Eating Disorders Therapists in Mesa, AZ
![Photo of Stefanny Balestracci, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a344e6e0-bc2c-487f-9146-ae68f9a32bd3/4/320x400.jpeg)
Stefanny Balestracci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
My areas of focus include anxiety, eating disorders, depression, life transitions and relationship issues, Also use DBT, CBT Motivational Interviewing.
Now accepting new clients! I am a licensed professional therapist with 14+ years of experience. I'm a board registered Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Director of my group practice (www.thehealingeffect.co) My education, experience and credentials allow me the expertise to confidently step into the arena with you, while my diverse life experiences and the sense of ease I create with people allow me to meet you where you are. I am a best clinical fit for those seeking to do targeted work to enrich their relationships and their lives with more depth and meaning, to explore and address the root of your struggles.
My areas of focus include anxiety, eating disorders, depression, life transitions and relationship issues, Also use DBT, CBT Motivational Interviewing.
Now accepting new clients! I am a licensed professional therapist with 14+ years of experience. I'm a board registered Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Director of my group practice (www.thehealingeffect.co) My education, experience and credentials allow me the expertise to confidently step into the arena with you, while my diverse life experiences and the sense of ease I create with people allow me to meet you where you are. I am a best clinical fit for those seeking to do targeted work to enrich their relationships and their lives with more depth and meaning, to explore and address the root of your struggles.
![Photo of Kyle Burt, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16c04ca3-ba15-416b-b927-965180f886ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and specialize in treating eating disorders and addiction. It can be hard sometimes to take the first step and reach out for help. I believe everyone can benefit from talking to someone no matter how big or small the problem. I really enjoy working with my patients and helping them get back to a happier and healthier life. I work with teenagers and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem problems, anger, trauma, self-harming, boundaries, parent-child relationships, domestic violence and grief & loss.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and specialize in treating eating disorders and addiction. It can be hard sometimes to take the first step and reach out for help. I believe everyone can benefit from talking to someone no matter how big or small the problem. I really enjoy working with my patients and helping them get back to a happier and healthier life. I work with teenagers and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem problems, anger, trauma, self-harming, boundaries, parent-child relationships, domestic violence and grief & loss.
![Photo of Tauri Hall - Esteem Therapy LLC - Eating Disorders, Anxiety , MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f419d1d0-0b40-4041-95d5-4d427149d369/2/320x400.jpeg)
Esteem Therapy LLC - Eating Disorders, Anxiety
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85212 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Tauri :) I specialize in treating eating disorders and anxiety disorders. I will work with you to determine treatment goals and will integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet your individual needs. My approach is direct, compassionate, and respectful. My goal is for you to leave each therapy session with hope and feeling empowered. I want you to know that feeling better is possible for you and change can last. My intention is to help you recognize your value, learn to regulate your emotions, tolerate distress, effectively communicate your thoughts, feelings, and desires and create a life worth living.
Hi, my name is Tauri :) I specialize in treating eating disorders and anxiety disorders. I will work with you to determine treatment goals and will integrate a variety of therapeutic techniques to meet your individual needs. My approach is direct, compassionate, and respectful. My goal is for you to leave each therapy session with hope and feeling empowered. I want you to know that feeling better is possible for you and change can last. My intention is to help you recognize your value, learn to regulate your emotions, tolerate distress, effectively communicate your thoughts, feelings, and desires and create a life worth living.
![Photo of Gabrielle R DeLong, MA, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61507705-683d-4aa1-82bd-1addb0e3d85a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gabrielle R DeLong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
Hi! My name is Gabby. Picking a therapist can be overwhelming, so I will do my best to tell you about what you can expect if you choose me. I have expertise working with trauma, eating disorders, faith, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, and low self-esteem. I also have experience with clients impacted by neurosocial disorders (ie Autism). My goal in therapy is to walk alongside my clients through past and present difficulties in order to help them experience growth, healing, and freedom. I support and challenge my clients to be their best and most authentic selves, and would love a chance to offer that care to you as well.
Hi! My name is Gabby. Picking a therapist can be overwhelming, so I will do my best to tell you about what you can expect if you choose me. I have expertise working with trauma, eating disorders, faith, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, and low self-esteem. I also have experience with clients impacted by neurosocial disorders (ie Autism). My goal in therapy is to walk alongside my clients through past and present difficulties in order to help them experience growth, healing, and freedom. I support and challenge my clients to be their best and most authentic selves, and would love a chance to offer that care to you as well.
![Photo of Michelle R Crowell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/380f24a1-db9e-4313-84ca-e375f6625f9e/4/320x400.png)
I am passionate about helping people heal from eating disorders, past trauma, pain caused from relationship conflicts, depression, and anxiety.
You can expect warmth, compasssion, enthusiasm, a sense of humor, and a strong faith combined with education and 31 years of experience. When I work with clients, I focus on their strengths. My counseling approach is based on family systems theory and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am passionate about helping people heal from eating disorders, past trauma, pain caused from relationship conflicts, depression, and anxiety.
You can expect warmth, compasssion, enthusiasm, a sense of humor, and a strong faith combined with education and 31 years of experience. When I work with clients, I focus on their strengths. My counseling approach is based on family systems theory and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
![Photo of Maggie Ambrose, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9334a0cb-ad79-48e2-a2ce-9f729d05a21f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping clients who struggle with eating disorders, trauma, and mood disorders to achieve a healthier relationship with food and their body, improve their mental health, and develop sustainable habits. I strive to empower my clients to build a life where they can thrive emotionally, physically, and mentally, free from the burdens of their past struggles. My goal is to guide you through evidence-based therapies, offering the tools and empathetic support you need to understand and heal the underlying issues contributing to the eating disorder and to build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
I am passionate about helping clients who struggle with eating disorders, trauma, and mood disorders to achieve a healthier relationship with food and their body, improve their mental health, and develop sustainable habits. I strive to empower my clients to build a life where they can thrive emotionally, physically, and mentally, free from the burdens of their past struggles. My goal is to guide you through evidence-based therapies, offering the tools and empathetic support you need to understand and heal the underlying issues contributing to the eating disorder and to build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
![Photo of Rachel Santos, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47309525-bd79-44c8-a56d-975aa0d9c1e8/1/320x400.png)
Rachel Santos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85203 (Online Only)
Hey there, I’m Rachel Santos, an LPC based in Arizona, here to support adults from all walks of life. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate emerging adulthood. As well as assisting women though all stages of life, through the journey of womanhood. Specializing in anxiety, stress reduction, perinatal and postpartum issues, body dissatisfaction, low self-worth, eating disorders, college/emerging adult stressors, and trauma healing.
Hey there, I’m Rachel Santos, an LPC based in Arizona, here to support adults from all walks of life. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate emerging adulthood. As well as assisting women though all stages of life, through the journey of womanhood. Specializing in anxiety, stress reduction, perinatal and postpartum issues, body dissatisfaction, low self-worth, eating disorders, college/emerging adult stressors, and trauma healing.
![Photo of Healing Life Counseling - Healing Life Counseling in Mesa, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/703554e4-6458-45e0-9652-dd31bd5377ff/2/320x400.png)
Healing Life Counseling in Mesa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Accepting New Clients in Mesa! Welcome! Our team of therapists all have Master's degrees in counseling or social work and are trained to help with trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem, anger, LGBTQ+ and gender identity, self-harming, addiction, life transitions, communication, social skills, grief & loss, eating disorders, boundaries, codependency, parent-child relationships, conflict resolution, school issues, suicidal ideation, ADHD, stress, work challenges, and financial issues.
Accepting New Clients in Mesa! Welcome! Our team of therapists all have Master's degrees in counseling or social work and are trained to help with trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem, anger, LGBTQ+ and gender identity, self-harming, addiction, life transitions, communication, social skills, grief & loss, eating disorders, boundaries, codependency, parent-child relationships, conflict resolution, school issues, suicidal ideation, ADHD, stress, work challenges, and financial issues.
![Photo of Avi Vieira, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/490c231f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I earned both my masters and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University - Phoenix. I completed my clinical internship at The University of Colorado Boulder's Counseling and Psychological Services Center where I created an integrated mental health and medical program for LGBTQ+ students and Trans Care Specialty Team. I have experience working with community agencies and supports addressing a wide variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, adolescent/young adult issues, substance use, eating disorders, and Sexual/Gender Identity concerns.
I earned both my masters and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University - Phoenix. I completed my clinical internship at The University of Colorado Boulder's Counseling and Psychological Services Center where I created an integrated mental health and medical program for LGBTQ+ students and Trans Care Specialty Team. I have experience working with community agencies and supports addressing a wide variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, adolescent/young adult issues, substance use, eating disorders, and Sexual/Gender Identity concerns.
![Photo of Suzanne Sanders, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df5822f7-ca57-4cf1-9acc-6188cfbd50ad/2/320x400.png)
My experience in working with teens & adults struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and loss.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and established in openness, trust, honesty and humor. I believe that our work is rooted in the relationship we build together and should build upon your strengths and uniqueness. It is a privilege for me to be invited to work with my clients as they go through challenges and transitions. I am very passionate about being able to provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space where you can feel supported and understood. My aim is to help you feel empowered, live freely and authentically, thrive in your relationships with yourself and others, and experience healing and change.
My experience in working with teens & adults struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and loss.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and established in openness, trust, honesty and humor. I believe that our work is rooted in the relationship we build together and should build upon your strengths and uniqueness. It is a privilege for me to be invited to work with my clients as they go through challenges and transitions. I am very passionate about being able to provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space where you can feel supported and understood. My aim is to help you feel empowered, live freely and authentically, thrive in your relationships with yourself and others, and experience healing and change.
![Photo of Lisa Medeiros, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23bfc615-3ccb-48df-a5bb-f92576b57d18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I work with teens 16+, Adults, First Responders, and Veterans who are experiencing Complex PTSD, Sleep-Related Issues including Nightmares, Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Suicidal Ideation, Self-Esteem Issues, ADHD, and Problems in Relationships. I am a Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC) who is trained in the Flash Technique. I love seeing my client’s experience such quick improvement in processing trauma related memories! I am also trained in anger management and CBT-I (Insomnia).
Hello! I work with teens 16+, Adults, First Responders, and Veterans who are experiencing Complex PTSD, Sleep-Related Issues including Nightmares, Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Suicidal Ideation, Self-Esteem Issues, ADHD, and Problems in Relationships. I am a Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC) who is trained in the Flash Technique. I love seeing my client’s experience such quick improvement in processing trauma related memories! I am also trained in anger management and CBT-I (Insomnia).
15 Second Videos
Julia White
Tyler Thursby
Mellissa Perry Hill
Leslie Pechkurow
Kelly Lopez
Brianna Newman
Sheena Farhang
Care Connections
![Photo of Kayla Chamberlain, BC-TMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c041c419-663b-4759-a285-925cbb33a12c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I treat those struggling with depression, anxiety/phobias, eating disorders, OCD, self-esteem, identity, cognitive distortions, self-worth, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, motivation, emotional regulation, communication and interpersonal skills.
My therapeutic approach is eclectic and client centered. I am a supportive, active listener challenging and guiding clients to create an abundant life worth living. I create a space of safety where together clients and I dive deep addressing root causes of issues. I assist clients in acquiring tools to cope with life's challenges building healthier strategies for life long healing.
I treat those struggling with depression, anxiety/phobias, eating disorders, OCD, self-esteem, identity, cognitive distortions, self-worth, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, motivation, emotional regulation, communication and interpersonal skills.
My therapeutic approach is eclectic and client centered. I am a supportive, active listener challenging and guiding clients to create an abundant life worth living. I create a space of safety where together clients and I dive deep addressing root causes of issues. I assist clients in acquiring tools to cope with life's challenges building healthier strategies for life long healing.
![Photo of Araceli Olmos, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cc3ddaf-9efb-4a90-83b2-a0bc40fe4a71/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my professional practice, I've provided support to individuals grappling with a diverse range of challenges, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, gender, transitioning, sexuality concerns, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Drawing upon my personal journey, I intimately understand the overwhelming and isolating nature of our internal struggles. Yet, I firmly believe that life doesn't have to be overshadowed by fear and loneliness. What if we viewed life's challenges as opportunities for profound growth and understanding? What if we discarded societal labels, embracing ourselves with unwavering acceptance and kindness? My passion lies in guiding individuals away from the clutches of suffering and towards the inherent beauty that exists within our lives.
In my professional practice, I've provided support to individuals grappling with a diverse range of challenges, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, gender, transitioning, sexuality concerns, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Drawing upon my personal journey, I intimately understand the overwhelming and isolating nature of our internal struggles. Yet, I firmly believe that life doesn't have to be overshadowed by fear and loneliness. What if we viewed life's challenges as opportunities for profound growth and understanding? What if we discarded societal labels, embracing ourselves with unwavering acceptance and kindness? My passion lies in guiding individuals away from the clutches of suffering and towards the inherent beauty that exists within our lives.
![Photo of Bobbi Chagolla, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4574463e-be7c-4777-a79c-f1b24ae451dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my journey as a therapist, I have witnessed the profound impact that trauma can have on one's life, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through the process of healing and growth. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations of all ages struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and self-regulation. In my work I have witnessed the resilience and strength within each individual. I am particularly passionate about working with populations who have experienced foster care, eating disorders, and survivors of sexual abuse.
In my journey as a therapist, I have witnessed the profound impact that trauma can have on one's life, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through the process of healing and growth. My professional experience includes working with diverse populations of all ages struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and self-regulation. In my work I have witnessed the resilience and strength within each individual. I am particularly passionate about working with populations who have experienced foster care, eating disorders, and survivors of sexual abuse.
![Photo of Jessica Hagan, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ed893d9-1f1f-44cd-a423-ba3f9de08f42/2/320x400.jpeg)
Some common issues that I can help with are anxiety/worry, ADHD, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, bullying, oppositional and defiant behaviors, self-harming, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, eating disorders, addiction, and problems with life transitions.
Let's talk change! My goal is for you to feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn, grow and overcome current obstacles to be your best self. I can help teach you, your child, and your family skills that can be used to help regulate overwhelming emotions, communicate more effectively, and improve meaningful relationships. I will utilize my passion, creativity and objectivity to help you discover your own inner strength and to love yourself first. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant, with specialized training in childhood trauma, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy.
Some common issues that I can help with are anxiety/worry, ADHD, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, bullying, oppositional and defiant behaviors, self-harming, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, eating disorders, addiction, and problems with life transitions.
Let's talk change! My goal is for you to feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn, grow and overcome current obstacles to be your best self. I can help teach you, your child, and your family skills that can be used to help regulate overwhelming emotions, communicate more effectively, and improve meaningful relationships. I will utilize my passion, creativity and objectivity to help you discover your own inner strength and to love yourself first. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant, with specialized training in childhood trauma, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy.
![Photo of William Santos, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20766ff3-92fe-4412-a363-d1a9e34cb595/1/320x400.jpeg)
My passion includes helping with issues related to LGBTQ+, marital and premarital, anxiety, addiction, trauma, grief, abuse and depression in all age groups. I also work with those suffering from eating disorders, dissociative disorders, impulse control, and personality, and thinking disorders. I enjoy helping clients learn coping skills, how to deal with school or work stress, and improving peer and intimate relationships. So whether you need life coaching, self-esteem building, guidance through life transitions or just a friendly face on your side, I’d love to meet you and help with your next breakthrough!
My passion includes helping with issues related to LGBTQ+, marital and premarital, anxiety, addiction, trauma, grief, abuse and depression in all age groups. I also work with those suffering from eating disorders, dissociative disorders, impulse control, and personality, and thinking disorders. I enjoy helping clients learn coping skills, how to deal with school or work stress, and improving peer and intimate relationships. So whether you need life coaching, self-esteem building, guidance through life transitions or just a friendly face on your side, I’d love to meet you and help with your next breakthrough!
![Photo of Allison Spencer - Healing Life Counseling in Scottsdale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94b7d485-185f-4468-8c67-7f98e1a9566c/1/320x400.png)
Healing Life Counseling in Scottsdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85213
Accepting New Clients! Welcome! We are a team of highly trained and qualified counselors who can help you with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, LGBTQIA+, eating disorders, ADHD, grief, relationship problems, addictions, codependency, career/job related issues, OCD, school problems, anger, major life changes, decision making, gender identity, crisis intervention and stress. We are passionate about helping you find new skills that will help you manage your symptoms and target ineffective behaviors, beliefs and habits that impact your quality of life.
Accepting New Clients! Welcome! We are a team of highly trained and qualified counselors who can help you with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, LGBTQIA+, eating disorders, ADHD, grief, relationship problems, addictions, codependency, career/job related issues, OCD, school problems, anger, major life changes, decision making, gender identity, crisis intervention and stress. We are passionate about helping you find new skills that will help you manage your symptoms and target ineffective behaviors, beliefs and habits that impact your quality of life.
![Photo of Dr. Shannon Jewell-Jones, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ba43ad6-3459-4be6-8a17-4a0f1efa6a0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
You’re having trouble recognizing yourself anymore; going from living a full life to feeling yourself restricted by exhaustion and poor sleep, obsessively focused on food and eating, overwhelmed by stress, sidelined by chronic pain or a serious medical diagnosis. For those struggling with sleep issues, you've taken the gummies, switched out your mattress, and you’re still not waking up feeling refreshed. Maybe you’re nervous about seeking help for your mental health struggles.
You’re having trouble recognizing yourself anymore; going from living a full life to feeling yourself restricted by exhaustion and poor sleep, obsessively focused on food and eating, overwhelmed by stress, sidelined by chronic pain or a serious medical diagnosis. For those struggling with sleep issues, you've taken the gummies, switched out your mattress, and you’re still not waking up feeling refreshed. Maybe you’re nervous about seeking help for your mental health struggles.
![Photo of Michaela Hurtado, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/378c21ce-318b-40ab-9c21-cea9e01ef73f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Hello! I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults experiencing an eating disorder, poor body image, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, peer and family challenges, boundary challenges, co-dependency, stress, and life transitions. I utilize multiple approaches in my work, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, internal family systems, family therapy, art therapy, prompted journaling, psychoeducation, and mindfulness. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
Accepting New Clients. Hello! I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults experiencing an eating disorder, poor body image, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, low self-esteem, anger, peer and family challenges, boundary challenges, co-dependency, stress, and life transitions. I utilize multiple approaches in my work, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, internal family systems, family therapy, art therapy, prompted journaling, psychoeducation, and mindfulness. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
![Photo of Julia White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5215e900-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes, life presents us with painful experiences that can leave us feeling overwhelmed. These unresolved and unhealed wounds can hinder our ability to move forward and live an empowered life. In therapy, my goal is to provide you with a safe space to examine and remove unhelpful patterns from your past, and allow for transformational healing to occur. I incorporate what I have learned from my experience as a clinician at multiple residential eating disorder treatment centers as well as a residential PTSD/trauma treatment center.
Sometimes, life presents us with painful experiences that can leave us feeling overwhelmed. These unresolved and unhealed wounds can hinder our ability to move forward and live an empowered life. In therapy, my goal is to provide you with a safe space to examine and remove unhelpful patterns from your past, and allow for transformational healing to occur. I incorporate what I have learned from my experience as a clinician at multiple residential eating disorder treatment centers as well as a residential PTSD/trauma treatment center.
See more therapy options for Mesa
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Mesa
- Apache Junction
- Carefree
- Chandler
- Fountain Hills
- Gilbert
- Glendale
- Paradise Valley
- Phoenix
- Queen Creek
- San Tan Valley
- Scottsdale
- Tempe
Eating Disorders Therapists
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.