Eating Disorders Psychiatrists in Pompano Beach, FL
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b9cf892-1bea-4ec1-aef4-60d1f2ccf27d/2/320x400.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 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
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
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 Safir Azam Telepsychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6244db5-0f47-4a0b-a0ae-c287ee92b6ed/1/320x400.png)
My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
![Photo of Dr. Robert (Bob) Abel, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e149332-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Robert (Bob) Abel
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33069 (Online Only)
I am a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry licensed in New York and Florida who specializes in children, adolescents , adults and older adult medication management for anxiety, depression , ADHD and cyclic mood disorders (bipolar disorders). I believe medication can be helpful when prescribed in small dosages and when the patient is fully informed about what the medicine is expected to do for them. Nurse Practitioners are are not interested in labeling you with a diagnosis. We are generally far more focused in treating your distressing symptoms.
I am a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry licensed in New York and Florida who specializes in children, adolescents , adults and older adult medication management for anxiety, depression , ADHD and cyclic mood disorders (bipolar disorders). I believe medication can be helpful when prescribed in small dosages and when the patient is fully informed about what the medicine is expected to do for them. Nurse Practitioners are are not interested in labeling you with a diagnosis. We are generally far more focused in treating your distressing symptoms.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04005643-a4fa-4661-88f5-8d2927ed12e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e66e6803-c419-4a49-bd84-bb34a9885a2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33060 (Online Only)
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
![Photo of Maria Botero - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/662c24af-b198-48db-aa28-c45302c45b0c/2/320x400.png)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
![Photo of Randy T Warner, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf75123-cc31-4dc3-b471-7a263e36c625/1/320x400.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.
![Photo of Dianelys Rodriguez - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a317670-232b-4f8b-a129-5f249e9d33e2/1/320x400.png)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
![Photo of Margarita Lopez - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1575507e-3f75-4302-950e-ce621503c188/1/320x400.jpeg)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44261fd2-acfd-4b2d-a849-aa4fa316d850/2/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
We specialize in Telepsychiatry, offering convenient and secure online mental health services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home. Accepting New Clients: Same-day or next-day appointments available. We provide Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing both in-clinic and via Telepsychiatry across Florida. Our team includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children ages 5+. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare.
15 Second Videos
Robert (Bob) Abel
Chenhang Zou
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Dinar Sajan
Affiliated Medical Group
Allen Masry
Andrea Papa-Molter
New Age Psychiatry - Low Dose Ketamine Solutions
![Photo of Laura Pinero - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93c1e183-a9fa-4c1d-9ac3-93715b46053f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
![Photo of Lourdes Velazquez Perez - Envision Mindcare, LLC, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f5264ae-2e40-408b-b150-8e51d3861014/1/320x400.jpeg)
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
![Photo of Randy T Warner, MD, ABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/954bafcd-8de5-461b-ae5c-03523dafe2f2/1/320x400.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.
![Photo of Latoya Jackson, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d4edf57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Latoya Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed and Board Certified with experience, knowledge, and compassion in Adult, Geriatric, Pediatrics, Crisis Intervention, therapy, holistic medicine and substance abuse.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed and Board Certified with experience, knowledge, and compassion in Adult, Geriatric, Pediatrics, Crisis Intervention, therapy, holistic medicine and substance abuse.
![Photo of Dinar Sajan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40f28856-7e63-4aee-a2c9-514226d8b6af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
Our mission is to restore hope, promote well-being, and cultivate harmony in the lives of our patients. In the dynamic landscape of today's society, characterized by daily stress and constant challenges, we recognize the crucial demand for a tranquil and stable environment.
![Photo of David Ahlberg - Affiliated Medical Group, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e24630f-bee3-4b63-8ffb-db7e5ea26bea/1/320x400.png)
Affiliated Medical Group
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pompano Beach, FL 33064 (Online Only)
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
Affiliated Medical Group, PLLC is a private practice Psychiatric Group serving North Carolina and Florida. We have many years of combined experience working with people in a variety of settings. We have expertise in the treatment of a wide variety of psychiatric challenges across the lifespan, and we are ready to meet your needs.
![Photo of Maria Botero - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35e00f50-0f1f-47db-8082-f669c84532ea/2/320x400.png)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, ACNPCAG
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33065
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
Maria Botero,APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, ACNPC-AG Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental wellness. With a passion for mental health and a dedication to compassionate care. My mission is to provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric care that promotes healing, resilience, and overall well-being. I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, striving to create a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to seek the help they deserve.
![Photo of Dianelys Rodriguez - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6a0a820-30f4-47fa-bbb5-a7f837d4ae21/1/320x400.png)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
![Photo of Laura Pinero - Envision Mindcare LLC, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/650a18a5-7437-4dfa-875c-76440c036234/1/320x400.jpeg)
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
See more therapy options for Pompano Beach
Nearby Eating Disorders Psychiatrists Searches for Pompano Beach
- Boca Raton
- Coconut Creek
- Coral Springs
- Davie
- Deerfield Beach
- Delray Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
- Hollywood
- Margate
- Plantation
- Sunrise
- Tamarac
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.