Eating Disorders Counselling in Sandringham, VIC
![Photo of Julian Nolan, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f71e8787-f8fd-4f81-baa7-fdd1537f5c63/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Chris Wood - Listen and Care Counselling, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3945531f-e2fa-4188-b1e6-c0371f913067/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kirstyn Windsor, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc77a6b1-9458-47b9-a527-2fa2d53e292a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to make sense of their patterns of thinking, feeling, behaving, and relating, to facilitate change. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, and adjustment. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate and authentic, adopting a person-centred approach to understand each individual’s needs in order to deliver targeted treatment approaches. I pride myself on being kind and empathic when supporting my clients to improve the quality of their wellbeing and relationships.
I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to make sense of their patterns of thinking, feeling, behaving, and relating, to facilitate change. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, and adjustment. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate and authentic, adopting a person-centred approach to understand each individual’s needs in order to deliver targeted treatment approaches. I pride myself on being kind and empathic when supporting my clients to improve the quality of their wellbeing and relationships.
![Photo of Iuliia Kapinos, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a9771aa-f380-44bf-bce8-fb5741b5dac4/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship. Each person's journey is different, and my therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, trauma or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
We are born in relationship, we are wounded in relationship, and we can be healed in relationship. Each person's journey is different, and my therapeutic approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, trauma or seeking personal growth, I am here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
![Photo of Clarissa Martinez, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09e387db-5715-4d97-a3a9-c2cf93139dd9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I predominantly work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton, www.ruclaptyltd.com. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling and Neurofeedback therapy.
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I predominantly work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton, www.ruclaptyltd.com. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling and Neurofeedback therapy.
![Photo of Amy Claire Redman - Amy Redman Psychology - EMDR/ Trauma Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec23e747-b103-4d5f-a6f7-7e9032b35ac4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Redman Psychology - EMDR/ Trauma Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandringham, VIC 3191
Hi I'm Amy, I am a Counselling Psychologist. I create a friendly, supportive and non judgemental environment and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults and adults. My therapeutic approach is client centred, where client's goals, interest and preferences guide treatment. I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being and experience of life’s many challenges.
Hi I'm Amy, I am a Counselling Psychologist. I create a friendly, supportive and non judgemental environment and enjoy working with adolescents, young adults and adults. My therapeutic approach is client centred, where client's goals, interest and preferences guide treatment. I am passionate about working collaboratively with clients to identify and achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being and experience of life’s many challenges.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Leah Smith - Opening Doors Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78ada302-674b-4161-9081-7254ca9879ab/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ali Stevens, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70b95164-ed90-4d39-be37-f63be3a12870/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ali Stevens
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
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.
I am passionate about inciting change through challenging a client’s beliefs and behaviours that may hinder their growth. I am a warm and supportive therapist that strives to guide clients through the euphoria of self - discovery. I possesses a wealth of experience having worked in both the public and private sector and now act as Clinical Director of Terapia Psychology, a private practice based in Malvern East. I am available for in-person or Telehealth sessions. For information surrounding my fees, please visit our website at www.terapiapsychology.com.au.
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.
I am passionate about inciting change through challenging a client’s beliefs and behaviours that may hinder their growth. I am a warm and supportive therapist that strives to guide clients through the euphoria of self - discovery. I possesses a wealth of experience having worked in both the public and private sector and now act as Clinical Director of Terapia Psychology, a private practice based in Malvern East. I am available for in-person or Telehealth sessions. For information surrounding my fees, please visit our website at www.terapiapsychology.com.au.
![Photo of Bianca Lebenholc, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7663ce10-3c6e-4b0d-abaf-f5b8ea5e8409/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bianca Lebenholc
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moorabbin, VIC 3189
Check out Bianca's insightful podcast episode on eating disorders to learn more about her expertise and compassionate approach.
Bianca is a Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping adolescents and young adults navigate life's challenges. With extensive experience across diverse settings, Bianca has a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and OCD. Her warmth and enthusiasm shine through in every session, fostering a welcoming environment where clients feel empowered to explore and grow.
Check out Bianca's insightful podcast episode on eating disorders to learn more about her expertise and compassionate approach.
Bianca is a Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping adolescents and young adults navigate life's challenges. With extensive experience across diverse settings, Bianca has a special interest in supporting the LGBTQIA+ community as well as addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and OCD. Her warmth and enthusiasm shine through in every session, fostering a welcoming environment where clients feel empowered to explore and grow.
![Photo of Pavel (Paul) Golod, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58afe9c1-7401-463e-be27-27753239084f/1/320x400.png)
Pavel (Paul) Golod
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186 (Online Only)
I have successfully helped individuals overcome mood and anxiety disorders, agoraphobia, PTSD, eating disorders, among many others, using exclusively evidence-based techniques.
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
I have successfully helped individuals overcome mood and anxiety disorders, agoraphobia, PTSD, eating disorders, among many others, using exclusively evidence-based techniques.
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
![Photo of Jodie Mattingley, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/738baa5f-7197-4aa2-a622-cdd27f0590b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Mood disorders: Bi-Polar II, Major Depressive Disorder, Pre-menstrual dysphoria Personality Disorders: Borderline Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder Anxiety Disorders: Generalised Anxiety.
I am a warm, empathic and enthusiastic therapist with a particular interest in Neurodivergence. I strongly believe in a collaborative relationship between client and practictioner. I strive to combine empircal research alongside a client’s individuality to tailor therapy to a client’s needs. I am currently completing the Clinical Registrar program and will be a registered clinical psychologist by mid 2025. I am available for in-person or Telehealth sessions. For information surrounding my fees please visit our website www.terapiapsycholog.com.au.
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder Mood disorders: Bi-Polar II, Major Depressive Disorder, Pre-menstrual dysphoria Personality Disorders: Borderline Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder Anxiety Disorders: Generalised Anxiety.
I am a warm, empathic and enthusiastic therapist with a particular interest in Neurodivergence. I strongly believe in a collaborative relationship between client and practictioner. I strive to combine empircal research alongside a client’s individuality to tailor therapy to a client’s needs. I am currently completing the Clinical Registrar program and will be a registered clinical psychologist by mid 2025. I am available for in-person or Telehealth sessions. For information surrounding my fees please visit our website www.terapiapsycholog.com.au.
![Photo of Genevieve Cushan-Kain, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8b4fee-f9b9-432e-af45-ae82d5f79b1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Genevieve is a warm and compassionate clinician who creates a safe and nurturing space for her clients. She has experience in counselling individuals who are dealing with a wide range of challenges including trauma, relationship breakdowns, personality difficulties, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, low self-esteem, and grief and loss. Genevieve considers the unique challenges of each individual and works in a collaborative way to help cultivate their strengths and overcome their challenges.
Genevieve is a warm and compassionate clinician who creates a safe and nurturing space for her clients. She has experience in counselling individuals who are dealing with a wide range of challenges including trauma, relationship breakdowns, personality difficulties, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, low self-esteem, and grief and loss. Genevieve considers the unique challenges of each individual and works in a collaborative way to help cultivate their strengths and overcome their challenges.
![Photo of Gabrielle Klepfisz, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7be6de69-be74-4715-8bc9-1872c9f5aedc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist who has experience and knowledge in a variety of areas including mood/affective disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, forensic mental health, substance use, anger management, and trauma. I help clients who are struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, and/or difficult or traumatic experiences, better understand what has been going on for them, and together, we will make a plan for how best to address these concerns.
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist who has experience and knowledge in a variety of areas including mood/affective disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, forensic mental health, substance use, anger management, and trauma. I help clients who are struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, and/or difficult or traumatic experiences, better understand what has been going on for them, and together, we will make a plan for how best to address these concerns.
![Photo of Jackson Stieven-Taylor, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1f2a5ee-d9d7-4f02-88ed-61bfd351d581/1/320x400.png)
Jackson Stieven-Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186 (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.
![Photo of Brooke Scerri, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2be22dd8-322e-434c-8271-d416c47198ae/1/320x400.png)
Brooke Scerri
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients - Australia wide. Connection, collaboration, empathy and open-mindedness are values that lay the foundation for my work. I am passionate about cultivating a safe, non-judgemental and supportive space for my clients to freely express, explore, and process their experiences. All of my sessions are tailored to meet the uniqueness of my client. I draw upon several modalities including - EMDR, internal family systems, inner-child work and re-parenting tools, imagery rescripting, somatic psychotherapy, ACT and mindfulness.
I am currently accepting new clients - Australia wide. Connection, collaboration, empathy and open-mindedness are values that lay the foundation for my work. I am passionate about cultivating a safe, non-judgemental and supportive space for my clients to freely express, explore, and process their experiences. All of my sessions are tailored to meet the uniqueness of my client. I draw upon several modalities including - EMDR, internal family systems, inner-child work and re-parenting tools, imagery rescripting, somatic psychotherapy, ACT and mindfulness.
![Photo of Brigitte Laville, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/675a861b-9f07-4af7-8738-f845f44df6c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Brigitte. I consider myself to be a genuine, friendly, and compassionate psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I have been described by my clients as down-to-earth and easy to talk to. I enjoy having a laugh and sharing a close relationship with my clients. Through working closely and collaboratively with my clients, I assist my clients to live a life aligned with their values and goals. I wants to see my clients living according to their full potential and authentic self.
My name is Brigitte. I consider myself to be a genuine, friendly, and compassionate psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I have been described by my clients as down-to-earth and easy to talk to. I enjoy having a laugh and sharing a close relationship with my clients. Through working closely and collaboratively with my clients, I assist my clients to live a life aligned with their values and goals. I wants to see my clients living according to their full potential and authentic self.
![Photo of Jessica Louise Hall, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c51f6e52-1f4d-455d-828b-aff378528463/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Holistic counselor and psychotherapist specializing in somatic therapy and an Embodied Movement facilitator. I work in a 1-1 therapeutic setting, run online workshops, facilitate women's circles and embodied movement classes. My work is aimed at helping clients unravel disempowering beliefs, painful narratives, cultural conditioning & trauma that prevents them from living a fully expressed life.I weave together the many different healing modalities that I have studied over the past ten years. (Inc studies in women’s health, yoga, embodiment, counselling, somatic therapy, and psychotherapy) creating a unique holistic model of
I am a Holistic counselor and psychotherapist specializing in somatic therapy and an Embodied Movement facilitator. I work in a 1-1 therapeutic setting, run online workshops, facilitate women's circles and embodied movement classes. My work is aimed at helping clients unravel disempowering beliefs, painful narratives, cultural conditioning & trauma that prevents them from living a fully expressed life.I weave together the many different healing modalities that I have studied over the past ten years. (Inc studies in women’s health, yoga, embodiment, counselling, somatic therapy, and psychotherapy) creating a unique holistic model of
![Photo of Kate Hill - The Play Therapy Studio , AASW, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d64ce85-1e8f-4e15-bb7b-33e2b634322f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Play based parent child sessions can be really impactful way of helping you connect with your child to work through inner feelings, and process what might be challenging in your relationship. It is often really tough for children to express what's going on for them using words, and this is often why they find ways to communicate with us through their behaviour. This can be a little scary and overwhelming for us as caregivers, who may just be needing things to become a little easier at home. I work collaboratively and authentically with you and your child through the safety of play, where I draw on your wisdom, love, and knowledge.
Play based parent child sessions can be really impactful way of helping you connect with your child to work through inner feelings, and process what might be challenging in your relationship. It is often really tough for children to express what's going on for them using words, and this is often why they find ways to communicate with us through their behaviour. This can be a little scary and overwhelming for us as caregivers, who may just be needing things to become a little easier at home. I work collaboratively and authentically with you and your child through the safety of play, where I draw on your wisdom, love, and knowledge.
![Photo of Li Lian Koh, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b08135e4-04f1-42ff-ac91-4c01d85f41e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Li Lian Koh
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186 (Online Only)
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
![Photo of Noah Noam Mankowitz, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3037a59c-c5d7-46d2-a71d-deea5b690ed1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Noah Mankowitz is a Clinical Psychologist who works both at Alfred Health as well as privately. Noah specialises in mental conditions from age 8 and above, with particular interests in Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, Psychosis as well as Life Transition and Body Image. Noah Mankowitz earned his qualifications from Harvard University; Yale University as well as Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. In addition, Noah Mankowitz has published articles with the American Psychological Association and strives to continue contributing to the Medical and Psychology field.
Noah Mankowitz is a Clinical Psychologist who works both at Alfred Health as well as privately. Noah specialises in mental conditions from age 8 and above, with particular interests in Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, OCD, Trauma, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, Psychosis as well as Life Transition and Body Image. Noah Mankowitz earned his qualifications from Harvard University; Yale University as well as Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. In addition, Noah Mankowitz has published articles with the American Psychological Association and strives to continue contributing to the Medical and Psychology field.
See more therapy options for Sandringham
Nearby Eating Disorders Counsellors Searches for Sandringham
- Bentleigh
- Brighton
- Brighton East
- Carnegie
- Caulfield
- Caulfield South
- Cheltenham
- Elsternwick
- Elwood
- Hampton
- Highett
- Moorabbin
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.