Eating Disorders Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Olivia Papakyrikos, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Olivia Papakyrikos
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02127
I am a licensed therapist and performance psychology consultant, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, and anxiety.
As a former collegiate athlete, I faced various challenges during my athletic career. As I navigated my recovery from injuries, I became aware of the various mental and physical obstacles that accompany recovering from an injury. My experiences as an athlete motivated me to help individuals tackle their own mental struggles. In our work together, I strive to build a safe space for you to share your own experiences and make changes at your own pace. I will create an individualized with you to target your unique goals, build upon your strengths and explore areas for continued growth.
I am a licensed therapist and performance psychology consultant, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, and anxiety.
As a former collegiate athlete, I faced various challenges during my athletic career. As I navigated my recovery from injuries, I became aware of the various mental and physical obstacles that accompany recovering from an injury. My experiences as an athlete motivated me to help individuals tackle their own mental struggles. In our work together, I strive to build a safe space for you to share your own experiences and make changes at your own pace. I will create an individualized with you to target your unique goals, build upon your strengths and explore areas for continued growth.
(857) 227-9184 View (857) 227-9184
Photo of Celia Cristina Campos Beuter - CamposBeuter Counseling, MA, CAGS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
CamposBeuter Counseling
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
My name is Celia, I am a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish-American) Clinical Counselor and Consultant. I have over 25 years of local, national and international clinical experience. I work with clients who want ongoing psychotherapy and those who want a one time consult. I specialize in children, teens and young adults with eating disorders, adoptee trauma, expats adjustment, grief therapy, parenting and school-counseling treatment interventions.I have extensive experience working with school age children in various school settings. You can find me on Grow Therapy. Hablo Español.
My name is Celia, I am a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish-American) Clinical Counselor and Consultant. I have over 25 years of local, national and international clinical experience. I work with clients who want ongoing psychotherapy and those who want a one time consult. I specialize in children, teens and young adults with eating disorders, adoptee trauma, expats adjustment, grief therapy, parenting and school-counseling treatment interventions.I have extensive experience working with school age children in various school settings. You can find me on Grow Therapy. Hablo Español.
(508) 719-7806 View (508) 719-7806
Photo of Taryn L Cagnina, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Taryn L Cagnina
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
For clients: I am EMDR certified and focus most of my work on Trauma and PTSD while also specializing in eating disorders.
Why do so many of us avoid feeling? Somewhere along the line, we learned that discomfort was "bad." We all avoid in certain ways and it takes strength to look at ourselves compassionately. I balance a realistic, no fluff approach with warmth and empathy. We are all going through something, but I believe we can heal and be inspired by the little things (which eventually become the big things).
For clients: I am EMDR certified and focus most of my work on Trauma and PTSD while also specializing in eating disorders.
Why do so many of us avoid feeling? Somewhere along the line, we learned that discomfort was "bad." We all avoid in certain ways and it takes strength to look at ourselves compassionately. I balance a realistic, no fluff approach with warmth and empathy. We are all going through something, but I believe we can heal and be inspired by the little things (which eventually become the big things).
(857) 203-8409 View (857) 203-8409
Photo of Ashley Dunford, PhD, Psychologist
Ashley Dunford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Common Conditions Treated: Binge Eating, Anorexia, Bulimia, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Food Addiction, Behavioral weight loss for obesity/bariatrics, Gastrointestinal or metabolic disease management, Body image concerns, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Major Depressive Disorder, Self-esteem, Mood dysregulation, Life Transitions/Changes.
I am currently taking new patients for telehealth psychotherapy services. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, collaborative, and directive, rooted in cognitive behavioral, acceptance-based, and psychodynamic approaches. I am licensed to practice in Massachusetts and Connecticut. My psychotherapy and diagnostic specialties include a range of treatment options for individuals experiencing various conditions. These include eating disorders, body image, weight management and bariatric surgery, sleep disorders, chronic illness management, and internalizing disorders such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Common Conditions Treated: Binge Eating, Anorexia, Bulimia, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Food Addiction, Behavioral weight loss for obesity/bariatrics, Gastrointestinal or metabolic disease management, Body image concerns, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Major Depressive Disorder, Self-esteem, Mood dysregulation, Life Transitions/Changes.
I am currently taking new patients for telehealth psychotherapy services. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, collaborative, and directive, rooted in cognitive behavioral, acceptance-based, and psychodynamic approaches. I am licensed to practice in Massachusetts and Connecticut. My psychotherapy and diagnostic specialties include a range of treatment options for individuals experiencing various conditions. These include eating disorders, body image, weight management and bariatric surgery, sleep disorders, chronic illness management, and internalizing disorders such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
(475) 264-6255 View (475) 264-6255
Photo of Susan E. Margolis, PhD, Psychologist
Susan E. Margolis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I am a specialist in the treatment of all eating disorders and I can help establish the gold standard team approach through my relationships with other eating disorder experts in the greater Boston area.
The decision to begin therapy can be challenging and can follow attempts to manage difficult life circumstances independently. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, nonjudgmental, and compassionate setting. I work with a diverse range of clients including college students, athletes, young professionals to high level executives, and parents. I have specialized expertise working with elite athletes, dancers, and other types of artists/performers on improving performance as well as treating mental health concerns.
I am a specialist in the treatment of all eating disorders and I can help establish the gold standard team approach through my relationships with other eating disorder experts in the greater Boston area.
The decision to begin therapy can be challenging and can follow attempts to manage difficult life circumstances independently. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, nonjudgmental, and compassionate setting. I work with a diverse range of clients including college students, athletes, young professionals to high level executives, and parents. I have specialized expertise working with elite athletes, dancers, and other types of artists/performers on improving performance as well as treating mental health concerns.
(617) 751-6132 View (617) 751-6132
Photo of Alexandra Smith, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, and trauma, my practice is built on the belief that everyone already has within them the resources to heal, grow, and thrive.
My clients often come to therapy grappling with uncertainty, high stress, or loneliness in their lives. Sometimes they are feeling intense emotions, or behaving in ways that are confusing and frustrating for them. They may be feeling disconnected from other people, or feeling overly worried about how others perceive them. They are seeking more connection, peace and balance in their day-to-day.
Specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, and trauma, my practice is built on the belief that everyone already has within them the resources to heal, grow, and thrive.
My clients often come to therapy grappling with uncertainty, high stress, or loneliness in their lives. Sometimes they are feeling intense emotions, or behaving in ways that are confusing and frustrating for them. They may be feeling disconnected from other people, or feeling overly worried about how others perceive them. They are seeking more connection, peace and balance in their day-to-day.
(617) 380-4947 View (617) 380-4947
Photo of Sharon Chirban, PhD, Psychologist
Sharon Chirban
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I offer a warm and supportive atmosphere and value real relationships with my clients. I believe client rapport is the foundation for a successful outcome. I am founder of Amplify Wellness + Performance, a group of highly trained, skilled psychologists who specialize in helping high-powered people optimize their work/life balance. Our practice has three focus areas: clinical psychology, specifically eating disorders, depression, anxiety and relationship issues; sport psychology; and executive coaching. My style blends insight orientation with coping skills work for all aspects of life.
I offer a warm and supportive atmosphere and value real relationships with my clients. I believe client rapport is the foundation for a successful outcome. I am founder of Amplify Wellness + Performance, a group of highly trained, skilled psychologists who specialize in helping high-powered people optimize their work/life balance. Our practice has three focus areas: clinical psychology, specifically eating disorders, depression, anxiety and relationship issues; sport psychology; and executive coaching. My style blends insight orientation with coping skills work for all aspects of life.
(978) 631-0587 View (978) 631-0587
Photo of Jana Ross, LMHC, Counselor
Jana Ross
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting adults with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns. I often work with clients on having a kinder relationship with food, movement, and their bodies. I also see clients struggling with dating, relationship challenges, anxiety, traumatic experiences, and life transitions. You're a good fit if you appreciate a therapist who brings authenticity, humor, and candor into sessions.
I specialize in supporting adults with disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image concerns. I often work with clients on having a kinder relationship with food, movement, and their bodies. I also see clients struggling with dating, relationship challenges, anxiety, traumatic experiences, and life transitions. You're a good fit if you appreciate a therapist who brings authenticity, humor, and candor into sessions.
(508) 348-7131 View (508) 348-7131
Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
(617) 615-6930 View (617) 615-6930
Photo of Margaret Marino, PhD, Psychologist
Margaret Marino
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Therapy is about finding the right match between a client and a therapist. I try an establish a collaborative and interactive relationship with my clients. We work on trying to resolve areas of immediate distress as well as trying to understand how the past may be effecting your current situation. The problems that clients bring into treatment include relationship issues, difficulties communicating with family members, past histories of trauma as well as past and current histories of eating disorders and obesity. I see a wide range of clients- including children and families, college students and adults.
Therapy is about finding the right match between a client and a therapist. I try an establish a collaborative and interactive relationship with my clients. We work on trying to resolve areas of immediate distress as well as trying to understand how the past may be effecting your current situation. The problems that clients bring into treatment include relationship issues, difficulties communicating with family members, past histories of trauma as well as past and current histories of eating disorders and obesity. I see a wide range of clients- including children and families, college students and adults.
(617) 326-3449 View (617) 326-3449
Photo of Zanita Bohea Zody, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zanita Bohea Zody
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
(857) 466-2017 View (857) 466-2017
Photo of Kaitlin Shimer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlin Shimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I have 7 years of experience working at the residential level of care for the treatment of eating disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. I am licensed to treat clients in Massachusetts, and work under Karin Lewis at the Karin Lewis Eating Disorder Center (KLEDC). I specialize in treating individuals with eating disorders and substance use disorders but have experience in a breadth of other specialties as well. I am passionate about helping people come to terms with being the "messy humans" that they are, and establishing a strong foundation of coping skills. My approach is humanistic, psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and focused on both growth and acceptance.
I have 7 years of experience working at the residential level of care for the treatment of eating disorders.
Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. I am licensed to treat clients in Massachusetts, and work under Karin Lewis at the Karin Lewis Eating Disorder Center (KLEDC). I specialize in treating individuals with eating disorders and substance use disorders but have experience in a breadth of other specialties as well. I am passionate about helping people come to terms with being the "messy humans" that they are, and establishing a strong foundation of coping skills. My approach is humanistic, psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and focused on both growth and acceptance.
(978) 309-9142 View (978) 309-9142
Photo of Angela Ficken, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Ficken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
(617) 936-8311 View (617) 936-8311
Photo of Dara Brenner, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Dara Brenner
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Within the practice, I specialize in sport psychology, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and life transitions.
As a former Division I athlete who has faced many setbacks, I strongly believe in the power of asking for help. My past experiences recovering from the mental and physical components of athletic injury motivate me to help individuals fight their own mental battles. I will work alongside you to better understand your struggles while using CBT, DBT, and strength-based approaches to allow you to make change at your own pace. In our work together, we will identify your personal values and motivators to help achieve your goals.
Within the practice, I specialize in sport psychology, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and life transitions.
As a former Division I athlete who has faced many setbacks, I strongly believe in the power of asking for help. My past experiences recovering from the mental and physical components of athletic injury motivate me to help individuals fight their own mental battles. I will work alongside you to better understand your struggles while using CBT, DBT, and strength-based approaches to allow you to make change at your own pace. In our work together, we will identify your personal values and motivators to help achieve your goals.
(857) 264-3711 View (857) 264-3711
Photo of Elizabeth Hammond, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Sessions with me are about the whole person because eating disorders are always one part of a bigger picture.
Your relationship with food and your body has taken over your life, and you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and alone. You may be fed up with the shame, tired of having no control, or sick of feeling isolated. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to leave the eating disorder behind. You want to feel confident and in control of your emotions. Most of all, you’re ready to reconnect with yourself.
Sessions with me are about the whole person because eating disorders are always one part of a bigger picture.
Your relationship with food and your body has taken over your life, and you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and alone. You may be fed up with the shame, tired of having no control, or sick of feeling isolated. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to leave the eating disorder behind. You want to feel confident and in control of your emotions. Most of all, you’re ready to reconnect with yourself.
(857) 214-2413 View (857) 214-2413
Photo of Daphne Cruz-Baez, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Daphne Cruz-Baez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02122  (Online Only)
Daphne has worked on specializing in treating eating disorders amongst the BIPOC population.
Daphne (ella/she) is passionate about community and is committed to decolonization. She speaks both English and Spanish. She comes from Borinken (Puerto Rico) born and raised. Her decolonization work is deeply tied to her identity as a Boricua. Her awareness of the island’s continued colonization at the hands of the US informs how she relates to her work as a therapist, as her goal is to help support, uplift, and work alongside Black and brown women in the mental health field. She’s worked in the mental health field for almost a decade and recently obtained her Masters in Social Work from Boston College.
Daphne has worked on specializing in treating eating disorders amongst the BIPOC population.
Daphne (ella/she) is passionate about community and is committed to decolonization. She speaks both English and Spanish. She comes from Borinken (Puerto Rico) born and raised. Her decolonization work is deeply tied to her identity as a Boricua. Her awareness of the island’s continued colonization at the hands of the US informs how she relates to her work as a therapist, as her goal is to help support, uplift, and work alongside Black and brown women in the mental health field. She’s worked in the mental health field for almost a decade and recently obtained her Masters in Social Work from Boston College.
(617) 294-5597 View (617) 294-5597
Photo of Annie Bjerg, PhD, Psychologist
Annie Bjerg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
My clinical background is in severe eating disorders and complex histories, but I treat a variety of concerns.
Change is difficult. We often need someone we can trust to validate our struggles and nudge us forward. My clients feel some challenge, but are given realistic expectations, practical skills, and an open heart in return. They appreciate being held accountable while trusting they can safely make mistakes. Many find comfort in learning they have my unconditional support and that I breathe with them through distress.
My clinical background is in severe eating disorders and complex histories, but I treat a variety of concerns.
Change is difficult. We often need someone we can trust to validate our struggles and nudge us forward. My clients feel some challenge, but are given realistic expectations, practical skills, and an open heart in return. They appreciate being held accountable while trusting they can safely make mistakes. Many find comfort in learning they have my unconditional support and that I breathe with them through distress.
View
Photo of Bridget Merrill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Merrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
In the ideal scenario, my client seeks therapy to address a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and everyday life stressors. They desire a safe and supportive space to freely express themselves without fear of judgment. Their goals include developing healthier thought patterns, improving emotional regulation, and fostering greater self-awareness. Ultimately, they aspire to cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment, inner peace, and authenticity, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections with others.
In the ideal scenario, my client seeks therapy to address a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and everyday life stressors. They desire a safe and supportive space to freely express themselves without fear of judgment. Their goals include developing healthier thought patterns, improving emotional regulation, and fostering greater self-awareness. Ultimately, they aspire to cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment, inner peace, and authenticity, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections with others.
(781) 604-1433 View (781) 604-1433
Photo of Larissa Crane - Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT, MSW, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Specialties include trauma, narcissistic abuse, and eating disorders.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
Specialties include trauma, narcissistic abuse, and eating disorders.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
(508) 659-4613 View (508) 659-4613
Photo of Cassandra Donner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Donner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, eating disorders and body image, & sexual health. My ideal client is anyone who comes to me ready to engage in the real work of therapy. Someone looking for guidance, connection, and relentless support. Someone who wants to change something about their inner experience so they can show up differently for the people in their lives and have a positive ripple effect on the world.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, eating disorders and body image, & sexual health. My ideal client is anyone who comes to me ready to engage in the real work of therapy. Someone looking for guidance, connection, and relentless support. Someone who wants to change something about their inner experience so they can show up differently for the people in their lives and have a positive ripple effect on the world.
(617) 380-6877 View (617) 380-6877
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.