Eating Disorders Psychiatrists in East Dundee, IL
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![Photo of Lin Lu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e701156-8b70-4995-ad71-7a1f71b45e9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Her holistic approaches and genuine relationship with each patient and family, have contribute to her success in treating various mental health conditions: ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, gender incongruence, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, etc.
Dr. Lu specializes in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry, who has been practicing since 2010. She also has a PhD in Microbiology & Immunology. Her extensive training in both fields leads her to a unique understanding of the mind and body. She believes in people's potential and strives to develop a personal connection with them.
Her holistic approaches and genuine relationship with each patient and family, have contribute to her success in treating various mental health conditions: ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, gender incongruence, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, etc.
Dr. Lu specializes in Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry, who has been practicing since 2010. She also has a PhD in Microbiology & Immunology. Her extensive training in both fields leads her to a unique understanding of the mind and body. She believes in people's potential and strives to develop a personal connection with them.
![Photo of Karyn Morgan, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c786c1db-c34a-4be1-a084-57f3f1ef3ae7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karyn Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with patients of all ages and in multiple settings. I have 13 years of nursing experience working in various areas including home health, psychiatric in/outpatient settings, eating disorders, residential, and substance abuse. Based out of a Chicago suburb, I have experience working with multiple diagnosis including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, and PTSD. I try to bring a holistic approach to my patient's care and ongoing treatment. I like to set the tone with a safe, honest, open, and non-judgmental environment.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have worked with patients of all ages and in multiple settings. I have 13 years of nursing experience working in various areas including home health, psychiatric in/outpatient settings, eating disorders, residential, and substance abuse. Based out of a Chicago suburb, I have experience working with multiple diagnosis including but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, and PTSD. I try to bring a holistic approach to my patient's care and ongoing treatment. I like to set the tone with a safe, honest, open, and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Iyad Alkhouri, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f5da18b-ec4f-4440-bd16-611457ae0167/1/320x400.png)
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with a dedicated focus on early onset depression, anxiety, and developmental disorders, particularly autism. My professional passion lies in assisting families as they navigate the challenges of childhood emotional difficulties. I am committed to implementing state-of-the-art interventions that aim to improve the well-being of young patients and their families.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with a dedicated focus on early onset depression, anxiety, and developmental disorders, particularly autism. My professional passion lies in assisting families as they navigate the challenges of childhood emotional difficulties. I am committed to implementing state-of-the-art interventions that aim to improve the well-being of young patients and their families.
![Photo of Cheryl Ischar - Ci Psychiatry PLLC , PMHNP, APN, CEO, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c563104-a5dc-4abe-9654-331ba1e3663c/1/320x400.png)
Ci Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, CEO
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
I utilize a holistic and comprehensive treatment approach. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings (done before your first appointment with me) and fasting lab work- I collect, review, diagnose and then treat to identify just exactly what your body needs to feel well again.
I utilize a holistic and comprehensive treatment approach. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings (done before your first appointment with me) and fasting lab work- I collect, review, diagnose and then treat to identify just exactly what your body needs to feel well again.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d5d3a40-1751-48fa-a58a-a1b07e7ddf22/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Illinois Telepsychiatry, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da9e6c63-fccb-4443-bf28-679a92acbe67/1/320x400.jpeg)
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60120 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
![Photo of Devika Patel, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03838c8f-46b7-40ef-bea2-c0ff7ff38ce5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting new patients** I have been providing excellent care for over 4 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients** I have been providing excellent care for over 4 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0054dda2-133d-4dc2-9193-6aa29b83b5ab/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 Heta Shah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f76f5105-c92b-4b9b-97d8-73c8bd23f1c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heta Shah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
![Photo of Leena Vala, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e16e900b-77e0-4e10-b6ce-129fef8fcd84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leena Vala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
I am a board certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate and supportive care, to promote healing and growth of my patients. As a strong advocate for mental wellbeing, I understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. I offer same week appointment accommodate my patients. I am an empathetic care provider approaching each patient from an individualistic perspective and emphasizing patient specific treatment goals. I provide a thorough evaluation and treatment plan in coherence with medication management focusing on anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, mood disorder, PTSD and other mental health conditions.
![Photo of Abigail Wilson, APRN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6073d1aa-4c5e-416a-b465-59e8c7278b70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102 (Online Only)
I have expertise in treating and diagnosing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. When treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
I have expertise in treating and diagnosing ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. When treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
![Photo of Jennie Krull, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57cd65f7-06de-44d2-8a63-4fc4949a08ef/2/320x400.png)
Jennie Krull
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Jennie Krull, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who also is Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating patients with acute and chronic psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from outpatient clinics to nursing homes to addiction treatment centers. She specializes in treating ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PTSD/trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, serious mental illness, and addiction.
Jennie Krull, MSN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who also is Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has experience treating patients with acute and chronic psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice settings, from outpatient clinics to nursing homes to addiction treatment centers. She specializes in treating ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, PTSD/trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, serious mental illness, and addiction.
![Photo of Abigail Wilson, APRN, PMHNP , RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f45e8a-35ff-42a0-b4b9-abaf776579b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abigail Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP , RN
Verified Verified
Lake In The Hills, IL 60102 (Online Only)
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
I have expertise in diagnosing and treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD/ trauma, OCD, and sleep/wakefulness disorders. Additionally, I offer support for individuals struggling with obesity and related mental health concerns. when treating any condition, I prioritize creating mutual goals with my patients. Oftentimes, patients visit a psychiatric provider and don’t feel they had a voice in their treatment. My passion is helping my patients achieve their goals. In other words, your goals are my goals too. I want you to feel heard and feel we are working towards what you want in treatment.
![Photo of Jacqueline Nabukeera, BSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cafad0-f5a1-49f0-842d-72453038db7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Nabukeera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Jackie Nabukeera, PMHNP-BC, brings compassionate expertise as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving diverse populations aged 15 to 65+ in Illinois. With a holistic approach, Jackie addresses a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, offering empathetic listening and evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual's needs. Drawing from a rich background as a generalist, Jackie is adept at navigating the complexities of mental health, empowering clients to embark on their journey towards wellness.
Jackie Nabukeera, PMHNP-BC, brings compassionate expertise as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner serving diverse populations aged 15 to 65+ in Illinois. With a holistic approach, Jackie addresses a wide spectrum of mental health concerns, offering empathetic listening and evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual's needs. Drawing from a rich background as a generalist, Jackie is adept at navigating the complexities of mental health, empowering clients to embark on their journey towards wellness.
![Photo of Jill M Powers, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5543cf34-cf13-467f-960f-478ef35aef4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill M Powers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I am accepting new clients. I am dually board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. For the last 16 years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have served the psychiatric community in multiple ways and settings; their primary care needs and their psychiatric needs. I enjoy getting to know the whole patient and understanding their lives to find the best treatment.
I am accepting new clients. I am dually board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. For the last 16 years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have served the psychiatric community in multiple ways and settings; their primary care needs and their psychiatric needs. I enjoy getting to know the whole patient and understanding their lives to find the best treatment.
![Photo of Adriana Gilli, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/877e918f-da8c-401b-b974-0aa3213ee890/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adriana Gilli is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychiatric medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Panic Attacks, and Insomnia. Adriana's practice style can be traditional (prescribing up to date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management).
Adriana Gilli is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychiatric medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Panic Attacks, and Insomnia. Adriana's practice style can be traditional (prescribing up to date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management).
![Photo of Alexandra Whitaker, MSN, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b553481-0444-4c95-aef7-9e34783a0f0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Whitaker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
Alexandra Whitaker has treated patients with depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Bipolar depressive disorder, ADHD, and substance use. She believes that mental health is as important as physical health. She aims to deliver the best evidence-based care with respect and compassion. She has experience working with patients from various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and is fluent in Polish. She recognizes each person for their individuality which is reflected in her holistic treatment plans. She enjoys collaborating with patients to help them identify and overcome barriers.
Alexandra Whitaker has treated patients with depression, postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, Bipolar depressive disorder, ADHD, and substance use. She believes that mental health is as important as physical health. She aims to deliver the best evidence-based care with respect and compassion. She has experience working with patients from various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and is fluent in Polish. She recognizes each person for their individuality which is reflected in her holistic treatment plans. She enjoys collaborating with patients to help them identify and overcome barriers.
![Photo of Quinette Iheanyichukwu, DNP, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e0f12d3-afec-4ac6-aa26-782060d3c137/2/320x400.jpeg)
Quinette Iheanyichukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! Quinette is a board–certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast knowledge of treating patients 12 years and above with different mental/behavioral illnesses. Quinette is compassionate and provides Quality patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and a unique personalized treatment plan. I tailor my therapeutic, evidenced-based approach to meet patient needs and provide the highest level of care. As a provider, I believe in a holistic approach to mental health/wellness and focus on treating the whole person while supporting clients in achieving optimal mental health and well-being.
Accepting New Patients! Quinette is a board–certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast knowledge of treating patients 12 years and above with different mental/behavioral illnesses. Quinette is compassionate and provides Quality patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and a unique personalized treatment plan. I tailor my therapeutic, evidenced-based approach to meet patient needs and provide the highest level of care. As a provider, I believe in a holistic approach to mental health/wellness and focus on treating the whole person while supporting clients in achieving optimal mental health and well-being.
![Photo of Alyssa Ellis, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/557f89c3-a6bb-4c3d-b848-3841ec47c69d/1/320x400.png)
I am a provider that comes from a long-standing background in nursing with various experiences in multiple health care settings. Throughout my years of working with patients, it has become obvious how mental health effects people, not only mentally and emotionally, but physically as well.
I am a provider that comes from a long-standing background in nursing with various experiences in multiple health care settings. Throughout my years of working with patients, it has become obvious how mental health effects people, not only mentally and emotionally, but physically as well.
![Photo of Vik S Gill, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3bfd064-26ef-48e6-9ec2-8e354cf5120e/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my psychiatric practice, I sees a wide array of clients, including children as young as four years old. I have a special expertise in reducing and consolidating psychiatric medicines in patients on multiple medicines. My areas of expertise include ADHD, Adult and Childhood Mood disorders, Adult and Childhood Bipolar disorder and Depression, Anxiety disorders, and anger management. I also have expertise in management of sleep disorders. I am licensed in Maryland, DC for online appointments. See reviews at https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-vikramjit-gill-xvq3s https://www.vitals.com/doctors/Dr_Vikramjit_S_Gill.html
In my psychiatric practice, I sees a wide array of clients, including children as young as four years old. I have a special expertise in reducing and consolidating psychiatric medicines in patients on multiple medicines. My areas of expertise include ADHD, Adult and Childhood Mood disorders, Adult and Childhood Bipolar disorder and Depression, Anxiety disorders, and anger management. I also have expertise in management of sleep disorders. I am licensed in Maryland, DC for online appointments. See reviews at https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-vikramjit-gill-xvq3s https://www.vitals.com/doctors/Dr_Vikramjit_S_Gill.html
See more therapy options for East Dundee
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.