Photo of Cheyenne Cheshier, MSW, ACSW
Cheyenne Cheshier
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91354  (Online Only)
Hello! I am an associate therapist practicing under the supervision of Erica Basso LMFT 114828 & Sally Jo Liljedahl LCSW 20460. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding clients toward authentic and fulfilling lives. With expertise in anxiety, stress, life direction, body image/ eating disorders, and sport performance as a former athlete, I employ a holistic approach tailored to each individual's needs. By developing skills through evidence-based interventions, I empower clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience to cultivate a positive sense of self, ultimately fostering growth and enhancing overall well-being.
Hello! I am an associate therapist practicing under the supervision of Erica Basso LMFT 114828 & Sally Jo Liljedahl LCSW 20460. I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding clients toward authentic and fulfilling lives. With expertise in anxiety, stress, life direction, body image/ eating disorders, and sport performance as a former athlete, I employ a holistic approach tailored to each individual's needs. By developing skills through evidence-based interventions, I empower clients to navigate life's challenges with resilience to cultivate a positive sense of self, ultimately fostering growth and enhancing overall well-being.
(323) 919-8088 View (323) 919-8088
Photo of Samantha Markman - Santa Clarita Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Santa Clarita Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
(661) 441-3124 View (661) 441-3124
Photo of Sarah Burkle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Burkle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91387
I work with people from all walks of life with varied experiences and also specialize in trauma, pregnancy and postpartum, death and dying, mindfulness, psychedelic-assisted therapy and integration, and eating disorders.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (88866) and certified in MDMA-assisted therapy, integrative somatic trauma therapy, Ketamine-assisted therapy, emotional freedom technique, and Reiki (master level). I have also trained extensively in the areas of somatic-based approaches, trauma-informed care, ancient shamanic and philosophical traditions, and energy healing practices. I hope to support people in accessing their deepest levels of self and a richer connection with the world by identifying and healing the core of symptomology.
I work with people from all walks of life with varied experiences and also specialize in trauma, pregnancy and postpartum, death and dying, mindfulness, psychedelic-assisted therapy and integration, and eating disorders.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (88866) and certified in MDMA-assisted therapy, integrative somatic trauma therapy, Ketamine-assisted therapy, emotional freedom technique, and Reiki (master level). I have also trained extensively in the areas of somatic-based approaches, trauma-informed care, ancient shamanic and philosophical traditions, and energy healing practices. I hope to support people in accessing their deepest levels of self and a richer connection with the world by identifying and healing the core of symptomology.
(657) 530-6312 View (657) 530-6312
Photo of Stefanie Lucia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
I commonly help with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD/CPTSD, addiction and eating disorders.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
I commonly help with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD/CPTSD, addiction and eating disorders.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
(707) 708-4461 View (707) 708-4461
Photo of Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91310  (Online Only)
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
(805) 243-1580 View (805) 243-1580
Photo of Isla Dennis, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Isla Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355  (Online Only)
Are you stuck in the same old arguments? Struggling with communication, boundaries, thoughts of leaving, or infidelity? Or maybe intimacy feels awkward or stale? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors or relationships and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes we get stuck, and change can feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help change your life. If you have the sense you're not reaching your potential for health, happiness, or success, it may be time to move toward a change.
Are you stuck in the same old arguments? Struggling with communication, boundaries, thoughts of leaving, or infidelity? Or maybe intimacy feels awkward or stale? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors or relationships and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes we get stuck, and change can feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help change your life. If you have the sense you're not reaching your potential for health, happiness, or success, it may be time to move toward a change.
(626) 507-2747 View (626) 507-2747
Photo of Jann Sharlene Hoffman - Certified Hypnotherapist
Jann Sharlene Hoffman - Certified Hypnotherapist
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Jann Sharlene Hoffman - Life can be very challenging at times. I love helping people! Fear, anxiety, procrastination, low self-esteem, unhealthy habits are some of the blocks that prevent you from fulfilling your life. It doesn't have to be this way. I teach you tools through talking, mindfulness,meditation, laughter and hypnosis. I have been doing this work for almost 29 years. I can't express how wonderful it feels to help you become a better person for yourself and for your own life. Let's begin the journey. Don't wait! anymore.
Jann Sharlene Hoffman - Life can be very challenging at times. I love helping people! Fear, anxiety, procrastination, low self-esteem, unhealthy habits are some of the blocks that prevent you from fulfilling your life. It doesn't have to be this way. I teach you tools through talking, mindfulness,meditation, laughter and hypnosis. I have been doing this work for almost 29 years. I can't express how wonderful it feels to help you become a better person for yourself and for your own life. Let's begin the journey. Don't wait! anymore.
(818) 237-9128 View (818) 237-9128
Photo of Megan Murphy Cross, MA, LPCC
Megan Murphy Cross
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
Are you struggling to truly change? Are you tired of negative thoughts, painful memories, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, or decreased motivation? Do you fall into patterns in relationships, friendships, or work and wish you could break the cycle? Sometimes, it isn't obvious why we do the things we do, but we can sense we're not our most authentic or successful self. Even when we know the cause of our distress, changing our behavior can still be hard. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, pressure, or bias and help you examine the root causes of your challenges to create the change you want in your life.
Are you struggling to truly change? Are you tired of negative thoughts, painful memories, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, or decreased motivation? Do you fall into patterns in relationships, friendships, or work and wish you could break the cycle? Sometimes, it isn't obvious why we do the things we do, but we can sense we're not our most authentic or successful self. Even when we know the cause of our distress, changing our behavior can still be hard. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, pressure, or bias and help you examine the root causes of your challenges to create the change you want in your life.
(747) 322-4338 View (747) 322-4338
Photo of Stuart Yasukochi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stuart Yasukochi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91350
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling disconnected? Stressed, anxious, tired, or angry? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors, relationships, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe little things feel more frustrating or overwhelming than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is not to judge you--it's to listen, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, and teach you practical tools to help change your life.
Are you feeling disconnected? Stressed, anxious, tired, or angry? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors, relationships, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe little things feel more frustrating or overwhelming than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is not to judge you--it's to listen, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, and teach you practical tools to help change your life.
(661) 493-8902 View (661) 493-8902

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Donald Bender, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donald Bender
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342
I have been doing individual and couple therapy for over thirty years. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, always choosing the one that best suits the client's immediate needs. These modalities range from psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral to narrative and existential. There is even some dream, and hypnotherapy added when helpful. In addition to my clinical practice, I have extensive forensic psychology experience, including resolving workplace disputes, custody issues, and trial consulting. My goal is to help clients find meaningful solutions to challenging life problems.
I have been doing individual and couple therapy for over thirty years. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, always choosing the one that best suits the client's immediate needs. These modalities range from psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral to narrative and existential. There is even some dream, and hypnotherapy added when helpful. In addition to my clinical practice, I have extensive forensic psychology experience, including resolving workplace disputes, custody issues, and trial consulting. My goal is to help clients find meaningful solutions to challenging life problems.
(747) 298-7195 View (747) 298-7195
Photo of Larisa Escalante, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larisa Escalante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
(747) 285-7137 View (747) 285-7137
Photo of Julia Young - Caring Connected, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caring Connected
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
(707) 317-6092 View (707) 317-6092

Online Therapists

Photo of Terry Simpson, PsyD, Psychologist
Terry Simpson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Thank you for reviewing my profile. I work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, and relational difficulties. I specialize in working with conditions associated with anxiety such as generalized anxiety (GAD), eating disorders (ED), OCD, and panic disorder. My doctoral research reviewed the neurobiological underpinnings of these conditions and how safety through relational attunement may help with anxiety symptoms. I hope to be able to help in any way possible or provide resources for help to be discovered.
Thank you for reviewing my profile. I work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, and families suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, and relational difficulties. I specialize in working with conditions associated with anxiety such as generalized anxiety (GAD), eating disorders (ED), OCD, and panic disorder. My doctoral research reviewed the neurobiological underpinnings of these conditions and how safety through relational attunement may help with anxiety symptoms. I hope to be able to help in any way possible or provide resources for help to be discovered.
(424) 543-8136 View (424) 543-8136
Photo of Jenna Stark, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(424) 543-7247 View (424) 543-7247
Photo of Ava Martinez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ava Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and self-harming behaviors.
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, providing feminist and trauma-informed therapy to adolescents, adults, and couples. I am particularly passionate about collaborating with my clients to unpack and process the complex trauma associated with holding marginalized identities. Additionally, I have a background and training in the treatment of OCD, eating disorders, self-harm, and substance use disorders. My work with couples focuses on non-traditional couples.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and self-harming behaviors.
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California, providing feminist and trauma-informed therapy to adolescents, adults, and couples. I am particularly passionate about collaborating with my clients to unpack and process the complex trauma associated with holding marginalized identities. Additionally, I have a background and training in the treatment of OCD, eating disorders, self-harm, and substance use disorders. My work with couples focuses on non-traditional couples.
(323) 940-5489 View (323) 940-5489
Photo of Chelsea Reeves, LADC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsea Reeves
Marriage & Family Therapist, LADC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Chelsea specializes in treating young adults and adolescents with a dual diagnosis—particularly eating disorders coupled with mental disorders.
Chelsea Reeves grew up in East Texas where her passion for connecting and helping others was first ignited. Chelsea moved to Newport Beach, CA when she was only 19 to begin her own journey of recovery. This experience inspired her to begin working in the mental health field, and for the last decade Chelsea has held positions at a variety of adult and adolescent treatment programs. . During her free time, Chelsea enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, attending concerts, and traveling the US in her custom-build skoolie.
Chelsea specializes in treating young adults and adolescents with a dual diagnosis—particularly eating disorders coupled with mental disorders.
Chelsea Reeves grew up in East Texas where her passion for connecting and helping others was first ignited. Chelsea moved to Newport Beach, CA when she was only 19 to begin her own journey of recovery. This experience inspired her to begin working in the mental health field, and for the last decade Chelsea has held positions at a variety of adult and adolescent treatment programs. . During her free time, Chelsea enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, attending concerts, and traveling the US in her custom-build skoolie.
(512) 764-9842 View (512) 764-9842
Photo of Adriana Quintero, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adriana Quintero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92673
I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals who are navigating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-sabotage, internal and external conflict, and the complexities of blending and changing families. I believe in the transformative power of therapy to help people embrace change and find wholeness. With extensive experience in somatic work and a deep understanding of relational dynamics, I aim to create a safe and nurturing environment. Together, we will uncover the underlying issues that may be holding you back and develop strategies to help you move forward.
I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals who are navigating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-sabotage, internal and external conflict, and the complexities of blending and changing families. I believe in the transformative power of therapy to help people embrace change and find wholeness. With extensive experience in somatic work and a deep understanding of relational dynamics, I aim to create a safe and nurturing environment. Together, we will uncover the underlying issues that may be holding you back and develop strategies to help you move forward.
(682) 688-3326 View (682) 688-3326
Photo of For More Information - Insightful Matters Family Counseling Professionals, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Insightful Matters Family Counseling Professionals
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialties. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialties. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Sarah C. Wohn - Dr. Sarah C. Wohn Psychotherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah C. Wohn Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and the issues that commonly occur with this diagnosis including depression, self-mutilation, compulsive movement, anxiety and body dysmorphia.
Some things about me: I have a conversational style, I'm comfortable and casual in the room and I'm not afraid to ask tough questions. I'm not the therapist for you if you are looking for a "blank slate." This is a team effort and I will do what it takes to get you the help you need. I have seen therapy work for a lot of people who thought it could never help them, so give me a call if you are unsure and we will figure it out together. It's time to take control back.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and the issues that commonly occur with this diagnosis including depression, self-mutilation, compulsive movement, anxiety and body dysmorphia.
Some things about me: I have a conversational style, I'm comfortable and casual in the room and I'm not afraid to ask tough questions. I'm not the therapist for you if you are looking for a "blank slate." This is a team effort and I will do what it takes to get you the help you need. I have seen therapy work for a lot of people who thought it could never help them, so give me a call if you are unsure and we will figure it out together. It's time to take control back.
(510) 560-7242 View (510) 560-7242
Photo of Megan Aclan - Aclan Behavioral Services, PhD, BCBA-D
Aclan Behavioral Services
PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I work with adolescents and adults on a variety of behavioral issues associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, couples counseling, and addiction Clients learn to identify why and how to respond to situations that affect his/her behavior.
I aim to work with the client to achieve a better quality of life the art of evidence-based practices to help identify each individual's own values and goals to motivate behavior change. I will work with the client to identify his/her personal values and set achievable goals. Sessions are catered to the needs of the client to focus on mindfulness and acceptance of one's values and goals. The client will learn to independently set achievable goals and maintain the quality of life you set forth during and after therapy.
I work with adolescents and adults on a variety of behavioral issues associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, couples counseling, and addiction Clients learn to identify why and how to respond to situations that affect his/her behavior.
I aim to work with the client to achieve a better quality of life the art of evidence-based practices to help identify each individual's own values and goals to motivate behavior change. I will work with the client to identify his/her personal values and set achievable goals. Sessions are catered to the needs of the client to focus on mindfulness and acceptance of one's values and goals. The client will learn to independently set achievable goals and maintain the quality of life you set forth during and after therapy.
(818) 660-0747 View (818) 660-0747

See more therapy options for Santa Clarita

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.