Eating Disorders Counselling in Werribee, VIC

Photo of Deborah Newburn - Person Centred Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Person Centred Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Werribee, VIC 3030
Deborah is an experienced Clinical Psychology with a particular interest in Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. She works with a diverse population, seeing adult women and men. Deborah provides a compassionate and evidence informed treatment. In addition to her therapeutic work, she teaches masters level clinical psychology students, and has an interest in eating disorder prevention. Deborah is the founder of Person Centred Psychology & Allied Health in South Melbourne, where she has built her practice of psychologists and dietitians to provide evidence informed person centred care to all clients.
Deborah is an experienced Clinical Psychology with a particular interest in Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. She works with a diverse population, seeing adult women and men. Deborah provides a compassionate and evidence informed treatment. In addition to her therapeutic work, she teaches masters level clinical psychology students, and has an interest in eating disorder prevention. Deborah is the founder of Person Centred Psychology & Allied Health in South Melbourne, where she has built her practice of psychologists and dietitians to provide evidence informed person centred care to all clients.
(03) 9069 8752 View (03) 9069 8752
Photo of Melanie Guerreiro Yargi, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Melanie Guerreiro Yargi
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030
I have extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and mood disorders in addition to specialist training and experience in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders in adults.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who aims to adopt a person-centred approach and work collaboratively with my clients, implementing evidence-based strategies and approaches to improve their wellbeing.
I have extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and mood disorders in addition to specialist training and experience in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders in adults.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who aims to adopt a person-centred approach and work collaboratively with my clients, implementing evidence-based strategies and approaches to improve their wellbeing.
(03) 9068 6189 View (03) 9068 6189
Photo of Julian O'Sullivan, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Julian O'Sullivan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030
Julian's focus is on adult (18+) mental health. He provides treatment for various forms of psychological distress including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, and addictive behaviours. He works with clients experiencing grief and loss, identity and existential crisis, social alienation, isolation and loneliness. He is interested in helping those with difficulties in relationships, work stress, or managing distressing emotions.
Julian's focus is on adult (18+) mental health. He provides treatment for various forms of psychological distress including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma and stressor related disorders, and addictive behaviours. He works with clients experiencing grief and loss, identity and existential crisis, social alienation, isolation and loneliness. He is interested in helping those with difficulties in relationships, work stress, or managing distressing emotions.
(03) 7003 2798 View (03) 7003 2798
Photo of Nikki Black, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Nikki Black
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Werribee, VIC 3030
Life can be tough. I can help you with that. My name is Nikki. I am a dynamic and compassionate counsellor with a diverse background in healthcare (20+years). I work with individuals to navigate through various personal issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, addiction, eating disorders, self-esteem, IVF, chronic pain and more. My personal experiences, plus my down- to -earth, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach creates a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals uncover their true potential and create meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Life can be tough. I can help you with that. My name is Nikki. I am a dynamic and compassionate counsellor with a diverse background in healthcare (20+years). I work with individuals to navigate through various personal issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, addiction, eating disorders, self-esteem, IVF, chronic pain and more. My personal experiences, plus my down- to -earth, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach creates a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals uncover their true potential and create meaningful and fulfilling lives.
0461 467 981 View 0461 467 981
Photo of Geetha Chetty, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Geetha Chetty
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Werribee, VIC 3030
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
Hi, I'm Geetha! I come from a South African- Indian background and have a deep passion to serve others by empowering them to live their best lives. My expertise is working with youth, adults, and families from different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. I've worked in correctional services, and various community sectors namely, disadvantaged and marginalised youth, AOD, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault and family violence. I work with a wide range of psychological challenges including, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sleep issues, anger and addictions.
(03) 7302 2085 View (03) 7302 2085
Photo of Claire Anne Loughran - Seddon Psychology, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Seddon Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030
I am a credentialed eating disorder clinician supporting clients and family with concerns including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, ARFID, body dysmorphia, and other disordered eating and body related concerns.
I focus on a client-centred approach to understand your individual needs and concerns, your values and goals, and what is important to you. I support clients with a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, eating disorders and body image concerns, and neurodivergence.
I am a credentialed eating disorder clinician supporting clients and family with concerns including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, ARFID, body dysmorphia, and other disordered eating and body related concerns.
I focus on a client-centred approach to understand your individual needs and concerns, your values and goals, and what is important to you. I support clients with a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, eating disorders and body image concerns, and neurodivergence.
(03) 8594 4027 View (03) 8594 4027
Photo of Christian Long - Chris Long Clinical Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Chris Long Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030  (Online Only)
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
I take pride in working with people to support them to achieve their goals and to lead a fulfilling life. I commit to individualised and evidence-based practice, which means holding you as the client at the centre of therapeutic work whilst providing psychotherapy supported by clinical research. A range of different modalities of therapies are offered for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, chronic pain and personality disorders. I work with adults, adolescents, children and families.
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Photo of Amy-Jane Evans, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Amy-Jane Evans
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030
I bring humour, flexibility, and calm, alongside personal & professional experiences with chronic illness, loss, anxiety, trauma, stress, eating disorders, adhd & more.
I help those challenged with mental health, change, stressors, trauma and those looking to level up in their life in domains of wellness, performance, fitness, lifestyle and career. Whether you're struggling to cope or looking to get the most out of your life, it's not uncommon to feel stuck, get in your own way, or not know where to start. You might decide to work with me if you need that objective space and time where you can work in a safe, collaborative, understanding space to heal your past & come up with practical solutions to improve your capacity for coping, developing your mindset and optimising performance.
I bring humour, flexibility, and calm, alongside personal & professional experiences with chronic illness, loss, anxiety, trauma, stress, eating disorders, adhd & more.
I help those challenged with mental health, change, stressors, trauma and those looking to level up in their life in domains of wellness, performance, fitness, lifestyle and career. Whether you're struggling to cope or looking to get the most out of your life, it's not uncommon to feel stuck, get in your own way, or not know where to start. You might decide to work with me if you need that objective space and time where you can work in a safe, collaborative, understanding space to heal your past & come up with practical solutions to improve your capacity for coping, developing your mindset and optimising performance.
(03) 4236 7435 View (03) 4236 7435
Photo of Bettina (Betty) Joy Revens - Sonder Counselling Services, MA, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Sonder Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030
My areas of interest revolve around the impacts of early trauma, various grief, and loss experiences and life transitions. Which may impact the everyday functioning of an individual. Having the opportunity to discuss these experiences, the complexities of life transitions and/or unresolved grief and loss and how you have been impacted. At times, we all experience stress, and, anxiety, which can create depressive symptoms. This is extremely relevant at this time due to COVID-19. It is scary, it is unknown territory and we are all going through the same fears. Counsellors can support you through this.
My areas of interest revolve around the impacts of early trauma, various grief, and loss experiences and life transitions. Which may impact the everyday functioning of an individual. Having the opportunity to discuss these experiences, the complexities of life transitions and/or unresolved grief and loss and how you have been impacted. At times, we all experience stress, and, anxiety, which can create depressive symptoms. This is extremely relevant at this time due to COVID-19. It is scary, it is unknown territory and we are all going through the same fears. Counsellors can support you through this.
(08) 9126 9072 View (08) 9126 9072
Photo of Megan Pilon - Endeavour Psychology, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Megan Pilon - Endeavour Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Werribee, VIC 3030
Book online at www.endeavourpsychology.com.au - Megan is a Registered Psychologist with experience in clinical, community, and workplace settings. Megan has specific interests in helping young people and adults to identify and leverage their strengths, develop their understanding of themselves and their relationships, and meet personal, social, educational, and work-related goals. Megan has a deep interest in the way the mind, brain, and body work together to influence mental functioning, health, and wellbeing, and spends part of her time contributing to research projects for Deakin University’s Food and Mood Centre.
Book online at www.endeavourpsychology.com.au - Megan is a Registered Psychologist with experience in clinical, community, and workplace settings. Megan has specific interests in helping young people and adults to identify and leverage their strengths, develop their understanding of themselves and their relationships, and meet personal, social, educational, and work-related goals. Megan has a deep interest in the way the mind, brain, and body work together to influence mental functioning, health, and wellbeing, and spends part of her time contributing to research projects for Deakin University’s Food and Mood Centre.
(03) 4238 1789 View (03) 4238 1789
Photo of Meg Wettenhall, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Meg Wettenhall
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Werribee, VIC 3030
Hi! I'm Meg. I am registered clinical psychotherapist and an equine therapist. I am training in somatic experiencing and EMDR. I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and other mental health and relational issues. I use a relational, integrative approach to psychotherapy, mainly based in humanistic, experiential and somatic approaches. If you have experienced an adverse childhood and/or on going challenging interpersonal issues, I specialise in developmental trauma, complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault. I also work with young people seeking mental health support and have experience working with ASD Level 1 & 2.
Hi! I'm Meg. I am registered clinical psychotherapist and an equine therapist. I am training in somatic experiencing and EMDR. I specialise in trauma, anxiety, and other mental health and relational issues. I use a relational, integrative approach to psychotherapy, mainly based in humanistic, experiential and somatic approaches. If you have experienced an adverse childhood and/or on going challenging interpersonal issues, I specialise in developmental trauma, complex trauma, family violence, and sexual assault. I also work with young people seeking mental health support and have experience working with ASD Level 1 & 2.
(03) 4238 0899 View (03) 4238 0899

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joanne Cook, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I am experienced working on a range of mental health problems including; behavioural disorders, oppositional defiance disorder, neuro-diversity, eating disorders, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with experience working in public and private mental health settings. I primarily work with children and adolescents using a systemic approach of involving parents where appropriate. My work with children incorporates play and considers their developmental age. I also offer therapeutic interventions to individual adults and families. I enjoy the dynamic nature of family and parent-child therapy, to help mobilise your individual and collective strengths that will promote deeper connectivity and improve family relationships.
I am experienced working on a range of mental health problems including; behavioural disorders, oppositional defiance disorder, neuro-diversity, eating disorders, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Hi, I’m Jo. I am a registered Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with experience working in public and private mental health settings. I primarily work with children and adolescents using a systemic approach of involving parents where appropriate. My work with children incorporates play and considers their developmental age. I also offer therapeutic interventions to individual adults and families. I enjoy the dynamic nature of family and parent-child therapy, to help mobilise your individual and collective strengths that will promote deeper connectivity and improve family relationships.
(08) 9126 9091 View (08) 9126 9091
Photo of Maree Nekich, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Maree Nekich
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
As a Clinical Psychologist with additional specialist training in Family Therapy Maree has undergone extensive training to help her understand, prevent and relieve distress. She has over 15yrs experience in the private & public mental health care industry where she has provided individual, couple and family therapy to clients aged 6–80yrs. Her approach respects that the needs of each client will be unique and can't be simplified by a generic diagnosis or treated in a generic way. Therefore, every client will be afforded the opportunity to be listened to deeply at their own pace and following an assessment offered tailored treatment.
(03) 9111 2650 View (03) 9111 2650
Photo of Louise Jansz - Fourfold Therapy, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Louise Jansz - Fourfold Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Point Cook, VIC 3030
Louise is a PACFA registered psychotherapist and holistic counsellor. Using targeted interventions, including somatic experiencing and brainspotting, I guide you through life's transitions, fostering self-discovery and growth. I support both lifelong questing and short term crisis. You may be facing uncertainty, anxiety, depression, addiction or an identity crisis. We will work on strategies to manage emotions and adapt to changing circumstances. I create a safe haven to foster self-compassion, self-understanding as you learn to self-regulate, build resilience and communicate your needs as you gain momentum back in your life.
Louise is a PACFA registered psychotherapist and holistic counsellor. Using targeted interventions, including somatic experiencing and brainspotting, I guide you through life's transitions, fostering self-discovery and growth. I support both lifelong questing and short term crisis. You may be facing uncertainty, anxiety, depression, addiction or an identity crisis. We will work on strategies to manage emotions and adapt to changing circumstances. I create a safe haven to foster self-compassion, self-understanding as you learn to self-regulate, build resilience and communicate your needs as you gain momentum back in your life.
(03) 4240 3277 View (03) 4240 3277
Photo of Ellen Dharmaraj, PACFA, Counsellor
Ellen Dharmaraj
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Truganina, VIC 3029
Are you curious about starting therapy but feel like it's all too overwhelming? It took me years to gather myself and find support, and then I wished I did it sooner! No matter how long taking that first step has been on your mind, I'm here and I'm eager to hear you out. Whether it is major life challenges, unresolved feelings from the past or anxieties facing into your future, I'm your sounding board backed with accredited training and experience. I also have a male Wellness Coach working in my practice who is fluent in Tamil and has working proficiency in Malayalam and Hindi who can assist with general wellness concerns.
Are you curious about starting therapy but feel like it's all too overwhelming? It took me years to gather myself and find support, and then I wished I did it sooner! No matter how long taking that first step has been on your mind, I'm here and I'm eager to hear you out. Whether it is major life challenges, unresolved feelings from the past or anxieties facing into your future, I'm your sounding board backed with accredited training and experience. I also have a male Wellness Coach working in my practice who is fluent in Tamil and has working proficiency in Malayalam and Hindi who can assist with general wellness concerns.
(03) 7303 3982 View (03) 7303 3982
Photo of Melis Topsahin, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Melis Topsahin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018  (Online Only)
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
(02) 4504 0146 View (02) 4504 0146
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
(03) 9007 2339 View (03) 9007 2339
Photo of Jess Bernardi, PsychD, MACPA, Psychologist
Jess Bernardi
Psychologist, PsychD, MACPA
Verified Verified
Altona, VIC 3018
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with experience treating individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I tailor my clinical skills to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they benefit as much as possible from the therapeutic experience and achieve richer, fuller and more meaningful lives.
(03) 9034 8481 View (03) 9034 8481

Online Therapists

Photo of Leigh Milne - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Leigh Milne - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
(03) 7003 2164 View (03) 7003 2164
Photo of Dr Astrid Staley - Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warragul, VIC 3820  (Online Only)
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
(03) 5615 6373 View (03) 5615 6373

See more therapy options for Werribee

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.