Eating Disorders Therapists in Stratford, ON
![Photo of Dorit Osher, MSW, RSW, MA, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520a644c-33ce-4519-8660-a2b7ffe0e8dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, post-traumatic stress, addictions, eating disorders, somatic therapies, and movement-based expressive arts.
As a psychotherapist, with a somatic and psychodynamic orientation, I seek to support people in finding greater freedom, creativity, compassion, empowerment and aliveness in their lives. I believe the antidote to emotional struggles is finding a sense of vitality. Listening, identifying and staying with one's emotional world is the key to self awareness. As a psychotherapist my greatest task is to listen with compassion, for people to speak their deeper truths and to help them find an alternative pathways in living a life that expresses their authenticity and how to contribute with meaning in the world.
Depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress, post-traumatic stress, addictions, eating disorders, somatic therapies, and movement-based expressive arts.
As a psychotherapist, with a somatic and psychodynamic orientation, I seek to support people in finding greater freedom, creativity, compassion, empowerment and aliveness in their lives. I believe the antidote to emotional struggles is finding a sense of vitality. Listening, identifying and staying with one's emotional world is the key to self awareness. As a psychotherapist my greatest task is to listen with compassion, for people to speak their deeper truths and to help them find an alternative pathways in living a life that expresses their authenticity and how to contribute with meaning in the world.
![Photo of Leah Marcoccia - London Trauma Therapy - Leah, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52a82d80-0eee-432d-9386-6075ee7c1261/1/320x400.jpeg)
London Trauma Therapy - Leah
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N4Z
I provide a trauma-informed approach to working through issues like eating disorders, mental health struggles, relationship challenges and mood changes.
Being a teen is truly an effort- for everyone involved! If you're a teen or parent of one, I am here to help. In the teens years, you go through so many tumultuous changes. Issues with body image and eating can rob you of your happiness and joy. Parents struggle and feel helpless as they watch mood changes, relationship issues and anxiety reach new levels of intensity. As a teen, you might feel so misunderstood by friends, parents and teachers. You might be struggling with persistent feelings of unhappiness, anxiety or depression. It can be hard to manage all of these pressures and changes. You can take a big breath- I am here now!
I provide a trauma-informed approach to working through issues like eating disorders, mental health struggles, relationship challenges and mood changes.
Being a teen is truly an effort- for everyone involved! If you're a teen or parent of one, I am here to help. In the teens years, you go through so many tumultuous changes. Issues with body image and eating can rob you of your happiness and joy. Parents struggle and feel helpless as they watch mood changes, relationship issues and anxiety reach new levels of intensity. As a teen, you might feel so misunderstood by friends, parents and teachers. You might be struggling with persistent feelings of unhappiness, anxiety or depression. It can be hard to manage all of these pressures and changes. You can take a big breath- I am here now!
![Photo of Tanielle O'Hearn - Reclaim & Rise Counselling, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc9f5b38-e22a-4494-885b-ad108ed25add/1/320x400.jpeg)
Reclaim & Rise Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A
Our therapists each have different specializations and areas of focus including, but not limited to: Trauma/PTSD, marriage/relationship counselling, co-parenting counselling, depression, assertiveness and setting boundaries, anxiety, grief & loss, self-esteem, difficult life transitions, eating disorders, anger management, and youth counselling.
We are so glad you're here! We know looking for a counsellor can be overwhelming and we are here to help. We are a dedicated group of psychotherapists who are passionate about supporting your healing and journey to mental wellness. Using evidence-based modalities we provide individual, couples, and youth counselling both in-person and virtually on a secure online platform. All of our therapists are Master's level Registered Social Workers (RSW's) and are accepted by most insurance companies and benefit packages. Our cozy therapy spaces are located at 206 Ontario Street in Stratford.
Our therapists each have different specializations and areas of focus including, but not limited to: Trauma/PTSD, marriage/relationship counselling, co-parenting counselling, depression, assertiveness and setting boundaries, anxiety, grief & loss, self-esteem, difficult life transitions, eating disorders, anger management, and youth counselling.
We are so glad you're here! We know looking for a counsellor can be overwhelming and we are here to help. We are a dedicated group of psychotherapists who are passionate about supporting your healing and journey to mental wellness. Using evidence-based modalities we provide individual, couples, and youth counselling both in-person and virtually on a secure online platform. All of our therapists are Master's level Registered Social Workers (RSW's) and are accepted by most insurance companies and benefit packages. Our cozy therapy spaces are located at 206 Ontario Street in Stratford.
![Photo of Kelly O'Drowsky, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cc5a065-efcd-4fd7-95ad-592b2f813780/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I am passionate about providing a supportive and safe environment for people to explore their thoughts, feelings and emotions while addressing the areas of life they want to improve. I am experienced in working with individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns, including loss of control eating; PTSD; and mood and anxiety concerns. We will work together using cognitive behavioural therapy to help you understand, process and feel better about yourself, others and the world. My hope is to help you heal, thrive and feel more confident managing the challenges life can bring.
Accepting new clients! I am passionate about providing a supportive and safe environment for people to explore their thoughts, feelings and emotions while addressing the areas of life they want to improve. I am experienced in working with individuals struggling with eating and body image concerns, including loss of control eating; PTSD; and mood and anxiety concerns. We will work together using cognitive behavioural therapy to help you understand, process and feel better about yourself, others and the world. My hope is to help you heal, thrive and feel more confident managing the challenges life can bring.
![Photo of Shelagh Keesmaat - Flourish Psychotherapy Services, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5864accc-01f7-4232-bc09-53d5d17e56cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Flourish Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A (Online Only)
If you're feeling anxious, afraid or overwhelmed, you're not alone. These are some of the most common uncomfortable feelings people experience today. As a result, you may feel like you've lost your motivation or find yourself making excuses to avoid social situations. Perhaps you're experiencing conflict in your relationships or your negative self-talk is preventing you from moving forward. Perhaps you're one of many exhausted caregivers needing support. Regardless of your situation, learning to cope with difficult emotions can be hard. You need some relief but don't know where to start. I can help.
If you're feeling anxious, afraid or overwhelmed, you're not alone. These are some of the most common uncomfortable feelings people experience today. As a result, you may feel like you've lost your motivation or find yourself making excuses to avoid social situations. Perhaps you're experiencing conflict in your relationships or your negative self-talk is preventing you from moving forward. Perhaps you're one of many exhausted caregivers needing support. Regardless of your situation, learning to cope with difficult emotions can be hard. You need some relief but don't know where to start. I can help.
![Photo of Lindsay Rafuse, MSW, RSW, PMH-C, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b81beb-ea02-4638-b9b3-05bf17f36551/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay is Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) and is passionate in supporting individuals as the navigate their way through parenthood. As a mother of two children herself, this is a topic of great importance to Lindsay. It takes a village to raise a little person in this world – every parent deserves to have the same and to not just survive parenthood but find joy in it! In addition to her work with the perinatal population, Lindsay also supports individuals experiencing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, body image and disordered eating, stress, and self-esteem/self worth. She sees individuals ages 18+.
Lindsay is Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C) and is passionate in supporting individuals as the navigate their way through parenthood. As a mother of two children herself, this is a topic of great importance to Lindsay. It takes a village to raise a little person in this world – every parent deserves to have the same and to not just survive parenthood but find joy in it! In addition to her work with the perinatal population, Lindsay also supports individuals experiencing a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, body image and disordered eating, stress, and self-esteem/self worth. She sees individuals ages 18+.
![Photo of Eric Evans, RP, BMus, CTP, Dipl, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c57fef5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Evans
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BMus, CTP, Dipl
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A
Waitlist for new clients
At the moment I am unable to take any new clients. The psychotherapy I provide goes well beyond the simple ways we often think about ourselves: depressed, anxious, traumatized etc. These are useful labels but for each person there is a whole lifetime leading up to those ideas. You can think about them alone, but talking with the safety and care that I provide makes all the difference. Psychotherapy is about how you talk to me, what you say, when you say it and the confidentiality creates a space where we can bring all the ways you may be with me to awareness.
At the moment I am unable to take any new clients. The psychotherapy I provide goes well beyond the simple ways we often think about ourselves: depressed, anxious, traumatized etc. These are useful labels but for each person there is a whole lifetime leading up to those ideas. You can think about them alone, but talking with the safety and care that I provide makes all the difference. Psychotherapy is about how you talk to me, what you say, when you say it and the confidentiality creates a space where we can bring all the ways you may be with me to awareness.
![Photo of Rick S Sherwood - Rick Sherwood, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70cc5e5f-46d8-484c-9d5f-7dc5a9c631c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel stuck, do you feel overwhelmed are you looking for a new direction away from where you currently are? I've been there, stuck and lost and I use my background, as well as my education to assist people every day to find a new direction for their life. I have been forced to recreate myself and I can help you to create a new pathway that meets your goals. During my time as a therapist I have devised a unique supplement to counselling which is called Echo Cognitive Supplemental Therapy or ECST. These audio recordings are personalized and reaffirms the goals we discuss during your counselling sessions.
Do you feel stuck, do you feel overwhelmed are you looking for a new direction away from where you currently are? I've been there, stuck and lost and I use my background, as well as my education to assist people every day to find a new direction for their life. I have been forced to recreate myself and I can help you to create a new pathway that meets your goals. During my time as a therapist I have devised a unique supplement to counselling which is called Echo Cognitive Supplemental Therapy or ECST. These audio recordings are personalized and reaffirms the goals we discuss during your counselling sessions.
![Photo of Shirley Ann Brooker, CPTS, MSW \, RSW, RP, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6e88ab4-3e50-4ef7-a21e-386021994f68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shirley Ann Brooker
Registered Social Worker, CPTS, MSW \, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A
Shirley offers a relational approach to therapeutic services to young children/youth, parents, couples, and whole families. A collaborative strength-based approach is provided within a safe environment that offers growth and resilience. Experiences in therapy will empower strengths from within, build coping skills, and increase understanding of self and others to allow healing and growth.
Shirley offers a relational approach to therapeutic services to young children/youth, parents, couples, and whole families. A collaborative strength-based approach is provided within a safe environment that offers growth and resilience. Experiences in therapy will empower strengths from within, build coping skills, and increase understanding of self and others to allow healing and growth.
![Photo of Ashley Neveu, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c198582e-69bd-4caa-9e52-86fe59c03819/1/320x400.jpeg)
In-Person & Virtual. Online Booking. Tired of feeling this way? Do you find yourself stuck in the same pattern? Want to do more than just sit with it? I can help you! You do the work & show up & we can get you where you want to be. No more pain, fear or frustration. A plan of action and forward movement. Relationship issues? No problem. Emotions out of control? I got you. Reactions out of proportion? No sweat. WE got this! Together we can make real change for YOU!
In-Person & Virtual. Online Booking. Tired of feeling this way? Do you find yourself stuck in the same pattern? Want to do more than just sit with it? I can help you! You do the work & show up & we can get you where you want to be. No more pain, fear or frustration. A plan of action and forward movement. Relationship issues? No problem. Emotions out of control? I got you. Reactions out of proportion? No sweat. WE got this! Together we can make real change for YOU!
![Photo of Tiffany Lazic, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/489fd9e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Lazic
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N4Z (Online Only)
Within each of us lies the vision and hope for the life we want to live. Yet, we can feel overwhelmed by inner or outer challenges, fears, negative beliefs, low self-esteem, anxiety or depression. In many years of practice, I have seen the resilience of the human spirit. As a Spiritual Psychotherapist, I work with traditional approaches, as well as those rooted in Transpersonal Psychology, Archetypal Psychology and Shamanism which recognize the power and strength inherent within to facilitate change. My aim is to act as guide as clients address past pain and present circumstances that limit the ability to live a life in full bloom.
Within each of us lies the vision and hope for the life we want to live. Yet, we can feel overwhelmed by inner or outer challenges, fears, negative beliefs, low self-esteem, anxiety or depression. In many years of practice, I have seen the resilience of the human spirit. As a Spiritual Psychotherapist, I work with traditional approaches, as well as those rooted in Transpersonal Psychology, Archetypal Psychology and Shamanism which recognize the power and strength inherent within to facilitate change. My aim is to act as guide as clients address past pain and present circumstances that limit the ability to live a life in full bloom.
15 Second Videos
Flourish Psychotherapy Services
Ashley Neveu
Andrea Wiebe - Revelation Counselling
![Photo of Sunna Murphy - Sanctuary Counselling and Training, HBA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/468a037f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sanctuary Counselling and Training
Registered Social Worker, HBA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A
Waitlist for new clients
A Sanctuary is a place of comfort, safety and healing, a refuge from the storms of our life. I aim not only to provide a sanctuary for my clients but to help them build one within themselves. Whatever you are struggling with I can help you to navigate by providing a safe & comforting environment where you can explore your own unique path to healing, growth and change. Together we will address the current issues as well as the relational patterns, experiences and beliefs that wound your sense of belonging and create obstacles to building a life worth living.
A Sanctuary is a place of comfort, safety and healing, a refuge from the storms of our life. I aim not only to provide a sanctuary for my clients but to help them build one within themselves. Whatever you are struggling with I can help you to navigate by providing a safe & comforting environment where you can explore your own unique path to healing, growth and change. Together we will address the current issues as well as the relational patterns, experiences and beliefs that wound your sense of belonging and create obstacles to building a life worth living.
![Photo of Leanne Eby, MSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab3c8622-11aa-4672-8fbb-49a75fa03786/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently Accepting New Clients for Virtual Appointments Only. Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, nervousness, racing thoughts, panic attacks, difficulty relaxing, exhaustion, or burn out? Having overcome my own struggle with anxiety as a young person, I have developed a strong passion for assisting others who are suffering from similar challenges. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
Currently Accepting New Clients for Virtual Appointments Only. Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, nervousness, racing thoughts, panic attacks, difficulty relaxing, exhaustion, or burn out? Having overcome my own struggle with anxiety as a young person, I have developed a strong passion for assisting others who are suffering from similar challenges. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
![Photo of Janine Schultz - By Peaceful Waters , MSW, RSW, 422601, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f8ed546-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
![Photo of Nadine Visser - Cross That Bridge Therapy Group, MACP, BA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/261f38c2-6545-4e1f-8616-11c4bad45b75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nadine Visser - Cross That Bridge Therapy Group
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N4Z
I am accepting new clients, and offer sessions on evenings and weekends. Life is full of different paths to explore and bridges to cross. Sometimes we get stuck or lose our way. Developing greater awareness and healthier coping strategies enables us to move forward with more ease, expertise, and joy. My goal is to help you get where you want to go and have more fun doing it!
I am accepting new clients, and offer sessions on evenings and weekends. Life is full of different paths to explore and bridges to cross. Sometimes we get stuck or lose our way. Developing greater awareness and healthier coping strategies enables us to move forward with more ease, expertise, and joy. My goal is to help you get where you want to go and have more fun doing it!
![Photo of Andrea Wiebe - Revelation Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43edb851-ec67-47a4-b379-f1c7cc878aea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Wiebe - Revelation Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A (Online Only)
I seek to empower my clients to feel connected and secure with themselves and their partner; communicate effectively; gain confidence to navigate parenthood; problem solve in a safe and non-judgemental way; increase understanding of the connection between different parts of the self; live in the present moment; improve self-esteem; reduce stress; improve coping skills; feel increasingly hopeful; recover; heal; and, ultimately, live joyful and meaningful lives. I'm Andrea Wiebe, I'm a social worker, EFT couples therapist and EMDR trauma therapist with additional specialized training in perinatal therapy. I can help. Let's connect.
I seek to empower my clients to feel connected and secure with themselves and their partner; communicate effectively; gain confidence to navigate parenthood; problem solve in a safe and non-judgemental way; increase understanding of the connection between different parts of the self; live in the present moment; improve self-esteem; reduce stress; improve coping skills; feel increasingly hopeful; recover; heal; and, ultimately, live joyful and meaningful lives. I'm Andrea Wiebe, I'm a social worker, EFT couples therapist and EMDR trauma therapist with additional specialized training in perinatal therapy. I can help. Let's connect.
![Photo of Christine J.c. Ellwood, RSW, BSW, BA, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e1d3fa4-1872-46b2-8dc8-d5182f4f3327/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine J.c. Ellwood
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A
Accepting new clients living anywhere in Ontario for virtual telehealth sessions evenings, weekends, and holidays. Facing relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem can feel overwhelming, but these issues don’t define you. As a Registered Social Worker offering online therapy, I’m here to help you externalize these struggles on your journey. With flexible evening, weekend, and holiday sessions, therapy is available when it suits you best, all from the comfort of your home. Together, we’ll identify what's holding you back and write a new chapter.
Accepting new clients living anywhere in Ontario for virtual telehealth sessions evenings, weekends, and holidays. Facing relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem can feel overwhelming, but these issues don’t define you. As a Registered Social Worker offering online therapy, I’m here to help you externalize these struggles on your journey. With flexible evening, weekend, and holiday sessions, therapy is available when it suits you best, all from the comfort of your home. Together, we’ll identify what's holding you back and write a new chapter.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Cortney Lacroix, RP, MA, MHK, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5a2be2b-9cc2-478e-b712-e426020a2ccb/2/320x400.png)
Cortney Lacroix
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, MHK
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1R (Online Only)
Have you noticed that you’re having a harder time coping with day-to-day tasks? Ruminating or spending a lot of time worrying? Experienced changes in your sleep or eating patterns? Feel like you’re carrying a heavy weight on your shoulders? These symptoms can be caused by a range of presenting concerns. Using the integrative approaches of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, I help adults work through symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Have you noticed that you’re having a harder time coping with day-to-day tasks? Ruminating or spending a lot of time worrying? Experienced changes in your sleep or eating patterns? Feel like you’re carrying a heavy weight on your shoulders? These symptoms can be caused by a range of presenting concerns. Using the integrative approaches of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, I help adults work through symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Martha McLeod, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb350d0-e755-4c86-bf83-997af5e71dc8/1/320x400.png)
My practice seems to attract people who are seeking support in navigating: mood concerns, eating disorders, body image struggles, perfectionism, parenting concerns, and family conflict.
Hi, my name is Martha and I am so pleased you have found my page. I have had the privilege of providing therapeutic support to youth, adults, parents, and families for over 25 years. And, throughout this time, I have come to recognize the invaluable importance of a warm, transparent working relationship with my clients. In my experience, we can make our way through any issue as long as there is a foundation of trust and security between us.
My practice seems to attract people who are seeking support in navigating: mood concerns, eating disorders, body image struggles, perfectionism, parenting concerns, and family conflict.
Hi, my name is Martha and I am so pleased you have found my page. I have had the privilege of providing therapeutic support to youth, adults, parents, and families for over 25 years. And, throughout this time, I have come to recognize the invaluable importance of a warm, transparent working relationship with my clients. In my experience, we can make our way through any issue as long as there is a foundation of trust and security between us.
![Photo of Samantha Szirmak, MPsy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e88127d-5d38-4a0b-83a8-e0e9ae77a1b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. It takes incredible courage to seek help. As your therapist, I am honoured to provide a safe space for you to tell your story, open your heart, and guide you towards the growth and change you seek. If you’re an adult or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, shame/guilt, stress, grief, low self-esteem, identity struggles, body image, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, traumatic life experiences, and/or difficult life transitions, I am here to help support you. I practice through a trauma-informed lens that values safety and trust at the core of our work together.
Welcome. It takes incredible courage to seek help. As your therapist, I am honoured to provide a safe space for you to tell your story, open your heart, and guide you towards the growth and change you seek. If you’re an adult or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, shame/guilt, stress, grief, low self-esteem, identity struggles, body image, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, traumatic life experiences, and/or difficult life transitions, I am here to help support you. I practice through a trauma-informed lens that values safety and trust at the core of our work together.
See more therapy options for Stratford
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.