Eating Disorders Psychiatrists in Hillsboro, OR
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/928f003a-b716-4cd6-918d-b2c5221de236/2/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
![Photo of Patrick Testa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcde42c2-717a-46d4-9aa5-e53cf137e07c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Testa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. I have experience helping patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, and other psychiatric issues. In my practice, I use psychiatric medication and complementary approaches such as lifestyle changes, nutrition, and mindfulness. My philosophy is to treat the whole person and prescribe medication thoughtfully, considering best practice along with patient preferences. I enjoy working together with clients to develop a plan of care that is tailored to their goals, unique strengths and life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. I have experience helping patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, and other psychiatric issues. In my practice, I use psychiatric medication and complementary approaches such as lifestyle changes, nutrition, and mindfulness. My philosophy is to treat the whole person and prescribe medication thoughtfully, considering best practice along with patient preferences. I enjoy working together with clients to develop a plan of care that is tailored to their goals, unique strengths and life.
![Photo of Alysa Zalma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3cdfa4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise include Mind Body Medicine and the psychodynamic treatment of anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, trauma, and issues relating to body image. I teach and speak extensively on how the physiologic mechanisms of the inflammatory process promotes the above disease states and how, through the utilization of psychoanalytic and mindfulness techniques, optimal change can be achieved. I utilize the combination of psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and mindfulness heavily supported in the medical literature in my private practice.
My areas of expertise include Mind Body Medicine and the psychodynamic treatment of anxiety spectrum disorders, depression, trauma, and issues relating to body image. I teach and speak extensively on how the physiologic mechanisms of the inflammatory process promotes the above disease states and how, through the utilization of psychoanalytic and mindfulness techniques, optimal change can be achieved. I utilize the combination of psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and mindfulness heavily supported in the medical literature in my private practice.
![Photo of Onome Edokun - Neupathway (Onome Edokun), APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e674af98-bed6-4dd8-a6a9-618baae51d23/2/320x400.jpeg)
Neupathway (Onome Edokun)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... With 28 years in healthcare, Melissa, a U.S. Army vet, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP licensed in WA and OR. Holding an MSN from Gonzaga University, she provides evidence-based care for those 18+, addressing anxiety, depression, bipolar, and trauma-related concerns. Melissa emphasizes connections with patients, values inherent worth, and fosters respect, understanding, and compassion. Collaborating on holistic treatment decisions, she builds strong therapeutic relationships in a safe environment.
![Photo of Kaitlyn Steffen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08603abd-3576-479a-9afb-55d67f9d9929/2/320x400.png)
Kaitlyn Steffen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97006
My core values center around close collaboration with you, offering holistic, trauma-informed, and neurodiversity-affirming care that addresses your tailored needs and fosters empowerment. I wholeheartedly embrace that each of us is on a unique life journey, and I approach every client with appreciation for their individual path, recognizing that personal growth unfolds at its own pace.
My core values center around close collaboration with you, offering holistic, trauma-informed, and neurodiversity-affirming care that addresses your tailored needs and fosters empowerment. I wholeheartedly embrace that each of us is on a unique life journey, and I approach every client with appreciation for their individual path, recognizing that personal growth unfolds at its own pace.
![Photo of Lina M Zapata Samarel, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62c81ba8-ae24-4b32-9275-0c63531a9c74/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lina M Zapata Samarel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, MBA
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124 (Online Only)
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications.
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications.
![Photo of Chika Okem Akwiwu - The Psych Lounge, DNP, MSN, BSc , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d991171a-4d12-4bc6-a0cb-e69aa5a939ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Psych Lounge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, BSc
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124 (Online Only)
I am a doctoral prepared, licensed, and double board-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner (DNP, FNP-C PMHNP-BC). I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University Minneapolis Minnesota, and Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information systems from the University of North Texas, Denton, Texas.
I am a doctoral prepared, licensed, and double board-certified psychiatric and family nurse practitioner (DNP, FNP-C PMHNP-BC). I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California, Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University Minneapolis Minnesota, and Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information systems from the University of North Texas, Denton, Texas.
![Photo of Catherine Rose Hensy, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c9d7c30-81dd-4f76-b0db-c51e1929cc5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Rose Hensy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123 (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
![Photo of Catherine Rose Hensy, MSN, APNP, PMHNP-B, CPT, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e50ecffb-c107-4237-801d-8a4e84a2c56d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Rose Hensy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, PMHNP-B, CPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123 (Online Only)
I offer both in-person at Tigard/Portland clinic or telehealth for all of Oregon. Neurocognitive testing offered, including ADHD, with treatment tailored to testing results. My approach is based on the current best practice standards. Goal is to limit negative side effects and achieve positive results from the least medications possible. Interactive conversation where you feel heard. I have experience across the spectrum, from child/adolescent's to adults.
I offer both in-person at Tigard/Portland clinic or telehealth for all of Oregon. Neurocognitive testing offered, including ADHD, with treatment tailored to testing results. My approach is based on the current best practice standards. Goal is to limit negative side effects and achieve positive results from the least medications possible. Interactive conversation where you feel heard. I have experience across the spectrum, from child/adolescent's to adults.
![Photo of Joanna Ahounou - Restore Psychiatric Wellness, MSN, PHMNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d629d36a-2a88-4bc7-ae16-e98ee49984f9/2/320x400.png)
Restore Psychiatric Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHMNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124
Accepting new clients! Psychaitric nurse practitioner - Board certified with over a decade -Psychiatry & Psychotherapy. With compassion I use an in depth approach to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing. Will collaborate with you or family to provide individualized pschotherapy and medication management .True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes each individual's culture/ enviroment into consideration. Provide ample time for your visits and will educate you about different treatment options to maintain mental stability. Lab tests are part of treatment plan.
Accepting new clients! Psychaitric nurse practitioner - Board certified with over a decade -Psychiatry & Psychotherapy. With compassion I use an in depth approach to uncover the root causes of your condition, and guide you towards long-term healing. Will collaborate with you or family to provide individualized pschotherapy and medication management .True healing demands an approach to mental health that takes each individual's culture/ enviroment into consideration. Provide ample time for your visits and will educate you about different treatment options to maintain mental stability. Lab tests are part of treatment plan.
![Photo of Shannon Eaton, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19c2c9ba-3638-4c16-978b-02ec30800c45/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123 (Online Only)
Now providing services to clients in WA and OR! If you're struggling with depression, explore our advanced treatment options that offer relief within just 2 weeks. These therapies are different from traditional SSRIs or SNRIs and are covered by insurance with minimal out-of-pocket costs, giving you renewed hope and effective help. For those facing ADHD challenges, our specialized care includes comprehensive Neurocognitive Testing and convenient daily treatments tailored to your lifestyle. We also offer expert psychiatric medication management available online throughout WA and OR. New patients are welcome!
Now providing services to clients in WA and OR! If you're struggling with depression, explore our advanced treatment options that offer relief within just 2 weeks. These therapies are different from traditional SSRIs or SNRIs and are covered by insurance with minimal out-of-pocket costs, giving you renewed hope and effective help. For those facing ADHD challenges, our specialized care includes comprehensive Neurocognitive Testing and convenient daily treatments tailored to your lifestyle. We also offer expert psychiatric medication management available online throughout WA and OR. New patients are welcome!
15 Second Videos
Ike Uzowulu
Catherine Rose Hensy
Catherine Rose Hensy
Shannon Eaton
Cherie Borkorm
Heritage Wellness
![Photo of Cherie Borkorm - Cherie Borkorm, FNP-c, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbb51f74-b34e-4d92-8e72-ba449efc5b88/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cherie Borkorm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-c, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97006 (Online Only)
As a mental healthcare provider, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care that merges medical expertise with evidence-based treatments through a dynamic tele-health platform. With a steadfast commitment to Integrative Health approaches, I strive to uncover the root causes of mental health disorders, crafting tailored treatment plans to suit the unique needs of each individual. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I am dedicated to offering genuine, compassionate care to my patients and clients. Serving as a guide through life's challenges, I provide a supportive presence aimed at nurturing a positive balance.
As a mental healthcare provider, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care that merges medical expertise with evidence-based treatments through a dynamic tele-health platform. With a steadfast commitment to Integrative Health approaches, I strive to uncover the root causes of mental health disorders, crafting tailored treatment plans to suit the unique needs of each individual. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I am dedicated to offering genuine, compassionate care to my patients and clients. Serving as a guide through life's challenges, I provide a supportive presence aimed at nurturing a positive balance.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f2b0efb-ebe5-4829-81e9-5def1451ae1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97123 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Cayley Mesterheide - Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38bcfe89-bf0f-405c-a1c6-2cba32d2988e/1/320x400.png)
Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97006
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
![Photo of Sarah R Paul, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/275952f1-6bca-46b0-a2f8-9617a790a146/4/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new patients! Our practice "Vitellaria Wellness" is currently accepting clients for medication management, ketamine, individual therapy, and other services. See our website for details. Consultation, supervision and precepting services available for mental health clinicians.
Now accepting new patients! Our practice "Vitellaria Wellness" is currently accepting clients for medication management, ketamine, individual therapy, and other services. See our website for details. Consultation, supervision and precepting services available for mental health clinicians.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83723c33-168d-42c2-91c5-c81308ac83eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue 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 insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Oregon state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue 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 insurances.
![Photo of Sonia C Edouard - Heritage Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da95844e-d795-4a1a-aa3f-ac885a2a4a55/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life is hard and it’s okay to not be okay. Mental health is Sonia’s passion. She’s here to help and see you thrive.
Life is hard and it’s okay to not be okay. Mental health is Sonia’s passion. She’s here to help and see you thrive.
![Photo of Joe Cross-Sarvis - Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients), DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/050f9ff2-2d3d-4313-af0f-98eecdd4b4b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jesse Lee Morris, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/469da5af-f600-4b19-8d7b-cf14ead6fc99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Furthermore, Jesse has a special interest in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders and body dysmorphia.
Jesse Morris is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Portland, Oregon. Jesse uses an integrative approach to care, recognizing that mental health is multifaceted and complex. She blends conventional medicine with exercise, nutrition, psychotherapy, and a range of complementary and alternative treatment modalities. During her mental health career, she has primarily worked in settings offering innovative and non-traditional treatment options. Her experience has given ger a profound understanding that healing extends far beyond pharmaceuticals - it encompasses every facet of our lives.
Furthermore, Jesse has a special interest in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders and body dysmorphia.
Jesse Morris is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in Portland, Oregon. Jesse uses an integrative approach to care, recognizing that mental health is multifaceted and complex. She blends conventional medicine with exercise, nutrition, psychotherapy, and a range of complementary and alternative treatment modalities. During her mental health career, she has primarily worked in settings offering innovative and non-traditional treatment options. Her experience has given ger a profound understanding that healing extends far beyond pharmaceuticals - it encompasses every facet of our lives.
![Photo of Davonna (Dee) Wilson, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5df4dac3-2289-4e42-9f47-15e0640bfd22/1/320x400.png)
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
I provide mental health diagnostic evaluations and medication management, I work and treat an array of acute and chronic conditions with clients aged 7+, some of my specialties include Eating Disorders, ADHD, Behavior/Conduct, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, PMS/PMDD.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
I provide mental health diagnostic evaluations and medication management, I work and treat an array of acute and chronic conditions with clients aged 7+, some of my specialties include Eating Disorders, ADHD, Behavior/Conduct, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQ+, PMS/PMDD.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
See more therapy options for Hillsboro
Nearby Eating Disorders Psychiatrists Searches for Hillsboro
See More Eating Disorders PsychiatristsEating 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.