Eating Disorders Therapists in Novato, CA

Photo of Dr. Courtney Crisp, Psy D, Psychologist
Dr. Courtney Crisp
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
I specialize in working with the queer/LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, and severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder. I also work with those dealing with general life stressors, people seeking to improve their relationship with money, and those recovering from high control groups. You may feel anxious or depressed, that your old ways of doing things are not working anymore. You may feel overwhelmed and like you could use a supportive guide in facing life's challenges. In our sessions, we can explore all of this and more in a supportive, safe, and authentic environment. It is an honor to meet you.
I specialize in working with the queer/LGBTQIA+ community, eating disorders, and severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder. I also work with those dealing with general life stressors, people seeking to improve their relationship with money, and those recovering from high control groups. You may feel anxious or depressed, that your old ways of doing things are not working anymore. You may feel overwhelmed and like you could use a supportive guide in facing life's challenges. In our sessions, we can explore all of this and more in a supportive, safe, and authentic environment. It is an honor to meet you.
(415) 360-8860 View (415) 360-8860
Photo of Brenda Fishleder, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Fishleder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
I also have expertise in treating eating disorders, and chronic pain, integrating concepts such as neuroplasticitty, mindfulness and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 40 years, and bring an eclectic blend of psychodynamic, neuropsychological, mindfulness-based and cognitive theoretical frameworks to my work. My emphasis is on creating a safe and compassionate environment for the healing of a wide range emotional and relationship issues, making every effort to tailor treatment to the specific needs of each individual(s) seeking my help. My work with couples focues on a positive approach to differences, providing insight, improving communication and increasing empathy. I am open to referrals of individuals, couples, families, adolescents and adults.
I also have expertise in treating eating disorders, and chronic pain, integrating concepts such as neuroplasticitty, mindfulness and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 40 years, and bring an eclectic blend of psychodynamic, neuropsychological, mindfulness-based and cognitive theoretical frameworks to my work. My emphasis is on creating a safe and compassionate environment for the healing of a wide range emotional and relationship issues, making every effort to tailor treatment to the specific needs of each individual(s) seeking my help. My work with couples focues on a positive approach to differences, providing insight, improving communication and increasing empathy. I am open to referrals of individuals, couples, families, adolescents and adults.
(415) 802-0586 View (415) 802-0586
Photo of Sheila F Lynch - Sheila Lynch, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Lynch, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
Whether you wrestle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, loss of a loved one, relationship challenges or you just feel overwhelmed with life in general, we will work together in a mindful way to overcome those obstacles and reach your goals.
I offer affordable, quality therapy for those yearning to identify and change dysfunctional thinking, behavior, and emotional responses. Life is stressful enough, that the additional financial cost of therapy should not increase that stress. I believe in offering a sliding scale to those that actively want to change their lives. My training uses a Psychodynamic approach (self awareness of how you feel immobilized) and integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Strength based interventions. This means we work collaboratively, in order to actively change negative thought processes, into patterns that elevate your life rather than hinder your true potential. office locations: MV& Novato.
Whether you wrestle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, loss of a loved one, relationship challenges or you just feel overwhelmed with life in general, we will work together in a mindful way to overcome those obstacles and reach your goals.
I offer affordable, quality therapy for those yearning to identify and change dysfunctional thinking, behavior, and emotional responses. Life is stressful enough, that the additional financial cost of therapy should not increase that stress. I believe in offering a sliding scale to those that actively want to change their lives. My training uses a Psychodynamic approach (self awareness of how you feel immobilized) and integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Strength based interventions. This means we work collaboratively, in order to actively change negative thought processes, into patterns that elevate your life rather than hinder your true potential. office locations: MV& Novato.
(415) 423-1939 View (415) 423-1939
Photo of Marlena Kushner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marlena Kushner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
With over 30 years experience, my approach is holistic integrating the connection between mind, body, heart and spirit. Certified in EMDR therapy by the EMDR International Association, I find EMDR to be a powerful tool that I use along with other treatment modalities to facilitate healing. I specialize in working with trauma, eating disorders, addiction recovery, grief, depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I especially work with clients who have trust and abandonment issues due to childhood trauma, neglect or abusive parents. Early dysfunctional family patterns and lack of nurturing can affect self-esteem, intimate relationships and work performance.
With over 30 years experience, my approach is holistic integrating the connection between mind, body, heart and spirit. Certified in EMDR therapy by the EMDR International Association, I find EMDR to be a powerful tool that I use along with other treatment modalities to facilitate healing. I specialize in working with trauma, eating disorders, addiction recovery, grief, depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I especially work with clients who have trust and abandonment issues due to childhood trauma, neglect or abusive parents. Early dysfunctional family patterns and lack of nurturing can affect self-esteem, intimate relationships and work performance.
(415) 767-1933 View (415) 767-1933
Photo of Laura Kellison, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Kellison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
Areas of specialty: depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma/abuse, divorce, parenting, relationship issues, eating disorders, and child behavioral/school difficulties.
Everyone experiences challenges and problems in life. Therapy is a great place for growth, healing, and overcoming obstacles in a safe, confidential, and warm environment. I can help you understand and solve (or resolve) repetitive problems; find new ways of handling and understanding situations and relationships; and guide you in developing skills by utilizing your strengths. I use a collaborative, interactive and strength based approach. Beginning therapy can be difficult for some and I try my best to make my clients feel comfortable with my liberal use of warmth and humor. We will set goals and follow up on them.
Areas of specialty: depression, life transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma/abuse, divorce, parenting, relationship issues, eating disorders, and child behavioral/school difficulties.
Everyone experiences challenges and problems in life. Therapy is a great place for growth, healing, and overcoming obstacles in a safe, confidential, and warm environment. I can help you understand and solve (or resolve) repetitive problems; find new ways of handling and understanding situations and relationships; and guide you in developing skills by utilizing your strengths. I use a collaborative, interactive and strength based approach. Beginning therapy can be difficult for some and I try my best to make my clients feel comfortable with my liberal use of warmth and humor. We will set goals and follow up on them.
(707) 340-3994 View (707) 340-3994
Photo of Erica Disney, PsyD, Psychologist
Erica Disney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
My specialty areas include: anxiety disorders (OCD, Social Phobia), eating disorders, parenting issues/struggles, school/academic difficulties, positive discipline strategies, and working with families and adolescents experiencing depression, substance abuse, or self-harm behaviors.
We all experience difficulties or challenges during different periods of our lives. Therapy can be a very useful resource to help you successfully navigate these times. My goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively with you to identify and solve problems that are negatively impacting your life, relationships, or that are getting in the way of achieving your goals.
My specialty areas include: anxiety disorders (OCD, Social Phobia), eating disorders, parenting issues/struggles, school/academic difficulties, positive discipline strategies, and working with families and adolescents experiencing depression, substance abuse, or self-harm behaviors.
We all experience difficulties or challenges during different periods of our lives. Therapy can be a very useful resource to help you successfully navigate these times. My goal as a therapist is to work collaboratively with you to identify and solve problems that are negatively impacting your life, relationships, or that are getting in the way of achieving your goals.
(650) 209-7648 View (650) 209-7648
Photo of Kari Sandell, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kari Sandell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kari. I take a client-centered approach to therapy, with an emphasis on helping individuals build awareness and cultivate more self-compassion. I often get feedback that clients experience me as warm, engaged, non-judgmental, and down-to-earth. My specialties include anxiety, depression, eating and body struggles, self-esteem challenges, transition, identity exploration, relationship struggles, trauma, life direction challenges, existential crisis, relationship with sexuality, and attachment issues.
Hi, I'm Kari. I take a client-centered approach to therapy, with an emphasis on helping individuals build awareness and cultivate more self-compassion. I often get feedback that clients experience me as warm, engaged, non-judgmental, and down-to-earth. My specialties include anxiety, depression, eating and body struggles, self-esteem challenges, transition, identity exploration, relationship struggles, trauma, life direction challenges, existential crisis, relationship with sexuality, and attachment issues.
(415) 634-9672 View (415) 634-9672
Photo of Hailey Midrano Havemann, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hailey Midrano Havemann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
We often go searching for therapy in a time of need. Reaching out for therapy can be daunting and stressful, typically when our stress is already heightened. My goal is to provide therapy that works for you, to meet you where you are at- literally! ​ Whether you are experiencing a crisis, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions, recent or past trauma and more; together we can work to get you back to where you want to be, utilizing and creating new or improved tools for your every day life.
We often go searching for therapy in a time of need. Reaching out for therapy can be daunting and stressful, typically when our stress is already heightened. My goal is to provide therapy that works for you, to meet you where you are at- literally! ​ Whether you are experiencing a crisis, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions, recent or past trauma and more; together we can work to get you back to where you want to be, utilizing and creating new or improved tools for your every day life.
(415) 223-8095 View (415) 223-8095
Photo of Joy A Fillman, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Joy A Fillman
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If life events, relationships, performance, school or job stresses have brought you here, you deserve congratulations for having already done 50% of the work. Your willingness to consult and collaborate with a practiced professional means you have taken an all important first step in developing a lifelong plan toward a sense of well being and vitality. My practice combines a research degree in Developmental Psychology with PhD in Clinical Psychology to identify and disable hidden, often old, myths that have blocked or hindered my clients' access to happy, fulfilled lives at each stage of development. Together we can do it.
If life events, relationships, performance, school or job stresses have brought you here, you deserve congratulations for having already done 50% of the work. Your willingness to consult and collaborate with a practiced professional means you have taken an all important first step in developing a lifelong plan toward a sense of well being and vitality. My practice combines a research degree in Developmental Psychology with PhD in Clinical Psychology to identify and disable hidden, often old, myths that have blocked or hindered my clients' access to happy, fulfilled lives at each stage of development. Together we can do it.
(415) 800-2493 View (415) 800-2493
Photo of Jean Hayes, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
(415) 574-0967 View (415) 574-0967
Photo of Jenna Lane Marsala, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenna Lane Marsala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
Do you ever ask yourself, "Why do I keep doing the same things but expect different outcomes?" Or "Do I look at the world differently than all my family and friends?" Life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and out of control at times. I try to help life feel a little bit more manageable and work through issues at your own pace. Psychotherapy is about an exploration of self and the world around you. As a psychotherapist, I am here to provide guidance through this exploration in a safe place and to improve interaction with those you love.
Do you ever ask yourself, "Why do I keep doing the same things but expect different outcomes?" Or "Do I look at the world differently than all my family and friends?" Life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and out of control at times. I try to help life feel a little bit more manageable and work through issues at your own pace. Psychotherapy is about an exploration of self and the world around you. As a psychotherapist, I am here to provide guidance through this exploration in a safe place and to improve interaction with those you love.
(925) 261-7827 View (925) 261-7827
Photo of Kaitlyn Lydell - Kaitlyn Lydell, L.M.F.T., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaitlyn Lydell, L.M.F.T.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
Are you hoping someone else will change so that you can feel okay? Are you interacting with someone who is confusing, withdrawn, chemically dependent, angry, has a mood/ behavioral disorder, or is emotionally unavailable? Do you have trouble asserting yourself or setting boundaries? Do you "over-function" with others? Do you feel stressed, anxious or depressed? I specialize in relationships- how you relate with others but also to yourself. I address total emotional and physical health. I have a compassionate, interactive approach to help you focus on changing what you can and coping with what you can't.
Are you hoping someone else will change so that you can feel okay? Are you interacting with someone who is confusing, withdrawn, chemically dependent, angry, has a mood/ behavioral disorder, or is emotionally unavailable? Do you have trouble asserting yourself or setting boundaries? Do you "over-function" with others? Do you feel stressed, anxious or depressed? I specialize in relationships- how you relate with others but also to yourself. I address total emotional and physical health. I have a compassionate, interactive approach to help you focus on changing what you can and coping with what you can't.
(415) 799-8389 View (415) 799-8389
Photo of Siarra Sens, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Siarra Sens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947  (Online Only)
I offer a sliding scale to those in need during these hard times. Using a depth-psychodynamic approach, I work with individuals who seek direction and a deeper understanding of their inner & outer worlds. I am especially fond of working with the quarterlifers, early 20s-late 30s. Sessions may consist of: exploring childhood patterns, relationships and attachment styles; analyzing dreams; inner child and shadow work; strengthening trust in your intuition; coaching around manifesting your life goals; somatic and mindfulness exercises; and compassionate confrontation around where you are stuck or blocking the progress of your healing.
I offer a sliding scale to those in need during these hard times. Using a depth-psychodynamic approach, I work with individuals who seek direction and a deeper understanding of their inner & outer worlds. I am especially fond of working with the quarterlifers, early 20s-late 30s. Sessions may consist of: exploring childhood patterns, relationships and attachment styles; analyzing dreams; inner child and shadow work; strengthening trust in your intuition; coaching around manifesting your life goals; somatic and mindfulness exercises; and compassionate confrontation around where you are stuck or blocking the progress of your healing.
(510) 916-3193 View (510) 916-3193
Photo of M Patricia Graef, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
M Patricia Graef
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
Whatever is troubling you, anxiety or depression, a personal crisis or loss, difficulties with a partner or concern about a child's behavior - relief is possible. I work with individuals, children, teens, adults, couples and families, and treat a wide range of the human experience, including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, panic attacks, borderline personality disorder, bi-polar conditions and anger management. My approach is character analytic which offers an opportunity for clients to experience a wider range of feelings, resulting in more energy and an ability to move through life's difficulties and experience life's pleasures.
Whatever is troubling you, anxiety or depression, a personal crisis or loss, difficulties with a partner or concern about a child's behavior - relief is possible. I work with individuals, children, teens, adults, couples and families, and treat a wide range of the human experience, including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, panic attacks, borderline personality disorder, bi-polar conditions and anger management. My approach is character analytic which offers an opportunity for clients to experience a wider range of feelings, resulting in more energy and an ability to move through life's difficulties and experience life's pleasures.
(510) 455-7136 View (510) 455-7136
Photo of Linda Dunwoodie, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Dunwoodie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
It can take time, effort and courage to call and arrive at a therapist's office. There is the apprehension of what this experience will be like, especially if it is your first time, or perhaps if you are trying again after a previous unsatisfactory experience. After you make the call, and once you begin, there is hope. And that alone is enough to sustain you while you work toward self-understanding and/or improved communication with your mate or children. The investment is worthwhile. The relief can be profound.
It can take time, effort and courage to call and arrive at a therapist's office. There is the apprehension of what this experience will be like, especially if it is your first time, or perhaps if you are trying again after a previous unsatisfactory experience. After you make the call, and once you begin, there is hope. And that alone is enough to sustain you while you work toward self-understanding and/or improved communication with your mate or children. The investment is worthwhile. The relief can be profound.
(707) 549-6616 View (707) 549-6616
Photo of Cathy Della Valle, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Della Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
(415) 813-5401 View (415) 813-5401
Photo of Julie Miknis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Miknis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in DBT, RO-DBT and CBT for adolescents and adults. I am committed to providing a safe and hope-filled space for my clients to explore their experiences and move towards healing and transformation. In a confidential, caring, and supportive environment, my goal as a therapist is to help clients work through the struggles they face that hold them back from living a life of happiness, purpose, and meaning.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in DBT, RO-DBT and CBT for adolescents and adults. I am committed to providing a safe and hope-filled space for my clients to explore their experiences and move towards healing and transformation. In a confidential, caring, and supportive environment, my goal as a therapist is to help clients work through the struggles they face that hold them back from living a life of happiness, purpose, and meaning.
(415) 943-4537 View (415) 943-4537
Photo of Boe Elizabeth Roberts, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Boe Elizabeth Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
Clinical psychotherapy is a process of deepening self awareness and strengthening authenticity. The subtle art of therapy occurs by taking an honest look at emotional patterns and behaviors, and understanding and liberating any shame that exists at the core which frequently fuels mental health disorders. I specialize in working with teens and their families, and am trained in EMDR and Attachment Based Family Therapy. I have been in practice for over 10 years in this community. The gift of psychotherapy is the ability to be in charge of ourselves with confidence, emotional intelligence, and deep inner peace.
Clinical psychotherapy is a process of deepening self awareness and strengthening authenticity. The subtle art of therapy occurs by taking an honest look at emotional patterns and behaviors, and understanding and liberating any shame that exists at the core which frequently fuels mental health disorders. I specialize in working with teens and their families, and am trained in EMDR and Attachment Based Family Therapy. I have been in practice for over 10 years in this community. The gift of psychotherapy is the ability to be in charge of ourselves with confidence, emotional intelligence, and deep inner peace.
(415) 630-4538 View (415) 630-4538
Photo of Michael Skrodzki, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Skrodzki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
I believe human beings change and develop throughout their life span. In some 30 years of practicing psychotherapy I have come to view most emotional symptoms and all relationship crises as opportunities for re-engaging and supporting aspects of self development. I was educated in Germany and the US: my professional experience ranges from work in very traditional clinical settings to being a therapist and group facilitator for staff at the Esalen Institute.
I believe human beings change and develop throughout their life span. In some 30 years of practicing psychotherapy I have come to view most emotional symptoms and all relationship crises as opportunities for re-engaging and supporting aspects of self development. I was educated in Germany and the US: my professional experience ranges from work in very traditional clinical settings to being a therapist and group facilitator for staff at the Esalen Institute.
(650) 262-3430 View (650) 262-3430
Photo of Catherine Tahmin, PsyD, Psychologist
Catherine Tahmin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
I welcome and work well with challenge. My style is warm, direct, and engaging while maintaining a stance of curiosity and compassion. I help clients suffering from depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and childhood abuse. I will do everything in my power to support you. You’ve every reason to expect relief from emotional pain and stress. My deep listening skills and therapeutic feedback are aimed at unburdening you from whatever issues prevent you from experiencing a more empowered sense of yourself. My clinical approach is psychodynamic.
I welcome and work well with challenge. My style is warm, direct, and engaging while maintaining a stance of curiosity and compassion. I help clients suffering from depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and childhood abuse. I will do everything in my power to support you. You’ve every reason to expect relief from emotional pain and stress. My deep listening skills and therapeutic feedback are aimed at unburdening you from whatever issues prevent you from experiencing a more empowered sense of yourself. My clinical approach is psychodynamic.
(707) 346-5688 View (707) 346-5688
1
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.