Eating Disorders Psychiatrists in Plantation, FL
![Photo of Ruth Milstein, DNP, ARNP-BC, LMHC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d63ca30e-4caf-4c5b-814d-6d8e90844289/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Milstein
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, ARNP-BC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33323
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and a degree in Mental Health Counseling. Licensed Fl & OR. I see all ages in the privacy of my office and by Video. I take a holistic approach to care and provide clients with unconditional positive regard. I am licensed to prescribe medications as well as provide psychotherapy or work in conjunction with your psychotherapist. Inpatient and outpatient experience. Experience with eating disorders, alcohol/ drug addiction, woman's issues, severe mental illness, and postpartum depression along with generalized anxiety, depression and ADHD.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice and a degree in Mental Health Counseling. Licensed Fl & OR. I see all ages in the privacy of my office and by Video. I take a holistic approach to care and provide clients with unconditional positive regard. I am licensed to prescribe medications as well as provide psychotherapy or work in conjunction with your psychotherapist. Inpatient and outpatient experience. Experience with eating disorders, alcohol/ drug addiction, woman's issues, severe mental illness, and postpartum depression along with generalized anxiety, depression and ADHD.
![Photo of Alicia M Ciliezar, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/457f8a9a-580e-4c50-a80a-b6c4dc6eb94b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia M Ciliezar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
I believe in psychiatric care that is humane and patient-centered. Together we work on a treatment plan that works for you and your goals! Understandably, opening to a stranger about past- trauma and current struggles is not easy…Therefore, my approach to psychiatric care is based on principles of humanistic care, unconditional acceptance and safety. Let’s begin your healing journey today.
I believe in psychiatric care that is humane and patient-centered. Together we work on a treatment plan that works for you and your goals! Understandably, opening to a stranger about past- trauma and current struggles is not easy…Therefore, my approach to psychiatric care is based on principles of humanistic care, unconditional acceptance and safety. Let’s begin your healing journey today.
![Photo of Claudine Mondesir - Monarch Mental Health & Wellness Services, LLC, MPAS, PA-C, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b932fa68-9aa1-432c-a226-97943ad78750/1/320x400.png)
Monarch Mental Health & Wellness Services, LLC
Psychiatrist, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33324
When an individual is exposed to trauma or any significant life events, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Our greatest passion is working with individuals who have been impacted by these events and helping them to rebuild their ideal self-image. We find great pride in helping individuals to achieve healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthening their interpersonal relationships. There's no single approach in helping individuals achieve their optimal mental aptitude. We're always patient, provide a non-judgmental environment with clinicians that listen to your concerns and strive to give optimal service to all.
When an individual is exposed to trauma or any significant life events, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. Our greatest passion is working with individuals who have been impacted by these events and helping them to rebuild their ideal self-image. We find great pride in helping individuals to achieve healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthening their interpersonal relationships. There's no single approach in helping individuals achieve their optimal mental aptitude. We're always patient, provide a non-judgmental environment with clinicians that listen to your concerns and strive to give optimal service to all.
![Photo of Dr. Charmi Balsara, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5f9e856-7fbb-49b1-b0c9-baf8e019744b/2/320x400.jpeg)
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Medication Management, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Sleep Problems, Stress Management, Burnout, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Psychosis, Suicidal Thoughts, Divorce, Grief, Infidelity, Marital and Premarital Challenges, Postpartum Care, Self-Esteem Concerns, Women's Issues, Life Transitions, Emotional Disturbance, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills Development, Dual Diagnosis.
![Photo of Dr. Philippe Carrie - Plantation Psychiatry - Child, Teen & Adult, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/716e3326-8c7d-479c-9a8e-b3e0430a8441/2/320x400.jpeg)
Plantation Psychiatry - Child, Teen & Adult
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33317
I'm Dr. Philippe Carrie, MD, Lead Psychiatrist at Plantation Counseling & Wellness / Plantation Psychiatry. I'm extending a heartfelt invitation for you to connect with us. As you embark on this journey, I encourage you to explore the essence of our mental health practice by visiting www.PlantationPsychiatrist.com and www.LifeCounselor.net, where our devoted team awaits, eager to connect with you on a personal level to help you find the very best solutions to your mental health, emotional wellness, and relationship concerns.
I'm Dr. Philippe Carrie, MD, Lead Psychiatrist at Plantation Counseling & Wellness / Plantation Psychiatry. I'm extending a heartfelt invitation for you to connect with us. As you embark on this journey, I encourage you to explore the essence of our mental health practice by visiting www.PlantationPsychiatrist.com and www.LifeCounselor.net, where our devoted team awaits, eager to connect with you on a personal level to help you find the very best solutions to your mental health, emotional wellness, and relationship concerns.
![Photo of Kathy Monroy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d297bc5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist and Psychoanalyst. I know it can be difficult to find yourself struggling with your emotions which in turn create disharmony, inhibition or unhappiness. These difficulties can feel overwhelming and affect every aspect of life from relationships to your work and daily activities. Sometimes it is difficult to understand why we react the way we do and how to achieve a change in a deep and long lasting way.
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist and Psychoanalyst. I know it can be difficult to find yourself struggling with your emotions which in turn create disharmony, inhibition or unhappiness. These difficulties can feel overwhelming and affect every aspect of life from relationships to your work and daily activities. Sometimes it is difficult to understand why we react the way we do and how to achieve a change in a deep and long lasting way.
![Photo of Caryn B Schorr, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7265ca0c-ace0-4422-ad76-84e1c8205d4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double boarded psychiatrist, a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst. I treat adults who despite their innate capabilities are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, academics or career. Together our work focuses on identifying and dealing with those issues which are outside of awareness and are interfering with the freedom to succeed. Seeking therapy is often a difficult decision, but it can be one of the most important emotional investments you make.
I am a double boarded psychiatrist, a psychotherapist and a psychoanalyst. I treat adults who despite their innate capabilities are experiencing difficulties in their relationships, academics or career. Together our work focuses on identifying and dealing with those issues which are outside of awareness and are interfering with the freedom to succeed. Seeking therapy is often a difficult decision, but it can be one of the most important emotional investments you make.
![Photo of William Hyman - Psych 4 U, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81ad1439-c888-4715-b299-0f03e1540086/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
Mr. Hyman has been a mental health provider for approximately twenty years. He earned his master’s degree at Boston College and is ANCC certified in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. He has a great deal of experience working with special populations.
![Photo of Brian F. Greer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8863880-8282-4578-b686-8a12441301d2/1/320x400.png)
BPS Medical's top psychiatrist: Brian F. Greer, MD, is a distinguished, board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry. He graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Miami. Dr. Greer earned his MD in psychiatry from the same institution and completed his residency and fellowship at Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he was named Chief Fellow in his final year. Dr. Greer received the Clinical Scholar Award for his research on traumatized children, is the author of the book "Why Women Get the Blues" and has appeared as a guest on the Oprah Winfrey Show.
BPS Medical's top psychiatrist: Brian F. Greer, MD, is a distinguished, board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry. He graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Miami. Dr. Greer earned his MD in psychiatry from the same institution and completed his residency and fellowship at Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he was named Chief Fellow in his final year. Dr. Greer received the Clinical Scholar Award for his research on traumatized children, is the author of the book "Why Women Get the Blues" and has appeared as a guest on the Oprah Winfrey Show.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ursula Avilus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71012395-97c5-4780-8b89-8774e41e170f/2/320x400.png)
Ursula Avilus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Lauderdale, FL 33068 (Online Only)
Welcome to my page! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and owner of Hope Restored Behavioral Health Services. I am committed to assisting adults and elderly dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and more live a healthy fulfilled life. I believe in each individual’s potential for personal growth, and strive to provide the best treatment possible through individualized, evidence-based care. I am currently accepting new clients in Florida, Texas, Washington State and New Mexico. Same day and Next Day appointments are available.
Welcome to my page! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and owner of Hope Restored Behavioral Health Services. I am committed to assisting adults and elderly dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, and more live a healthy fulfilled life. I believe in each individual’s potential for personal growth, and strive to provide the best treatment possible through individualized, evidence-based care. I am currently accepting new clients in Florida, Texas, Washington State and New Mexico. Same day and Next Day appointments are available.
![Photo of Josefina Dort - Mindful Psychiatry & Home Health, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5076484-5253-464a-be63-9005a7db4437/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Psychiatry & Home Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tamarac, FL 33309 (Online Only)
Do you worry a lot, feel sad, irritated, angry, or maybe hopeless? Do you feel like you're dragging to make it through the day, can't sleep or focus? I'm Josefina Dort, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of nursing experience. I offer virtual visits and treat various mental health disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, nightmares, insomnia, depression, eating disorders using a variety of effective treatments that include medications and psychotherapy.
Do you worry a lot, feel sad, irritated, angry, or maybe hopeless? Do you feel like you're dragging to make it through the day, can't sleep or focus? I'm Josefina Dort, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of nursing experience. I offer virtual visits and treat various mental health disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, nightmares, insomnia, depression, eating disorders using a variety of effective treatments that include medications and psychotherapy.
![Photo of Angelica Almazan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3324a913-4cd5-47de-8db9-0717cc4b008d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize a supportive, holistic, individualized approach to treatment, rooted in evidence-based medicine. I am experienced in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma-related disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorders. You can view my availability and schedule a 60-minute initial consultation on my website.
I utilize a supportive, holistic, individualized approach to treatment, rooted in evidence-based medicine. I am experienced in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, trauma-related disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorders. You can view my availability and schedule a 60-minute initial consultation on my website.
![Photo of Carolina Kaack, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d94a943-ca6e-4bf8-8d9f-d54fd35032ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carolina Kaack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33331 (Online Only)
Hablo Español- I am a dual-board-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field. I provide compassionate and culturally sensitive mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults with conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, bipolar disorder and parenting challenges. I use an integrative approach to empower my clients to achieve their goal in their mental health journey. I am bilingual in both English and Spanish.
Hablo Español- I am a dual-board-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field. I provide compassionate and culturally sensitive mental healthcare to children, adolescents, and adults with conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, bipolar disorder and parenting challenges. I use an integrative approach to empower my clients to achieve their goal in their mental health journey. I am bilingual in both English and Spanish.
![Photo of Tonya Succio, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53b2c258-8798-46c5-849e-0c692cc66f73/1/320x400.png)
Tonya Succio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 (Online Only)
I have a lot of experience with treating clients with PTSD (Veterans and non-Veterans), depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and eating disorders.
Hello! Have you been struggling and not sure if anything can help? I am here to tell you that you do NOT have to continue to struggle alone! I am here to help you meet your goals for your mental health. I am dual board certified in family practice and psych and mental health as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse since 2003, an FNP since 2017, and a psych-certified NP since 2022. I believe in us working as a team to help you get through this difficult journey. I can relate to you on a personal level as I too have struggled with depression and anxiety. Together we can help improve your life and mental health.
I have a lot of experience with treating clients with PTSD (Veterans and non-Veterans), depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and eating disorders.
Hello! Have you been struggling and not sure if anything can help? I am here to tell you that you do NOT have to continue to struggle alone! I am here to help you meet your goals for your mental health. I am dual board certified in family practice and psych and mental health as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse since 2003, an FNP since 2017, and a psych-certified NP since 2022. I believe in us working as a team to help you get through this difficult journey. I can relate to you on a personal level as I too have struggled with depression and anxiety. Together we can help improve your life and mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e758d8ce-3cb1-4871-b36f-9b5c498ac4ff/1/320x400.png)
I have extensive experience in treating those with complex disorders, especially individuals with bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorders, as well as eating disorders, gender and sexual issues, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental disorders, and perhaps my favorite condition to treat, ADHD.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
I have extensive experience in treating those with complex disorders, especially individuals with bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorders, as well as eating disorders, gender and sexual issues, autism spectrum disorder, and other developmental disorders, and perhaps my favorite condition to treat, ADHD.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
![Photo of Kelvin Dupera, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d399941-fad6-48d9-b08e-ff1adae54ddf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelvin Dupera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. Some of my practice specialties include, but not limited to, PTSD, ADHD, Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Eating Disorders, and Addictions. I began my career at South Florida State Hospital, as a Mental Health Technician. After working as a Mental Health Technician and seeing how Mental health is affecting the community, my true meaning and purpose of helping came as a vision .
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. Some of my practice specialties include, but not limited to, PTSD, ADHD, Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Eating Disorders, and Addictions. I began my career at South Florida State Hospital, as a Mental Health Technician. After working as a Mental Health Technician and seeing how Mental health is affecting the community, my true meaning and purpose of helping came as a vision .
![Photo of Melanio Bruceta, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd3c9dce-d09a-468c-b51b-3b8a2a5d88fc/1/320x400.png)
Melanio Bruceta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
Dr. Melanio Bruceta is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of Florida. Dr. Melanio has been in the medical field for over 25 years and has been practicing psychiatry for the past eight years. He is certified to treat clients across the lifespan. Dr. Melanio embrace in helping clients with a variety of psychiatric illnesses including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
Dr. Melanio Bruceta is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of Florida. Dr. Melanio has been in the medical field for over 25 years and has been practicing psychiatry for the past eight years. He is certified to treat clients across the lifespan. Dr. Melanio embrace in helping clients with a variety of psychiatric illnesses including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and much more.
![Photo of John Murdock, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f48e885f-1832-4d88-9594-f8d402ac3289/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Murdock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sunrise, FL 33323 (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, trauma, personality disorders, and more.
I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions, refills, diagnoses, and therapy. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to provide a holistic approach to mental healthcare that is specially tailored to every patient. For appointments CALL 954-851-9690.
I specialize in the treatment of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, trauma, personality disorders, and more.
I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions, refills, diagnoses, and therapy. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my goal is to provide a holistic approach to mental healthcare that is specially tailored to every patient. For appointments CALL 954-851-9690.
![Photo of Sydney Rosen, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5e3ffcb-39e5-47b9-afce-8b41adcb901f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sydney Rosen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Davie, FL 33330 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication, diagnosis and evaluation, and other treatment options such as talk therapy. You can look forward to seeing actual progress in your mental health goals. Whether it's making sure your meds are working right, dealing with any side effects, or just feeling better overall. I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, insomnia, ADHD, eating disorders, and women’s mental health, with a particular focus on the perinatal period.
Welcome to my practice! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I offer medication, diagnosis and evaluation, and other treatment options such as talk therapy. You can look forward to seeing actual progress in your mental health goals. Whether it's making sure your meds are working right, dealing with any side effects, or just feeling better overall. I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, PTSD, substance use disorders, insomnia, ADHD, eating disorders, and women’s mental health, with a particular focus on the perinatal period.
![Photo of Randy T Warner, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33d10989-42a3-4dcd-8917-56f95c8496ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
See more therapy options for Plantation
Nearby Eating Disorders Psychiatrists Searches for Plantation
- Coconut Creek
- Coral Springs
- Davie
- Fort Lauderdale
- Hollywood
- Margate
- Miramar
- Pembroke Pines
- Pompano Beach
- Sunrise
- Tamarac
- Weston
Eating Disorders Psychiatrists
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.