Therapists in Laguna Hills, CA
![Photo of Margie Diaz - Pathways Community Counseling Center, LCSW, MFTI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e2ac3cc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pathways Community Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFTI
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Our counselors offer help in addressing many situations that cause emotional stress, including, but not limited to: addictions, anxiety, anger, depression, family and relationship issues, domestic violence, sexual abuse, eating disorders, disability, career change , social challenges, life transitions, grief and loss, and other emotional difficulties.
Pathways Community Counseling Center provides high quality, low-cost counseling, psychotherapy, life skills and supportive services to individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish.
Our counselors offer help in addressing many situations that cause emotional stress, including, but not limited to: addictions, anxiety, anger, depression, family and relationship issues, domestic violence, sexual abuse, eating disorders, disability, career change , social challenges, life transitions, grief and loss, and other emotional difficulties.
Pathways Community Counseling Center provides high quality, low-cost counseling, psychotherapy, life skills and supportive services to individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish.
![Photo of Doug Pleiman, LCSW, LAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f3adc31-d34d-4a2f-882d-586a2ad0b836/1/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a therapist that you 'click' with is essential to making progress towards your goals. The first session is free to ensure the goodness of fit. I've been practicing as a clinician since 2014 and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addictions (substances, sex, gaming, internet, shopping, gambling, etc).
Finding a therapist that you 'click' with is essential to making progress towards your goals. The first session is free to ensure the goodness of fit. I've been practicing as a clinician since 2014 and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addictions (substances, sex, gaming, internet, shopping, gambling, etc).
![Photo of joshua Eugene Marquez - Mind Thrive Health](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/813f89d4-491d-49b2-8083-7128f09b0adc/1/320x400.png)
we are a practice that specializes in Mental Health, Anxiety and eating disorders.
Mind Thrive Health specializes in Mental Health, Anxiety and Addiction disorders. we specialize in Intensive outpatient, Group Therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy and Indvidual therapy. please reach out if you are looking for support.
we are a practice that specializes in Mental Health, Anxiety and eating disorders.
Mind Thrive Health specializes in Mental Health, Anxiety and Addiction disorders. we specialize in Intensive outpatient, Group Therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy and Indvidual therapy. please reach out if you are looking for support.
![Photo of Susan McIntyre, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8265de-0514-44f0-b77e-205cbd076eb4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Problems are often a catalyst for transformation. . . you becoming your greatest self. Our work together will help clarify your preferences and identify what gets in the way of living the life you want. My approach to working with individuals, couples and families is collaborative and strength based. Each client brings rich experience and personal resources to the therapeutic process. These strengths will be foundational to our work together. I am experienced in treating a broad range of problems including depression and anxiety disorders, relational problems, as well as issues relating to trauma or loss.
Problems are often a catalyst for transformation. . . you becoming your greatest self. Our work together will help clarify your preferences and identify what gets in the way of living the life you want. My approach to working with individuals, couples and families is collaborative and strength based. Each client brings rich experience and personal resources to the therapeutic process. These strengths will be foundational to our work together. I am experienced in treating a broad range of problems including depression and anxiety disorders, relational problems, as well as issues relating to trauma or loss.
![Photo of Dr. Arlene O'Connor, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4971ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes sadness, loneliness or constant arguments make it very difficult to imagine life could be enjoyable again. But it can be...it has to! And often, it is the small changes that make big differences. Let me help you! I have been counseling individuals, couples and families in distress since 1994. I am a licensed Psychologist dedicated to helping people live more intentional and fulfilling lives.I practice with integrity and professionalism, providing my patients with the best care in a comfortable and tranquil setting. Knowledge, Compassion and Respect are pillars of my practice. Welcome, I’m glad you are here!
Sometimes sadness, loneliness or constant arguments make it very difficult to imagine life could be enjoyable again. But it can be...it has to! And often, it is the small changes that make big differences. Let me help you! I have been counseling individuals, couples and families in distress since 1994. I am a licensed Psychologist dedicated to helping people live more intentional and fulfilling lives.I practice with integrity and professionalism, providing my patients with the best care in a comfortable and tranquil setting. Knowledge, Compassion and Respect are pillars of my practice. Welcome, I’m glad you are here!
![Photo of Jung 'june' Chay, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57daa834-369a-4da8-9ef6-ae7e9cb4088d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jung 'june' Chay
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Whether you’re dealing with problems at school, feeling trapped in trauma, depression, anxiety, or any other life challenges, therapy can be a non-judgmental space to reflect and find healing. Finding the right fit to help you can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go.
Whether you’re dealing with problems at school, feeling trapped in trauma, depression, anxiety, or any other life challenges, therapy can be a non-judgmental space to reflect and find healing. Finding the right fit to help you can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go.
![Photo of Marco Zahedi, MD, MPH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/604bc8d2-7fb7-46cf-81b6-0fa237f18f0f/2/320x400.jpeg)
we specialize in working with mental health and addiction clients and address addictions ranging from benzodiazepine use to opioid withdrawals, we have an outpatient clinic that focuses on what our clients needs are and working on underlying traumas that caused there use or mental health disorder.
we specialize in working with mental health and addiction clients and address addictions ranging from benzodiazepine use to opioid withdrawals, we have an outpatient clinic that focuses on what our clients needs are and working on underlying traumas that caused there use or mental health disorder.
![Photo of Suzanne Koch Eckenrode, LMFT, BACC, ICGC-II, CCGC-II, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d04e93d-172b-4094-a7e1-9f3c1b0248b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Koch Eckenrode
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BACC, ICGC-II, CCGC-II
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Are you anxious, overwhelmed, or out of control? I can help you take back your life & find serenity through dealing with your or your loved ones gambling problem, co-dependency, trauma, anxiety & depression. Through therapy, you will find relief from the struggles that impede your creating the life & relationships you want & deserve. I can also help you take your recovery to the next level And, I work with family members to understand & deal with addictions & high functioning ASD in adults while finding peace, strength, tools & support to care for themselves.
Are you anxious, overwhelmed, or out of control? I can help you take back your life & find serenity through dealing with your or your loved ones gambling problem, co-dependency, trauma, anxiety & depression. Through therapy, you will find relief from the struggles that impede your creating the life & relationships you want & deserve. I can also help you take your recovery to the next level And, I work with family members to understand & deal with addictions & high functioning ASD in adults while finding peace, strength, tools & support to care for themselves.
![Photo of Sherri Abbassi, LMFT, EdD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e4839c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sherri Abbassi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Are you feeling alone and hopeless? Do you feel as though no matter what you do, you aren't able to make progress in your everyday life? Is it difficult to set goals for yourself and actually meet them? Has it become impossible to communicate with those around you? Are you feeling anxious and stressed out by various obstacles that you feel you don't have control over? Well today's the day for you to free your mind! You have taken the initial step of putting yourself first and making positive changes in your life. Welcome to the beginning of your therapeutic journey!
Are you feeling alone and hopeless? Do you feel as though no matter what you do, you aren't able to make progress in your everyday life? Is it difficult to set goals for yourself and actually meet them? Has it become impossible to communicate with those around you? Are you feeling anxious and stressed out by various obstacles that you feel you don't have control over? Well today's the day for you to free your mind! You have taken the initial step of putting yourself first and making positive changes in your life. Welcome to the beginning of your therapeutic journey!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jennifer Lafferty O'Connor, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/462e415c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
Hello, I specialize in the treatment of eating and anxiety disorders. I have been featured on CNN's Newsroom, the Anderson Cooper Show and A&E's "Obsessed" due to my expertise in the treatment of OCD and related anxiety disorders. My highly specialized training has equipped me to treat individuals who struggle with various types of anxiety, worry, fear, obsessions, or compulsive behavioral patterns. I have extensive training and experience in treating eating disorders and issues related to body image distress. I treat all ages, but have specialized training in pediatric and adolescent development.
![Photo of Susan McIntyre - Susan McIntyre Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82a4b1c0-5149-41d0-8831-c19860effb5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan McIntyre Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694
I have additional training and education in the treatment of eating disorders, grief and loss, as well as ADHD.
Problems are often the catalyst to transformation......you becoming your greatest self. Our work together will help clarify your preferences and identify what gets in the way of living the life you want. My approach to working with clients varies depending on our therapeutic goals. Each client is unique and brings important life experiences and personal resources into the therapeutic process. These strengths will be foundational to our work together. I am experienced in treating a broad range of problems including depression and anxiety disorders, relational problems as well as issues relating to trauma or loss.
I have additional training and education in the treatment of eating disorders, grief and loss, as well as ADHD.
Problems are often the catalyst to transformation......you becoming your greatest self. Our work together will help clarify your preferences and identify what gets in the way of living the life you want. My approach to working with clients varies depending on our therapeutic goals. Each client is unique and brings important life experiences and personal resources into the therapeutic process. These strengths will be foundational to our work together. I am experienced in treating a broad range of problems including depression and anxiety disorders, relational problems as well as issues relating to trauma or loss.
![Photo of Sivan Kochinski, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/263c0e38-4daa-4254-b0e4-4614557c3ce4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're a very anxious high schooler or a harried mom of school-aged kids, I look forward to helping you. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has trained at elite institutions and provides individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as parents seeking help with their child's or teen's behavioral challenges. I focus largely on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in my treatment of Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Eating Disorders, and ADHD and associated behavioral challenges.
Whether you're a very anxious high schooler or a harried mom of school-aged kids, I look forward to helping you. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has trained at elite institutions and provides individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as parents seeking help with their child's or teen's behavioral challenges. I focus largely on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in my treatment of Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Eating Disorders, and ADHD and associated behavioral challenges.
![Photo of Stephanie Swope, MA, LPCC, PPS, NCC, BC-TMH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f3011b-98c7-47a6-9cc9-e2ea044e814f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Swope
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, PPS, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My expertise includes anxiety, OCD, intrusive thoughts, pregnancy & postpartum anxiety/depression, eating disorders, trauma, healthy relationships/boundaries, and challenges adjusting to life transitions.
Are you experiencing racing and panicked thoughts? The ‘what-ifs’ are spiraling, you're seeking reassurance from everyone around you but it isn't helping. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed and burned-out? Little things seem harder, like getting out of bed in the morning, or feeling motivated to see friends or family. Perhaps you’re feeling out of control, your emotions are harder to manage, or you’re arguing with loved ones. You are not alone, and in coming to this page you have already taken the first step towards restoring balance and fulfillment to your life.
My expertise includes anxiety, OCD, intrusive thoughts, pregnancy & postpartum anxiety/depression, eating disorders, trauma, healthy relationships/boundaries, and challenges adjusting to life transitions.
Are you experiencing racing and panicked thoughts? The ‘what-ifs’ are spiraling, you're seeking reassurance from everyone around you but it isn't helping. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed and burned-out? Little things seem harder, like getting out of bed in the morning, or feeling motivated to see friends or family. Perhaps you’re feeling out of control, your emotions are harder to manage, or you’re arguing with loved ones. You are not alone, and in coming to this page you have already taken the first step towards restoring balance and fulfillment to your life.
![Photo of Erin M. Oden - Erin M. Oden, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d14829c-e0ef-4eda-9a5f-d2de11041fbb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin M. Oden, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, trauma related issues, substance use issues, eating disorders, depression and relationship issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients > > > I am a Licensed Psychotherapist who is passionate about helping people to help themselves. I utilize a strengths-based approach, as I work to help my clients gain and maintain increased insight and self-efficacy, so that they can better achieve their goals. I find joy in this work, as I realize that everyone has difficulties in life, no matter how big or small. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, negative self-image, addiction, food issues or low self-esteem, I am here to walk the path beside you, as you learn to cope in a healthy, empowered manner.
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, trauma related issues, substance use issues, eating disorders, depression and relationship issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients > > > I am a Licensed Psychotherapist who is passionate about helping people to help themselves. I utilize a strengths-based approach, as I work to help my clients gain and maintain increased insight and self-efficacy, so that they can better achieve their goals. I find joy in this work, as I realize that everyone has difficulties in life, no matter how big or small. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, negative self-image, addiction, food issues or low self-esteem, I am here to walk the path beside you, as you learn to cope in a healthy, empowered manner.
![Photo of Sarah Burney - Burney Therapy Group, LCSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48083b84-456a-4ef6-8d7f-9e528072f8b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Burney Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
With over a decade of experience as a LCSW and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, Sarah is an expert in her field who has found purpose in helping others find freedom, safety, and peace. She specializes in treating EDs, trauma, SUDs, OCD, and anxiety/depression. In session with Sarah, you'll benefit from her humanistic and psychoanalytic therapeutic approach, and implementation of CBT, DBT, ACT, & EMDR (when indicated). Using compassion, authenticity, and humor, Sarah creates a space where honesty and growth is encouraged. With this approach, you'll feel supported, and simultaneously challenged to take steps toward your goals.
With over a decade of experience as a LCSW and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, Sarah is an expert in her field who has found purpose in helping others find freedom, safety, and peace. She specializes in treating EDs, trauma, SUDs, OCD, and anxiety/depression. In session with Sarah, you'll benefit from her humanistic and psychoanalytic therapeutic approach, and implementation of CBT, DBT, ACT, & EMDR (when indicated). Using compassion, authenticity, and humor, Sarah creates a space where honesty and growth is encouraged. With this approach, you'll feel supported, and simultaneously challenged to take steps toward your goals.
![Photo of Makalia Zinn, LPCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48169d6c-d0ed-42da-9656-0e8bb6c1be1f/1/320x400.png)
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
![Photo of Marta Kowalczyk - Marta Kova Vibrant Hypnotherapy, mgr/MS, CH-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b68116ce-ca1b-479a-94ae-d22ef9e12d25/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marta Kova Vibrant Hypnotherapy
mgr/MS, CH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
Still procrastinating? It’s time to make a positive change! I blend an intuitive insight with evidence-based techniques to offer you a truly unique path to transformation. Whether you're looking to heal the past, boost confidence, motivation, or break old habits, I am here to help you retrain and reprogram your subconscious mind (88%) and align with your conscious mind (12%). Together, we'll rewire your thinking, remove mental blocks, limiting beliefs and tap into The Future You!
Still procrastinating? It’s time to make a positive change! I blend an intuitive insight with evidence-based techniques to offer you a truly unique path to transformation. Whether you're looking to heal the past, boost confidence, motivation, or break old habits, I am here to help you retrain and reprogram your subconscious mind (88%) and align with your conscious mind (12%). Together, we'll rewire your thinking, remove mental blocks, limiting beliefs and tap into The Future You!
![Photo of Vived Gonzalez - Solutions Counseling & Family Therapy, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef0a5c84-0328-4e65-a05b-031aeffa85c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Solutions Counseling & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607
We are a group of skilled, compassionate therapists that specialize in individual, couple and family therapy. Challenges in life can leave you overwhelmed and discouraged. We give you the tools you need to see that solutions are possible… and you don’t need to wait very long to see meaningful results! Call us for a free consultation.
We are a group of skilled, compassionate therapists that specialize in individual, couple and family therapy. Challenges in life can leave you overwhelmed and discouraged. We give you the tools you need to see that solutions are possible… and you don’t need to wait very long to see meaningful results! Call us for a free consultation.
![Photo of Julie K Peters, MA, APCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97e1701f-b34e-4441-ac8f-9d51f6abece5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie K Peters
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
![Photo of Alexandria Bekele, ACSW, CATC VI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52393b2e-0841-4170-b762-4fa7e2fc108c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandria Bekele
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, CATC VI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
When thinking about how to introduce myself, I invariably return to what I personally require when choosing a therapist – genuine commitment, personal sincerity, and clinical expertise. I'm dedicated to the core belief that a good therapist is one who gently guides a client to uncover the emotional stumbling blocks causing anxiety, pain, or inertia so that the person can move forward in life. My therapeutic style exudes compassion, while equally engaging in honest, candid conversations to uncover the personal pain points, challenges, and stressors that bring a client to therapy.
When thinking about how to introduce myself, I invariably return to what I personally require when choosing a therapist – genuine commitment, personal sincerity, and clinical expertise. I'm dedicated to the core belief that a good therapist is one who gently guides a client to uncover the emotional stumbling blocks causing anxiety, pain, or inertia so that the person can move forward in life. My therapeutic style exudes compassion, while equally engaging in honest, candid conversations to uncover the personal pain points, challenges, and stressors that bring a client to therapy.
See more therapy options for Laguna Hills
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Laguna Hills
- Aliso Viejo
- Corona Del Mar
- Dana Point
- Irvine
- Ladera Ranch
- Laguna Beach
- Laguna Niguel
- Lake Forest
- Mission Viejo
- Newport Beach
- Newport Coast
- San Juan Capistrano
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.