Eating Disorders Therapists in Pleasanton, CA
![Photo of Vandana Aspen, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be5c3fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
THEREPEUTIC MODALITIES: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Family Based Treatment for anorexia nervosa (FBT); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Prolonged Exposure (PE); Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
I am a Stanford trained licensed clinical psychologist with a specialization is in eating, anxiety, sleep and mood disorders. I have extensive experience in conducting individual, group and family treatment in multiple settings with individuals across the age spectrum. I have a strong background in research-primarily in the areas of treatment of eating disorders and obesity. This foundation of knowledge is invaluable as it fuels my clinical practice and it informs my decisions regarding my ability to provide optimal patient care. Therapy is a collaboration. My style is active, warm and compassionate.
THEREPEUTIC MODALITIES: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Family Based Treatment for anorexia nervosa (FBT); Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); Prolonged Exposure (PE); Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
I am a Stanford trained licensed clinical psychologist with a specialization is in eating, anxiety, sleep and mood disorders. I have extensive experience in conducting individual, group and family treatment in multiple settings with individuals across the age spectrum. I have a strong background in research-primarily in the areas of treatment of eating disorders and obesity. This foundation of knowledge is invaluable as it fuels my clinical practice and it informs my decisions regarding my ability to provide optimal patient care. Therapy is a collaboration. My style is active, warm and compassionate.
![Photo of Jeanine Pontes-Boelter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd5a989-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Have you noticed that your teenager has lost weight, is counting calories, or has become a picky eater? Act now and get your child assessed for an eating disorder. I specialize in treating adolescents who have eating disorders and I use the most effective treatment methods backed by research (FBT). I also specialize in treating adults who struggle with their relationship with food ( Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, Emotional Overeating).
Have you noticed that your teenager has lost weight, is counting calories, or has become a picky eater? Act now and get your child assessed for an eating disorder. I specialize in treating adolescents who have eating disorders and I use the most effective treatment methods backed by research (FBT). I also specialize in treating adults who struggle with their relationship with food ( Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, Emotional Overeating).
![Photo of Richard Barnes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a150338-53fc-46e4-9f89-455184d5e9ef/3/320x400.jpeg)
My diverse training at UCSC, USF, Stanford University, Fremont Hospital, and as Program Director at Center For Discovery, specializing in treatment of adolescents struggling with eating disorders, has helped me to be sensitive to cultural differences, knowledgeable about a wide array of mental health struggles, and that providing a quality and comfortable relationship, is integral.
I can attest,having worked with many clients over the years, I have witnessed time and time again the true value that a psychotherapeutic relationship can provide. Through hard work, growing authenticity, and commitment, a therapeutic relationship brings forth genuine opportunities for new & useful insight, new eye opening perspectives, the application of new and working coping skills, a freedom from debilitating challenges like anxiety, panic, depression, a renewed & focused life plan, significant transformational changes, and more. Therapy can have a significant impact, once you make the powerful decision to seek treatment, and develop new belief that life can be different.
My diverse training at UCSC, USF, Stanford University, Fremont Hospital, and as Program Director at Center For Discovery, specializing in treatment of adolescents struggling with eating disorders, has helped me to be sensitive to cultural differences, knowledgeable about a wide array of mental health struggles, and that providing a quality and comfortable relationship, is integral.
I can attest,having worked with many clients over the years, I have witnessed time and time again the true value that a psychotherapeutic relationship can provide. Through hard work, growing authenticity, and commitment, a therapeutic relationship brings forth genuine opportunities for new & useful insight, new eye opening perspectives, the application of new and working coping skills, a freedom from debilitating challenges like anxiety, panic, depression, a renewed & focused life plan, significant transformational changes, and more. Therapy can have a significant impact, once you make the powerful decision to seek treatment, and develop new belief that life can be different.
![Photo of Kaitlin Geenen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef51500b-553b-4390-82b2-b5586dd3047c/2/320x400.jpeg)
My experience with eating disorders includes 4 years at Stanford's In-Patient Comprehensive Care Program for Eating Disorders, followed by 5 years at residential and outpatient programs.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders and substance misuse. Often people I work with feel isolated and stuck in their experience. Most of my clients want to change habits or ways of thinking that they have outgrown or would like to outgrow. I incorporate evidence-based treatments clients can use in and outside of therapy. The modalities I use include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, Harm Reduction and mindfulness practices.
My experience with eating disorders includes 4 years at Stanford's In-Patient Comprehensive Care Program for Eating Disorders, followed by 5 years at residential and outpatient programs.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders and substance misuse. Often people I work with feel isolated and stuck in their experience. Most of my clients want to change habits or ways of thinking that they have outgrown or would like to outgrow. I incorporate evidence-based treatments clients can use in and outside of therapy. The modalities I use include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, Harm Reduction and mindfulness practices.
![Photo of Chrystal Dhillon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3db368d-91a0-48dc-b539-4169028cd9a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chrystal Dhillon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! My name is Chrystal Dhillon and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Fresno, California. I am dedicated to supporting clients statewide through the convenience of telehealth. I am passionate about empowering adults as they navigate life's challenges and uncertainties. My areas of specialization include life adjustments, neurodivergent affirming care, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. My goal is to help you reconnect with yourself, build effective tools to reduce stress, and ultimately enjoy life again.
Hello and welcome! My name is Chrystal Dhillon and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Fresno, California. I am dedicated to supporting clients statewide through the convenience of telehealth. I am passionate about empowering adults as they navigate life's challenges and uncertainties. My areas of specialization include life adjustments, neurodivergent affirming care, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. My goal is to help you reconnect with yourself, build effective tools to reduce stress, and ultimately enjoy life again.
![Photo of Pamela Wrona, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cb73742-e141-4f9e-90e5-eb961440b040/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with grief/loss, cancer support, gender/sexual identity development, eating disorders and disordered eating, trauma and attachment wounds, sport/competitions identity exploration and management, sport performance, depression, and anxiety.
I offer telemental health individual and couples psychotherapy to clients who reside in the state of California. I focus on providing this support through a humanistic and existential lens, an approach that emphasizes self-actualization, individuality, personal growth, and the search for meaning in the ups and downs of life. I emphasize empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a non-judgmental attitude to create a supportive environment for you to explore your emotions, beliefs, and concerns.
I specialize in working with grief/loss, cancer support, gender/sexual identity development, eating disorders and disordered eating, trauma and attachment wounds, sport/competitions identity exploration and management, sport performance, depression, and anxiety.
I offer telemental health individual and couples psychotherapy to clients who reside in the state of California. I focus on providing this support through a humanistic and existential lens, an approach that emphasizes self-actualization, individuality, personal growth, and the search for meaning in the ups and downs of life. I emphasize empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a non-judgmental attitude to create a supportive environment for you to explore your emotions, beliefs, and concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Christine E. Dickson: Board Certified Psychologist, PhD, MS, MA, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa74ff28-a80a-46fb-b68b-ca664a00cb48/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Christine E. Dickson: Board Certified Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MS, MA, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
By combining cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness, I help my clients develop a greater sense of self-awareness as well as manage symptoms of anxiety, irritability/anger, depression, panic attacks, racing or worried thoughts, PTSD, ADHD, eating disorders, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance abuse, and self-injurious behavior.
As a psychologist with over 25 years of experience, I invite you to explore the transformative power of mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy. I've seen firsthand how this approach helps my clients rewire old patterns of thinking/behavior, and learn to navigate life's challenges with greater resilience. In addition, over 32,000 people worldwide follow my blog to learn my approach to healing and recovery. Visit christinedickson.com for more information.
By combining cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness, I help my clients develop a greater sense of self-awareness as well as manage symptoms of anxiety, irritability/anger, depression, panic attacks, racing or worried thoughts, PTSD, ADHD, eating disorders, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance abuse, and self-injurious behavior.
As a psychologist with over 25 years of experience, I invite you to explore the transformative power of mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy. I've seen firsthand how this approach helps my clients rewire old patterns of thinking/behavior, and learn to navigate life's challenges with greater resilience. In addition, over 32,000 people worldwide follow my blog to learn my approach to healing and recovery. Visit christinedickson.com for more information.
![Photo of Cheryl Julie Chin, MFT, LPCC, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3a49e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Julie Chin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94568
Eating disorders is another area of interest, as is chronic pain management.
I am eager to treat diverse children, adolescents, and/or adults, as individuals, couples, families, or groups. My Specialization is in health psychology/behavioral medicine, i.e. eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness, chronic pain management, sport psychology, grief and loss - including of a pet, and I bring forth significant experience with developmental delays/learning disabilities, testing/assessment, adoption/foster care, mood/anxiety disorders, trauma, divorce, substance abuse, and other life transitions. Additionally, I am open to providing consultation for interns taking the licensing exam or tabulating hours. Seeing my clients start life with renewed vigor is incredibly rewarding.
Eating disorders is another area of interest, as is chronic pain management.
I am eager to treat diverse children, adolescents, and/or adults, as individuals, couples, families, or groups. My Specialization is in health psychology/behavioral medicine, i.e. eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness, chronic pain management, sport psychology, grief and loss - including of a pet, and I bring forth significant experience with developmental delays/learning disabilities, testing/assessment, adoption/foster care, mood/anxiety disorders, trauma, divorce, substance abuse, and other life transitions. Additionally, I am open to providing consultation for interns taking the licensing exam or tabulating hours. Seeing my clients start life with renewed vigor is incredibly rewarding.
![Photo of Cristina Ann Castagnini, PhD, CEDS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51f39900-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cristina Ann Castagnini
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94568 (Online Only)
I believe that every day up until now has helped you to be the person you are today, and find it helpful to explore your family of origin dynamics to help in giving you some insights about your current functioning and relationships with others. While exploring the past, however, I find that my patients are coming in for symptom reduction, and not just insight. Which is why I am also very solution-focused. Through the combination of the two, my clients typically see a decrease in current symptoms, yet gain insight into preventing them in the future.
I believe that every day up until now has helped you to be the person you are today, and find it helpful to explore your family of origin dynamics to help in giving you some insights about your current functioning and relationships with others. While exploring the past, however, I find that my patients are coming in for symptom reduction, and not just insight. Which is why I am also very solution-focused. Through the combination of the two, my clients typically see a decrease in current symptoms, yet gain insight into preventing them in the future.
![Photo of Mary Kennard, BA, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfff3aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Kennard
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events.
I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of personal issues helping them to move from discord to harmony on goals of their choice.I find that everyone has a story to tell and believe that I am very attuned at helping clarify the impact our stories have in our lives. It is my belief that each person has hidden strengths that may have been weakened by life events.
I have experience working with all ages, and stages of life; with individuals, couples, and families.With this experience I have developed a great empathy and understanding of those in distress.
![Photo of Minakshi Goyal, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3a6e51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice! I work with adults, families, teens, children, and first responders to provide various types of counseling, including but not limited to CBT, EMDR, Trauma focused CBT, behavioral interventions, play therapy, parenting support, etc… Whether you are feeling stuck, frustrated, anxious, or depressed, I can help you cope with these feelings and improve your overall satisfaction in your life and relationships in a safe and confidential environment. No problem is too big, too small, or too shocking. Please reach out via email to minalcsw@gmail.com to schedule a conversation with me.
Welcome to my practice! I work with adults, families, teens, children, and first responders to provide various types of counseling, including but not limited to CBT, EMDR, Trauma focused CBT, behavioral interventions, play therapy, parenting support, etc… Whether you are feeling stuck, frustrated, anxious, or depressed, I can help you cope with these feelings and improve your overall satisfaction in your life and relationships in a safe and confidential environment. No problem is too big, too small, or too shocking. Please reach out via email to minalcsw@gmail.com to schedule a conversation with me.
![Photo of Kelly Shah, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5461b9ca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Change comes from within, my role as a therapist is to join with clients on their journey to discovering and utilizing their own resources of strength to achieve overall emotional well-being. Serving as a compassionate other, I apply myself from a mindful, strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to work with clients on developing a meaningful process of being and healing. With a passion for and dedication to fostering authentic relationships with clients and a strong belief in the powers of human resiliency, I provide a safe, open, non-judgmental space of healing.
Change comes from within, my role as a therapist is to join with clients on their journey to discovering and utilizing their own resources of strength to achieve overall emotional well-being. Serving as a compassionate other, I apply myself from a mindful, strengths-based and trauma-informed lens to work with clients on developing a meaningful process of being and healing. With a passion for and dedication to fostering authentic relationships with clients and a strong belief in the powers of human resiliency, I provide a safe, open, non-judgmental space of healing.
![Photo of Beth Kiersten Ringheim, MA, MS, MFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d380fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Kiersten Ringheim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
"Thoughts turn into Words. Words turn into Actions. Actions turn into Character. Character is everything."
To create a more joyful and meaningful life is a passion of mine. I work creatively and collaboratively with adults, teens, and children to explore the heart of the matter. Together we consider (investigate, examine, observe) symptoms and emotional pain; we design realistic goals; we develop skills to alleviate obstacles; and, as we work to achieve your dreams, we discover your increased motivation and self-confidence.
"Thoughts turn into Words. Words turn into Actions. Actions turn into Character. Character is everything."
To create a more joyful and meaningful life is a passion of mine. I work creatively and collaboratively with adults, teens, and children to explore the heart of the matter. Together we consider (investigate, examine, observe) symptoms and emotional pain; we design realistic goals; we develop skills to alleviate obstacles; and, as we work to achieve your dreams, we discover your increased motivation and self-confidence.
![Photo of Cindy A Mayne, APCC, NCAC, NAADAC, CHT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5008070c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy A Mayne
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, NCAC, NAADAC, CHT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Having issues with anxiety, sleep, weight loss or addictions? I am a clinical hypnotherapist and can help with many issues. With the help of therapy, and hypnosis, many issues can be alleviated quickly.
Having issues with anxiety, sleep, weight loss or addictions? I am a clinical hypnotherapist and can help with many issues. With the help of therapy, and hypnosis, many issues can be alleviated quickly.
![Photo of Dorothy Ann Torre, MS, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48648110-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a developmental psychologist and depth counselor, I am best suited to working with people experiencing the trials and tribulations that accompany the major passages experienced throughout life. I am a warm and experienced counselor who works with people representing all ages and social identities. I work with individuals, couples and families, and have much experience working with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, grief and forgiveness.
As a developmental psychologist and depth counselor, I am best suited to working with people experiencing the trials and tribulations that accompany the major passages experienced throughout life. I am a warm and experienced counselor who works with people representing all ages and social identities. I work with individuals, couples and families, and have much experience working with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, grief and forgiveness.
![Photo of Lori Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3579cf9-9775-47e8-9973-4450a3b836b9/1/320x400.png)
Lori Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588 (Online Only)
Have you 'hit a wall' in trying to resolve a personal, career or relationship issue? In your busy life of competing demands do you have difficulty putting your needs first? 'Sucking it up' only gets you so far. I'd love to offer you my professional support in getting to the next level. Together we can create a safe place for you to experience yourself with compassion and self-understanding.
Have you 'hit a wall' in trying to resolve a personal, career or relationship issue? In your busy life of competing demands do you have difficulty putting your needs first? 'Sucking it up' only gets you so far. I'd love to offer you my professional support in getting to the next level. Together we can create a safe place for you to experience yourself with compassion and self-understanding.
![Photo of Kris Kinser Bergmann, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/026df9e5-6f37-440f-85ac-b684666f4348/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Kinser Bergmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94588 (Online Only)
Life can be difficult, confusing, full of changes and challenges at times. We can feel empty, scared, hurt and lost. In my therapy practice, I will create a safe space for you that will allow you to heal and grow. I will strive to provide a space that offers compassion and honest reflection, facilitates exploration of your story, promotes natural self-awareness and personal growth. I will be mindful of how your unique story affects your presenting issues and will provide culturally informed services.
Life can be difficult, confusing, full of changes and challenges at times. We can feel empty, scared, hurt and lost. In my therapy practice, I will create a safe space for you that will allow you to heal and grow. I will strive to provide a space that offers compassion and honest reflection, facilitates exploration of your story, promotes natural self-awareness and personal growth. I will be mindful of how your unique story affects your presenting issues and will provide culturally informed services.
![Photo of Michelle Payton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70aa242c-bd2c-400b-858d-2786f2b46192/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR therapist whose passion is for helping clients overcome strong and distressing feelings through understanding the root of these emotions and working through them. I am fully trained in Safety and Attachment- Focused (S.A.F.E) EMDR Therapy and am confident in my abilities to help you navigate and heal from any past trauma, big or small. As a therapist with an additional background as a certified personal trainer, I work with clients who are open and interested in understanding the importance of mind and body health and are motivated for change.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR therapist whose passion is for helping clients overcome strong and distressing feelings through understanding the root of these emotions and working through them. I am fully trained in Safety and Attachment- Focused (S.A.F.E) EMDR Therapy and am confident in my abilities to help you navigate and heal from any past trauma, big or small. As a therapist with an additional background as a certified personal trainer, I work with clients who are open and interested in understanding the importance of mind and body health and are motivated for change.
![Photo of Lisa Gray, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e86b10fd-f0a0-41bf-a141-c1f7a6261800/1/320x400.jpeg)
Is conflict tearing your relationship apart? Every relationship has conflict, but no one really teaches us how to have healthy conflict or steps to follow to practice it. I can teach you this! Conflict is a skill, and you can get better at it. Not only that, but if you practice healthy conflict, you'll increase your intimacy and have a closer relationship. I know it sounds counterintuitive but I've seen it happen over and over. You don't have to be stuck in this pattern; I promise.
Is conflict tearing your relationship apart? Every relationship has conflict, but no one really teaches us how to have healthy conflict or steps to follow to practice it. I can teach you this! Conflict is a skill, and you can get better at it. Not only that, but if you practice healthy conflict, you'll increase your intimacy and have a closer relationship. I know it sounds counterintuitive but I've seen it happen over and over. You don't have to be stuck in this pattern; I promise.
![Photo of Kiran C. Easwarachandran, MSS, R-DMT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47fbed84-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kiran C. Easwarachandran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, R-DMT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I have practiced as an Integrative Movement Psychotherapist for over 17 years and believe that true healing shines through when we work with the whole self-the body, the mind and spirit. As a body-mind therapist I bring in an eclectic mix of psychodynamic theories, strengths based practice, CBT, dance and movement therapy, expressive arts, eco-therapy and mindfulness work to my practice.
I have practiced as an Integrative Movement Psychotherapist for over 17 years and believe that true healing shines through when we work with the whole self-the body, the mind and spirit. As a body-mind therapist I bring in an eclectic mix of psychodynamic theories, strengths based practice, CBT, dance and movement therapy, expressive arts, eco-therapy and mindfulness work to my practice.
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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.