Eating Disorders Therapists in Ventura, CA

Photo of Shira Mehrnia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shira Mehrnia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
My goal is to help my clients expand their capacity for trust and intimacy in relationships and improve their overall quality of life. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues and women suffering from prepartum and postpartum depression. I have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders and body image issues.
My goal is to help my clients expand their capacity for trust and intimacy in relationships and improve their overall quality of life. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues and women suffering from prepartum and postpartum depression. I have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders and body image issues.
(805) 954-9633 View (805) 954-9633
Photo of Rachel Cannon, AMFT, Counselor
Rachel Cannon
Counselor, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I specialize in eating disorders, addiction, and major life transitions, including the postpartum experience and significant relationship transitions.
Life doesn’t always go the way we expected. Maybe you want to discover what has been holding you back or perhaps you struggle with addiction or anxiety that seems to keep you stuck in a loop of dissatisfaction. Maybe it’s the little things that keep adding up and it seems like you’re navigating a thin tight-rope. When the changes of life seem to throw you off or knock you down, I am here to help you explore the challenges and break down the barriers to you rewriting the narrative of your life.
I specialize in eating disorders, addiction, and major life transitions, including the postpartum experience and significant relationship transitions.
Life doesn’t always go the way we expected. Maybe you want to discover what has been holding you back or perhaps you struggle with addiction or anxiety that seems to keep you stuck in a loop of dissatisfaction. Maybe it’s the little things that keep adding up and it seems like you’re navigating a thin tight-rope. When the changes of life seem to throw you off or knock you down, I am here to help you explore the challenges and break down the barriers to you rewriting the narrative of your life.
(805) 696-6186 View (805) 696-6186
Photo of Kasey Curtis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kasey Curtis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I help individuals address anxiety, panic, trauma, dissociation, DID, self esteem, depression, eating disorders/unhealthy relationship with food, and body image.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
I help individuals address anxiety, panic, trauma, dissociation, DID, self esteem, depression, eating disorders/unhealthy relationship with food, and body image.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
(805) 856-6458 View (805) 856-6458
Photo of Jean Palmer-Daley, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean Palmer-Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
Waitlist for new clients
As a Jungian analyst I have had the privilege of assisting adults in their healing processes. Healing and true psychological change come from finding one's own truth and true nature. Whether your symptoms take the form of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-destructive behaviors or problems within your family, breakthroughs can take place in a safe, confidential, and trusting environment. "If you give a person a fish they eat a meal; if you teach them to fish they eat for a lifetime." Understanding that Jungian analysis is a long process I offer a fee based on the individual's ability to pay and sustain the work.
As a Jungian analyst I have had the privilege of assisting adults in their healing processes. Healing and true psychological change come from finding one's own truth and true nature. Whether your symptoms take the form of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-destructive behaviors or problems within your family, breakthroughs can take place in a safe, confidential, and trusting environment. "If you give a person a fish they eat a meal; if you teach them to fish they eat for a lifetime." Understanding that Jungian analysis is a long process I offer a fee based on the individual's ability to pay and sustain the work.
(805) 212-7800 View (805) 212-7800
Photo of Linda S Wells, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda S Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Linda Wells, LCSW, CEDS treats Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and other Eating Disorder in a therapeutic environment.
Linda Wells - Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist, LCSW, CEDS. I specialize in the clinical treatment of eating disorders, with 25 years of experience in the field. I work closely with a team of providers in Santa Barbara County, and inpatient programs, to assist in obtaining the best care for you or your family member. In addition to eating disorders, my practice focuses on the clinical treatment of child abuse, depression, and anxiety. I offer individual counseling & family counseling.
Linda Wells, LCSW, CEDS treats Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and other Eating Disorder in a therapeutic environment.
Linda Wells - Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist, LCSW, CEDS. I specialize in the clinical treatment of eating disorders, with 25 years of experience in the field. I work closely with a team of providers in Santa Barbara County, and inpatient programs, to assist in obtaining the best care for you or your family member. In addition to eating disorders, my practice focuses on the clinical treatment of child abuse, depression, and anxiety. I offer individual counseling & family counseling.
(805) 918-4815 View (805) 918-4815
Photo of Rachel Finch Sulka, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Finch Sulka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
I have over 15 years' experience treating those with eating disorders at all levels of care.
If you are browsing this site, you are likely looking for a safe, competent person to help you sort through a difficult issue. I am a warm, highly experienced therapist with specialties in the areas of eating disorders, codependency, addiction, attachment trauma, and spiritual abuse. I understand the complexity and depth of disordered eating and body-related issues. Also, if you suspect you may have a parent or significant figure in your life with a personality disorder, I can help you heal the attachment trauma and empower your true self. I also work with those navigating relationship with church and spirituality.
I have over 15 years' experience treating those with eating disorders at all levels of care.
If you are browsing this site, you are likely looking for a safe, competent person to help you sort through a difficult issue. I am a warm, highly experienced therapist with specialties in the areas of eating disorders, codependency, addiction, attachment trauma, and spiritual abuse. I understand the complexity and depth of disordered eating and body-related issues. Also, if you suspect you may have a parent or significant figure in your life with a personality disorder, I can help you heal the attachment trauma and empower your true self. I also work with those navigating relationship with church and spirituality.
(805) 719-7414 View (805) 719-7414
Photo of Heather Gibson, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Heather Gibson
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
GIbson specializes in a variety of areas including weight loss and management, obesity and bariatric surgery, and other eating disorders.
I love being able to do the work that I do. I feel so fortunate to be able to help people in meeting their goals and building skills for coping with various life stressors. I feel that I have strengths in quickly connecting and helping people to feel comfortable with therapy, which can be uncomfortable at first. I always adapt treatments for what individuals need, and never uses a "one size fits all" philosophy. Each person has specific strengths and needs. Let's partner together to help you in meeting your needs.
GIbson specializes in a variety of areas including weight loss and management, obesity and bariatric surgery, and other eating disorders.
I love being able to do the work that I do. I feel so fortunate to be able to help people in meeting their goals and building skills for coping with various life stressors. I feel that I have strengths in quickly connecting and helping people to feel comfortable with therapy, which can be uncomfortable at first. I always adapt treatments for what individuals need, and never uses a "one size fits all" philosophy. Each person has specific strengths and needs. Let's partner together to help you in meeting your needs.
(805) 624-4092 View (805) 624-4092
Photo of Rachel Beth McMurray - The Truth Space Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Truth Space Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
Welcome, and here’s a bit about my practice! I am client-centered in training so therapy is about you and your goals, not mine. I strive to be honest, to “hold up a mirror" to help people get more clear on who they are and what they truly value. I have found that most benefit specifically from this pairing of therapeutic challenge and caring support. My passion is working with people who process differently, might identify as neurodivergent. This includes medical terms like ADHD, ASD, personality disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, self-injury, bipolar disorders, etc. The goal is self-acceptance and empowerment!
Welcome, and here’s a bit about my practice! I am client-centered in training so therapy is about you and your goals, not mine. I strive to be honest, to “hold up a mirror" to help people get more clear on who they are and what they truly value. I have found that most benefit specifically from this pairing of therapeutic challenge and caring support. My passion is working with people who process differently, might identify as neurodivergent. This includes medical terms like ADHD, ASD, personality disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, self-injury, bipolar disorders, etc. The goal is self-acceptance and empowerment!
(818) 794-7020 View (818) 794-7020
Photo of Lisa Ann Noack, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Lisa Ann Noack
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
I have worked with clients battling co-occurring disorders and recognize the complexities of mental health disorders, chemical dependency, and eating disorders, and this informs my unconditional and empathetic approach.
It's not easy asking for help and support when navigating life's challenges. Finding a trained therapist you feel comfortable with is extremely important. My goal is to balance supportive connection with skilled intervention, helping clients create healthy and meaningful lives. I believe in a holistic, integrative approach to therapy that includes all dimensions of health. I perceive every person who enters therapy as valuable and courageous, deserving treatment tailored to their specific needs in a supportive and safe environment. I will always respect your unique personality, cultural background and family context.
I have worked with clients battling co-occurring disorders and recognize the complexities of mental health disorders, chemical dependency, and eating disorders, and this informs my unconditional and empathetic approach.
It's not easy asking for help and support when navigating life's challenges. Finding a trained therapist you feel comfortable with is extremely important. My goal is to balance supportive connection with skilled intervention, helping clients create healthy and meaningful lives. I believe in a holistic, integrative approach to therapy that includes all dimensions of health. I perceive every person who enters therapy as valuable and courageous, deserving treatment tailored to their specific needs in a supportive and safe environment. I will always respect your unique personality, cultural background and family context.
(805) 941-3403 View (805) 941-3403
Photo of Kimberly Benning, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Benning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating, addictions, anxiety, and depression. I work largely from a cognitive-behavioral framework, helping patients to identify and restructure their thoughts that lead to maladaptive behaviors, in order to engage in healthier and more productive ways. If you want to make peace with food, learn to love your body, feel more stable and secure in your emotions, strengthen your relationships, break free from addictive behaviors, or just have someone to talk to when life gets rough, please reach out!
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating, addictions, anxiety, and depression. I work largely from a cognitive-behavioral framework, helping patients to identify and restructure their thoughts that lead to maladaptive behaviors, in order to engage in healthier and more productive ways. If you want to make peace with food, learn to love your body, feel more stable and secure in your emotions, strengthen your relationships, break free from addictive behaviors, or just have someone to talk to when life gets rough, please reach out!
(562) 502-8871 View (562) 502-8871
Photo of John J Dowling Lmft, LMFT, CCHt, Marriage & Family Therapist
John J Dowling Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCHt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001
I work with a diverse population of clients providing individual, group, couples, and family therapy to those struggling with alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I have extensive experience working in both inpatient settings and in my private practice. In my work I am compassionate, engaged, attentive, playful, fierce, challenging, non-judgmental, and tender. I am a client centered, humanistic, depth psychologist, which means that therapy is focused on clients and their issues. I believe in authenticity, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard. Together we work to address multiple areas of client's life.
I work with a diverse population of clients providing individual, group, couples, and family therapy to those struggling with alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I have extensive experience working in both inpatient settings and in my private practice. In my work I am compassionate, engaged, attentive, playful, fierce, challenging, non-judgmental, and tender. I am a client centered, humanistic, depth psychologist, which means that therapy is focused on clients and their issues. I believe in authenticity, genuineness, and unconditional positive regard. Together we work to address multiple areas of client's life.
(805) 633-6626 View (805) 633-6626
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(805) 219-7042 View (805) 219-7042
Photo of Jennifer Kadin, Psy D, Psychologist
Jennifer Kadin
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
While comfortable and experienced with working with all ages of clients for either therapy or psychological testing, I have a special affinity and expertise in working with adolescents and transitional age youth, especially those with trauma histories, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, anger, and acting out behaviors.
I am a licensed clinical and Forensic Psychologist for the past 9 years. I currently work at Family Psychological Services providing psychological evaluations and testing in children, adolscents and adults for attention, learning and memory problems. I specialize in individual, family, and couples’ therapy for all ages and utilizes cognitive -behavioral as well as solution focused, psychodynamic, and object relations interventions. I also have many years of experience with risk assessment and psychological testing for children, adolescents, and adults and is a skilled diagnostician and treatment planner.
While comfortable and experienced with working with all ages of clients for either therapy or psychological testing, I have a special affinity and expertise in working with adolescents and transitional age youth, especially those with trauma histories, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, anger, and acting out behaviors.
I am a licensed clinical and Forensic Psychologist for the past 9 years. I currently work at Family Psychological Services providing psychological evaluations and testing in children, adolscents and adults for attention, learning and memory problems. I specialize in individual, family, and couples’ therapy for all ages and utilizes cognitive -behavioral as well as solution focused, psychodynamic, and object relations interventions. I also have many years of experience with risk assessment and psychological testing for children, adolescents, and adults and is a skilled diagnostician and treatment planner.
(747) 322-4420 View (747) 322-4420
Photo of Farah Jadhavji, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Farah Jadhavji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
(805) 303-7633 View (805) 303-7633
Photo of Jeanette Aguayo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanette Aguayo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
(805) 323-9406 View (805) 323-9406
Photo of Jessica Boghosian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Boghosian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Perhaps you have found yourself at a familiar crossroad, questioning if you can achieve that dream or feeling it’s too late to even try. What we see as flaws today are often echoes of patterns formed long ago—rooted in early experiences that shaped how we connect with ourselves and others. The connection between mind and body is deeply intricate, transcending the present moment. Trauma, though not always apparent, informs these repeated, unconscious ways of being that once helped us navigate emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. With compassionate attention, we can untangle these patterns and move towards genuine transformation.
Perhaps you have found yourself at a familiar crossroad, questioning if you can achieve that dream or feeling it’s too late to even try. What we see as flaws today are often echoes of patterns formed long ago—rooted in early experiences that shaped how we connect with ourselves and others. The connection between mind and body is deeply intricate, transcending the present moment. Trauma, though not always apparent, informs these repeated, unconscious ways of being that once helped us navigate emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. With compassionate attention, we can untangle these patterns and move towards genuine transformation.
(805) 855-1453 View (805) 855-1453
Photo of Kira Gibson, LMFT, RDN, C-IAYT, CAHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kira Gibson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDN, C-IAYT, CAHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Are you less than satisfied with who you've become and the life you're living? Many of us struggle with acceptance and love for our bodies and are unsure how to make peace with ourselves and plot a positive path forward. I believe therapy is a collaboration where I meet you wherever you are and we become partners on the path toward your best self. Because mental and emotional distress happens in relationship, we begin with the most important relationship you will ever have – the one with yourself. The way in which we treat ourselves directly correlates with how we show up in the world and connect with others.
Are you less than satisfied with who you've become and the life you're living? Many of us struggle with acceptance and love for our bodies and are unsure how to make peace with ourselves and plot a positive path forward. I believe therapy is a collaboration where I meet you wherever you are and we become partners on the path toward your best self. Because mental and emotional distress happens in relationship, we begin with the most important relationship you will ever have – the one with yourself. The way in which we treat ourselves directly correlates with how we show up in the world and connect with others.
(805) 360-6808 View (805) 360-6808
Photo of Sarah Weber, LPA, Psychological Associate
Sarah Weber
Psychological Associate, LPA
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietician as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
(805) 254-9222 View (805) 254-9222
Photo of Elizabeth Kennedy, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Elizabeth Kennedy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93002
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietitian as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
Anxiety Experts has offices in Goleta, Montecito and Ventura, as well as virtual outpatient and Virtual Intensive Outpatient (VIOP) Treatment. Our team is specialized in treating anxiety, panic, social phobia, school refusal, OCD, PTSD, BDD, and disordered eating. These problems rob one's sense of freedom, confidence and self-worth. We treat these issues with a type of CBT called Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Medical Nutrition Therapy from a Registered Dietitian as appropriate. We have helped hundreds of adults and kids master their fears; research shows in-person and live video to be equally effective!
(424) 459-8733 View (424) 459-8733
Photo of Karyn Noel, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karyn Noel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
It's hard to be human right now, isn't it? There is too much to do, we're constantly behind, and that much-needed break feels perpetually out of reach. As if that was not enough, we also have our family members' weird political opinions to deal with and massive amounts of anxiety about what's around the corner. Overwhelm greets us like an annoying ex-partner every time we turn around.
It's hard to be human right now, isn't it? There is too much to do, we're constantly behind, and that much-needed break feels perpetually out of reach. As if that was not enough, we also have our family members' weird political opinions to deal with and massive amounts of anxiety about what's around the corner. Overwhelm greets us like an annoying ex-partner every time we turn around.
(805) 902-4237 View (805) 902-4237
1
Eating Disorders Therapists

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviors, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behavior affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counseling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioral disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behavior, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognize they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behavior has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.