Eating Disorders Counselling in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC

Photo of Dr Samara Wilson (Clinical Psychologist), PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Samara Wilson (Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Pascoe Vale South, VIC 3044  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Samara, a clinical psychologist. I work with young adults and adults experiencing a range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain, health conditions, eating disorders, and first responder PTSD.
Hi, I'm Samara, a clinical psychologist. I work with young adults and adults experiencing a range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, life transitions, chronic pain, health conditions, eating disorders, and first responder PTSD.
(03) 8338 1470 View (03) 8338 1470
Photo of Laura Smolcic - The Psychology and Therapy Clinic, Laura Smolcic, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
The Psychology and Therapy Clinic, Laura Smolcic
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydenham, VIC 3037
I have worked in a range of settings for over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate and dedicated to provide you with care, compassion and individually tailored- therapy. I feel fortunate to have been able to provide care to my clients over the years. I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders. I am particularly passionate about teaching & assisting clients in areas concerning body image issues, weight management, dysfunctional & disordered eating.
I have worked in a range of settings for over 15 years as a Clinical Psychologist and I am passionate and dedicated to provide you with care, compassion and individually tailored- therapy. I feel fortunate to have been able to provide care to my clients over the years. I use a range of evidence-based psychological therapies for Depression and Anxiety disorders, Trauma , Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Work issues and Adjustment Disorders , Perfectionism and Eating Disorders. I am particularly passionate about teaching & assisting clients in areas concerning body image issues, weight management, dysfunctional & disordered eating.
(03) 7302 2007 View (03) 7302 2007
Photo of Yukti Prakash Mehta, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Yukti Prakash Mehta
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brunswick, VIC 3056
I am passionate about providing holistic care that combines evidence-based treatments and respecting the lived experiences of clients presenting with eating disorders, poor body image, personality disorder, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, low self-worth, as well as school and work-related stress.
I am passionate about providing holistic care that combines evidence-based treatments and respecting the lived experiences of clients presenting with eating disorders, poor body image, personality disorder, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, low self-worth, as well as school and work-related stress.
(03) 7003 2138 View (03) 7003 2138
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 Rosie Marks, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rosie Marks
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ivanhoe, VIC 3079
Hello, I am Rosie (she/her). I have experience working with adults with eating disorders, persistent pain, and am aligned with Health At Every Size principles. I aim to create a space where you can share without fear of judgement, deepen your connection to self, and bring about meaningful change in your life.
Hello, I am Rosie (she/her). I have experience working with adults with eating disorders, persistent pain, and am aligned with Health At Every Size principles. I aim to create a space where you can share without fear of judgement, deepen your connection to self, and bring about meaningful change in your life.
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Photo of Melanie McInneny, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Melanie McInneny
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Essendon, VIC 3040
To help clients achieve the change they are seeking, I use a range of treatment modalities including CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, CBT-E (Eating Disorders) and MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults).
Hi! My name is Mel and I am a Clinical Psychologist with 10 years of experience. Our clinic is made up of four experienced psychologists with different areas of interest and experience. We enjoy working with individuals 16+ years presenting with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood difficulties, emotional difficulties, low self esteem, adjustment and life stressors, OCD, Phobias, burnout, work stress, trauma, PTSD and body image. We believe that we all have strengths that we draw upon and help us function in the world and it's our job to help you identify what these are and how to utilise them. We also have couples counselling
To help clients achieve the change they are seeking, I use a range of treatment modalities including CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, CBT-E (Eating Disorders) and MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults).
Hi! My name is Mel and I am a Clinical Psychologist with 10 years of experience. Our clinic is made up of four experienced psychologists with different areas of interest and experience. We enjoy working with individuals 16+ years presenting with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood difficulties, emotional difficulties, low self esteem, adjustment and life stressors, OCD, Phobias, burnout, work stress, trauma, PTSD and body image. We believe that we all have strengths that we draw upon and help us function in the world and it's our job to help you identify what these are and how to utilise them. We also have couples counselling
(03) 8104 9955 View (03) 8104 9955
Photo of Toula Filiadis, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toula Filiadis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Highett, VIC 3190
Toula's areas of expertise include relationship and interpersonal issues; anxiety/depression management; conflict resolution; body esteem and eating disorders; self esteem/ assertiveness training; stress management; school/work based issues; gender/sexuality issues; trauma/ptsd; adjusting to transitions and life changes, grief and loss; parenting issues.
For 20 years, Toula has had the opportunity of working with people who have maintained a commitment to their wellbeing by addressing challenging issues in their lives. Toula has had extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults and families across a range of settings including public mental health, school setting, Relationships Australia and private practice. Toula maintains a wholistic approach and believes that individuals and families are the experts of their own lives and values their contribution in counselling.
Toula's areas of expertise include relationship and interpersonal issues; anxiety/depression management; conflict resolution; body esteem and eating disorders; self esteem/ assertiveness training; stress management; school/work based issues; gender/sexuality issues; trauma/ptsd; adjusting to transitions and life changes, grief and loss; parenting issues.
For 20 years, Toula has had the opportunity of working with people who have maintained a commitment to their wellbeing by addressing challenging issues in their lives. Toula has had extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, adults and families across a range of settings including public mental health, school setting, Relationships Australia and private practice. Toula maintains a wholistic approach and believes that individuals and families are the experts of their own lives and values their contribution in counselling.
(03) 6146 1713 View (03) 6146 1713
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 Leah Smith - Opening Doors Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Opening Doors Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Black Rock, VIC 3193
Waitlist for new clients
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
Leah Smith, Director and Principal Psychologist of "Opening Doors Psychology" has a passion for working with adolescents (14+ years), young adults/adults, and also works with some couples. Leah is particularly interested in working with eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as, anxiety disorders, trauma, and interpersonal/relational difficulties. Leah strives to provide a safe space for clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, guide clients to and equip them with the necessary skills, to enable them to manage their symptoms and unique difficulties, and address ongoing problematic patterns.
(03) 7500 5875 View (03) 7500 5875
Photo of Laura Kemppainen, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Laura Kemppainen
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070
I am a psychologist and supervisor with a warm, collaborative approach and experience working with a range of concerns. I have special interests in working with anxiety & depression, eating disorders & body-image, trauma and family issues, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ clients, as well as working with women on alcohol use. I work with each person individually to identify meaningful and relevant goals and have a holistic and trauma-informed approach. With children & adolescents I work from a developmental framework incorporating play and collaboration with work with parents. I also provide supervision for other therapists.
I am a psychologist and supervisor with a warm, collaborative approach and experience working with a range of concerns. I have special interests in working with anxiety & depression, eating disorders & body-image, trauma and family issues, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ clients, as well as working with women on alcohol use. I work with each person individually to identify meaningful and relevant goals and have a holistic and trauma-informed approach. With children & adolescents I work from a developmental framework incorporating play and collaboration with work with parents. I also provide supervision for other therapists.
(03) 9020 4507 View (03) 9020 4507
Photo of Deborah Newburn - Person Centred Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Person Centred Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Preston, VIC 3072
Deborah is an experienced Clinical Psychology with a particular interest in Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. She works with a diverse population, seeing adult women and men. Deborah provides a compassionate and evidence informed treatment. In addition to her therapeutic work, she teaches masters level clinical psychology students, and has an interest in eating disorder prevention. Deborah is the founder of Person Centred Psychology & Allied Health in South Melbourne, where she has built her practice of psychologists and dietitians to provide evidence informed person centred care to all clients.
Deborah is an experienced Clinical Psychology with a particular interest in Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. She works with a diverse population, seeing adult women and men. Deborah provides a compassionate and evidence informed treatment. In addition to her therapeutic work, she teaches masters level clinical psychology students, and has an interest in eating disorder prevention. Deborah is the founder of Person Centred Psychology & Allied Health in South Melbourne, where she has built her practice of psychologists and dietitians to provide evidence informed person centred care to all clients.
(03) 9069 8752 View (03) 9069 8752
Photo of Sara Cahill, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sara Cahill
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Greensborough, VIC 3088
Sara works with clients from the age of 15 years onwards and has extensive experience in the areas of eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma presentations, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and grief and loss.
Sara is an experienced Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience working in both the private and public sector. Sara is fully registered with AHRPA, a member of the Australian Psychological Society and a Board-Approved Supervisor. Sara is also a credentialed Eating Disorder clinician.
Sara works with clients from the age of 15 years onwards and has extensive experience in the areas of eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, trauma presentations, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem and grief and loss.
Sara is an experienced Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years experience working in both the private and public sector. Sara is fully registered with AHRPA, a member of the Australian Psychological Society and a Board-Approved Supervisor. Sara is also a credentialed Eating Disorder clinician.
(03) 8400 0771 View (03) 8400 0771
Photo of Melanie Guerreiro Yargi, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Melanie Guerreiro Yargi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I have extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and mood disorders in addition to specialist training and experience in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders in adults.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who aims to adopt a person-centred approach and work collaboratively with my clients, implementing evidence-based strategies and approaches to improve their wellbeing.
I have extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and mood disorders in addition to specialist training and experience in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders in adults.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who aims to adopt a person-centred approach and work collaboratively with my clients, implementing evidence-based strategies and approaches to improve their wellbeing.
(03) 9068 6189 View (03) 9068 6189
Photo of Rodney Walsh, MPsych, MACPA, Psychologist
Rodney Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Verified Verified
Mitcham, VIC 3132
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 Christian Long - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Coburg, VIC 3058  (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 Elisa Papotto, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Elisa Papotto
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Elisa is warm, engaging and not opposed to using light humour to help release tension, strengthen connections and inject humanity into the journey. Elisa has a naturally empathetic style and offers a supportive therapeutic framework to help foster insight, meaningful change, and confident personal growth for individuals across the lifespan. Elisa has worked in private practice and education settings providing clinical assessments and therapy for a range of presentations including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, family and relationship issues, and grief.
Elisa is warm, engaging and not opposed to using light humour to help release tension, strengthen connections and inject humanity into the journey. Elisa has a naturally empathetic style and offers a supportive therapeutic framework to help foster insight, meaningful change, and confident personal growth for individuals across the lifespan. Elisa has worked in private practice and education settings providing clinical assessments and therapy for a range of presentations including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, family and relationship issues, and grief.
(03) 9111 5300 View (03) 9111 5300
Photo of Dallas Currie, MSc, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dallas Currie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AASW
Verified Verified
Ascot Vale, VIC 3032
Hello, I'm Dallas. I'm a queer, non-binary, disabled therapist. I specialise in supporting people with diverse identities and experiences, to meaningfully move towards their mental health and wellbeing goals. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ folks, neurodivergent people, those living with PTSD and people with eating disorders. I pay my respect and gratitude to the traditional owners who sustain the land I benefit from and acknowledge I am a settler on unceded land.
Hello, I'm Dallas. I'm a queer, non-binary, disabled therapist. I specialise in supporting people with diverse identities and experiences, to meaningfully move towards their mental health and wellbeing goals. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ folks, neurodivergent people, those living with PTSD and people with eating disorders. I pay my respect and gratitude to the traditional owners who sustain the land I benefit from and acknowledge I am a settler on unceded land.
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Photo of Jackson Stieven-Taylor, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Jackson Stieven-Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brighton East, VIC 3187  (Online Only)
Jackson is a Clinical Psychologist committed to supporting individuals dealing with various mental health challenges, as well as problems in work, life and relationships. Jackson works with clients experiencing a wide variety of issues including work stress, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, challenges with parenting and family dynamics, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Jackson has a strong interest in self-actualisation and helping his clients to reach their fullest potential, both personally and professionally. Visit jspsychologybrighton.com for more information.
Jackson is a Clinical Psychologist committed to supporting individuals dealing with various mental health challenges, as well as problems in work, life and relationships. Jackson works with clients experiencing a wide variety of issues including work stress, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, challenges with parenting and family dynamics, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Jackson has a strong interest in self-actualisation and helping his clients to reach their fullest potential, both personally and professionally. Visit jspsychologybrighton.com for more information.
(03) 7003 2597 View (03) 7003 2597
Photo of Ishma Alvi - Ishma Alvi Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ishma Alvi Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Essendon, VIC 3040
My work is informed by principles of gender, sexual and racial equity. My practice is grounded in principles of inclusion, actively serving BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ communities, applying Anti-Oppression framework and a trauma-informed lens. Her work is helped by the fact that she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi, and English. I offer individual and relationship counselling for people from 21 years upward, for issues, including anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, sexual wellbeing and relationships. My work is guided by principles of gender, sexual, and racial equity. I am committed to inclusion and actively support BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+
My work is informed by principles of gender, sexual and racial equity. My practice is grounded in principles of inclusion, actively serving BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ communities, applying Anti-Oppression framework and a trauma-informed lens. Her work is helped by the fact that she is fluent in Urdu, Hindi, and English. I offer individual and relationship counselling for people from 21 years upward, for issues, including anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, sexual wellbeing and relationships. My work is guided by principles of gender, sexual, and racial equity. I am committed to inclusion and actively support BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+
(03) 8338 1204 View (03) 8338 1204
Photo of Chris Wood - Listen and Care Counselling, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Listen and Care Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Beaumaris, VIC 3193
Chris is a trauma informed counsellor, and also trained in EMDR and CBT-E for Eating disorders.
Dealing with personal issues can feel overwhelming. Asking for help is the first step and is a positive thing to do for yourself. Are you experiencing family or relationship problems, personal issues such as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, low self esteem? Counselling is a conversation and enables you to express your concerns without judgement, to be heard, and find practical strategies to manage or resolve your issues, so that you can move forward in your life with confidence.
Chris is a trauma informed counsellor, and also trained in EMDR and CBT-E for Eating disorders.
Dealing with personal issues can feel overwhelming. Asking for help is the first step and is a positive thing to do for yourself. Are you experiencing family or relationship problems, personal issues such as anxiety, depression, loss of a loved one, low self esteem? Counselling is a conversation and enables you to express your concerns without judgement, to be heard, and find practical strategies to manage or resolve your issues, so that you can move forward in your life with confidence.
(03) 4050 7113 View (03) 4050 7113

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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.