psychologist who has been providing help to Ringwood and the surrounding community since 2015. He is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and a Fellow of the APS Clinical College, as well as a member of the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA).
Rodneys special interests include: Eating Disorders, Generalised Anxiety, Perfectionism, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (OCD), Social Anxiety.
Rodney is an experienced Clinical Psychologist who has been providing help to Ringwood and the surrounding community since 2015. He is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), and a Fellow of the APS Clinical College, as well as a member of the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA).
(03) 6144 6129 View (03) 6144 6129
Photo of Karla Lomagno, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Karla Lomagno
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawthorn, VIC 3122
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice, specialising in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with intensive training and expertise in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), Family-Based Therapy (FBT), and trauma-informed therapy.
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice, specialising in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with intensive training and expertise in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), Family-Based Therapy (FBT), and trauma-informed therapy.
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
(03) 9131 8787 View (03) 9131 8787
Photo of undefined - Bay Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Bay Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Middle Park, VIC 3206
I treat most areas of mental health, with specialist training in trauma, eating disorders, depression and anxiety (all related mood disorders), complex presentations and personality disorders.
Danielle de Guara (BA(Hons)(Psych/Psychophysiol), MPsych(Org), MPsych(Clin), MAPS) is a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist. Danielle provides a safe place to explore and treat all areas of mental health, personal concerns and well-being. A compassionate and open-minded psychologist, Danielle offers an opportunity for self-exploration, insight and growth. Treatment is individual and evidence-based.
I treat most areas of mental health, with specialist training in trauma, eating disorders, depression and anxiety (all related mood disorders), complex presentations and personality disorders.
Danielle de Guara (BA(Hons)(Psych/Psychophysiol), MPsych(Org), MPsych(Clin), MAPS) is a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist. Danielle provides a safe place to explore and treat all areas of mental health, personal concerns and well-being. A compassionate and open-minded psychologist, Danielle offers an opportunity for self-exploration, insight and growth. Treatment is individual and evidence-based.
(03) 7003 2856 View (03) 7003 2856

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Nearby Eating Disorders Counsellors Searches for Ballarat Central

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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.