Eating Disorders Psychiatrists in Fort Collins, CO
![Photo of Jenny Tarr - Jenny Tarr--Larson Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c96f129b-2d96-49a6-8ee5-79717e045f26/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Tarr--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 8 and up for issues including but not limited to mood, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, trauma and stressor-related disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, life transitions, and eating disorders. My goal is to partner with patients to provide holistic, evidence-based care. I do not believe in the one-size-fits-all approach. I will listen to you and draw upon my more than 15 years experience in nursing to provide advice and education. Together we will create a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I treat ages 8 and up for issues including but not limited to mood, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, trauma and stressor-related disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, life transitions, and eating disorders. My goal is to partner with patients to provide holistic, evidence-based care. I do not believe in the one-size-fits-all approach. I will listen to you and draw upon my more than 15 years experience in nursing to provide advice and education. Together we will create a treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.
![Photo of Katie Bland - Katie Bland--Larson Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4bb4dd0-3c3f-4be9-9c04-7f3f3e90b756/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Bland--Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I am currently accepting new patients for medication management. For ease, you can schedule online at www.larsonmentalhealth.com. With over 13 years of nursing experience, including 9 years in mental health, I have worked with a wide variety of mental health conditions. As a provider, I am determined to help individuals achieve optimal mental wellness by incorporating evidence-based treatment strategies. I delight in working with all age groups and mental health conditions including but not limited to mood disorders, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and conditions derived from trauma.
I am currently accepting new patients for medication management. For ease, you can schedule online at www.larsonmentalhealth.com. With over 13 years of nursing experience, including 9 years in mental health, I have worked with a wide variety of mental health conditions. As a provider, I am determined to help individuals achieve optimal mental wellness by incorporating evidence-based treatment strategies. I delight in working with all age groups and mental health conditions including but not limited to mood disorders, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and conditions derived from trauma.
![Photo of Debbie Pawlowski-Krejcik, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4a60022-b4cb-44d8-a1a8-b480e6d2c8e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Pawlowski-Krejcik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Although I treat a multitude of mental health conditions, I focus on clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorders, as well as alcohol and drug addiction. I seek to assist clients in their unique path to wellness.
Although I treat a multitude of mental health conditions, I focus on clients suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorder, eating disorders, as well as alcohol and drug addiction. I seek to assist clients in their unique path to wellness.
![Photo of Kathleen Voelsing, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49dcccad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Voelsing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I'm Dr. Kathleen Voelsing and I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in evidence-based treatment of bipolar, depressive, anxiety, and psychotic disorders for patients 16 years and up. I have substantial experience with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma issues, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I am welcoming to LGBTQIA+ and all races and religions. Extensively trained in psychiatric medication management, I target maximal benefit with the minimal amount of medication. I also provide medication management for substance abuse (including buprenorphine).
I'm Dr. Kathleen Voelsing and I am a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner. I specialize in evidence-based treatment of bipolar, depressive, anxiety, and psychotic disorders for patients 16 years and up. I have substantial experience with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma issues, eating disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. I am welcoming to LGBTQIA+ and all races and religions. Extensively trained in psychiatric medication management, I target maximal benefit with the minimal amount of medication. I also provide medication management for substance abuse (including buprenorphine).
![Photo of Courtney Hill, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b783f003-249e-4bda-a550-945f0e9a046f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80526
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the opportunity to work with a vast number of mental health diagnoses, including dual diagnosis treatment, eating disorders, and trauma.
Hi! I'm a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I focuses on treating patients across the life span, including children and adolescents while working alongside families, parents, and other health professionals. This is essential in forming a treatment plan that follows a holistic approach, with the overall goal of creating a more desirable quality of life. I am easy to talk to and I focus on making sure you are heard. We will brainstorm ideas together, develop a plan, and set goals. I want to make sure each patient receives individualized care and enables trust in the partnership.
I have had the opportunity to work with a vast number of mental health diagnoses, including dual diagnosis treatment, eating disorders, and trauma.
Hi! I'm a board-certified, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I focuses on treating patients across the life span, including children and adolescents while working alongside families, parents, and other health professionals. This is essential in forming a treatment plan that follows a holistic approach, with the overall goal of creating a more desirable quality of life. I am easy to talk to and I focus on making sure you are heard. We will brainstorm ideas together, develop a plan, and set goals. I want to make sure each patient receives individualized care and enables trust in the partnership.
![Photo of Rena Diem, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95b1f65a-a67f-4567-8e25-f44873228dd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rena has a passion for working with teenagers and adults of all ages seeking treatment for depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, trauma, eating disorders, etc.
Rena Diem, PMHNP Rena Diem is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2024. She received a Master of Science in Nursing as a Certified Nurse Midwife in 2010 before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2023. Rena's role is to be a guide on your journey towards greater health and understanding. By fostering a trusting and supportive environment, Rena hopes that you can feel that you don't have to do hard things alone.
Rena has a passion for working with teenagers and adults of all ages seeking treatment for depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, trauma, eating disorders, etc.
Rena Diem, PMHNP Rena Diem is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2024. She received a Master of Science in Nursing as a Certified Nurse Midwife in 2010 before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in 2023. Rena's role is to be a guide on your journey towards greater health and understanding. By fostering a trusting and supportive environment, Rena hopes that you can feel that you don't have to do hard things alone.
![Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5e96923-57c0-4390-a4c7-1a2fc4bb7e95/1/320x400.png)
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Lindsey Dempster, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f058d8d-7175-4c3e-b172-62c03fae2cc9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Dempster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521
My experience working in an inpatient psychiatric unit means I am comfortable diagnosing, assessing, and referring clients to the appropriate level of care, whether that be for addiction management, eating disorders, or other psychiatric emergencies.
Accepting new clients with immediate availability! Medicaid and private insurance are accepted. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2022. My diverse experience spans 12 years and includes emergency medicine, ICU, oncology, psychiatry, and nursing/physician management. I promote growth and change by empowering clients to overcome personal obstacles that interfere with their desired goals, using medications as an adjunct to other meaningful lifestyle changes. Please feel free to book with me directly at www.TrendMentalHealth.com!
My experience working in an inpatient psychiatric unit means I am comfortable diagnosing, assessing, and referring clients to the appropriate level of care, whether that be for addiction management, eating disorders, or other psychiatric emergencies.
Accepting new clients with immediate availability! Medicaid and private insurance are accepted. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2022. My diverse experience spans 12 years and includes emergency medicine, ICU, oncology, psychiatry, and nursing/physician management. I promote growth and change by empowering clients to overcome personal obstacles that interfere with their desired goals, using medications as an adjunct to other meaningful lifestyle changes. Please feel free to book with me directly at www.TrendMentalHealth.com!
![Photo of Caren Blantin, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfed859e-f73b-4ff5-ab12-ebd9d3d1db24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caren Blantin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Accepting New Patients! Have providers ever made you feel unheard or rushed? Why not try something new? Embracing Hope Wellness Clinic LLC is located at The Triple T Haven, a horse ranch in Ault, CO (only 13 miles East of Fort Collins). Embracing Hope is a safe place for you to heal. We offer a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels more like a retreat. During your appointment you have the option of being seen in my office or we can walk around the ranch and meet the horses. There is nothing more peaceful than brushing horses or just sitting outside enjoying the view while we talk.
Accepting New Patients! Have providers ever made you feel unheard or rushed? Why not try something new? Embracing Hope Wellness Clinic LLC is located at The Triple T Haven, a horse ranch in Ault, CO (only 13 miles East of Fort Collins). Embracing Hope is a safe place for you to heal. We offer a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels more like a retreat. During your appointment you have the option of being seen in my office or we can walk around the ranch and meet the horses. There is nothing more peaceful than brushing horses or just sitting outside enjoying the view while we talk.
![Photo of Aimee McLaurin, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/093a3acb-9d3a-4615-a9e6-b59836ccd152/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aimee McLaurin is a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. Aimee's prior experience in the military and acute medical settings have provided her with unique skills to assist clients in managing challenging times in their lives. She has learned how to help the client navigate a path through these times, build resilience, and thrive by embracing our individual strengths and weaknesses. In her spare time, Aimee enjoys being outdoors, gardening or just enjoying the sunshine. She likes to cook for others, learn new recipes, and is a bad but enthusiastic dancer.
Aimee McLaurin is a Nurse Practitioner in Colorado who has been practicing since 2023. Aimee's prior experience in the military and acute medical settings have provided her with unique skills to assist clients in managing challenging times in their lives. She has learned how to help the client navigate a path through these times, build resilience, and thrive by embracing our individual strengths and weaknesses. In her spare time, Aimee enjoys being outdoors, gardening or just enjoying the sunshine. She likes to cook for others, learn new recipes, and is a bad but enthusiastic dancer.
![Photo of Melanie Walker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/748ad53a-7072-4e83-b0ff-365b9fda128a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie’s approach to care is rooted in the understanding that each person is a holistic being, with interconnected mind, body, and spirit. Her practice revolves around providing compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan facing various psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. Leveraging evidence-based practices, medication management, and lifestyle interventions, she tailors her care to meet each individual’s specific needs. With a background in emergency medicine and psychiatric care, Melanie possesses a deep understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health.
Melanie’s approach to care is rooted in the understanding that each person is a holistic being, with interconnected mind, body, and spirit. Her practice revolves around providing compassionate care to individuals across the lifespan facing various psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction. Leveraging evidence-based practices, medication management, and lifestyle interventions, she tailors her care to meet each individual’s specific needs. With a background in emergency medicine and psychiatric care, Melanie possesses a deep understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health.
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![Photo of Jill Boatwright, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/254bd8e9-5315-4a7b-a056-f602fb6a72d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Boatwright is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2021. Before she became a nurse practitioner, she was a registered nurse for 22 years practicing in various healthcare settings. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Alabama and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama. Jill works with patients across the lifespan with a range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and insomnia.
Jill Boatwright is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing since 2021. Before she became a nurse practitioner, she was a registered nurse for 22 years practicing in various healthcare settings. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Alabama and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama. Jill works with patients across the lifespan with a range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder and insomnia.
![Photo of Jason Collison, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/535414a4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Collison brings the arts of psychotherapy and medication together in one setting.
Dr. Collison brings the arts of psychotherapy and medication together in one setting.
![Photo of Dr. Harris Jensen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0728df35-7a6b-457f-b320-db57137a9c60/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer both in-person and virtual visits. I am a unique provider for you in several ways. I have 25 years experience! I offer medication and psychotherapy visits. Also, I am an author and give all new patients a signed copy of my Amazon bestseller, "Prescription For Positivity." It focuses on stress management strategies. I am honored to help people with some of their deepest needs. I reach out to people who have depression, anxiety, bipolar, and addiction issues. They are feeling stuck. They can't make progress in their life, or there is great personal distress. In any case, I am here to help!
I offer both in-person and virtual visits. I am a unique provider for you in several ways. I have 25 years experience! I offer medication and psychotherapy visits. Also, I am an author and give all new patients a signed copy of my Amazon bestseller, "Prescription For Positivity." It focuses on stress management strategies. I am honored to help people with some of their deepest needs. I reach out to people who have depression, anxiety, bipolar, and addiction issues. They are feeling stuck. They can't make progress in their life, or there is great personal distress. In any case, I am here to help!
![Photo of Ja'neice Monsrud - Ja'Neice Monsrud - Larson Mental Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbfb94d9-1117-47ea-8545-0ac068608e23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ja'Neice Monsrud - Larson Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
Accepting New Patients, Book Online: www.larsonmentalhealth.com/scheduling-information. I bring over 10 years experience in nursing and treat ages 13+ for a wide variety of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, clients struggling with Bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, grief, school issues, disordered eating, and substance use disorders. I believe that Mental Health is not a destination but a journey; one that is taken with the help and support of many people along the way. For each client, know that we will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your goals.
![Photo of Amy Card, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c8a65e3-e30d-4b63-b319-94f832a7673b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Card
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521 (Online Only)
Hello there! I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s in Nursing Practice (ARNP). I have over 10 years of nursing experience in acute, rehabilitation, home health, and psychiatric care across the lifespan. My goal is to provide a care of excellence to people struggling with mental wellness impacting their quality of life. Together I work to build a therapeutic relationship giving respect, dignity, and autonomy. I meet any individual “right where they are” with no judgments or preconceived ideals.
Hello there! I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Master’s in Nursing Practice (ARNP). I have over 10 years of nursing experience in acute, rehabilitation, home health, and psychiatric care across the lifespan. My goal is to provide a care of excellence to people struggling with mental wellness impacting their quality of life. Together I work to build a therapeutic relationship giving respect, dignity, and autonomy. I meet any individual “right where they are” with no judgments or preconceived ideals.
![Photo of Jordan Gardner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38f61110-ffd8-4518-8114-07ce2e319016/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am board certified in adult, child, & adolescent psychiatry. My goals are to alleviate suffering and focus on improving my patients' relationships, school or work-life balance, and ultimate acceptance of the self. My preference is to pursue wellness first through therapy, nutrition, exercise, and optimizing sleep. Medications may also be needed, and with my medical background I can prescribe them using safety and the newest evidenced based practices. I feel the therapeutic alliance, or the partnership between a psychiatrist and patient, is essential for an individual to receive the greatest possible benefits from the therapy.
I am board certified in adult, child, & adolescent psychiatry. My goals are to alleviate suffering and focus on improving my patients' relationships, school or work-life balance, and ultimate acceptance of the self. My preference is to pursue wellness first through therapy, nutrition, exercise, and optimizing sleep. Medications may also be needed, and with my medical background I can prescribe them using safety and the newest evidenced based practices. I feel the therapeutic alliance, or the partnership between a psychiatrist and patient, is essential for an individual to receive the greatest possible benefits from the therapy.
![Photo of Jennifer Medina - Mind and Soul Psychiatry , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b782200d-d144-4582-b4ed-d2eee4b68e95/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind and Soul Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
My name is Jennifer Medina, and I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my work with various populations, I have gained extensive experience helping individuals navigate challenging times. I am here to offer my expertise to those struggling with issues such as ADHD, trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationship problems.
My name is Jennifer Medina, and I am a Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Through my work with various populations, I have gained extensive experience helping individuals navigate challenging times. I am here to offer my expertise to those struggling with issues such as ADHD, trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and relationship problems.
![Photo of Michael Wyskiel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13b1dba1-ed4f-4238-9659-ea13fbf4ce95/1/320x400.png)
When you meet with Mike, you will feel welcomed into a non-judgmental, positive environment to overcome obstacles and become the best version of yourself. He is accepting of individuals from all walks of life and does not discriminate on gender, race, ethnicity, or cultural background. After a session with Mike, you will leave feeling accepted, listened to, and better equipped for your healing journey. Mike’s clients can expect to gain knowledge and tools to overcome many life struggles, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, substance abuse, and eating issues.
When you meet with Mike, you will feel welcomed into a non-judgmental, positive environment to overcome obstacles and become the best version of yourself. He is accepting of individuals from all walks of life and does not discriminate on gender, race, ethnicity, or cultural background. After a session with Mike, you will leave feeling accepted, listened to, and better equipped for your healing journey. Mike’s clients can expect to gain knowledge and tools to overcome many life struggles, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, ADHD, insomnia, substance abuse, and eating issues.
![Photo of Margaret Anne Curran, DNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a15c7747-352c-4518-8195-ad7e13e5b3eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Anne Curran
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, MSN, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Be seen this week! Exceptional reviews, check me out on Google. Come to our office to be seen and meet our therapy dogs. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients in office or over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice.
Be seen this week! Exceptional reviews, check me out on Google. Come to our office to be seen and meet our therapy dogs. Want to receive mental health treatment and medication management from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office? I see patients in office or over a HIPAA compliant telepsychiatry service, providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I e-prescribe to the pharmacy of your choice.
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Nearby Eating Disorders Psychiatrists Searches for Fort Collins
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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.