Eating Disorders Therapists in Playa Del Rey, CA
![Photo of Anna Schick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ee05c17-b70b-45b8-b7ab-8a9e24386d88/1/320x400.png)
Anna Schick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90296 (Online Only)
Is your mind filled with constant worry? Are you stuck in the past or the future? Are you scared to pursue a more rewarding career? Can't find yourself committing to healthy and meaningful relationships? Or are you feeling unworthy of embracing good things in your life? I will work with you to empower your to start making changes to better your life n
Is your mind filled with constant worry? Are you stuck in the past or the future? Are you scared to pursue a more rewarding career? Can't find yourself committing to healthy and meaningful relationships? Or are you feeling unworthy of embracing good things in your life? I will work with you to empower your to start making changes to better your life n
![Photo of Saralyn Masselink, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/448e045a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Saralyn Masselink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Many of us feel a longing for a more satisfying life but are unsure of how to get there, or feel stymied by anger, shame, anxiety, or grief.
Many of us feel a longing for a more satisfying life but are unsure of how to get there, or feel stymied by anger, shame, anxiety, or grief.
![Photo of Desiree Basl, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47399150-3785-49f1-be15-ff826a15f6ee/6/320x400.jpeg)
Desiree Basl
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Are you looking to remove the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving well-being and live your most authentic and connected life? In the work with clients, it is my job to support you through a supportive therapeutic relationship. Whether you are coming in to process a relationship, attachment trauma, increased anxiety or depression or struggling with life transitions, I am here to help provide you with a safe space to reach your goals.
Are you looking to remove the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving well-being and live your most authentic and connected life? In the work with clients, it is my job to support you through a supportive therapeutic relationship. Whether you are coming in to process a relationship, attachment trauma, increased anxiety or depression or struggling with life transitions, I am here to help provide you with a safe space to reach your goals.
![Photo of Leanne Whitney, PhD, RYT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ca07c73-2933-4eea-a980-e03873d64f78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. These are psychologically, emotionally, and physically complex times in which we are living. We have been thrust into a radically new era at lightning speed. I seek to meet you where you are and assist you in resolving any pain and confusion which blocks your sense of peace, strength and authenticity. Together we will find tools to relieve constraining beliefs, anxiety and/or confusion and we will find a place of equilibrium from which you can engage your inner and outer world in new and more effective ways. You can then make the changes you need to make in order to experience more peace of mind and fulfillment.
Welcome. These are psychologically, emotionally, and physically complex times in which we are living. We have been thrust into a radically new era at lightning speed. I seek to meet you where you are and assist you in resolving any pain and confusion which blocks your sense of peace, strength and authenticity. Together we will find tools to relieve constraining beliefs, anxiety and/or confusion and we will find a place of equilibrium from which you can engage your inner and outer world in new and more effective ways. You can then make the changes you need to make in order to experience more peace of mind and fulfillment.
![Photo of Harper White, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e20f6e3-9cdb-42bf-998f-e6f7751869e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Harper White
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Navigating your 20s and 30s can often feel anxiety-provoking, overwhelming, and lonely. It’s understandable that juggling relationships, work, family, and a social life may leave you feeling depressed, anxious, and burnt out. I work with young adults who are navigating this challenging phase of life and are looking to improve their important relationships, reduce levels of stress, and heal from past painful experiences. Working together collaboratively, we will focus on helping you understand what you need in relationships, identify how to best take care of yourself through your stressors, and live in alignment with your key values.
Navigating your 20s and 30s can often feel anxiety-provoking, overwhelming, and lonely. It’s understandable that juggling relationships, work, family, and a social life may leave you feeling depressed, anxious, and burnt out. I work with young adults who are navigating this challenging phase of life and are looking to improve their important relationships, reduce levels of stress, and heal from past painful experiences. Working together collaboratively, we will focus on helping you understand what you need in relationships, identify how to best take care of yourself through your stressors, and live in alignment with your key values.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Brittney France, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ec81cfb-6723-4ade-8758-f3f5f522e58a/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#111091) in California. I have specialized in the treatment of eating disorders/ disordered eating, emotional and overeating, as well as body image for 17 years through both a clinical and research lens. I believe that all clients have unique strengths and are capable of creating meaningful change in their lives. I enjoy helping clients access these strengths while improving their relationship with food, body, and mind through identifying and connecting with values, learning healthy coping skills, and improving communication.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#111091) in California. I have specialized in the treatment of eating disorders/ disordered eating, emotional and overeating, as well as body image for 17 years through both a clinical and research lens. I believe that all clients have unique strengths and are capable of creating meaningful change in their lives. I enjoy helping clients access these strengths while improving their relationship with food, body, and mind through identifying and connecting with values, learning healthy coping skills, and improving communication.
![Photo of Hannah Schaler, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84b3a160-1f72-4c53-b78c-9cbfcedca749/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Schaler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I am a trained LMFT and art therapist with experience treating trauma, neurodivergence, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
Being a human these days is hard, and even more so when you get into complicated dynamics with your relationships, job, or family. Perhaps it's all feeling like too much? Or maybe you have a hunch that you can live a fuller life? Reaching out to a therapist does not mean that you are broken; it means that you are ready to evolve. With my background in art and extensive therapeutic training, I offer a dynamic healing experience that addresses old patterns in both mind and body. I can provide a supportive and creative space for you to explore yourself, practice relational skills, and grow into a life that you truly want to be living.
I am a trained LMFT and art therapist with experience treating trauma, neurodivergence, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
Being a human these days is hard, and even more so when you get into complicated dynamics with your relationships, job, or family. Perhaps it's all feeling like too much? Or maybe you have a hunch that you can live a fuller life? Reaching out to a therapist does not mean that you are broken; it means that you are ready to evolve. With my background in art and extensive therapeutic training, I offer a dynamic healing experience that addresses old patterns in both mind and body. I can provide a supportive and creative space for you to explore yourself, practice relational skills, and grow into a life that you truly want to be living.
![Photo of Ellen McCormack, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a506e044-b73a-480c-873b-94e7f4394cf5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen McCormack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230 (Online Only)
I have advanced training in treatment modalities specifically developed for relationship conflicts, trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
We all have hard times and moments of loneliness, but a good support system helps us be resilient. We all deserve support and care as we work through things, but reaching out to friends and loved ones can be scary. If you're having trouble finding or keeping support and intimacy, or if you feel consumed by fears and low self-esteem, then it can be hard to get the connection and love you deserve. As a marriage and family therapist, I can help. I focus on helping my clients create close, supportive relationships with their loved ones, (and with themselves) so that they have the support they need to overcome challenges and flourish.
I have advanced training in treatment modalities specifically developed for relationship conflicts, trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
We all have hard times and moments of loneliness, but a good support system helps us be resilient. We all deserve support and care as we work through things, but reaching out to friends and loved ones can be scary. If you're having trouble finding or keeping support and intimacy, or if you feel consumed by fears and low self-esteem, then it can be hard to get the connection and love you deserve. As a marriage and family therapist, I can help. I focus on helping my clients create close, supportive relationships with their loved ones, (and with themselves) so that they have the support they need to overcome challenges and flourish.
![Photo of Mia Raymond, MA, LMFT, CEDS, -C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cedfd2fd-4c9b-4c63-be90-ea4723cd28b9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mia Raymond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS, -C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience treating those struggling with eating disorders and co-occurring mood, anxiety and chemical dependency/abuse.
It's tough to be human. I use a trauma-informed approach, working primarily from a place of wanting to understand your perspective. I believe in supporting you with reframing thoughts and narratives that may no longer serve you. I work relationally, supporting you identify themes in your life that may hinder you from having the most meaningful life possible. I believe in supporting you create an experience that is purposeful; the pace of therapy can move as slowly or quickly as you deem comfortable. I’m licensed in CA, OR and FL (telehealth). I can provide therapy anywhere in California, Oregon or Florida via telehealth.
I have extensive experience treating those struggling with eating disorders and co-occurring mood, anxiety and chemical dependency/abuse.
It's tough to be human. I use a trauma-informed approach, working primarily from a place of wanting to understand your perspective. I believe in supporting you with reframing thoughts and narratives that may no longer serve you. I work relationally, supporting you identify themes in your life that may hinder you from having the most meaningful life possible. I believe in supporting you create an experience that is purposeful; the pace of therapy can move as slowly or quickly as you deem comfortable. I’m licensed in CA, OR and FL (telehealth). I can provide therapy anywhere in California, Oregon or Florida via telehealth.
![Photo of Marcela Rondani, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca4239e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcela Rondani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
I am specialized in Teens, Families, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship issues, life struggles, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder and Family Conflict.
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
I am specialized in Teens, Families, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship issues, life struggles, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder and Family Conflict.
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
![Photo of Stacey Bayer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7a8a9f1-e2dd-46e0-877e-79b7b73365ac/2/320x400.png)
Stacey Bayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are here to work through one specific challenge that is leaving you feeling conflicted or longer-term internal battles, I consider it an honor to walk alongside you in your journey. I am a trained EMDR clinician and specialize in helping people recover from eating disorders, body image issues, trauma, attachment disorders, anxiety and depression. I utilize an eclectic approach and draw on a variety of theories and modalities in working with clients to best meet individual needs.
Whether you are here to work through one specific challenge that is leaving you feeling conflicted or longer-term internal battles, I consider it an honor to walk alongside you in your journey. I am a trained EMDR clinician and specialize in helping people recover from eating disorders, body image issues, trauma, attachment disorders, anxiety and depression. I utilize an eclectic approach and draw on a variety of theories and modalities in working with clients to best meet individual needs.
![Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Taus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50719b53-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Elizabeth Taus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a licensed psychotherapist, and a yoga and meditation teacher based in Venice Beach, California. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. As a therapist, I see individuals, families and couples. My practice areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, trauma, addictions, relationship difficulties, creative blocks, and life transitions. My approach is individualized. I’ll meet you where you are, and offer you an individualized treatment plan based on my education and trainings.
I’m a licensed psychotherapist, and a yoga and meditation teacher based in Venice Beach, California. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. As a therapist, I see individuals, families and couples. My practice areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, trauma, addictions, relationship difficulties, creative blocks, and life transitions. My approach is individualized. I’ll meet you where you are, and offer you an individualized treatment plan based on my education and trainings.
![Photo of Jenna Stark, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a293c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Stark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (Online Only)
Therapy is one of the few relationships in life where it can truly be just about you. I enjoy working with clients who are willing and wanting to change, but are struggling to find the best path to achieve this. I work with a diverse population, but most of my clients are in their 20s-40s struggling with past traumas or current stressors. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, the need to be "perfect", relationship issues, eating disorders/body image issues and other aspects of adulting that can be stressful and daunting.
Therapy is one of the few relationships in life where it can truly be just about you. I enjoy working with clients who are willing and wanting to change, but are struggling to find the best path to achieve this. I work with a diverse population, but most of my clients are in their 20s-40s struggling with past traumas or current stressors. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, the need to be "perfect", relationship issues, eating disorders/body image issues and other aspects of adulting that can be stressful and daunting.
![Photo of Patricia Martucci, MA, MFT, RYT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52856c2a-38a9-44b1-b923-dbdfde49fdbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Martucci
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, RYT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I have a wealth of experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with eating disorders and addictions.
I work with individuals, families, couples from a client-centered humanistic approach, specifically meeting you where you are and helping you to meet your goals. I believe that healing can begin to take place in an authentic human relationship and support my clients in discovering any barriers that may be blocking them in enjoying their best life. I am trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and CPT, and help my clients who have unprocessed trauma that impacts them to heal. I am also a registered yoga teacher, reiki practitioner, & trained in MBSR. I am licensed in NY, NJ and California and see clients virtually in all locations.
I have a wealth of experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with eating disorders and addictions.
I work with individuals, families, couples from a client-centered humanistic approach, specifically meeting you where you are and helping you to meet your goals. I believe that healing can begin to take place in an authentic human relationship and support my clients in discovering any barriers that may be blocking them in enjoying their best life. I am trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and CPT, and help my clients who have unprocessed trauma that impacts them to heal. I am also a registered yoga teacher, reiki practitioner, & trained in MBSR. I am licensed in NY, NJ and California and see clients virtually in all locations.
![Photo of Kerri D Johnson, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5000f34a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have specialties in depression, eating disorders, and addictions.
Feeling depressed, anxious, uncertain of what path to take next? Feeling lost, alone, or unsure of yourself? These are all common concerns that my clients face daily, and have come to understand their source by working in a safe collaborative space in therapy. Many of my clients are at a cross roads whether it be leaving their parents home, trying to launch from college, deciding whether or not to get married, have a baby, or change careers or retire. Therapy can help with any transition. In a supportive, collaborative environment we will discover what blocks you from growing and thriving.
I have specialties in depression, eating disorders, and addictions.
Feeling depressed, anxious, uncertain of what path to take next? Feeling lost, alone, or unsure of yourself? These are all common concerns that my clients face daily, and have come to understand their source by working in a safe collaborative space in therapy. Many of my clients are at a cross roads whether it be leaving their parents home, trying to launch from college, deciding whether or not to get married, have a baby, or change careers or retire. Therapy can help with any transition. In a supportive, collaborative environment we will discover what blocks you from growing and thriving.
![Photo of Katrin Reyes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef7d472b-f90f-4ad9-9cec-00936aee185b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in recovery support from eating disorders and other addictions and am passionate about supporting clients with struggles around neurodivergence.
I believe one's mental health is the foundation for overall health and longevity. Feeling scene, heard and supported are the cornerstones of positive mental health. Having a safe sounding board can be life changing and my goal with clients is to make sure that they know they don't have to hold life's "heavy stuff" alone. Learning how to re-connect to self as well as improve communication with others is a focus when working together.
I specialize in recovery support from eating disorders and other addictions and am passionate about supporting clients with struggles around neurodivergence.
I believe one's mental health is the foundation for overall health and longevity. Feeling scene, heard and supported are the cornerstones of positive mental health. Having a safe sounding board can be life changing and my goal with clients is to make sure that they know they don't have to hold life's "heavy stuff" alone. Learning how to re-connect to self as well as improve communication with others is a focus when working together.
![Photo of Jesse Carmen-Hay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afdb9426-f563-4345-974e-be0858dd03fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jesse Carmen-Hay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90292
Waitlist for new clients
I am so glad that you made it here - my name is Jesse Carmen-Hay, and I am a LCSW in the state of California. I work with those who are struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, codependency, interpersonal issues, mood disorders, and more. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community. I also offer couples and sex therapy services if that is something you are looking for. I use an individualized approach as no two people are the same and I seek to meet my clients where they are at.
I am so glad that you made it here - my name is Jesse Carmen-Hay, and I am a LCSW in the state of California. I work with those who are struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, codependency, interpersonal issues, mood disorders, and more. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community. I also offer couples and sex therapy services if that is something you are looking for. I use an individualized approach as no two people are the same and I seek to meet my clients where they are at.
![Photo of Janet K Smith, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdf3bc0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
We’ll work with the issues that you present—depression, intimacy, infidelity, eating disorders, addiction.
We all face conflicts that at times become “too much.” When we feel overwhelmed there’s a natural tendency to want to restore balance in ourselves and our lives. Any conflict—in love, work, body image, physical symptoms—can lead to anxiety, shame and a sense of "going through the motions." Whether you’re dealing with current or long-standing difficulties, there are effective ways to understand and soften painful feelings. Life can be better when you open to new thinking, curb negativity and break repetitive cycles; you become kinder to yourself. You can find your own voice.
We’ll work with the issues that you present—depression, intimacy, infidelity, eating disorders, addiction.
We all face conflicts that at times become “too much.” When we feel overwhelmed there’s a natural tendency to want to restore balance in ourselves and our lives. Any conflict—in love, work, body image, physical symptoms—can lead to anxiety, shame and a sense of "going through the motions." Whether you’re dealing with current or long-standing difficulties, there are effective ways to understand and soften painful feelings. Life can be better when you open to new thinking, curb negativity and break repetitive cycles; you become kinder to yourself. You can find your own voice.
![Photo of Leticia Bernabe, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fb6e143-4fad-4396-a813-32b69ee15c94/1/320x400.png)
Leticia Bernabe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Addiction/substance use, trauma, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety can take a lot of bravery to attack head on. As a therapist, I aim to create a warm environment that encourages vulnerability. I know therapy can be a challenging next step. It takes a lot of strength to want to change what is no longer serving you. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I am committed to making it as effective and inviting as possible. I am so excited to work with you.
Addiction/substance use, trauma, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety can take a lot of bravery to attack head on. As a therapist, I aim to create a warm environment that encourages vulnerability. I know therapy can be a challenging next step. It takes a lot of strength to want to change what is no longer serving you. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and I am committed to making it as effective and inviting as possible. I am so excited to work with you.
![Photo of Lorraine T Sterman - Lorraine T. Sterman, Ph.D. and Associates, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c019e17-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine T. Sterman, Ph.D. and Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Waitlist for new clients
My background includes specialty areas of Adult and Adolescent Psychology (Individuals, Families, Couples) Eating Disorders, and Geropsychology. Since I have been in the field for many years as a Psychologist and Nurse Practitioner, I understand medical as well as psychological factors and how working through these Improves our everyday lives.
My background includes specialty areas of Adult and Adolescent Psychology (Individuals, Families, Couples) Eating Disorders, and Geropsychology. Since I have been in the field for many years as a Psychologist and Nurse Practitioner, I understand medical as well as psychological factors and how working through these Improves our everyday lives.
See more therapy options for Playa Del Rey
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Playa Del Rey
- Beverly Hills
- Century City
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- El Segundo
- Hawthorne
- Inglewood
- Manhattan Beach
- Marina Del Rey
- Pacific Palisades
- Santa Monica
- Venice
- West Los Angeles
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.