Eating Disorders Counselling in Bungay

Photo of Carol Shaw - Carol Shaw Psychotherapy , MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Carol Shaw Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bungay NR35
How you feel about yourself and your worth can impact on you every day and in every relationship. You may have difficulties with family members or in friendships and more personal relationships. You may find it difficult to voice your needs. Reflecting on how we are with others and with our self can be revealing and bring about change. This can help you to be more present and involved in your life. These thoughts and feelings didn’t develop overnight and I provide you with a confidential space to support you in this exploration for lasting change. I am still able to see clients face to face following government Covid Guidelines.
How you feel about yourself and your worth can impact on you every day and in every relationship. You may have difficulties with family members or in friendships and more personal relationships. You may find it difficult to voice your needs. Reflecting on how we are with others and with our self can be revealing and bring about change. This can help you to be more present and involved in your life. These thoughts and feelings didn’t develop overnight and I provide you with a confidential space to support you in this exploration for lasting change. I am still able to see clients face to face following government Covid Guidelines.
01986 802150 View 01986 802150
Photo of Tracy Louise Reeve - Tracy Reeve Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracy Reeve Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bungay NR35
Hello, I’m Tracy. I’m a counsellor and supervisor, working Mon - Fri. I have 10 years experience counselling teenagers, adults & couples. My fees are Individuals £45, Couples £60, supervisor £50. Please visit my website for client testimonials. Daily life can present us with a variety of psychological and emotional challenges that can be difficult to deal with or leave us in a situation that is hard to bear. I can help you to explore and clarify your thoughts and feelings and with greater awareness and clarity it is possible to have a clearer understanding of ourselves and others.
Hello, I’m Tracy. I’m a counsellor and supervisor, working Mon - Fri. I have 10 years experience counselling teenagers, adults & couples. My fees are Individuals £45, Couples £60, supervisor £50. Please visit my website for client testimonials. Daily life can present us with a variety of psychological and emotional challenges that can be difficult to deal with or leave us in a situation that is hard to bear. I can help you to explore and clarify your thoughts and feelings and with greater awareness and clarity it is possible to have a clearer understanding of ourselves and others.
07427 980061 View 07427 980061
Photo of Susan Jennifer Cappaert, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Susan Jennifer Cappaert
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bungay NR35
Do you have times in your life when you feel unable to cope and are struggling with your thoughts and feelings, finding it difficult to make sense of why you may feel anxious, troubled or distressed. Counselling provides a unique opportunity to understand why things are difficult, sad or painful and for personal growth, so that you can make positive changes in your life which will impact your well-being. I offer a professional, confidential service for you to explore openly and safely. Contact me by telephone or email for a free telephone consultation where we can discuss your concerns.
Do you have times in your life when you feel unable to cope and are struggling with your thoughts and feelings, finding it difficult to make sense of why you may feel anxious, troubled or distressed. Counselling provides a unique opportunity to understand why things are difficult, sad or painful and for personal growth, so that you can make positive changes in your life which will impact your well-being. I offer a professional, confidential service for you to explore openly and safely. Contact me by telephone or email for a free telephone consultation where we can discuss your concerns.
01268 269977 View 01268 269977
Photo of Julie Walker - Broadland Counselling Practice
Broadland Counselling Practice
Verified Verified
Bungay NR35
Hi, my name is Julie and I am a person-centred counsellor. I work from both Beccles and Norwich Whether  you are suffering from anxiety, nerves or depression, trauma or abuse, I can help you look at these issues.   You may have an important life decision to make, that you need to find the answers for. I offer a compassionate, confidential and empathic approach whether working with adults, children and all genders and sexualities facilitating you in making positive life changes.  As a person-centred therapist, I work alongside you as my client, going at your pace, whilst gaining an empathic and authentic understanding of your life.
Hi, my name is Julie and I am a person-centred counsellor. I work from both Beccles and Norwich Whether  you are suffering from anxiety, nerves or depression, trauma or abuse, I can help you look at these issues.   You may have an important life decision to make, that you need to find the answers for. I offer a compassionate, confidential and empathic approach whether working with adults, children and all genders and sexualities facilitating you in making positive life changes.  As a person-centred therapist, I work alongside you as my client, going at your pace, whilst gaining an empathic and authentic understanding of your life.
01502 449450 View 01502 449450

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Craig Jones - Craig Jones Therapy , MSc
Craig Jones Therapy
MSc
Verified Verified
Norwich NR6
Counselling & Therapist based in Norwich, Anxiety Reduction, Trauma & PTSD Specialist Counsellor, EMDR Therapist, non-judgement, a proven record in assisting people with Anxiety & Trauma
Counselling & Therapist based in Norwich, Anxiety Reduction, Trauma & PTSD Specialist Counsellor, EMDR Therapist, non-judgement, a proven record in assisting people with Anxiety & Trauma
0191 743 0054 View 0191 743 0054
Photo of Fairlie Winship, BACP, Counsellor
Fairlie Winship
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harleston IP20
Hi, I'm Fairlie. Welcome to my profile. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope; are depressed or anxious; or are experiencing relationship issues, I can help you to move through this difficult time and feel better in life. Perhaps you wish to release emotional pain, process past traumas, or ease psychological discomfort? All these are possible, and more: I can help you to find a fresh perspective, develop positive coping skills and build self esteem so that you can feel better in life. Bringing together my therapeutic experience with your presence and willingness, we will build you a reliable therapeutic toolkit.
Hi, I'm Fairlie. Welcome to my profile. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed and struggling to cope; are depressed or anxious; or are experiencing relationship issues, I can help you to move through this difficult time and feel better in life. Perhaps you wish to release emotional pain, process past traumas, or ease psychological discomfort? All these are possible, and more: I can help you to find a fresh perspective, develop positive coping skills and build self esteem so that you can feel better in life. Bringing together my therapeutic experience with your presence and willingness, we will build you a reliable therapeutic toolkit.
01379 778352 View 01379 778352
Photo of Patrick Halcrow, PsychD, HCPC - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Patrick Halcrow
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Beccles NR34
Is your child or adolescent struggling emotionally? Perhaps they have been dealt a blow, lost trust in others, feel confused or overwhelmed by their experiences. Sometimes they might behave in ways that negatively affects school and relationships, denying them of care and opportunities. They may be experiencing social-emotional difficulties (i.e. anxiety, low mood, trauma, bereavement, neurodiversity, identity issues, low self-esteem or been treated unfairly).
Is your child or adolescent struggling emotionally? Perhaps they have been dealt a blow, lost trust in others, feel confused or overwhelmed by their experiences. Sometimes they might behave in ways that negatively affects school and relationships, denying them of care and opportunities. They may be experiencing social-emotional difficulties (i.e. anxiety, low mood, trauma, bereavement, neurodiversity, identity issues, low self-esteem or been treated unfairly).
01603 576881 View 01603 576881
Photo of Karen Evans - East Coast Therapies, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
East Coast Therapies
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Beccles NR34
Life can be unpredictable and some experiences can cause reactions we don’t fully understand. Counselling can help gain relief and clarity, helping you to find a healthier way forward. Hearing your thoughts and feelings out loud, in the presence of a trained professional can bring about shifts in awareness and perception. Facing your concerns or fears can feel empowering, helping you to feel more in control. My aim is to provide a warm, welcoming safe environment where together we can explore any worries, problems or issues that are causing you any distress, sadness or anxiety.
Life can be unpredictable and some experiences can cause reactions we don’t fully understand. Counselling can help gain relief and clarity, helping you to find a healthier way forward. Hearing your thoughts and feelings out loud, in the presence of a trained professional can bring about shifts in awareness and perception. Facing your concerns or fears can feel empowering, helping you to feel more in control. My aim is to provide a warm, welcoming safe environment where together we can explore any worries, problems or issues that are causing you any distress, sadness or anxiety.
01502 449496 View 01502 449496
Photo of Anita Christine Carr - Cwtch Therapies, MBACP, Counsellor
Cwtch Therapies
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halesworth IP19
Whether it is grief of some kind or difficulties in relationships or work, life can prove tricky at times and we can feel alone in decision making or dealing with situations. At times such as these it can help to have someone who will listen without judgement and offer confidentiality. Counselling can be short or long term to achieve specific goals or to work through more deeply ingrained life challenges. Young and older clients are welcome and sessions via video link offered.
Whether it is grief of some kind or difficulties in relationships or work, life can prove tricky at times and we can feel alone in decision making or dealing with situations. At times such as these it can help to have someone who will listen without judgement and offer confidentiality. Counselling can be short or long term to achieve specific goals or to work through more deeply ingrained life challenges. Young and older clients are welcome and sessions via video link offered.
01502 448025 View 01502 448025

Online Therapists

Photo of Anita Sommers, MA, MUKCP, Counsellor
Anita Sommers
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
I have helped individuals struggling with following issues: Anxiety disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, panic disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder Addictions, such as alcoholism, drug dependence or compulsive gambling Eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.
I am a Systemic Psychotherapist with extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families in a variety of settings. I hold a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Edgewood College (Madison, Wisconsin, U.S.A) and am currently UKCP Registered. Before starting my private practice, I was employed for six years as a Specialist Clinician for Children’s Social Care by the Cambridgeshire County Council. Prior to this, I ran an outpatient program for individuals struggling with an eating disorder and their families. I work with individuals, couples and families,
I have helped individuals struggling with following issues: Anxiety disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, panic disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder Addictions, such as alcoholism, drug dependence or compulsive gambling Eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia.
I am a Systemic Psychotherapist with extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families in a variety of settings. I hold a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Edgewood College (Madison, Wisconsin, U.S.A) and am currently UKCP Registered. Before starting my private practice, I was employed for six years as a Specialist Clinician for Children’s Social Care by the Cambridgeshire County Council. Prior to this, I ran an outpatient program for individuals struggling with an eating disorder and their families. I work with individuals, couples and families,
01223 869504 View 01223 869504
Photo of Laura Panetta, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Laura Panetta
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London W1W
I am a psychotherapist registered with the UK Council for Psychotherapists, a psychodramatist registered with the British Psychodrama Association (BPA) and I hold a BSc degree in Psychology. My approach is integrative and holistic, drawing from a wide range of theories. I use creative action methods besides talking therapy, to explore your challenges in a safe and supportive space – for short, medium, or long-term individual therapy. I work with a wide variety of concerns - depression, anxiety, childhood issues, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, parenting, grief, addictions, psychiatric diagnoses, or personal growth.
I am a psychotherapist registered with the UK Council for Psychotherapists, a psychodramatist registered with the British Psychodrama Association (BPA) and I hold a BSc degree in Psychology. My approach is integrative and holistic, drawing from a wide range of theories. I use creative action methods besides talking therapy, to explore your challenges in a safe and supportive space – for short, medium, or long-term individual therapy. I work with a wide variety of concerns - depression, anxiety, childhood issues, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, parenting, grief, addictions, psychiatric diagnoses, or personal growth.
020 7123 8436 View 020 7123 8436
Photo of Roger Newman, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Roger Newman
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitstable CT5
I specialise in working with trauma, long term health conditions, various types of anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
I have extensive experience of working within mental health and have practiced within the private (inpatient and outpatient), the NHS, and the Charity Sector. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and also a qualified Human Givens and Compassion Focused Therapist. I integrate experiential psychotherapy within my CBT practice which incorporates mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy. The CFT approach has been shown to be highly effective to ‘non-responders of CBT’ and particularly if they experience high levels of shame/self-criticism.
I specialise in working with trauma, long term health conditions, various types of anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
I have extensive experience of working within mental health and have practiced within the private (inpatient and outpatient), the NHS, and the Charity Sector. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and also a qualified Human Givens and Compassion Focused Therapist. I integrate experiential psychotherapy within my CBT practice which incorporates mindfulness, Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy. The CFT approach has been shown to be highly effective to ‘non-responders of CBT’ and particularly if they experience high levels of shame/self-criticism.
01227 532730 View 01227 532730
The Henry Centre
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Westcliff-on-Sea SS0
We have a team of highly skilled, qualified and experienced therapists with a range of specialisms, including; eating disorders, addiction, bereavement, domestic violence, relationship issues, sex related issues and anxiety and depression.
The Henry Centre is a private counselling and psychotherapy centre based at Westcliff Station. We help busy individuals, couples and families to explore and work through any challenges they may be experiencing. We will support you in overcoming these challenges to help you live the life you would like to promoting good mental health and well-being. We have an experienced, friendly team that will make sure they provide the highest possible standard of care. We will respond to enquiries and provide an appointment within 48 hours.
We have a team of highly skilled, qualified and experienced therapists with a range of specialisms, including; eating disorders, addiction, bereavement, domestic violence, relationship issues, sex related issues and anxiety and depression.
The Henry Centre is a private counselling and psychotherapy centre based at Westcliff Station. We help busy individuals, couples and families to explore and work through any challenges they may be experiencing. We will support you in overcoming these challenges to help you live the life you would like to promoting good mental health and well-being. We have an experienced, friendly team that will make sure they provide the highest possible standard of care. We will respond to enquiries and provide an appointment within 48 hours.
01702 967954 View 01702 967954
Photo of Nabeela Hussain - Simply Psychotherapy Ltd., MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Simply Psychotherapy Ltd.
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London WC2H  (Online Only)
At Simply Psychotherapy, our passion is helping individuals like you overcome your mental health difficulties and achieve lasting progress and wellbeing. We offer evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) to address a wide range of mental health conditions. If you are struggling with depression, excessive worrying, stress, low self-esteem, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, body dysmorphia, binge eating, bulimia, or phobias. Through therapy we can give you effective strategies to break free from the grip of these conditions.
At Simply Psychotherapy, our passion is helping individuals like you overcome your mental health difficulties and achieve lasting progress and wellbeing. We offer evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) to address a wide range of mental health conditions. If you are struggling with depression, excessive worrying, stress, low self-esteem, health anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, body dysmorphia, binge eating, bulimia, or phobias. Through therapy we can give you effective strategies to break free from the grip of these conditions.
020 3828 7360 View 020 3828 7360
Photo of Kirsty Garden, BACP, Counsellor
Kirsty Garden
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Clacton-on-Sea CO15
Areas of experience are abuse, confidence, self esteem, relationships, bullying, sexuality , obsessive behaviours, eating disorders, internet use, anger, loss, distressing thoughts and feelings, depression.
Hi I’m Kirsty I have been a qualified counsellor for over 9 years and specialise in working with Young People. My approach is to co create a relationship with you that enables you to speak about whatever you choose. I am able to offer a non judgemental, welcoming presence so you are able to explore any thoughts, feelings and experiences that you wish too. I believe that as individuals we are all unique and hold the capacity to gain new insights. This can encourage personal growth and development within us that can lead to change. I believe the therapeutic relationship is there to facilitate such experiences.
Areas of experience are abuse, confidence, self esteem, relationships, bullying, sexuality , obsessive behaviours, eating disorders, internet use, anger, loss, distressing thoughts and feelings, depression.
Hi I’m Kirsty I have been a qualified counsellor for over 9 years and specialise in working with Young People. My approach is to co create a relationship with you that enables you to speak about whatever you choose. I am able to offer a non judgemental, welcoming presence so you are able to explore any thoughts, feelings and experiences that you wish too. I believe that as individuals we are all unique and hold the capacity to gain new insights. This can encourage personal growth and development within us that can lead to change. I believe the therapeutic relationship is there to facilitate such experiences.
07950 455920 View 07950 455920
Photo of Karen Eves, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist
Karen Eves
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Verified Verified
Southend-on-Sea SS2
Child, Adolescent and Family Psychodynamic Psychotherapist; fully qualified. I have been working with children, young people, and families for 20+ yrs. The young people I have worked with have faced a wide range of emotional, social, or psychological challenges. My experience includes depression/mood difficulties, anxiety/panic issues (OCD), school refusal or social withdrawal, self-injury, substance misuse, impulsivity, defiance, eating disorders, trauma/loss, sexual identity, body dysphoria, and neuro-diversity. Families use psychodynamic approaches when seeking in-depth therapy to achieve long-term change.
Child, Adolescent and Family Psychodynamic Psychotherapist; fully qualified. I have been working with children, young people, and families for 20+ yrs. The young people I have worked with have faced a wide range of emotional, social, or psychological challenges. My experience includes depression/mood difficulties, anxiety/panic issues (OCD), school refusal or social withdrawal, self-injury, substance misuse, impulsivity, defiance, eating disorders, trauma/loss, sexual identity, body dysphoria, and neuro-diversity. Families use psychodynamic approaches when seeking in-depth therapy to achieve long-term change.
01702 908315 View 01702 908315
Photo of Dr Jenny Davis, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jenny Davis
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Berkhamsted HP4
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with your relationship with food? Stuck in a cycle of dieting? Maybe you hate how your body looks? I'm Clinical Psychologist specialising in therapy for adults (age 16+) with eating difficulties and body image. I have helped people with emotional eating, disordered eating, anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and body image difficulties. I provide comprehensive psychological assessment and therapy to make sense of your current difficulties in the context of your life. Often this includes links with low self-esteem, perfectionism, childhood experiences, anxiety and low mood.
Are you struggling with your relationship with food? Stuck in a cycle of dieting? Maybe you hate how your body looks? I'm Clinical Psychologist specialising in therapy for adults (age 16+) with eating difficulties and body image. I have helped people with emotional eating, disordered eating, anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and body image difficulties. I provide comprehensive psychological assessment and therapy to make sense of your current difficulties in the context of your life. Often this includes links with low self-esteem, perfectionism, childhood experiences, anxiety and low mood.
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Photo of Jessica B DEMOL Eating Disorders, DCounsPsych, CPsychol, Psychologist
Jessica B DEMOL Eating Disorders
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London N3
I am a qualified, experienced Psychologist in Eating Disorders. I work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with over 10 years experience. I have worked both in the NHS and private sector since 2006, specialising in Eating Disorders since 2012. I am experienced in a wide range of mental health problems; depression, relationship issues, low self esteem, body image issues, eating disorders, emotional regulation, as well as anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), health anxiety, panic disorder, phobias and more.
I am a qualified, experienced Psychologist in Eating Disorders. I work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with over 10 years experience. I have worked both in the NHS and private sector since 2006, specialising in Eating Disorders since 2012. I am experienced in a wide range of mental health problems; depression, relationship issues, low self esteem, body image issues, eating disorders, emotional regulation, as well as anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), health anxiety, panic disorder, phobias and more.
020 3974 1808 View 020 3974 1808
Photo of Sharlin Paul, MBACP, Counsellor
Sharlin Paul
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harlow CM19
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, tired and not sure what to do or who to turn to at present? Having worked / support clients with a range of challenges I am here to help you through this challenging period. I have a vast amount of experience working with clients who have presented issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, drug & alcohol addiction, eating disorders, lack of direction in life. I have also worked within a number of organisations supporting individuals, couples and young people.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, tired and not sure what to do or who to turn to at present? Having worked / support clients with a range of challenges I am here to help you through this challenging period. I have a vast amount of experience working with clients who have presented issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, drug & alcohol addiction, eating disorders, lack of direction in life. I have also worked within a number of organisations supporting individuals, couples and young people.
020 3974 2363 View 020 3974 2363
Photo of Kostana Banjac, Counsellor
Kostana Banjac
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London NW1
My clinical work includes sex & relationship issues, unreliable erection, ejaculation difficulties, reducing anxiety around sex, intimacy, gender and body image issues, trauma, eating disorders, sexual abuse or assault, sexual health issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, vulval pain, vaginismus, dyspareunia, orgasmic issues, sexual phobias, traumas, PSSD.
I work pluralistically from a contemporary biopsychosocial framework that incorporates all aspects of self and I believe that you have many of the answers you are seeking within yourself. My objective is to build a safe and holding space for a trusting relationship where you can explore and share your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and problems/difficulties. Clients often seek therapy because of symptoms affecting their everyday life. However, they are often unaware of the root cause of their self-sabotaging behaviours, relationship issues, and emotional numbness. I also provide a more focused work as a single-session therapy (SST)
My clinical work includes sex & relationship issues, unreliable erection, ejaculation difficulties, reducing anxiety around sex, intimacy, gender and body image issues, trauma, eating disorders, sexual abuse or assault, sexual health issues, compulsive sexual behaviours, vulval pain, vaginismus, dyspareunia, orgasmic issues, sexual phobias, traumas, PSSD.
I work pluralistically from a contemporary biopsychosocial framework that incorporates all aspects of self and I believe that you have many of the answers you are seeking within yourself. My objective is to build a safe and holding space for a trusting relationship where you can explore and share your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and problems/difficulties. Clients often seek therapy because of symptoms affecting their everyday life. However, they are often unaware of the root cause of their self-sabotaging behaviours, relationship issues, and emotional numbness. I also provide a more focused work as a single-session therapy (SST)
020 3835 5391 View 020 3835 5391

See more therapy options for Bungay

Eating Disorders Counsellors

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviours, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behaviour affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counselling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioural disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behaviour, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognise they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behaviour has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.