Eating Disorders Therapists in Okotoks, AB

Photo of Kara Alan, Psychologist
Kara Alan
Psychologist
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
I support individuals working toward or in recovery from anorexia, bulimia, bingeing and night eating.
I am glad that you made it here! If you struggle with food and body image, you have come to the right place. Maybe you think about food all the time, or yo-yo diet, or maybe you find yourself restricting what you eat without knowing why, or how to stop. Food and eating are a part of our culture that often become warped and distorted. Whether you have internalized messages that state that you have to be a certain size to have value, or you feel like food allows you to numb out, constant thoughts about food and body image can be exhausting.
I support individuals working toward or in recovery from anorexia, bulimia, bingeing and night eating.
I am glad that you made it here! If you struggle with food and body image, you have come to the right place. Maybe you think about food all the time, or yo-yo diet, or maybe you find yourself restricting what you eat without knowing why, or how to stop. Food and eating are a part of our culture that often become warped and distorted. Whether you have internalized messages that state that you have to be a certain size to have value, or you feel like food allows you to numb out, constant thoughts about food and body image can be exhausting.
(587) 854-3904 View (587) 854-3904
Photo of Veronica Dixon - South Calgary Psychology, MSc, RPsych, BSW, BA, Psychologist
South Calgary Psychology
Psychologist, MSc, RPsych, BSW, BA
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
Waitlist for new clients
I give clients many new techniques, understandings, skills, resources and exercises to recover from Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, PTSD, Eating Disorders and Phobias.
Hello & Thanks for taking time to view my profile. I find clients are quite aware of how unhappy they are & the impact on their lives, but they don’t know how to fix it. Since 2005, I have worked alongside courageous clients to eliminate distress & make lasting remarkable change. I avidly believe most Mental Health concerns are NOT problems you are stuck with and change is achievable. I work with older adolescents and adults seeking treatment for Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Binge Eating and Complex Health & Weight Concerns. E-mail and start changing how you feel, think, do, & relate to others- change the course & joy in your life!
I give clients many new techniques, understandings, skills, resources and exercises to recover from Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, OCD, Insomnia, Pain, PTSD, Eating Disorders and Phobias.
Hello & Thanks for taking time to view my profile. I find clients are quite aware of how unhappy they are & the impact on their lives, but they don’t know how to fix it. Since 2005, I have worked alongside courageous clients to eliminate distress & make lasting remarkable change. I avidly believe most Mental Health concerns are NOT problems you are stuck with and change is achievable. I work with older adolescents and adults seeking treatment for Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Binge Eating and Complex Health & Weight Concerns. E-mail and start changing how you feel, think, do, & relate to others- change the course & joy in your life!
(403) 775-4702 View (403) 775-4702
Photo of May Melnyk I Parallel Counselling, RCSW, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
May Melnyk I Parallel Counselling
Marriage & Family Therapist, RCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Let’s face it, life can throw all sorts of challenges our way and sometimes it can be helpful to talk about it. The act of saying something out loud is an important first step in moving forward. Parallel Counselling is a safe space to explore, reframe, and realign what’s going on within you, your relationships, and the world around you to help you gain perspective, process past hurts, create new patterns, and feel more connected to yourself and the people in your life.
Let’s face it, life can throw all sorts of challenges our way and sometimes it can be helpful to talk about it. The act of saying something out loud is an important first step in moving forward. Parallel Counselling is a safe space to explore, reframe, and realign what’s going on within you, your relationships, and the world around you to help you gain perspective, process past hurts, create new patterns, and feel more connected to yourself and the people in your life.
(825) 305-1286 View (825) 305-1286
Photo of Shelley D Hanna, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Shelley D Hanna
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
I specialize in trauma related symptoms and concerns. As an EMDR certified therapist I can help with complex trauma, relational trauma, phobias, mood and relationship concerns. I offer treatment intensives and day retreats. Depression, anxiety relationship concerns are often symptoms of trauma and we can explore healing further with EMDR and somatic therapies. I also support individuals and their family members struggling with stress, behaviour problems, communication difficulties, marital concerns, and co-parenting issues after separation and divorce. often a little help can change the direction to a more positive one.
I specialize in trauma related symptoms and concerns. As an EMDR certified therapist I can help with complex trauma, relational trauma, phobias, mood and relationship concerns. I offer treatment intensives and day retreats. Depression, anxiety relationship concerns are often symptoms of trauma and we can explore healing further with EMDR and somatic therapies. I also support individuals and their family members struggling with stress, behaviour problems, communication difficulties, marital concerns, and co-parenting issues after separation and divorce. often a little help can change the direction to a more positive one.
(587) 333-0283 View (587) 333-0283
Photo of Elizabeth Muhle, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Elizabeth Muhle
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
Evening and weekend appointments available in person or virtual. I hold a deep seeded belief that we each are doing the very best that we can in any given moment. I believe no one is exempt from struggle and at times it is difficult to know how we got to this painful place, and at other times an event (trauma) takes place which can leave us not recognizing ourselves or our life. I offer a safe validating space to heal and rediscover how you want to show up in your life. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck or wanting support in any area of your life, please reach out to me. I would be honored to be a part of your healing journey.
Evening and weekend appointments available in person or virtual. I hold a deep seeded belief that we each are doing the very best that we can in any given moment. I believe no one is exempt from struggle and at times it is difficult to know how we got to this painful place, and at other times an event (trauma) takes place which can leave us not recognizing ourselves or our life. I offer a safe validating space to heal and rediscover how you want to show up in your life. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck or wanting support in any area of your life, please reach out to me. I would be honored to be a part of your healing journey.
(587) 741-9074 View (587) 741-9074
Photo of Barbara Douglass, MC, BEd, CSAT, Mediate, Counsellor
Barbara Douglass
Counsellor, MC, BEd, CSAT, Mediate
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
Occasionally life presents individuals with diverse challenges which can result in adverse effects to one's overall well-being. In understanding clients challenges I take into account the emotional, mental, physical, social, cultural, and spiritual aspects of their being. Encompassing a holistic model of counselling I endeavour to validate and dignify clients experiences in a respectful compassionate manner. I join with individuals in exploring and confronting their challenges using a wide knowledge of counselling theory, skills, and techniques. I supportively encouraged clients to examine present beliefs, behaviours and perspectives, illuminating what changes in their thoughts, feelings and actions would be helpful.
Occasionally life presents individuals with diverse challenges which can result in adverse effects to one's overall well-being. In understanding clients challenges I take into account the emotional, mental, physical, social, cultural, and spiritual aspects of their being. Encompassing a holistic model of counselling I endeavour to validate and dignify clients experiences in a respectful compassionate manner. I join with individuals in exploring and confronting their challenges using a wide knowledge of counselling theory, skills, and techniques. I supportively encouraged clients to examine present beliefs, behaviours and perspectives, illuminating what changes in their thoughts, feelings and actions would be helpful.
(866) 902-9795 View (866) 902-9795
Photo of Toni Harris, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist
Toni Harris
Psychologist, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
Weekdays/evening /weekend availability: I offer 25 years experience in the psychology field with extensive background in a variety of modalities that range the continuum of science and soul. I have been honoured to journey thousands of hours with clients through the intricate and sacred stories of their lives. I strive to bring grounded knowledge and theory, compassionate witnessing, heart-led guidance, practical tools and strategies, and body/mind techniques to support the reflection, healing and change process. A little humour goes a long way too ;)
Weekdays/evening /weekend availability: I offer 25 years experience in the psychology field with extensive background in a variety of modalities that range the continuum of science and soul. I have been honoured to journey thousands of hours with clients through the intricate and sacred stories of their lives. I strive to bring grounded knowledge and theory, compassionate witnessing, heart-led guidance, practical tools and strategies, and body/mind techniques to support the reflection, healing and change process. A little humour goes a long way too ;)
(587) 801-3313 View (587) 801-3313
Photo of Liz Spaargaren, CT, RTCc, Counsellor
Liz Spaargaren
Counsellor, CT, RTCc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Life is a journey marked by both triumphs and trials, and facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or significant transitions can feel really daunting. Having a safe, nurturing environment where you can openly express your feelings without judgment and build the resilience needed to move forward is important. Regardless of where we are on life’s journey, taking the first step toward healing and fulfilment is valuable. Support can make a world of difference, especially when feeling out of balance and seeking to reconnect with your authentic self, helping you live your best life possible.
Life is a journey marked by both triumphs and trials, and facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or significant transitions can feel really daunting. Having a safe, nurturing environment where you can openly express your feelings without judgment and build the resilience needed to move forward is important. Regardless of where we are on life’s journey, taking the first step toward healing and fulfilment is valuable. Support can make a world of difference, especially when feeling out of balance and seeking to reconnect with your authentic self, helping you live your best life possible.
(587) 207-5105 View (587) 207-5105
Photo of Dianna Campbell-Smith, PsyD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dianna Campbell-Smith
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Do you try to make changes, but they don't stick? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or just not happy for too long? Do you repeat unhealthy relationship patterns? Working with me may allow you to make changes that stick. I am a registered psychologist and a life, and business coach who works with adults, adolescents and couples. In our work you will get clear on changes you want and develop effective skills, identifying and using your own strengths to make those changes. A solution approach focuses on what is working and strengths you already have in your repertoire.
Do you try to make changes, but they don't stick? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or just not happy for too long? Do you repeat unhealthy relationship patterns? Working with me may allow you to make changes that stick. I am a registered psychologist and a life, and business coach who works with adults, adolescents and couples. In our work you will get clear on changes you want and develop effective skills, identifying and using your own strengths to make those changes. A solution approach focuses on what is working and strengths you already have in your repertoire.
(866) 898-6156 View (866) 898-6156
Photo of Jennifer Beattie, MSc, MTS, Psychologist
Jennifer Beattie
Psychologist, MSc, MTS
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
I welcome adults and older adolescents. If you want to improve your ability to manage personal challenges, such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relationship difficulties at home or at work, or any life challenge, my services might be the right fit for you. Aside from managing current life challenges, clients often contact me to deal with past negative experiences that are still affecting their lives, such as the death of a loved one, a traumatic event, abuse or assault, or just anything that sticks with them and influences them more than they'd like, I use techniques that quickly reduce or eliminate negative emotions.
I welcome adults and older adolescents. If you want to improve your ability to manage personal challenges, such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relationship difficulties at home or at work, or any life challenge, my services might be the right fit for you. Aside from managing current life challenges, clients often contact me to deal with past negative experiences that are still affecting their lives, such as the death of a loved one, a traumatic event, abuse or assault, or just anything that sticks with them and influences them more than they'd like, I use techniques that quickly reduce or eliminate negative emotions.
(866) 984-3682 View (866) 984-3682
Photo of Jenn Betts, R Psyc, MA, Psychologist
Jenn Betts
Psychologist, R Psyc, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Anxiety and depression are difficult to experience. Emotions are often overwhelming. These emotions could be anger, sadness or worry. Your struggles may have recently just started or have been there for years. I desire to journey alongside you through this difficult time. I am a Registered Psychologist with over 10 of experience in Mental health.
Anxiety and depression are difficult to experience. Emotions are often overwhelming. These emotions could be anger, sadness or worry. Your struggles may have recently just started or have been there for years. I desire to journey alongside you through this difficult time. I am a Registered Psychologist with over 10 of experience in Mental health.
(587) 355-1757 View (587) 355-1757
Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, CCC, RCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, RCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(587) 412-5049 View (587) 412-5049
Photo of Katie Bradley, MC, R Psyc, Psychologist
Katie Bradley
Psychologist, MC, R Psyc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
Are you feeling stuck? Are you frustrated with life but don’t know why or how to change it? Are you in conflict with your partner or spouse? Does it keep getting worse the more you try to fix it? Are you feeling depressed or down, or overly anxious and stressed? Are you looking for relief and don’t know where to start or what to do next? Whether your challenges are interpersonal, financial, emotional in nature, or related to life transitions, it is normal to sometimes feel that your toolbox could use a few more tools to help you when life gets overwhelming.
Are you feeling stuck? Are you frustrated with life but don’t know why or how to change it? Are you in conflict with your partner or spouse? Does it keep getting worse the more you try to fix it? Are you feeling depressed or down, or overly anxious and stressed? Are you looking for relief and don’t know where to start or what to do next? Whether your challenges are interpersonal, financial, emotional in nature, or related to life transitions, it is normal to sometimes feel that your toolbox could use a few more tools to help you when life gets overwhelming.
(587) 406-0045 View (587) 406-0045
Photo of Kim Muscroft-McDonnel - REAL Consulting Counselling & Mediation, RFM, CCP
REAL Consulting Counselling & Mediation
RFM, CCP
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
Many of us feel stressed and overwhelmed by the complex situations we face in our lives. Some of these situations might include communication challenges, work stress, marriage issues, complex relationships, difficulties in parenting, financial strain, life decisions, health issues, and grief or bereavement. I have been helping people with these types of challenges for over 30 years in both the public sector and in my private practice. I am passionate about helping you rebuild your relationships and find solutions for the challenges you are facing. I provide a safe and warm environment where every part of who you are is welcome.
Many of us feel stressed and overwhelmed by the complex situations we face in our lives. Some of these situations might include communication challenges, work stress, marriage issues, complex relationships, difficulties in parenting, financial strain, life decisions, health issues, and grief or bereavement. I have been helping people with these types of challenges for over 30 years in both the public sector and in my private practice. I am passionate about helping you rebuild your relationships and find solutions for the challenges you are facing. I provide a safe and warm environment where every part of who you are is welcome.
(587) 905-9256 View (587) 905-9256
Photo of Cassandra Wilkes, RSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Wilkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
Struggling with a traumatic event, mental health and/ or addictions can feel like drowning in unseen waves; the waves of grief, anxiety, anger, fear, trauma, relational concerns, transitions, or self-worth. We try to soothe ourselves by acting out on ourselves, and others or engaging in behaviours that harm us and those we love. I believe that we can hold fragility and resilience, courage and fear, uncertainty and hope. You can begin the process of rebuilding and reclaiming all while staying afloat. Together, we will begin to anticipate those waves coming and not get pulled under but rather negotiate them with resounding courage.
Struggling with a traumatic event, mental health and/ or addictions can feel like drowning in unseen waves; the waves of grief, anxiety, anger, fear, trauma, relational concerns, transitions, or self-worth. We try to soothe ourselves by acting out on ourselves, and others or engaging in behaviours that harm us and those we love. I believe that we can hold fragility and resilience, courage and fear, uncertainty and hope. You can begin the process of rebuilding and reclaiming all while staying afloat. Together, we will begin to anticipate those waves coming and not get pulled under but rather negotiate them with resounding courage.
(825) 305-4672 View (825) 305-4672
Photo of Marlena Pedersen - Marlena Pedersen, RPsych, MA, Psychologist
Marlena Pedersen
Psychologist, RPsych, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okotoks, AB T1S
I am honoured and privileged to build and develop a therapeutic relationship with you, based on trust, safety, and connection. I believe this is essential for supporting you in your journey of healing, as you navigate the complexities of this world. I use a brain-based and relational approach to therapy. I realize that our brain patterns are shaped by our relationships, and they can cause us to experience shame. I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, adults, couples and families, and helping them transform into confident and successful people with effective life skills.
I am honoured and privileged to build and develop a therapeutic relationship with you, based on trust, safety, and connection. I believe this is essential for supporting you in your journey of healing, as you navigate the complexities of this world. I use a brain-based and relational approach to therapy. I realize that our brain patterns are shaped by our relationships, and they can cause us to experience shame. I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, adults, couples and families, and helping them transform into confident and successful people with effective life skills.
(587) 844-2271 View (587) 844-2271
Photo of Aaron Weiss - Master’s Counselling Services, Psychologist
Master’s Counselling Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
At Master's Counnseling, our counsellors bring genuine compassion and care to their practice, in order to help you flourish, in whatever stage of life you find yourself in. For over 20 years, the Masters Counselling team has created a safe place for you to process your thoughts, explore your feelings and release you into your full potential.
At Master's Counnseling, our counsellors bring genuine compassion and care to their practice, in order to help you flourish, in whatever stage of life you find yourself in. For over 20 years, the Masters Counselling team has created a safe place for you to process your thoughts, explore your feelings and release you into your full potential.
(587) 841-0996 View (587) 841-0996

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Church, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Michelle Church
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3M  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Dr. Michelle. I have a PhD in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary and am a Registered Psychologist in Alberta. I completed my residency in Los Angeles, California where I supervised doctoral students in addition to providing psychotherapy. In my practice I work with people managing: depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and chronic health conditions. I also provide couple therapy and address the cross-over between individual health conditions in relationships.
Hi! I’m Dr. Michelle. I have a PhD in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary and am a Registered Psychologist in Alberta. I completed my residency in Los Angeles, California where I supervised doctoral students in addition to providing psychotherapy. In my practice I work with people managing: depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and chronic health conditions. I also provide couple therapy and address the cross-over between individual health conditions in relationships.
(604) 332-1317 View (604) 332-1317
Photo of Samuel Orji, MC, CCC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Samuel Orji
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
Some of the issues I work best with are anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, caregiving exhaustion, infidelity, couple or family challenges, self-esteem and identity problems, eating disorders, and addiction.
In my initial sessions, clients usually say, “I want someone that gets me.” This is a shared feeling; I also want my therapist to “get me” and connect with me. Hence, I use evidence-based approaches to build this connection with my clients, honoring their stories and enabling them to feel heard, unjudged, and respected. This alliance, I believe, is fundamental to the results we collaboratively attain in therapy. I work with children, teens, young adults, seniors, couples, and families from a person-centered, systemic, and strength-based lens.
Some of the issues I work best with are anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, caregiving exhaustion, infidelity, couple or family challenges, self-esteem and identity problems, eating disorders, and addiction.
In my initial sessions, clients usually say, “I want someone that gets me.” This is a shared feeling; I also want my therapist to “get me” and connect with me. Hence, I use evidence-based approaches to build this connection with my clients, honoring their stories and enabling them to feel heard, unjudged, and respected. This alliance, I believe, is fundamental to the results we collaboratively attain in therapy. I work with children, teens, young adults, seniors, couples, and families from a person-centered, systemic, and strength-based lens.
(587) 715-2581 View (587) 715-2581
Photo of Megan Kennedy - Madrona Wellness Centre, MPCC, MTC, MTV, RCS, Counsellor
Madrona Wellness Centre
Counsellor, MPCC, MTC, MTV, RCS
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Y  (Online Only)
Megan does Trauma & Somatic therapies, Relationship Deterioration, Eating Disorders, Addictions, & Narcissistic Abuse/Trauma Bonding.
Megan is a Master Practitioner of Clinical Counselling (MPCC), a Registered Clinical Supervisor (RCS), and a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC) with 28 years of experience. Megan also certified as: CCPCPR, RPC, & RTC. Megan takes a compassionate approach to therapy & healing the whole person. She helps clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, betrayal, abuse. Megan works with co-occurring disorders that can impact client goals. At the client’s pace, the embedded causes are explored while moving gently through the presenting problem.
Megan does Trauma & Somatic therapies, Relationship Deterioration, Eating Disorders, Addictions, & Narcissistic Abuse/Trauma Bonding.
Megan is a Master Practitioner of Clinical Counselling (MPCC), a Registered Clinical Supervisor (RCS), and a Master Therapeutic Counsellor (MTC) with 28 years of experience. Megan also certified as: CCPCPR, RPC, & RTC. Megan takes a compassionate approach to therapy & healing the whole person. She helps clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, eating disorders, relationship issues, trauma, betrayal, abuse. Megan works with co-occurring disorders that can impact client goals. At the client’s pace, the embedded causes are explored while moving gently through the presenting problem.
(587) 872-7044 View (587) 872-7044

See more therapy options for Okotoks

Eating Disorders Counsellors

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviors, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behavior 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 counseling 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 behavioral 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 behavior, 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 recognize 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 behavior has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.