Eating Disorders Therapists in Marathon, FL

Photo of Sarah Brawer, MA, CAP, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Brawer
Counselor, MA, CAP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marathon, FL 33050
I have extensive experience working in the areas of trauma, addiction, and mental health. I am a certified as a Certified Addictions Professional and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am trained in EMDR and specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma. I am the Coordinator of the Florida Keys Trauma Recovery Network. I work with adults, children and adolescents. Families and couples counseling are welcome.
I have extensive experience working in the areas of trauma, addiction, and mental health. I am a certified as a Certified Addictions Professional and Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am trained in EMDR and specialize in working with people who have experienced trauma. I am the Coordinator of the Florida Keys Trauma Recovery Network. I work with adults, children and adolescents. Families and couples counseling are welcome.
(305) 676-7214 View (305) 676-7214
Photo of Daisy Papp
Daisy Papp
Verified Verified
Marathon, FL 33050
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
(305) 834-4575 View (305) 834-4575
Photo of Rosanne Bergoch Walsh - Coastal Counseling Services, LMHC, LMT, CST, Counselor
Coastal Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC, LMT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marathon, FL 33050
My approach to therapy is integrative and includes the mental, physical, spiritual, energetic and emotional components of healing. I am eclectic and use a variety of counseling techniques and bodywork modalities to match the client's needs and situation. My ideal client is one who has used traditional talk therapy and is 'stuck' in the loop of the mind and wishes to heal, change, grow or resolve and move on with life. Most conditions are improved by my approach, especially with those who are willing. I see couples for relationship counseling using a you/me/us approach. It works!
My approach to therapy is integrative and includes the mental, physical, spiritual, energetic and emotional components of healing. I am eclectic and use a variety of counseling techniques and bodywork modalities to match the client's needs and situation. My ideal client is one who has used traditional talk therapy and is 'stuck' in the loop of the mind and wishes to heal, change, grow or resolve and move on with life. Most conditions are improved by my approach, especially with those who are willing. I see couples for relationship counseling using a you/me/us approach. It works!
(786) 477-6227 View (786) 477-6227
Photo of Candice Bruce, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candice Bruce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marathon, FL 33050
Hi, my name is Candice Bruce. I am a licensed therapist with over ten years of experience. I have helped my clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, life transitions, relationship issues, grief, etc. My approach to therapy is warm and supportive. I utilize a combination of Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered. I firmly believe that working toward your goals creates a positive change in your life.
Hi, my name is Candice Bruce. I am a licensed therapist with over ten years of experience. I have helped my clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, life transitions, relationship issues, grief, etc. My approach to therapy is warm and supportive. I utilize a combination of Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Trauma Focused, and Person-Centered. I firmly believe that working toward your goals creates a positive change in your life.
(386) 261-8902 View (386) 261-8902

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristin Elizabeth Jones, DHSc, LMHC, Counselor
Kristin Elizabeth Jones
Counselor, DHSc, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137  (Online Only)
Helping people to live more balanced and healthy lives is my passion. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, and depression, utilizing DBT, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness in my approach. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach to therapy involves collaborating with the client to create a fulfilling and value driven life. I enjoy helping people to improve self-awareness, face fears, and increase feelings of mastery and contentment.
Helping people to live more balanced and healthy lives is my passion. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, and depression, utilizing DBT, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness in my approach. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach to therapy involves collaborating with the client to create a fulfilling and value driven life. I enjoy helping people to improve self-awareness, face fears, and increase feelings of mastery and contentment.
(305) 834-4442 View (305) 834-4442
Photo of Vilma G Riquenes, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Vilma G Riquenes
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33175  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Have you noticed that your eating habits affect your work, school, or relationships? Maybe you're feeling stuck, anxious, sad, or just overwhelmed by it all. You don’t have to go through this on your own—I’m here to support you. Emotions can sometimes become too much to handle, making everyday life more difficult. It’s completely understandable to want some guidance, a sense of understanding, and practical tools to help you regain your balance. You’re likely hoping to feel more steady and more able to face life’s challenges confidently. Ultimately, it’s about finding peace of mind and giving yourself the space to grow.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Have you noticed that your eating habits affect your work, school, or relationships? Maybe you're feeling stuck, anxious, sad, or just overwhelmed by it all. You don’t have to go through this on your own—I’m here to support you. Emotions can sometimes become too much to handle, making everyday life more difficult. It’s completely understandable to want some guidance, a sense of understanding, and practical tools to help you regain your balance. You’re likely hoping to feel more steady and more able to face life’s challenges confidently. Ultimately, it’s about finding peace of mind and giving yourself the space to grow.
(786) 952-5807 View (786) 952-5807
Photo of Callie Marie Baquero, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Callie Marie Baquero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
My specialties consist of working with those suffering from self-esteem, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and marital/relationship issues.
I work with clients of all ages to help cultivate healthy coping skills for day to day life. I am a firm believer in my favorite quote by John Milton: "The mind is it's own place and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven." At times, even the most self-aware individual can benefit from gaining outside perspective to how they handle daily obstacles. With a special emphasis on mindfulness, I help clients identify tools they often forget they already have in their possession to be their healthiest, and happiest selves.
My specialties consist of working with those suffering from self-esteem, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and marital/relationship issues.
I work with clients of all ages to help cultivate healthy coping skills for day to day life. I am a firm believer in my favorite quote by John Milton: "The mind is it's own place and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven." At times, even the most self-aware individual can benefit from gaining outside perspective to how they handle daily obstacles. With a special emphasis on mindfulness, I help clients identify tools they often forget they already have in their possession to be their healthiest, and happiest selves.
(786) 981-0743 View (786) 981-0743
Photo of Kevin Scholz, PsyD, Psychologist
Kevin Scholz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33134
I am skilled and experienced in treating a wide array of psychological concerns, including: Eating Disorders; Relationship difficulties; Anxiety; Depression; Substance use/abuse; Trauma; Self-esteem issues.
I am the co-director of the Miami Counseling & Resource Center, a multidisciplinary mental health practice in Coral Gables. I provide individual, couples and family therapy for a variety of presenting problems, life struggles and relationship issues. I grew up in Miami, and I have a great love for and familiarity with South Florida and the multi-cultural and ethnic diversity that make it such a colorful place to live and work. I am very enthusiastic about my work with clients from all walks of life, and I hope that I can be of help to you, too!
I am skilled and experienced in treating a wide array of psychological concerns, including: Eating Disorders; Relationship difficulties; Anxiety; Depression; Substance use/abuse; Trauma; Self-esteem issues.
I am the co-director of the Miami Counseling & Resource Center, a multidisciplinary mental health practice in Coral Gables. I provide individual, couples and family therapy for a variety of presenting problems, life struggles and relationship issues. I grew up in Miami, and I have a great love for and familiarity with South Florida and the multi-cultural and ethnic diversity that make it such a colorful place to live and work. I am very enthusiastic about my work with clients from all walks of life, and I hope that I can be of help to you, too!
(305) 767-1169 x115 View (305) 767-1169 x115
Photo of Sally Duerr-Rodriguez, MS, LMHC, LPC
Sally Duerr-Rodriguez
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Shores, FL 33138
This age group has had to struggle with anxiety, depression, ptsd and grief and loss and eating disorders during the pandemic.
The holidays can be stressful. I want to set you free. I want to help you help yourself. I am certified in DBT for adolescents, young adults, adults and families and also have a certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for eating disorders. My other specialties include substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationship difficulties, and grief. Let's take the first step to freedom together.
This age group has had to struggle with anxiety, depression, ptsd and grief and loss and eating disorders during the pandemic.
The holidays can be stressful. I want to set you free. I want to help you help yourself. I am certified in DBT for adolescents, young adults, adults and families and also have a certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for eating disorders. My other specialties include substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationship difficulties, and grief. Let's take the first step to freedom together.
(954) 231-4183 View (954) 231-4183
Photo of Lisa Jimenez, LMHC
Lisa Jimenez
LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33143
I specialize in eating disorders, disordered eating, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel trapped in a cycle of anxiety, obsessive thoughts about food and your body, or dissatisfaction with life? Maybe you're constantly comparing yourself to others, feeling stuck, and no matter what you do, peace feels out of reach. I'm here to help. Together, we can explore the reasons behind your struggle and create a plan to break free from these patterns, so you can start living the life you truly want. Many of my clients come to me feeling the same way—caught in unhealthy cycles and unsure of how to move forward. Therapy with me is about gaining deeper insight into these challenges and working through them together.
I specialize in eating disorders, disordered eating, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel trapped in a cycle of anxiety, obsessive thoughts about food and your body, or dissatisfaction with life? Maybe you're constantly comparing yourself to others, feeling stuck, and no matter what you do, peace feels out of reach. I'm here to help. Together, we can explore the reasons behind your struggle and create a plan to break free from these patterns, so you can start living the life you truly want. Many of my clients come to me feeling the same way—caught in unhealthy cycles and unsure of how to move forward. Therapy with me is about gaining deeper insight into these challenges and working through them together.
(786) 741-7953 View (786) 741-7953
Photo of Rachna Buxani-Mirpuri, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Rachna Buxani-Mirpuri
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33156
My services are available to teens and adults to help them overcome various challenges including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, behavioral disturbances, couples conflicts, and familial dysfunction.
The only person who can defeat you is YOU. Most of us have endured, been broken and suffered hardships. In my 16 years of practice nationally and internationally in government and private settings, I have assisted my clients to move forward and grow stronger each day by empowering them. My biggest strength is my multicultural counseling experience which makes me especially empathic to cultural differences in the context of mental health issues amongst clients. Working with client’s hand in hand, I support them in the process of change and to improve their overall satisfaction of life.
My services are available to teens and adults to help them overcome various challenges including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, behavioral disturbances, couples conflicts, and familial dysfunction.
The only person who can defeat you is YOU. Most of us have endured, been broken and suffered hardships. In my 16 years of practice nationally and internationally in government and private settings, I have assisted my clients to move forward and grow stronger each day by empowering them. My biggest strength is my multicultural counseling experience which makes me especially empathic to cultural differences in the context of mental health issues amongst clients. Working with client’s hand in hand, I support them in the process of change and to improve their overall satisfaction of life.
(786) 442-2076 View (786) 442-2076
Photo of Brianna Doran, LMHC, Counselor
Brianna Doran
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33133  (Online Only)
I typically work with teens and adult women struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma, and/or eating disorders.
Hi! My name is Brianna Doran, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida! I take a very person-centered, collaborative approach to mental health and focus a lot on the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Taking a collaborative approach to therapy means that I view us as equals and place a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and your understanding of your own brain and body! My ultimate goal with therapy is to respect the fact that it will be what you need it to be, and I want to help you get to where you'd like to see yourself!
I typically work with teens and adult women struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, self-harm, trauma, and/or eating disorders.
Hi! My name is Brianna Doran, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida! I take a very person-centered, collaborative approach to mental health and focus a lot on the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma. Taking a collaborative approach to therapy means that I view us as equals and place a strong emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and your understanding of your own brain and body! My ultimate goal with therapy is to respect the fact that it will be what you need it to be, and I want to help you get to where you'd like to see yourself!
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Chris Vara, LCSW-C, LICSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Vara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33132  (Online Only)
Call me or email me to schedule your first session! I have worked with families, adolescents and adults in several treatment centers that specialize in eating disorders, trauma, OCD and substance use.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
Call me or email me to schedule your first session! I have worked with families, adolescents and adults in several treatment centers that specialize in eating disorders, trauma, OCD and substance use.
Are you caught in cycles that leave you exhausted? Do you want to have better relationships but find them splintering? Are you self-critical in your efforts to obtain perfection? Do you find yourself shutting down or shutting off? You don't have to suffer in silence. Nor do you have to leave any part of yourself behind - I work with the whole person. Our identities often intersect with our struggles and our strengths. I'll meet you where you're at, and help you get where you're going. Whether you are just starting or looking to maintain your recovery from eating disorders, trauma and/or OCD, together recovery is possible.
(952) 234-8036 View (952) 234-8036
Photo of Dr. Austin Aibel, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Austin Aibel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33133  (Online Only)
I completed my predoctoral internship at Wake Forest University, working on the Eating Disorders Assessment and Treatment Team.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Austin Aibel. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in eating disorders and body image issues. I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns. I often work with individuals in their teens, twenties, and thirties (but love working with people across the age spectrum). I am passionate about this work and this shows in sessions. I am not a "smile and nod therapist"- Clients have described me as interactive, genuine, and energetic.
I completed my predoctoral internship at Wake Forest University, working on the Eating Disorders Assessment and Treatment Team.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Austin Aibel. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and I specialize in eating disorders and body image issues. I have also done a lot of work with folks struggling with trauma, OCD, chronic illness/complex medical conditions, and identity concerns. I often work with individuals in their teens, twenties, and thirties (but love working with people across the age spectrum). I am passionate about this work and this shows in sessions. I am not a "smile and nod therapist"- Clients have described me as interactive, genuine, and energetic.
(312) 626-5114 View (312) 626-5114
Photo of Sandra Beggs, MA, LMHC, BC-DMT, RPsych, (AB)
Sandra Beggs
MA, LMHC, BC-DMT, RPsych, (AB)
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33134  (Online Only)
I help my clients deal with depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse/PTSD, grief and loss, eating disorders, conflict in their relationships, and life changes & transitions. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, an EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have over 25 years experience in blending verbal therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and trauma focused therapies such as EMDR with the expressive arts (dance/movement, art, music, writing). I look forward to offering you an effective and personalized approach!
I help my clients deal with depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse/PTSD, grief and loss, eating disorders, conflict in their relationships, and life changes & transitions. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, an EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have over 25 years experience in blending verbal therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and trauma focused therapies such as EMDR with the expressive arts (dance/movement, art, music, writing). I look forward to offering you an effective and personalized approach!
(305) 918-1632 View (305) 918-1632
Photo of Melissa Levine, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Levine
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Aventura, FL 33180
My name is Melissa Levine and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of FL (14393). My specialties include: working with children, adolescents, families, adult individuals, and couples and working with issues such as Stress, Anxiety/ Relationship issues/ Eating disorders/ Self-esteem/ Depression/ Family conflicts/ Infertility/ Trauma and abuse/ Anger management/ Coping with life changes. I have over 10 years of experience in the counseling field. I enjoy working from a cognitive behavioral and person centered point of view. I absolutely love what I do and cannot wait to begin this therapeutic journey with you!
My name is Melissa Levine and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of FL (14393). My specialties include: working with children, adolescents, families, adult individuals, and couples and working with issues such as Stress, Anxiety/ Relationship issues/ Eating disorders/ Self-esteem/ Depression/ Family conflicts/ Infertility/ Trauma and abuse/ Anger management/ Coping with life changes. I have over 10 years of experience in the counseling field. I enjoy working from a cognitive behavioral and person centered point of view. I absolutely love what I do and cannot wait to begin this therapeutic journey with you!
(954) 710-0486 View (954) 710-0486
Photo of Rebecca Russ, LMHC, R-DMT, Counselor
Rebecca Russ
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33134
I'm Rebecca Russ, a licensed mental health counselor and dance/movement therapist here in Miami. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety spectrum disorders like OCD, PTSD, GAD, and also eating disorders. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and direct, focusing on practical strategies to address underlying issues with empathy and understanding.
I'm Rebecca Russ, a licensed mental health counselor and dance/movement therapist here in Miami. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety spectrum disorders like OCD, PTSD, GAD, and also eating disorders. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and direct, focusing on practical strategies to address underlying issues with empathy and understanding.
(786) 480-8854 View (786) 480-8854
Photo of Alessana Fordin, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Alessana Fordin
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33129
Specializing in guiding clients towards meaningful and enduring transformations in their lives is my focus—be it navigating the aftermath of a marriage, achieving weight loss goals, conquering addictions or eating disorders, fostering and sustaining relationships, or mastering anger management.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
Specializing in guiding clients towards meaningful and enduring transformations in their lives is my focus—be it navigating the aftermath of a marriage, achieving weight loss goals, conquering addictions or eating disorders, fostering and sustaining relationships, or mastering anger management.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(305) 834-4115 View (305) 834-4115
Photo of Dr. Lydia Kalsner-Silver, Psychologist
Dr. Lydia Kalsner-Silver
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
My areas of specialty include Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, treatment resistant depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
I am a licensed psychologist with extensive training and experience in the treatment of adults, children and families. As part of the South Florida DBT Consortium, I am a certified DBT- Linehan Board Clinician. Additionally, my group practice is a Linehan Board Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program and provides individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, adults and parents. My credentials include a doctoral degree from Rutgers University and two masters degrees in psychology from Columbia University. I also have extensive postdoctoral training and expertise in the treatment of children & families.
My areas of specialty include Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, treatment resistant depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
I am a licensed psychologist with extensive training and experience in the treatment of adults, children and families. As part of the South Florida DBT Consortium, I am a certified DBT- Linehan Board Clinician. Additionally, my group practice is a Linehan Board Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program and provides individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, adults and parents. My credentials include a doctoral degree from Rutgers University and two masters degrees in psychology from Columbia University. I also have extensive postdoctoral training and expertise in the treatment of children & families.
(305) 423-9942 View (305) 423-9942
Photo of Ariana Guevara, MS, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Ariana Guevara
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130
As a Licensed Mental Health counselor, I specialize in eating disorders and substance abuse in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Our natural response is to continue ignoring our emotions and putting on a brave face to get through the day. My goal with you is to help take off that mask and work through the reality for a healthier future.
As a Licensed Mental Health counselor, I specialize in eating disorders and substance abuse in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Our natural response is to continue ignoring our emotions and putting on a brave face to get through the day. My goal with you is to help take off that mask and work through the reality for a healthier future.
(407) 550-6117 View (407) 550-6117

See more therapy options for Marathon

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.