Therapists in Markham, ON
![Photo of Debra Barran, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/064a9ae1-4e53-4c3f-ac94-9c9c0bd110fc/3/320x400.jpeg)
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
![Photo of Jessica Soliman, MEd, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/247cbe06-624b-4a6e-90dd-a168499f1fe4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Soliman
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
It takes great strength and courage to acknowledge our struggles and to reach out for support. I believe you are far more than your problems: you have passions, hobbies, talents, strengths, and much more, all of which are essential to who you are. My desire is to really get to know you and help you to create meaningful change in your life, while also recognizing and building on your strengths. I want to emphasize that we are not working towards “fixing” anything about you; rather, we are working towards changes that meet your unique needs and goals, whether within your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, perspectives, or relationships.
It takes great strength and courage to acknowledge our struggles and to reach out for support. I believe you are far more than your problems: you have passions, hobbies, talents, strengths, and much more, all of which are essential to who you are. My desire is to really get to know you and help you to create meaningful change in your life, while also recognizing and building on your strengths. I want to emphasize that we are not working towards “fixing” anything about you; rather, we are working towards changes that meet your unique needs and goals, whether within your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, perspectives, or relationships.
![Photo of Marena Gileini Fam, MACP, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62d3b825-4ed9-4604-ade5-50c24391214b/1/320x400.png)
Marena Gileini Fam
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
I believe every individual is the expert on their own lives, and that each has innate strengths to draw upon. I have helped people grow, notice patterns, and gain insights, and thereby, to reclaim control of their lives. I appreciate that the past plays a big role in shaping who we are and how we view and manage situations, and so I respect each person’s upbringing, experiences, and differences: these make us unique! As such, I recognize no single model or intervention works for everyone – there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, I tailor sessions and interventions for you and your specific issues, experiences, and needs.
I believe every individual is the expert on their own lives, and that each has innate strengths to draw upon. I have helped people grow, notice patterns, and gain insights, and thereby, to reclaim control of their lives. I appreciate that the past plays a big role in shaping who we are and how we view and manage situations, and so I respect each person’s upbringing, experiences, and differences: these make us unique! As such, I recognize no single model or intervention works for everyone – there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, I tailor sessions and interventions for you and your specific issues, experiences, and needs.
![Photo of Malik Smith, MSW, RSSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ea90c58-7bae-48c3-8f53-87754f22950c/1/320x400.png)
I believe everyone already holds the keys to their own healing; my role is to help you find and use those keys. Using a trauma-informed approach, I aim to empower and guide you toward becoming your own source of support and insight. Starting therapy takes courage, and I understand the hesitation some might feel about opening up, especially to a male therapist – it's a step that requires a lot of trust. However, I want to assure you that my practice is a place of warmth and non-judgment. Having faced my own mental health struggles, I connect deeply with those on a similar journey and I provide a calm, grounded presence in session.
I believe everyone already holds the keys to their own healing; my role is to help you find and use those keys. Using a trauma-informed approach, I aim to empower and guide you toward becoming your own source of support and insight. Starting therapy takes courage, and I understand the hesitation some might feel about opening up, especially to a male therapist – it's a step that requires a lot of trust. However, I want to assure you that my practice is a place of warmth and non-judgment. Having faced my own mental health struggles, I connect deeply with those on a similar journey and I provide a calm, grounded presence in session.
![Photo of Michel Justin - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, MA, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba05a063-53ff-4785-a6dc-67989547d5e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
![Photo of Marian Shinuda, MDiv, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8afa36c1-63d3-43dd-9c18-30a49d0b00a9/1/320x400.png)
Marian Shinuda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
I believe that people are much more understandable when you know their life journey. I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that this connection alone can bring about in therapy. My clients know that I am there rooting for them as they navigate difficult chapters: past, present, and future. This is why I am always honoured and excited to hear someone’s story. Looking at the different layers of your story will help us track where certain patterns and cycles have started. Together, we will work through the parts that need healing. We will move forward with this information to make positive changes in your life.
![Photo of Joanna Zhao, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42217d16-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I take a client-centered approach that respect people as the authority on their own experiences and recognize the key role that emotions play in our lives. My counseling work is informed by various therapeutic modalities as well as by my extensive clinical experiences, but always with a focus on the uniqueness of each individual. Over the years, I have effectively helped many people adjust for better lives - helping them learn the strategies and tools necessary to resolve their difficulties and build on their strengths.
I take a client-centered approach that respect people as the authority on their own experiences and recognize the key role that emotions play in our lives. My counseling work is informed by various therapeutic modalities as well as by my extensive clinical experiences, but always with a focus on the uniqueness of each individual. Over the years, I have effectively helped many people adjust for better lives - helping them learn the strategies and tools necessary to resolve their difficulties and build on their strengths.
![Photo of Zohreh Sojoudi, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1da6a6ad-94da-4fd6-ad13-10080c2ec29d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zohreh Sojoudi
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3T (Online Only)
I believe that everyone is unique and exploring our inner world can help us appreciate this uniqueness. Our journey and the pain that we go through in our life make each of us special. I have helped individuals, couples and families to discover their pain and realize how it impacts themselves and their relationships. The new meaning and insight that we gain from this exploration helps us accept and love our unique selves, and build deeper relationships with our loved ones.
I believe that everyone is unique and exploring our inner world can help us appreciate this uniqueness. Our journey and the pain that we go through in our life make each of us special. I have helped individuals, couples and families to discover their pain and realize how it impacts themselves and their relationships. The new meaning and insight that we gain from this exploration helps us accept and love our unique selves, and build deeper relationships with our loved ones.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Leah Gordon - The Counselling Centre, RSW, MSW, MEd, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458fc9e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
), relationships, parenting, eating disorders and often a combination of many issues.
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
), relationships, parenting, eating disorders and often a combination of many issues.
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
![Photo of Jun Qi, MEd, CPsych, RPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93dc9c5c-13d0-4729-80b1-029296af369e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I appreciate that seeking help can be intimidating. Many people feel that they suffer alone. People do not realize how common it is to suffer from mental health-related issues. In North America, one in five adults suffer from distress, such as depression, anxiety, and interpersonal problems. Psychotherapy is extremely effective at treating a wide variety of psychological issues. I provide evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative treatment to ensure the quality of care. My approach to psychotherapy incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and emotion-focused therapy (EFT).
I appreciate that seeking help can be intimidating. Many people feel that they suffer alone. People do not realize how common it is to suffer from mental health-related issues. In North America, one in five adults suffer from distress, such as depression, anxiety, and interpersonal problems. Psychotherapy is extremely effective at treating a wide variety of psychological issues. I provide evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative treatment to ensure the quality of care. My approach to psychotherapy incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and emotion-focused therapy (EFT).
![Photo of Preeti Taneja, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad576ddc-2324-4fef-8de4-17593cfd26b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Preeti Taneja
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1H
As the founder of Canadian Therapy we believe in the value of staying small and intimate. We prefer to be big on what matters most: your experience with our psychotherapists. Our client first approach ensures that your care is top of mind, and you experience intimate, attentive, personalized therapy throughout your relationship with your therapist. Authenticity is reflected in who we are, and what we offer. We are mindful that each individuals journey is unique and pride ourself on creating a unique online therapy experience better than any other clinic for our clients throughout Canada.
As the founder of Canadian Therapy we believe in the value of staying small and intimate. We prefer to be big on what matters most: your experience with our psychotherapists. Our client first approach ensures that your care is top of mind, and you experience intimate, attentive, personalized therapy throughout your relationship with your therapist. Authenticity is reflected in who we are, and what we offer. We are mindful that each individuals journey is unique and pride ourself on creating a unique online therapy experience better than any other clinic for our clients throughout Canada.
![Photo of Harpreet Saini Emdr, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28eb5c2f-9bab-4595-ab00-089ff0d2d580/4/320x400.jpeg)
Harpreet Saini Emdr
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2N
Hello and welcome! I’m Harpreet Kaur Saini, a dedicated psychotherapist based in Mississauga, committed to providing compassionate and effective support to individuals, teens, families, and couples. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings, overcome challenges, and achieve personal growth. With specialized training in EMDR therapy, I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help you understand and address the root causes of your distress, empowering you to create lasting change and find greater emotional balance.
Hello and welcome! I’m Harpreet Kaur Saini, a dedicated psychotherapist based in Mississauga, committed to providing compassionate and effective support to individuals, teens, families, and couples. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their feelings, overcome challenges, and achieve personal growth. With specialized training in EMDR therapy, I offer evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, and trauma. My goal is to help you understand and address the root causes of your distress, empowering you to create lasting change and find greater emotional balance.
![Photo of Nicole Dianne Court, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e927964c-d91e-4d5e-b513-545f286ad403/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Dianne Court
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2N
Along with being a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying), I am a yogi and personal trainer with an accepting, free-spirited approach to life. I have a passion for helping others navigate through this journey of life and achieve their mental, physical, and professional goals. I take a mind+body approach to therapeutic treatment. I provide options for psychotherapy, physical movement/fitness, and a combination of both, in order to provide a comprehensive mind+body treatment. I work with the neurodivergent population, anyone looking to improve their mental health and well-being using a combination of mind+body holistic treatment.
Along with being a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying), I am a yogi and personal trainer with an accepting, free-spirited approach to life. I have a passion for helping others navigate through this journey of life and achieve their mental, physical, and professional goals. I take a mind+body approach to therapeutic treatment. I provide options for psychotherapy, physical movement/fitness, and a combination of both, in order to provide a comprehensive mind+body treatment. I work with the neurodivergent population, anyone looking to improve their mental health and well-being using a combination of mind+body holistic treatment.
![Photo of Lavanya Verma, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f91c0d8f-7405-419f-862b-b0951e5dfa87/1/320x400.png)
Are you navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or stress and looking for a professional who can truly understand and assist in your unique journey? Lavanya Verma at Canadian Therapy specializes in these areas, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and person-centered approaches. Her tailored methodologies aim to provide effective coping mechanisms and deeper understanding. Lavanya's expertise in South Asian family dynamics and culturally sensitive therapy makes her an ideal guide for diverse backgrounds. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for growth, helping clients with empathy.
Are you navigating the complexities of anxiety, depression, or stress and looking for a professional who can truly understand and assist in your unique journey? Lavanya Verma at Canadian Therapy specializes in these areas, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and person-centered approaches. Her tailored methodologies aim to provide effective coping mechanisms and deeper understanding. Lavanya's expertise in South Asian family dynamics and culturally sensitive therapy makes her an ideal guide for diverse backgrounds. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for growth, helping clients with empathy.
![Photo of Lia Khalili, RP, MA, BS, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e810f546-51d3-4efd-9b98-55db8b3b13ee/3/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on a journey towards a fulfilling life with over fifteen years of expertise guiding you. As an experienced registered psychotherapist, I specialize in empowering individuals to overcome life's obstacles and unlock their full potential. Whether navigating relationships, academics, self-esteem, trauma or psychological distress, I offer personalized counseling tailored to your needs. I probe beyond symptoms, exploring problem roots from various perspectives to craft comprehensive and effective treatment plans. Leveraging profound insights into child psychology, I develop new therapeutic methods for adults and children.
Embark on a journey towards a fulfilling life with over fifteen years of expertise guiding you. As an experienced registered psychotherapist, I specialize in empowering individuals to overcome life's obstacles and unlock their full potential. Whether navigating relationships, academics, self-esteem, trauma or psychological distress, I offer personalized counseling tailored to your needs. I probe beyond symptoms, exploring problem roots from various perspectives to craft comprehensive and effective treatment plans. Leveraging profound insights into child psychology, I develop new therapeutic methods for adults and children.
![Photo of Hossein Abdollahi Sani, MD(IMG), CRPO, OACCPP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/729e5a58-49c9-4893-8df4-6d2a2dd04ccc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hossein Abdollahi Sani
Registered Psychotherapist, MD(IMG), CRPO, OACCPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M2N
As a registered psychotherapist in Canada I thrive to understand my clients’ concerns and issues primarily. I provide therapy and counseling to many clients all around the world. Many of my clients are referred by their family doctor, friends or family. My private office is where I invite most of my clients. However, I also offer online psychotherapy and counseling by Teletherapy. In our first sessions I start with a brief assessment through a short casual conversation. Then we talk about any psychological, physical or relationship issues you would like to share. My approach is REBT, Mindfulness, systemic family and couple.
As a registered psychotherapist in Canada I thrive to understand my clients’ concerns and issues primarily. I provide therapy and counseling to many clients all around the world. Many of my clients are referred by their family doctor, friends or family. My private office is where I invite most of my clients. However, I also offer online psychotherapy and counseling by Teletherapy. In our first sessions I start with a brief assessment through a short casual conversation. Then we talk about any psychological, physical or relationship issues you would like to share. My approach is REBT, Mindfulness, systemic family and couple.
![Photo of Karen M Thornton, Hons, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e4eb390-7ab5-4405-8795-f7685d695f27/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen M Thornton
Registered Social Worker, Hons, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stouffville, ON L4A
I am a Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Ontario. I provide psychotherapy services from an anti-oppressive framework using a client-centered or family-centered approach to meet the various needs of my clientele. I specialize in trauma, relationship issues, domestic violence, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, attachment, grief and loss, and other mental health concerns. I utilize various treatment tools in individual or group settings, including, CBT, Narrative, EFT, Mindfulness, DBT, Strength and System approaches. We also do cognitive and behavioural assessment and testing at our centers through a Registered Psychologist.
I am a Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Ontario. I provide psychotherapy services from an anti-oppressive framework using a client-centered or family-centered approach to meet the various needs of my clientele. I specialize in trauma, relationship issues, domestic violence, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, attachment, grief and loss, and other mental health concerns. I utilize various treatment tools in individual or group settings, including, CBT, Narrative, EFT, Mindfulness, DBT, Strength and System approaches. We also do cognitive and behavioural assessment and testing at our centers through a Registered Psychologist.
![Photo of Shahrzad Hazrati - Better Life Counselling Center, MA, RP, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/351b38cf-eccf-4338-a80d-e00b0ee3dc05/2/320x400.png)
Better Life Counselling Center
Registered Social Worker, MA, RP, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M3B
Shahrzad Hazrati Registered psychotherapist and Registered Social worker (MA, MSW, RSW, RP). Shahrzad is member of the Canadian Association of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CACBT) with years of experience of providing counselling to individuals, couples and families deal with problems such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parental issues.
Shahrzad Hazrati Registered psychotherapist and Registered Social worker (MA, MSW, RSW, RP). Shahrzad is member of the Canadian Association of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CACBT) with years of experience of providing counselling to individuals, couples and families deal with problems such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parental issues.
![Photo of Martin Luciani, RPQ, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54e87632-f80d-4ba7-b2bb-3b18550b17f4/1/320x400.png)
Martin is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a graduate of the M.Ed. Counselling Psychology program at the University of Toronto. With more than six years of experience supporting teens, adults and families in clinical and community environments, Martin is known for his approachability, kindness, and gentle humour. Martin takes the time to listen to you and help you feel understood. His most important goal during therapy is to help you feel connected, safe, and validated throughout the process.
Martin is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and a graduate of the M.Ed. Counselling Psychology program at the University of Toronto. With more than six years of experience supporting teens, adults and families in clinical and community environments, Martin is known for his approachability, kindness, and gentle humour. Martin takes the time to listen to you and help you feel understood. His most important goal during therapy is to help you feel connected, safe, and validated throughout the process.
![Photo of Lisa Mary Elmourne, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80df671e-e180-4a93-80cd-106cb01aa113/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Mary Elmourne
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M1T
We specialize in helping clients work through their Anxiety, Depression, and Self-esteem at an affordable cost! We offer in person and online counselling sessions, to fit your busy schedules.
We specialize in helping clients work through their Anxiety, Depression, and Self-esteem at an affordable cost! We offer in person and online counselling sessions, to fit your busy schedules.
See more therapy options for Markham
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.