Eating Disorders Counselling in Kew, 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
Kew, VIC 3101  (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 Karla Lomagno, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Karla Lomagno
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kew, VIC 3101
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 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 Kristi Lynch, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kristi Lynch
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I am a psychologist with extensive experience across a range of corporate and educational settings. I provide a safe and supportive environment in which to explore and resolve challenging personal and relationship issues. I have a passion for working with couples, people looking to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, anger and grief. I want to help you achieve a better understanding of why you feel the way you do, why you think in a particular way, and to challenge and shift behaviour patterns which are holding you back from experiencing a more connected, fulfilled and meaningful life.
I am a psychologist with extensive experience across a range of corporate and educational settings. I provide a safe and supportive environment in which to explore and resolve challenging personal and relationship issues. I have a passion for working with couples, people looking to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, anger and grief. I want to help you achieve a better understanding of why you feel the way you do, why you think in a particular way, and to challenge and shift behaviour patterns which are holding you back from experiencing a more connected, fulfilled and meaningful life.
(03) 6146 1640 View (03) 6146 1640
Photo of Sharon Wells, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Her expertise focuses on personality disorders, as well as anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, eating disorders, and relational difficulties.
Sharon has extensive experience working with the full spectrum of mental health challenges, from anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, ADHD. ASD, and chronic illness. Specialising in working with young people, as well as adults, parents and families, Sharon enjoys creating a safe space to explore the tricky places that are keeping you stuck, and find an easier path forward. With compassion and curiosity, Sharon supports each person to build a greater sense of self worth and confidence.
Her expertise focuses on personality disorders, as well as anxiety, depression, ASD, ADHD, eating disorders, and relational difficulties.
Sharon has extensive experience working with the full spectrum of mental health challenges, from anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, ADHD. ASD, and chronic illness. Specialising in working with young people, as well as adults, parents and families, Sharon enjoys creating a safe space to explore the tricky places that are keeping you stuck, and find an easier path forward. With compassion and curiosity, Sharon supports each person to build a greater sense of self worth and confidence.
(03) 7003 2107 View (03) 7003 2107
Photo of Cherie Dalton, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Cherie Dalton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
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 Michelle Menzel, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist
Michelle Menzel
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Michelle is a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years experience treating depression, anxiety and eating/ body image disorders. She has also provided workshops and courses for General Practitioners and mental health workers. Her approach integrates cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, schema therapy and hypnosis. She is warm and empathic, down-to-earth and practical, while keeping in mind the bigger picture to help her clients achieve optimal mental health and take charge of their lives. Michelle currently practices in Healesville and offers telehealth consultations.
Michelle is a Clinical Psychologist with 20 years experience treating depression, anxiety and eating/ body image disorders. She has also provided workshops and courses for General Practitioners and mental health workers. Her approach integrates cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, schema therapy and hypnosis. She is warm and empathic, down-to-earth and practical, while keeping in mind the bigger picture to help her clients achieve optimal mental health and take charge of their lives. Michelle currently practices in Healesville and offers telehealth consultations.
(03) 5905 7053 View (03) 5905 7053
Photo of Angus Ferguson, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Angus Ferguson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I am a registered gestalt psychotherapist working in private practice in Kew, Melbourne. My practice is trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and LGBTIQ+ friendly. My approach is relational and is firmly based in psychotherapeutic theory. I specialise in working with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, queer, gender diverse, transgender related issues, anger concerns, relationship concerns, addictions (including gambling, alcohol, other drugs).
I am a registered gestalt psychotherapist working in private practice in Kew, Melbourne. My practice is trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and LGBTIQ+ friendly. My approach is relational and is firmly based in psychotherapeutic theory. I specialise in working with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, queer, gender diverse, transgender related issues, anger concerns, relationship concerns, addictions (including gambling, alcohol, other drugs).
(03) 9111 5357 View (03) 9111 5357
Photo of Bruce Alexander, PhD
Bruce Alexander
PhD
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Dr Bruce Alexander has devoted his life to the improvement of physical and psychological health. With over 20 years experience, Melbourne Hypnotherapist, Bruce offers private hypnotherapy consultations at his clinic in Kew. After working for 10 years as a medical researcher, Bruce was seeking a new career where he could support people more directly to improve their own lives. He was inspired to train as a hypnotherapist based on his own successful experience using hypnotherapy to gain control over exam anxiety while he was at university.
Dr Bruce Alexander has devoted his life to the improvement of physical and psychological health. With over 20 years experience, Melbourne Hypnotherapist, Bruce offers private hypnotherapy consultations at his clinic in Kew. After working for 10 years as a medical researcher, Bruce was seeking a new career where he could support people more directly to improve their own lives. He was inspired to train as a hypnotherapist based on his own successful experience using hypnotherapy to gain control over exam anxiety while he was at university.
(03) 9034 6071 View (03) 9034 6071
Photo of Julijana Chochovski - Pre-Emptive Healthcare  , MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Pre-Emptive Healthcare
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
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 Kaylah De Silva, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Kaylah De Silva
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I’m Kaylah, a Clinical Psychologist who has a passion for supporting individuals with anxiety and related difficulties. If you feel that your mental health difficulties are limiting your life, we can work together to strengthen your sense of control and agency, so that you feel empowered to make meaningful changes.
I’m Kaylah, a Clinical Psychologist who has a passion for supporting individuals with anxiety and related difficulties. If you feel that your mental health difficulties are limiting your life, we can work together to strengthen your sense of control and agency, so that you feel empowered to make meaningful changes.
(03) 7500 5883 View (03) 7500 5883
Photo of Mercia Wessels, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Mercia Wessels
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
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
Photo of Victoria Heywood-Smith, Assoc MAPS, Psychologist
Victoria Heywood-Smith
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Victoria, a vital member of Talking Sleep Psychology team, empowers clients to transcend limitations and gain confidence. Specialising in healthy sleep, she offers tailored strategies for sleep concerns, anxiety, and depression. As a Provisional Psychologist and Art Therapist, Victoria delivers empathetic support, honouring each client's journey with diligence and compassion. Her commitment to holistic well-being makes her an invaluable asset to our team.
Victoria, a vital member of Talking Sleep Psychology team, empowers clients to transcend limitations and gain confidence. Specialising in healthy sleep, she offers tailored strategies for sleep concerns, anxiety, and depression. As a Provisional Psychologist and Art Therapist, Victoria delivers empathetic support, honouring each client's journey with diligence and compassion. Her commitment to holistic well-being makes her an invaluable asset to our team.
(03) 7003 2158 View (03) 7003 2158
Photo of Weiyu Guan, MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Weiyu Guan
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I work with clients across the life span and from all walks of life. People come to me because they feel stuck, depressed, alienated, conflicted, lost, unfulfilled or curious. They yearn for a confidential, compassionate and inspiring therapeutic space where they can feel safe enough to encounter different aspects of themselves and their life circumstances with more depth, honesty, dignity and clarity. They hope to cultivate their self-understanding and to nurture their heart in order to find more ease and a deeper sense of belonging with themselves, their loved ones and the wider world; so as to live a life of joy and connection.
I work with clients across the life span and from all walks of life. People come to me because they feel stuck, depressed, alienated, conflicted, lost, unfulfilled or curious. They yearn for a confidential, compassionate and inspiring therapeutic space where they can feel safe enough to encounter different aspects of themselves and their life circumstances with more depth, honesty, dignity and clarity. They hope to cultivate their self-understanding and to nurture their heart in order to find more ease and a deeper sense of belonging with themselves, their loved ones and the wider world; so as to live a life of joy and connection.
(03) 7003 2318 View (03) 7003 2318
Photo of Therese Raulin, MA, Psychotherapist
Therese Raulin
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101  (Online Only)
I specialise in developing an understanding of and treating children, adolescents and adults struggling to cope with challenges related to the past. I treat behavioural difficulties, emotional dysregulation and a broad range of presentations due to complex trauma. I have a particular interest in early life experience and the impact on attachment relationships. I am referred patients through Psychiatrists, Paediatricians, GPs and families seeking an alternative treatment to the usual medication focussed response to ADHD, ODD and ADD presentations and abuse. I undertake psychodynamic assessment and treatment that gets great results.
I specialise in developing an understanding of and treating children, adolescents and adults struggling to cope with challenges related to the past. I treat behavioural difficulties, emotional dysregulation and a broad range of presentations due to complex trauma. I have a particular interest in early life experience and the impact on attachment relationships. I am referred patients through Psychiatrists, Paediatricians, GPs and families seeking an alternative treatment to the usual medication focussed response to ADHD, ODD and ADD presentations and abuse. I undertake psychodynamic assessment and treatment that gets great results.
(02) 4810 0672 View (02) 4810 0672
Photo of Jamie Barnier, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist
Jamie Barnier
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, sadness, anger, grief or emotional pain? You may be feeling lost, detached from others, not getting any joy or meaning from life or be feeling hopeless or overwhelmed. If so, you don–t have to continue suffering, I can help. Beyond treating symptoms, my aim is to help you get to the root cause of the problem and for you to better understand you through identifying the internal difficulties and roadblocks that may be causing these feelings. In so doing, you will feel more confident, have more energy, feel better connected to others and feel a sense of hope. I have a Doctorate degree in
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, sadness, anger, grief or emotional pain? You may be feeling lost, detached from others, not getting any joy or meaning from life or be feeling hopeless or overwhelmed. If so, you don–t have to continue suffering, I can help. Beyond treating symptoms, my aim is to help you get to the root cause of the problem and for you to better understand you through identifying the internal difficulties and roadblocks that may be causing these feelings. In so doing, you will feel more confident, have more energy, feel better connected to others and feel a sense of hope. I have a Doctorate degree in
(03) 8400 0533 View (03) 8400 0533
Photo of Sandy De Bortoli, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandy De Bortoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Sandy is a Trauma Recovery Specialist. She has extensive experience as a therapist, working with adults and adolescents struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, identity issues and relationships difficulties. She has over 27 years of clinical experience in the mental health space. Sandy has worked alongside many individuals grappling with mental health. Recognised for her integrative and holistic approaches to practice, Sandy believes with time and commitment, counselling can bring about change and transformation.
Sandy is a Trauma Recovery Specialist. She has extensive experience as a therapist, working with adults and adolescents struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, identity issues and relationships difficulties. She has over 27 years of clinical experience in the mental health space. Sandy has worked alongside many individuals grappling with mental health. Recognised for her integrative and holistic approaches to practice, Sandy believes with time and commitment, counselling can bring about change and transformation.
(03) 9118 9042 View (03) 9118 9042
Photo of Thea Baker - Thea Baker Wellbeing, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Thea Baker Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I am a counsellor and body-based psychotherapist with special interests in all aspects women’s health, trauma and couples therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to find a place of healing and recovery and I'm not the kind of therapist that is ok with “feeling better” if better is still a long way off being truly well. That’s why I feel such an affinity with the word ‘wellbeing’. as it is much more than the absence of disease or illness. Wellbeing is a multidimensional mix of getting your physical, mental and social health in balance, and I have a team of Counsellors working at the practice to support you in your healing.
I am a counsellor and body-based psychotherapist with special interests in all aspects women’s health, trauma and couples therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to find a place of healing and recovery and I'm not the kind of therapist that is ok with “feeling better” if better is still a long way off being truly well. That’s why I feel such an affinity with the word ‘wellbeing’. as it is much more than the absence of disease or illness. Wellbeing is a multidimensional mix of getting your physical, mental and social health in balance, and I have a team of Counsellors working at the practice to support you in your healing.
(03) 9008 1971 View (03) 9008 1971
Photo of Jo Efron, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Jo Efron
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I am a qualified and registered Psychotherapist and I will work with any presenting issue from your perspective. My non-judgmental, yet challenging approach, is sincere and honest. If you are grappling with issues such as relationship breakdowns, depressive moods, up/down addiction swings, body issues, grief/despair, compulsions or otherwise, these are coping mechanisms to ward off what feels unbearable. Emotional strain and exhaustion are signals that require your attention. Make time to support yourself. You will find me down to earth and easy to talk to in a confidential space. Wisdom and clarity can be your guideposts in future
I am a qualified and registered Psychotherapist and I will work with any presenting issue from your perspective. My non-judgmental, yet challenging approach, is sincere and honest. If you are grappling with issues such as relationship breakdowns, depressive moods, up/down addiction swings, body issues, grief/despair, compulsions or otherwise, these are coping mechanisms to ward off what feels unbearable. Emotional strain and exhaustion are signals that require your attention. Make time to support yourself. You will find me down to earth and easy to talk to in a confidential space. Wisdom and clarity can be your guideposts in future
(03) 7003 2157 View (03) 7003 2157
Photo of Michelle Seelig, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Michelle Seelig
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101  (Online Only)
I work with midlife women to help them overcome people-pleasing, anxiety, depression and burnout so they can bring more meaning, purpose and joy to the next chapter of their life. Are you...Questioning life choices? Experiencing high levels of anxiety? Feeling stuck in a rut and believing nothing will change? Dissatisfied with your work or career? Struggling with your relationship? Getting back on your feet after divorce or adjusting to separation? Concerned about your health? Regretful about goals not yet achieved? Fearful of ageing?
I work with midlife women to help them overcome people-pleasing, anxiety, depression and burnout so they can bring more meaning, purpose and joy to the next chapter of their life. Are you...Questioning life choices? Experiencing high levels of anxiety? Feeling stuck in a rut and believing nothing will change? Dissatisfied with your work or career? Struggling with your relationship? Getting back on your feet after divorce or adjusting to separation? Concerned about your health? Regretful about goals not yet achieved? Fearful of ageing?
(03) 7500 5948 View (03) 7500 5948
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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.