Eating Disorders Counselling in Lowestoft

Photo of Carol Shaw - Carol Shaw Psychotherapy , MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Carol Shaw Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Lowestoft NR32
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 Karen Evans - East Coast Therapies, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
East Coast Therapies
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lowestoft NR32
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 Sandra Ann Geary, BACP, Counsellor
Sandra Ann Geary
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lowestoft NR32
Hello, I'm Sandra Geary and it will be my privilege to work with you Whatever is holding you back from living your life on your terms with meaning, peace of mind and self-compassion is worth having a conversation about I have over 29 years experience working in Statutory Services, NHS, voluntary and private sectors. I have worked extensively with people presenting with moderate and severe mental health conditions. I am experienced in working with, depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, domestic violence, sexual and emotional abuse, self harm, anger issues, stress, addiction.
Hello, I'm Sandra Geary and it will be my privilege to work with you Whatever is holding you back from living your life on your terms with meaning, peace of mind and self-compassion is worth having a conversation about I have over 29 years experience working in Statutory Services, NHS, voluntary and private sectors. I have worked extensively with people presenting with moderate and severe mental health conditions. I am experienced in working with, depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, domestic violence, sexual and emotional abuse, self harm, anger issues, stress, addiction.
01493 804857 View 01493 804857
Photo of Julie Walker - Broadland Counselling Practice
Broadland Counselling Practice
Verified Verified
Lowestoft NR32
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
Photo of Tracey Anne McGee Ba(Hons), MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Tracey Anne McGee Ba(Hons)
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Lowestoft NR32
Not accepting new clients
Not currently accepting new clients. I am a qualified person-centred counsellor working with adults and young people. I offer in-person only. Whether your issues are related to the past, or are rooted in the present, counselling can help to alleviate the ways these events affect you and your relationships. Exploring our feelings and how these events have affected us can help to improve our self-worth, self-esteem and self-compassion. As we feel better about ourselves we are able to experience improved relationships and make more positive life choices.
Not currently accepting new clients. I am a qualified person-centred counsellor working with adults and young people. I offer in-person only. Whether your issues are related to the past, or are rooted in the present, counselling can help to alleviate the ways these events affect you and your relationships. Exploring our feelings and how these events have affected us can help to improve our self-worth, self-esteem and self-compassion. As we feel better about ourselves we are able to experience improved relationships and make more positive life choices.
01493 807181 View 01493 807181

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan Jennifer Cappaert, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Susan Jennifer Cappaert
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Beccles NR34
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 Chrissie Leigh - Leigh Counselling Services, MA, Counsellor
Leigh Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Great Yarmouth NR31
Are you struggling with difficult, painful emotions? Do you ever feel you're drowning in the pressures and stresses of everyday life? It happens to all of us at some point. Talking about your personal concerns can help to put them into perspective and find a way forward. Perhaps you're dealing with a family bereavement or a personal crisis? Maybe you're a parent struggling with the challenges of living with a teenager? Sharing your feelings with someone who's understanding and empathic can be life-changing, Seeking out solutions to what is testing you will give you the focus to deal with those difficulties and motivate you forward.
Are you struggling with difficult, painful emotions? Do you ever feel you're drowning in the pressures and stresses of everyday life? It happens to all of us at some point. Talking about your personal concerns can help to put them into perspective and find a way forward. Perhaps you're dealing with a family bereavement or a personal crisis? Maybe you're a parent struggling with the challenges of living with a teenager? Sharing your feelings with someone who's understanding and empathic can be life-changing, Seeking out solutions to what is testing you will give you the focus to deal with those difficulties and motivate you forward.
01493 801393 View 01493 801393
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 Tracy Louise Reeve - Tracy Reeve Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracy Reeve Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Beccles NR34
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 Jamie Carl Geary, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jamie Carl Geary
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Great Yarmouth NR31
I am a Person Centred counselor who works with adults, children and young people, offering 1-1 or group therapy. My approach is non-judgmental and I offer a secure, confidential and nurturing therapeutic space to help you through your difficulties at your own pace. I got into counselling because of having counselling myself so am aware of the difficulties facing finding the right counselor and what it's like having therapy. Even with this knowledge your process will be different and you will have your own sense of the pain you are experiencing. What I offer is my ability to help you walk through this pain with empathy and safety.
I am a Person Centred counselor who works with adults, children and young people, offering 1-1 or group therapy. My approach is non-judgmental and I offer a secure, confidential and nurturing therapeutic space to help you through your difficulties at your own pace. I got into counselling because of having counselling myself so am aware of the difficulties facing finding the right counselor and what it's like having therapy. Even with this knowledge your process will be different and you will have your own sense of the pain you are experiencing. What I offer is my ability to help you walk through this pain with empathy and safety.
01493 804849 View 01493 804849

Online Therapists

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 Ryan Powell, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Ryan Powell
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SE18
I specialize in anxiety and depression; however I am experienced with LGBTQ+ clients, addictions, relationship issues, eating disorders and much more.
I am trained in both couple’s therapy and individual therapy and also offer Supervision. As an Integrative Counsellor, I am here to walk beside you on your journey. My approach is empathetic and compassionate; however I will challenge my clients to help them achieve their goals. I have worked within the NHS and now within a university conducting short term solution focused therapy. I have created a successful private practice and I want the sessions to focus on my clients needs. I will provide the platform for you to discuss what you need to discuss and the safety of a confidential, caring and warm space.
I specialize in anxiety and depression; however I am experienced with LGBTQ+ clients, addictions, relationship issues, eating disorders and much more.
I am trained in both couple’s therapy and individual therapy and also offer Supervision. As an Integrative Counsellor, I am here to walk beside you on your journey. My approach is empathetic and compassionate; however I will challenge my clients to help them achieve their goals. I have worked within the NHS and now within a university conducting short term solution focused therapy. I have created a successful private practice and I want the sessions to focus on my clients needs. I will provide the platform for you to discuss what you need to discuss and the safety of a confidential, caring and warm space.
020 4538 8657 View 020 4538 8657
Photo of Dr Emma Rose, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Emma Rose
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hatfield AL9
Hello, my name is Emma and I believe in creating a safe and supportive space for you to talk and share your experiences. I have 13 years experience working in the NHS, charities & counselling services and have a BSc, MSc and a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. I support people who are facing issues such as relational problems, family issues, stress, anxiety, low mood, eating disorders, anger problems, illness, life changes, bereavement, addiction, abuse, among many more. I can usually offer appointments within a fortnight. My website: www.dremmarose.co.uk
Hello, my name is Emma and I believe in creating a safe and supportive space for you to talk and share your experiences. I have 13 years experience working in the NHS, charities & counselling services and have a BSc, MSc and a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. I support people who are facing issues such as relational problems, family issues, stress, anxiety, low mood, eating disorders, anger problems, illness, life changes, bereavement, addiction, abuse, among many more. I can usually offer appointments within a fortnight. My website: www.dremmarose.co.uk
01548 800095 View 01548 800095
Photo of Harbans Nagpal, MBBS, Psychotherapist
Harbans Nagpal
Psychotherapist, MBBS
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB2
I am a Lacanian psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with 25 years of experience. I treat eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia and obesity, and addictions such as to nicotine, cannabis, gambling, sex, chocolate, tea and coffee. After my training in medicine (Oxford, Cambridge) I worked in London and at the American Hospital of Paris. To specialize, I trained in psychiatry and psychoanalysis (with Jacques Lacan at the École Freudienne) in Paris. For many years I was a Consultant Psychiatrist at Saint Anne’s Hospital in Paris. For the last twenty years I have worked as a specialised psychotherapist. Do take a look at my website.
I am a Lacanian psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with 25 years of experience. I treat eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia and obesity, and addictions such as to nicotine, cannabis, gambling, sex, chocolate, tea and coffee. After my training in medicine (Oxford, Cambridge) I worked in London and at the American Hospital of Paris. To specialize, I trained in psychiatry and psychoanalysis (with Jacques Lacan at the École Freudienne) in Paris. For many years I was a Consultant Psychiatrist at Saint Anne’s Hospital in Paris. For the last twenty years I have worked as a specialised psychotherapist. Do take a look at my website.
01223 679756 View 01223 679756
Photo of Becky Grace Irwing - Becky Grace Therapy, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Becky Grace Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwich NR2
I have worked in Adult and CAMHS services and eating disorders.
Could you imagine a life without thinking constantly of food? A life not overtaken by anxiety and people or parts of society that make you feel uncomfortable, a burden or lead you to not trust yourself? Are you living a life that does not give you joy and pleasure, or you feel out of control? Then I am here to help. Whether you have an issue with eating -avoiding, bingeing or control, anxiety, OCD, low mood or trauma, I will help you address the root cause and collaborate with you to improve how you act and feel. We will use accredited cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR, breathwork and yoga in person or online at a time that suits
I have worked in Adult and CAMHS services and eating disorders.
Could you imagine a life without thinking constantly of food? A life not overtaken by anxiety and people or parts of society that make you feel uncomfortable, a burden or lead you to not trust yourself? Are you living a life that does not give you joy and pleasure, or you feel out of control? Then I am here to help. Whether you have an issue with eating -avoiding, bingeing or control, anxiety, OCD, low mood or trauma, I will help you address the root cause and collaborate with you to improve how you act and feel. We will use accredited cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR, breathwork and yoga in person or online at a time that suits
01603 361424 View 01603 361424
Photo of Sara Koczwara, MBACP, Counsellor
Sara Koczwara
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E8  (Online Only)
I worked with a wide variety of clients and have experience in helping people with a range of emotional and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, gender and identity issues, and sexual problems.
My name is Sara and I am a Humanistic Integrative Therapist. I strongly believe that with the right support and guidance people are able to overcome any difficulties in their life and live in a healthier and more fulfilling way. One of my core values is trust and I see it as a vital part of the therapeutic process and any relationship.
I worked with a wide variety of clients and have experience in helping people with a range of emotional and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, gender and identity issues, and sexual problems.
My name is Sara and I am a Humanistic Integrative Therapist. I strongly believe that with the right support and guidance people are able to overcome any difficulties in their life and live in a healthier and more fulfilling way. One of my core values is trust and I see it as a vital part of the therapeutic process and any relationship.
020 4538 2975 View 020 4538 2975
Photo of Analy Reed, MBACP, Counsellor
Analy Reed
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N10
I am an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist working with children, young people and adults. Beginning with a FREE ‘get to know you’ session I offer a warm and pragmatic approach to individuals and have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues. I am particularly interested in working with depression, anxiety disorders, body and/or gender dysphoria, addiction, perfectionism and procrastination, social anxiety, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders and performance anxiety
I am an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist working with children, young people and adults. Beginning with a FREE ‘get to know you’ session I offer a warm and pragmatic approach to individuals and have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues. I am particularly interested in working with depression, anxiety disorders, body and/or gender dysphoria, addiction, perfectionism and procrastination, social anxiety, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders and performance anxiety
020 3984 9132 View 020 3984 9132
Photo of Shirley-Ann Galbraith, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Shirley-Ann Galbraith
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maidstone ME16
This includes working with many aspects of human difficulty, such as relational trauma, relationship difficulties, bereavement, depression, anxiety, self-esteem & eating disorders.
Welcome. Sometimes life presents challenges and the turbulence of these can be overwhelming and may impact negatively on our mental health and emotional well-being. Psychotherapy and counselling offer a safe space to explore your experiences of these difficulties. Seeking help from a professional may be the next step and psychotherapy or counselling gives you the opportunity to look at your life, your problems and concerns. I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor with over 30 years experience. In my private practice I work with adults experiencing all aspects of mental ill health concerns, relationship and life issues.
This includes working with many aspects of human difficulty, such as relational trauma, relationship difficulties, bereavement, depression, anxiety, self-esteem & eating disorders.
Welcome. Sometimes life presents challenges and the turbulence of these can be overwhelming and may impact negatively on our mental health and emotional well-being. Psychotherapy and counselling offer a safe space to explore your experiences of these difficulties. Seeking help from a professional may be the next step and psychotherapy or counselling gives you the opportunity to look at your life, your problems and concerns. I am a qualified psychotherapist and counsellor with over 30 years experience. In my private practice I work with adults experiencing all aspects of mental ill health concerns, relationship and life issues.
01622 938418 View 01622 938418
Photo of Anna Honeysett, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Anna Honeysett
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashford TN24
I have a history working with addiction and eating disorders however I work with a range of issues from anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, work difficulties, chronic illness, health anxiety and various traumas.
Hello. Firstly I would like to say well done for starting the process of asking for help, it takes great courage to make that step towards change. We all have difficulties in life and sometimes we need to go somewhere outside our family and friends and to work through issues with someone impartial. I offer a safe confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the hope that you will be able to live your life more fully. Counselling is not a magic wand but in my experience it can give you insight into who you really are and promote personal freedom.
I have a history working with addiction and eating disorders however I work with a range of issues from anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, work difficulties, chronic illness, health anxiety and various traumas.
Hello. Firstly I would like to say well done for starting the process of asking for help, it takes great courage to make that step towards change. We all have difficulties in life and sometimes we need to go somewhere outside our family and friends and to work through issues with someone impartial. I offer a safe confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the hope that you will be able to live your life more fully. Counselling is not a magic wand but in my experience it can give you insight into who you really are and promote personal freedom.
01233 542283 View 01233 542283
Photo of Renata Harris, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Renata Harris
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Harpenden AL5
Hello, I'm Renata. I am a Psychologist and Psychotherapist (17+ years), and a BPS supervisor. I had extensive personal therapy myself. I aim to equip you with skills and self-acceptance to heal. I offer NICE recommended, holistic and relational therapy to get your life back on track, in a safe and validating space. I have worked in the NHS as a Psychology Lead in an eating disorders service for over 10 years. I have experience in working with most mental health diagnoses as well as neurodiversity, addiction, bereavement, anxiety, low mood, stress, family and marital problems, issues with anger, self-esteem, and relational issues.
Hello, I'm Renata. I am a Psychologist and Psychotherapist (17+ years), and a BPS supervisor. I had extensive personal therapy myself. I aim to equip you with skills and self-acceptance to heal. I offer NICE recommended, holistic and relational therapy to get your life back on track, in a safe and validating space. I have worked in the NHS as a Psychology Lead in an eating disorders service for over 10 years. I have experience in working with most mental health diagnoses as well as neurodiversity, addiction, bereavement, anxiety, low mood, stress, family and marital problems, issues with anger, self-esteem, and relational issues.
01582 377599 View 01582 377599

See more therapy options for Lowestoft

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.