Eating Disorders Counselling in Hawthorn East, VIC

Photo of Karla Lomagno, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Karla Lomagno
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
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 Dr Anda Julia Vintiloiu, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Anda Julia Vintiloiu
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
I believe that establishing a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation from which all change springs forward. Research strongly supports this. I believe that through creating a space rooted in understanding and acceptance with a therapist, one can construct meaning around emotional struggles, successes and feelings of failure, dreams and fears. This process can, and often does, translate into gradual relief from symptoms. I have extensive experience working with people suffering from depression and anxiety, perinatal mental health difficulties, PTSD and personality disorders.
I believe that establishing a trusting relationship in therapy is the foundation from which all change springs forward. Research strongly supports this. I believe that through creating a space rooted in understanding and acceptance with a therapist, one can construct meaning around emotional struggles, successes and feelings of failure, dreams and fears. This process can, and often does, translate into gradual relief from symptoms. I have extensive experience working with people suffering from depression and anxiety, perinatal mental health difficulties, PTSD and personality disorders.
(03) 7003 2747 View (03) 7003 2747
Photo of Jessica Elberg, MA, AMHSW, Counsellor
Jessica Elberg
Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
(03) 7003 2920 View (03) 7003 2920
Photo of Annamariya Hurducas, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Annamariya Hurducas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
Annamariya values being attuned to the needs of her patients, and creates a safe therapeutic space for discussing difficult experiences. Her capacity to engage with people from all walks of life is evident in her work, where she employs a relational approach to support development and change.
Annamariya values being attuned to the needs of her patients, and creates a safe therapeutic space for discussing difficult experiences. Her capacity to engage with people from all walks of life is evident in her work, where she employs a relational approach to support development and change.
0477 956 834 View 0477 956 834
Photo of Julijana Chochovski - Pre-Emptive Healthcare  , MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Pre-Emptive Healthcare
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
The psychologists at Pre-Emptive Healthcare have extensive experience in psychological treatment of children, adolescents and adults that have depression, anxiety and many other conditions. Unlike other psychologists who are just out of university these clinicians been working in this field over many years. Treatment is not in a ‘home/office’ but located within its own clinic. Conveniently located close to the Eastern fwy; with ample street parking, tram stop 46 on the 48 tram route and a few minutes walk from the Burke Road, Kew intersection.
The psychologists at Pre-Emptive Healthcare have extensive experience in psychological treatment of children, adolescents and adults that have depression, anxiety and many other conditions. Unlike other psychologists who are just out of university these clinicians been working in this field over many years. Treatment is not in a ‘home/office’ but located within its own clinic. Conveniently located close to the Eastern fwy; with ample street parking, tram stop 46 on the 48 tram route and a few minutes walk from the Burke Road, Kew intersection.
(03) 7003 2901 View (03) 7003 2901
Photo of Mercia Wessels, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Mercia Wessels
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
I work with adults and adolescents who want to stop repeating old patterns in their life and relationships. You're the one who is always there for others, but find it difficult to accept help in return. Your friends and loved ones reassure you, but you're plagued with a feeling that you don't really have much to offer. Self-doubt holds you back, and a constant battle with your inner critic leaves you exhausted. You've already worked really hard to try and make changes in your life, but frustratingly, your problems return and you keep struggling with feelings of emptiness and unfulfillment.
I work with adults and adolescents who want to stop repeating old patterns in their life and relationships. You're the one who is always there for others, but find it difficult to accept help in return. Your friends and loved ones reassure you, but you're plagued with a feeling that you don't really have much to offer. Self-doubt holds you back, and a constant battle with your inner critic leaves you exhausted. You've already worked really hard to try and make changes in your life, but frustratingly, your problems return and you keep struggling with feelings of emptiness and unfulfillment.
(03) 7003 2545 View (03) 7003 2545

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Samara Wilson (Clinical Psychologist), PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Samara Wilson (Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101  (Online Only)
Therapy styles include cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure, and CBT for eating disorders.
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.
Therapy styles include cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure, and CBT for eating disorders.
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 Ali Stevens, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Ali Stevens
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern East, VIC 3145
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating, Disordered Eating, Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorder, OCD, GAD), Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
What you can expect working with me: Working as a Clinical Psychologist for six years, my style has been to keep things honest and real. I’ll gently challenge some of the habits or behaviours that might be holding you back. We’ll work together to understand these patterns and find ways to change them so you can feel more in control and happier in your day-to-day life. It might feel a bit uncomfortable sometimes, but I’ll be here to support you as you make those important changes. I also strongly believe in the benefit of a holistic approach, so I will often work alongside any other health professionals involved in your care.
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating, Disordered Eating, Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorder, OCD, GAD), Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
What you can expect working with me: Working as a Clinical Psychologist for six years, my style has been to keep things honest and real. I’ll gently challenge some of the habits or behaviours that might be holding you back. We’ll work together to understand these patterns and find ways to change them so you can feel more in control and happier in your day-to-day life. It might feel a bit uncomfortable sometimes, but I’ll be here to support you as you make those important changes. I also strongly believe in the benefit of a holistic approach, so I will often work alongside any other health professionals involved in your care.
(03) 7003 2104 View (03) 7003 2104
Photo of Lara Malobrodski, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lara Malobrodski
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, VIC 3144
I primarily work psychodynamically but I also integrate techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E) for eating disorders, Interpersonal Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
Hi, I'm Lara. my focus is collaborating with you to ensure that your journey is a joint effort tailored to your unique needs. By cultivating an open and supportive environment, I will empower you to actively engage in your own growth and emotional healing. My approach involves exploring processes that influence your thoughts and behaviours with the aim to uncover patterns that may be impacting on your wellbeing.
I primarily work psychodynamically but I also integrate techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E) for eating disorders, Interpersonal Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
Hi, I'm Lara. my focus is collaborating with you to ensure that your journey is a joint effort tailored to your unique needs. By cultivating an open and supportive environment, I will empower you to actively engage in your own growth and emotional healing. My approach involves exploring processes that influence your thoughts and behaviours with the aim to uncover patterns that may be impacting on your wellbeing.
(03) 7500 5303 View (03) 7500 5303
Photo of Jessica Ciarma, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessica Ciarma
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Surrey Hills, VIC 3127  (Online Only)
NOTE: Jessica is currently offering Telehealth sessions only. Please email/refer to the website, to make a booking. Jessica is a clinical psychologist that works with adults with a range of presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders (e.g. PTSD, social anxiety, Panic Disorder, Generalised Anxiety Disorder), depression, and eating disorders (Binge Eating Disorder & Bulimia). She also has a special interest in perinatal psychology. She supports clients by providing them with a safe therapeutic space but also by encouraging the use of strategies to work towards goals and improving mental health and wellbeing.
NOTE: Jessica is currently offering Telehealth sessions only. Please email/refer to the website, to make a booking. Jessica is a clinical psychologist that works with adults with a range of presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders (e.g. PTSD, social anxiety, Panic Disorder, Generalised Anxiety Disorder), depression, and eating disorders (Binge Eating Disorder & Bulimia). She also has a special interest in perinatal psychology. She supports clients by providing them with a safe therapeutic space but also by encouraging the use of strategies to work towards goals and improving mental health and wellbeing.
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Photo of Yukti Prakash Mehta, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Yukti Prakash Mehta
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Prahran, VIC 3181
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 Emily Clinch, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Emily Clinch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
s well as having an interest eating disorders and trauma, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues and grief.
I work with clients from my office in East Melbourne and online Australia wide. I am a credentialed eating disorder clinician and EMDR Therapist who works with adolescents and adults to help empower them to be the best version of themselves. A
s well as having an interest eating disorders and trauma, I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues and grief.
I work with clients from my office in East Melbourne and online Australia wide. I am a credentialed eating disorder clinician and EMDR Therapist who works with adolescents and adults to help empower them to be the best version of themselves. A
(03) 7003 2241 View (03) 7003 2241
Photo of Laura Bailey - Laura Bailey Psychology , PsyBA General, Psychologist
Laura Bailey Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Toorak, VIC 3142
She has a special interest in working with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD.
Situated in Bairnsdale, Laura is passionate about providing evidence-based online and in person therapy and developing supportive and compassionate relationships with clients. Laura has additional training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Guided Self Help, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eating Disorder Specific Training through the National Eating Disorder Collaboration.
She has a special interest in working with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD.
Situated in Bairnsdale, Laura is passionate about providing evidence-based online and in person therapy and developing supportive and compassionate relationships with clients. Laura has additional training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Guided Self Help, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eating Disorder Specific Training through the National Eating Disorder Collaboration.
(03) 4158 2680 View (03) 4158 2680
Photo of Julian Nolan, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Julian Nolan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
I see people with a variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, anger and other emotional management issues, relationship/family issues, loss, grief and trauma, challenges relating to being neurodiverse (ASD, ADHD), sex, sexuality and gender related concerns, and eating disorders.
I see people with a variety of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, anger and other emotional management issues, relationship/family issues, loss, grief and trauma, challenges relating to being neurodiverse (ASD, ADHD), sex, sexuality and gender related concerns, and eating disorders.
(03) 7003 2124 View (03) 7003 2124
Photo of Martha Roumanis, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Martha Roumanis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
My interests are wide & varied including eating disorders, mood disorders, complex trauma couple therapy, relationships difficulties and work place issues.
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I am an AHPRA registered and endorsed clinical psychologist and I have over 17 years experience in both the public sector and private setting. I practice from a holistic, empathic and humble approach and have an understanding that each client is a unique individual and treatment is tailored to meet their needs. My person-centered approach is one that facilitates a collaborative therapeutic relationship with a client/s and will assist the person to navigate through life by facilitating hope, meaning and reward in a supportive and therapeutic setting.
My interests are wide & varied including eating disorders, mood disorders, complex trauma couple therapy, relationships difficulties and work place issues.
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I am an AHPRA registered and endorsed clinical psychologist and I have over 17 years experience in both the public sector and private setting. I practice from a holistic, empathic and humble approach and have an understanding that each client is a unique individual and treatment is tailored to meet their needs. My person-centered approach is one that facilitates a collaborative therapeutic relationship with a client/s and will assist the person to navigate through life by facilitating hope, meaning and reward in a supportive and therapeutic setting.
(02) 4810 0663 View (02) 4810 0663
Photo of Walter Carter, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Walter Carter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
I collaborate with clients experiencing ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, PTSD, sexual dysfunction, relationship issues and eating disorders.
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
I collaborate with clients experiencing ADHD, bipolar, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, PTSD, sexual dysfunction, relationship issues and eating disorders.
Sometimes we require a helping hand when adjusting to an ever-changing world. I want to help you develop skills and tools to create sustainable fulfilment within your life. Common challenges we all face include issues with self-esteem, processing negative or strong emotions, work-life balance, adjusting to change, developing meaningful relationships, and discovering our purpose. In addition, stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and interpersonal conflict can obstruct our ability to experience life to its fullest potential. You have the ability to unlock your own power, and I want to help you discover that inner strength.
0480 137 195 View 0480 137 195
Photo of Naomi Coulter, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Naomi Coulter
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
I have a special interest in working with people with eating, weight and body image concerns, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.
I work with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with how they relate to themselves, others and their environment. I value my clients as unique individuals and aim to foster a sense of hope, determination and resilience in people to make positive changes in their lives in whatever capacity is meaningful to them. I work a lot with people to help them identify, manage and regulate difficult emotions. This also involves a deeper understanding of emotional reactions and an opportunity to benefit from learning from past experiences.
I have a special interest in working with people with eating, weight and body image concerns, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.
I work with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with how they relate to themselves, others and their environment. I value my clients as unique individuals and aim to foster a sense of hope, determination and resilience in people to make positive changes in their lives in whatever capacity is meaningful to them. I work a lot with people to help them identify, manage and regulate difficult emotions. This also involves a deeper understanding of emotional reactions and an opportunity to benefit from learning from past experiences.
(03) 7003 2813 View (03) 7003 2813
Photo of Cindy Tanghal, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Cindy Tanghal
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Richmond, VIC 3121
In my practice, I provide professional, empathetic and validating psychological support and treatment to individuals with Emotion dysregulation; Major Depression; Bi-Polar Affective Disorders; Adjustment Disorder; Anxiety disorders; Social Anxiety; Eating Disorders; Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; Personality Disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD); Complex trauma presentations such as self-harm, identity disturbance, impulsivity, and relationship instability; Drug & alcohol and other Addictive Behaviours. Additionally, ​I am a Board approved (AHPRA) psychology supervisor.
In my practice, I provide professional, empathetic and validating psychological support and treatment to individuals with Emotion dysregulation; Major Depression; Bi-Polar Affective Disorders; Adjustment Disorder; Anxiety disorders; Social Anxiety; Eating Disorders; Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; Personality Disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD); Complex trauma presentations such as self-harm, identity disturbance, impulsivity, and relationship instability; Drug & alcohol and other Addictive Behaviours. Additionally, ​I am a Board approved (AHPRA) psychology supervisor.
(03) 7003 2463 View (03) 7003 2463
Photo of Cherie Dalton, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Cherie Dalton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
I offer treatment for anxiety disorders (panic disorder, illness anxiety, generalised anxiety, social phobia), mood disorders, perinatal conditions, somatic disorders, OCD, eating disorders/body image, grief & loss/bereavement, relational/interpersonal problems, sleep disorders, life transitions.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with 27 years experience providing psychotherapy to clients within private practice. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership between client and therapist, and feel it is paramount for successful outcomes in therapy. My process is to initially identify the problems that you bring and the psychological barriers that have inhibited you from moving forward. My approach is compassionate and insight-oriented whilst incorporating practical strategies that can be utilised in your daily life. I have been trained in CBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT/mindfulness & clinical hypnosis.
I offer treatment for anxiety disorders (panic disorder, illness anxiety, generalised anxiety, social phobia), mood disorders, perinatal conditions, somatic disorders, OCD, eating disorders/body image, grief & loss/bereavement, relational/interpersonal problems, sleep disorders, life transitions.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with 27 years experience providing psychotherapy to clients within private practice. I view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership between client and therapist, and feel it is paramount for successful outcomes in therapy. My process is to initially identify the problems that you bring and the psychological barriers that have inhibited you from moving forward. My approach is compassionate and insight-oriented whilst incorporating practical strategies that can be utilised in your daily life. I have been trained in CBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, ACT/mindfulness & clinical hypnosis.
(03) 9068 6015 View (03) 9068 6015
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

See more therapy options for Hawthorn East

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.