Eating Disorders Psychiatrists in Weston, FL
![Photo of Dr. Michael Rosen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc566fc5-8b4d-4948-957c-39e0f1d92d62/2/320x400.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.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
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.
The ideal client is quite simply someone who truly wants help. Someone who is willing to work where the goal is to live the best life, reach the goals one seeks, and to enjoy the journey. The details of how that is done of course depends on the individual's station at the time one seeks help.
![Photo of Maria C De Pombo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69297460-88a2-4a8b-8794-37c800ebec1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aging is hard and even harder when our abilities to handle basic daily activities are diminished. Seeing our loved ones aging and realizing that they are changing even in their core personality is tough, how to deal with it? As a Geriatric Psychiatrist, I have special experience treating Dementia, Anxiety, Depression, among others in the elderly. I am fluent in Spanish and English and have experience treating patients of many different backgrounds. It is my mission to treat each patient with much respect as well as to provide support to their loved ones and caregivers.
Aging is hard and even harder when our abilities to handle basic daily activities are diminished. Seeing our loved ones aging and realizing that they are changing even in their core personality is tough, how to deal with it? As a Geriatric Psychiatrist, I have special experience treating Dementia, Anxiety, Depression, among others in the elderly. I am fluent in Spanish and English and have experience treating patients of many different backgrounds. It is my mission to treat each patient with much respect as well as to provide support to their loved ones and caregivers.
![Photo of Dr. Linda R Pierre-Paul - Novva Care LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8fe22f1-8da8-4fb8-a94d-034978a1b95c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Novva Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Linda. Do you ever feel like you’re struggling just to stay afloat? Does it all seem almost unbearable at times? I want you to know that you’re not alone. I am here to support you during those dark times. For the last 10 years, I have been helping individuals from different walks of life find hope.
Hi, my name is Linda. Do you ever feel like you’re struggling just to stay afloat? Does it all seem almost unbearable at times? I want you to know that you’re not alone. I am here to support you during those dark times. For the last 10 years, I have been helping individuals from different walks of life find hope.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49f4af3f-cf1f-4428-a1fd-5d0a6318c57f/2/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7771acd-e9d1-45da-ae2a-7da790e5e75d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Priti M Kothari, MD, PA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b1fb978-8fd6-4d81-b7b7-5175463d4f08/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've dedicated my practice to treating individuals with a wide range of psychiatric illness. My specialties in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults utilizes the application of the bio-psycho-social model. After completing training in Adult Psychiatry, I pursued a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. I am available to provide medication management.
In addition, I have recently become the medical director for Dr Kahlil Shillingford's Bariatric Surgery Practice. My duties include providing clinical supervision to office and hospital staff and performing performance improvement studies.
I've dedicated my practice to treating individuals with a wide range of psychiatric illness. My specialties in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults utilizes the application of the bio-psycho-social model. After completing training in Adult Psychiatry, I pursued a fellowship in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. I am available to provide medication management.
In addition, I have recently become the medical director for Dr Kahlil Shillingford's Bariatric Surgery Practice. My duties include providing clinical supervision to office and hospital staff and performing performance improvement studies.
![Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6313a3eb-0be5-4967-9bee-6d39bad12693/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
![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
Weston, FL 33331
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 Anna Binder-Baskina - Psych 4 U, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eb061d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of American Psychiatric Association. I am fully trained in Adult, Child and Adolescent, Geriatric, Emergency and Addiction Psychiatry. I received my general and adult psychiatry training at University of Maryland/ Sheppard Pratt and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training from Johns Hopkins Medical Institution. I was selected as a Top Psychiatrist in Stamford, CT by the International Association of Health Care Professionals (IAHCP) and spotlighted in the publication The Leading Physicians of the World 2014 Ed
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and a Fellow of American Psychiatric Association. I am fully trained in Adult, Child and Adolescent, Geriatric, Emergency and Addiction Psychiatry. I received my general and adult psychiatry training at University of Maryland/ Sheppard Pratt and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry training from Johns Hopkins Medical Institution. I was selected as a Top Psychiatrist in Stamford, CT by the International Association of Health Care Professionals (IAHCP) and spotlighted in the publication The Leading Physicians of the World 2014 Ed
![Photo of Ana Binder - Psych 4 U, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef92aa16-dd59-4300-8390-18cfc3ca47d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and an esteemed Diplomate of the ABPN. I am fully trained in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I received my psychiatry training at University of Maryland and attended Johns Hopkins Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship program. I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My goal is to provide the expert psychiatric care that will allow you to perform at your personal and professional best.
![Photo of Nerilene L Ballard - Mental Ease, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d04a7a5-7f04-4844-8be4-05afe334c952/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Ease
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33327
Welcome to Mental Ease, where your well-being is our top priority. Under the expert guidance of Nerilene Ballard, a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, we specialize in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and a variety of other mental health conditions. We also offer Spravato. At Mental Ease, we provide compassionate, individualized care designed to support your mental wellness journey.
Welcome to Mental Ease, where your well-being is our top priority. Under the expert guidance of Nerilene Ballard, a dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, we specialize in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and a variety of other mental health conditions. We also offer Spravato. At Mental Ease, we provide compassionate, individualized care designed to support your mental wellness journey.
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New Age Psychiatry - Low Dose Ketamine Solutions
![Photo of Michael Lo - New Age Psychiatry - Low Dose Ketamine Solutions, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc1aee44-5567-4d40-9bf7-668f59dedf97/1/320x400.png)
New Age Psychiatry - Low Dose Ketamine Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33331
Can't Focus? Anxious? Depressed? Medication Management only $179.99, and follow ups priced/refills at $99.99, Counseling at $79 per hour visit after one time intake fee. New Age Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care from compassionate providers. Our staff is dedicated towards providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs. Fort Lauderdale and Orlando locations available.
Can't Focus? Anxious? Depressed? Medication Management only $179.99, and follow ups priced/refills at $99.99, Counseling at $79 per hour visit after one time intake fee. New Age Psychiatry is the innovative way to get the mental healthcare you need. With our telemedicine platform that can be accessed across Florida, we make it much more convenient for you to have access to psychiatric care from compassionate providers. Our staff is dedicated towards providing high-quality treatment with an attitude of understanding so you feel comfortable communicating openly about your needs. Fort Lauderdale and Orlando locations available.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Ruth Milstein, DNP, ARNP-BC, LMHC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d63ca30e-4caf-4c5b-814d-6d8e90844289/2/320x400.jpeg)
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 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 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 Sandrine Gabot, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/702e5f77-839b-4bf0-8f1d-f729b5834b78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! As your Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychology, I'm committed to guiding you on your mental health journey. With a personalized approach, I prioritize understanding, support, and empowerment. Let's work together to uncover your strengths, tackle challenges, and attain comprehensive well-being. Together, we'll foster a nurturing environment for growth and healing
Welcome! As your Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychology, I'm committed to guiding you on your mental health journey. With a personalized approach, I prioritize understanding, support, and empowerment. Let's work together to uncover your strengths, tackle challenges, and attain comprehensive well-being. Together, we'll foster a nurturing environment for growth and healing
![Photo of Christina McPherson-Jimenez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfba80b8-b9c7-4c54-aec2-0a27467a163d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina McPherson-Jimenez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Davie, FL 33329 (Online Only)
Christina Jimenez (AKA, preferably called MJ) is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and proud owner newly est. of Unique Therapeutic Expressions (U.T.E.), LLC. MJ is currently treating adults (ages 18-65 years old). MJ combines Motivational Interviewing and Holistic/Therapeutic approaches in treating of mental health conditions such as anxiety, mood disorders, addictions, and ADHD. MJ is truly passionate about mental health and believe in the concepts of pharmacological management, behavioral therapy, client teaching and preventative care; an unique, inclusive formula can achieve overall well-being.
Christina Jimenez (AKA, preferably called MJ) is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and proud owner newly est. of Unique Therapeutic Expressions (U.T.E.), LLC. MJ is currently treating adults (ages 18-65 years old). MJ combines Motivational Interviewing and Holistic/Therapeutic approaches in treating of mental health conditions such as anxiety, mood disorders, addictions, and ADHD. MJ is truly passionate about mental health and believe in the concepts of pharmacological management, behavioral therapy, client teaching and preventative care; an unique, inclusive formula can achieve overall well-being.
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c614aa52-ba96-4abf-9087-2d1e9da6bd58/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Dmitry Byk, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0990133f-aa14-4d4d-a0ce-e70a39c576c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emotional issues can sometimes effect multiple areas of your life and I understand some of the information out there about mental health can be confusing. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I believe everyone should have accurate information prior to making important medical decisions. With a comprehensive evaluation I will focus on your area of need, assist you in making informed decisions about your care, and help you through whatever challenge you might be facing. I treat adults and have extensive experience with the geriatric population and dementia.
Emotional issues can sometimes effect multiple areas of your life and I understand some of the information out there about mental health can be confusing. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I believe everyone should have accurate information prior to making important medical decisions. With a comprehensive evaluation I will focus on your area of need, assist you in making informed decisions about your care, and help you through whatever challenge you might be facing. I treat adults and have extensive experience with the geriatric population and dementia.
See more therapy options for Weston
Nearby Eating Disorders Psychiatrists Searches for Weston
- Davie
- Fort Lauderdale
- Hialeah
- Hollywood
- Margate
- Miramar
- North Miami
- North Miami Beach
- Pembroke Pines
- 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.