Photo of Rene Sobleski, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Rene Sobleski
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I specialize in the treatment and assessment of eating disorders, over eaters, obesity, disordered eating, sex addictions, sexual abuse victims, on-line pornography, trauma recovery, grief and loss issues.
I am experienced in providing Marital Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques and Internal Family Systems, among others. I provide therapy for individuals (children ages 4-12, adolescents and adults), groups, families and couples.
I specialize in the treatment and assessment of eating disorders, over eaters, obesity, disordered eating, sex addictions, sexual abuse victims, on-line pornography, trauma recovery, grief and loss issues.
I am experienced in providing Marital Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques and Internal Family Systems, among others. I provide therapy for individuals (children ages 4-12, adolescents and adults), groups, families and couples.
(269) 749-1315 View (269) 749-1315
Photo of Rebecca Makowski, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Rebecca Makowski
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, including Anorexia, Bulimia and ARFID. I am CBT/DBT trained and utilize that modality eclectically to treat personality disorders including borderline, complex trauma conditions, major depression, anxiety disorders as well as bipolar conditions and substance use disorders. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and support individuals considering gender transition. I offer electrotherapy services via Alpha Stim concurrently with talk therapy.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, including Anorexia, Bulimia and ARFID. I am CBT/DBT trained and utilize that modality eclectically to treat personality disorders including borderline, complex trauma conditions, major depression, anxiety disorders as well as bipolar conditions and substance use disorders. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and support individuals considering gender transition. I offer electrotherapy services via Alpha Stim concurrently with talk therapy.
(734) 954-4337 View (734) 954-4337
Photo of Victoria Cane, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Victoria Cane
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
My areas of expertise include treatment of eating disorders and specific work with athletes, issues of over-control and maladaptive perfectionism, LGBT-affirmative therapy, and mood disorders.
I am a licensed psychologist with a background in community mental health and university counseling practicing privately since 2011. I take a holistic approach to therapeutic work, using the context of culture, personal development, and multiple dimensions of identity. I also specialize in evidence-based therapies including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, radically open dbt (RODBT) for issues of over-control, and prolonged exposure for PTSD. I am board certified as a DBT therapist through the Linehan Institute and infuse elements of DBT like mindfulness practice into my general work.
My areas of expertise include treatment of eating disorders and specific work with athletes, issues of over-control and maladaptive perfectionism, LGBT-affirmative therapy, and mood disorders.
I am a licensed psychologist with a background in community mental health and university counseling practicing privately since 2011. I take a holistic approach to therapeutic work, using the context of culture, personal development, and multiple dimensions of identity. I also specialize in evidence-based therapies including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, radically open dbt (RODBT) for issues of over-control, and prolonged exposure for PTSD. I am board certified as a DBT therapist through the Linehan Institute and infuse elements of DBT like mindfulness practice into my general work.
(269) 795-6542 View (269) 795-6542
Photo of Justyne Ortquist, MS, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justyne Ortquist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Justyne is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in relational therapy and the treatment of eating disorders. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Justyne employs an integrative approach that combines somatic techniques, trauma-informed yoga, and emotion focused therapy to facilitate healing on multiple levels. Her deep understanding of the relationship between body and mind informs her approach to somatic-based healing, which goes beyond traditional talk therapy. This is the foundation of her work with clients to support them in healing trauma in the body and addressing maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Justyne is a compassionate and dedicated therapist specializing in relational therapy and the treatment of eating disorders. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Justyne employs an integrative approach that combines somatic techniques, trauma-informed yoga, and emotion focused therapy to facilitate healing on multiple levels. Her deep understanding of the relationship between body and mind informs her approach to somatic-based healing, which goes beyond traditional talk therapy. This is the foundation of her work with clients to support them in healing trauma in the body and addressing maladaptive coping mechanisms.
(616) 277-7533 View (616) 277-7533
Photo of Jennifer L Selent, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer L Selent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
(616) 537-6729 View (616) 537-6729
Photo of Elizabeth Gonzalez, LMSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CYT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I provide individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My work with children is specific to gender identity. My clinical work is focused on eating disorders, gender identity, LGBTQQ+ concerns, multicultural counseling, survivors of sexualized violence and trauma. I work with clients through a social justice and holistic health lens that emphasizes the inseparable connection between our mind, body, and environment. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client centered rooted in cultural humility. I incorporate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based techniques depending upon the goals of each client.
I provide individual and group psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. My work with children is specific to gender identity. My clinical work is focused on eating disorders, gender identity, LGBTQQ+ concerns, multicultural counseling, survivors of sexualized violence and trauma. I work with clients through a social justice and holistic health lens that emphasizes the inseparable connection between our mind, body, and environment. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client centered rooted in cultural humility. I incorporate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based techniques depending upon the goals of each client.
(734) 274-5477 View (734) 274-5477
Photo of Sylvia Johnson, LMSW, CTP-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sylvia Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Your experiences may be bringing up new feelings, thoughts, and experiences, or may be bringing up old ones. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can explore your feelings and experiences to gain self-awareness, understanding, and discover how to get back to the life you love. I am extremely passionate about helping others get to the root of their current behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. My specialty is in processing trauma, complex trauma, and secondary trauma. I also am experienced in treating other difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships difficulties, and grief.
Your experiences may be bringing up new feelings, thoughts, and experiences, or may be bringing up old ones. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where we can explore your feelings and experiences to gain self-awareness, understanding, and discover how to get back to the life you love. I am extremely passionate about helping others get to the root of their current behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. My specialty is in processing trauma, complex trauma, and secondary trauma. I also am experienced in treating other difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships difficulties, and grief.
(248) 923-4375 View (248) 923-4375
Photo of Susan Guild Danielson - Collaborative Health Center, Psychologist
Collaborative Health Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Livonia, MI 48150
While our clinicians' trainings are generalized, many have specialities in areas such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
At Collaborative Health Center (CHC), collaboration with our clients and community is one of our core values; it's so important to us that we put it in our name. From your first contact with our supportive administrative staff to your last session with one of our skilled therapists, you will be an equal partner in the treatment process. Your therapist will utilize a wealth of knowledge, training, and expertise to guide you toward your goals while centering you as the expert on your own feelings and experiences. Our therapists welcome collaboration with other professionals, such as your psychiatrist or dietitian, whenever needed.
While our clinicians' trainings are generalized, many have specialities in areas such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
At Collaborative Health Center (CHC), collaboration with our clients and community is one of our core values; it's so important to us that we put it in our name. From your first contact with our supportive administrative staff to your last session with one of our skilled therapists, you will be an equal partner in the treatment process. Your therapist will utilize a wealth of knowledge, training, and expertise to guide you toward your goals while centering you as the expert on your own feelings and experiences. Our therapists welcome collaboration with other professionals, such as your psychiatrist or dietitian, whenever needed.
(734) 772-0148 x1 View (734) 772-0148 x1
Photo of Imagine Musaraj, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Imagine Musaraj
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New Baltimore, MI 48047  (Online Only)
Imagine is dedicated to treating the whole person, practicing from a belief that mental and emotional struggles not only reside within the mind but also in the body. She specializes in the treatment of eating disorders and trauma in adolescent and adult women, offering a genuine and holistic place to heal. Imagine’s approach is rooted in psychodynamic theory, integrating modalities such as somatic, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapies. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and is in the process of receiving her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) designation.
Imagine is dedicated to treating the whole person, practicing from a belief that mental and emotional struggles not only reside within the mind but also in the body. She specializes in the treatment of eating disorders and trauma in adolescent and adult women, offering a genuine and holistic place to heal. Imagine’s approach is rooted in psychodynamic theory, integrating modalities such as somatic, internal family systems, and cognitive behavioral therapies. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and is in the process of receiving her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) designation.
(586) 675-8424 View (586) 675-8424
Photo of Alyssa Jesselaitis, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Jesselaitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
I also hold specialized training in therapies special to eating disorders, trauma, and borderline personality disorder.
Hi, friend! Welcome! I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, and BPD. I know therapy is a vulnerable experience, and it's most important to feel heard, understood, and truly connected with your therapist. That's why I hope to create a space that is relaxing and warm, and to bring a touch of humor to help you feel at ease! I want you to know that as your therapist, I am here to work alongside you, and to be my authentic self in order to build a strong and empathetic connection with you. Together, we can explore new connections, challenge old beliefs, and navigate even the most difficult emotions with gentleness and compassion.
I also hold specialized training in therapies special to eating disorders, trauma, and borderline personality disorder.
Hi, friend! Welcome! I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, and BPD. I know therapy is a vulnerable experience, and it's most important to feel heard, understood, and truly connected with your therapist. That's why I hope to create a space that is relaxing and warm, and to bring a touch of humor to help you feel at ease! I want you to know that as your therapist, I am here to work alongside you, and to be my authentic self in order to build a strong and empathetic connection with you. Together, we can explore new connections, challenge old beliefs, and navigate even the most difficult emotions with gentleness and compassion.
(586) 580-8135 View (586) 580-8135
Photo of Ginger Rollert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginger Rollert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Frankfort, MI 49635
I have specialized training in trauma, eating disorders, addictions, couples, parenting and adolescent to adult transitions.
Good therapy can produce long lasting life changes. Although shifts in behavior and emotions can take time, even in the short term there can be immediate relief. I see the relationship between the patient and therapist as central to a positive outcome. Although we are all infinitely diverse and complex, collectively we seek to be understood. I listen with curiosity and empathy to understand each individual's unique experience. In treatment I create an atmosphere of trust where together we can identify your strengths, find practical solutions to problems and unfold underlying vulnerabilities that are obstacles to your experience of a rich and fulfilling life.
I have specialized training in trauma, eating disorders, addictions, couples, parenting and adolescent to adult transitions.
Good therapy can produce long lasting life changes. Although shifts in behavior and emotions can take time, even in the short term there can be immediate relief. I see the relationship between the patient and therapist as central to a positive outcome. Although we are all infinitely diverse and complex, collectively we seek to be understood. I listen with curiosity and empathy to understand each individual's unique experience. In treatment I create an atmosphere of trust where together we can identify your strengths, find practical solutions to problems and unfold underlying vulnerabilities that are obstacles to your experience of a rich and fulfilling life.
(917) 924-3913 View (917) 924-3913
Photo of Anna Causley, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Anna Causley
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, MI 48346  (Online Only)
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward the change you desire. I know it can be difficult to seek professional help, but you are in the right place. I am deeply passionate about guiding others on their journeys to heal, change, and transform their lives. My mission as a therapist is to uncover the unique tools that resonate with each individual, enabling them to overcome their obstacles and unlock the life they’ve always dreamed of. I specialize in women’s issues specifically eating disorders, body image issues, postpartum, life transitions, and trauma.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step toward the change you desire. I know it can be difficult to seek professional help, but you are in the right place. I am deeply passionate about guiding others on their journeys to heal, change, and transform their lives. My mission as a therapist is to uncover the unique tools that resonate with each individual, enabling them to overcome their obstacles and unlock the life they’ve always dreamed of. I specialize in women’s issues specifically eating disorders, body image issues, postpartum, life transitions, and trauma.
(248) 266-9380 View (248) 266-9380
Photo of Angela C Orta, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela C Orta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
Areas of special interest include women in transition, body/self-esteem, depression, anxiety, sexual trauma/sexual abuse, relationship conflict, divorce/remarriage, infidelity, eating disorders, acute & chronic illness, and grief & loss.
We all face difficult life transitions and circumstances. I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on personal and interpersonal functioning across the life span. Through the integration of theory, research, and practice, and with a sensitivity to multicultural issues, I strive to help people improve their well-being, alleviate distress & maladjustment, resolve crises, and increase their ability to live happy and fulfilling lives.
Areas of special interest include women in transition, body/self-esteem, depression, anxiety, sexual trauma/sexual abuse, relationship conflict, divorce/remarriage, infidelity, eating disorders, acute & chronic illness, and grief & loss.
We all face difficult life transitions and circumstances. I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on personal and interpersonal functioning across the life span. Through the integration of theory, research, and practice, and with a sensitivity to multicultural issues, I strive to help people improve their well-being, alleviate distress & maladjustment, resolve crises, and increase their ability to live happy and fulfilling lives.
(517) 618-0641 View (517) 618-0641
Photo of Brynn Bodi, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brynn Bodi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I believe in utilizing a strengths based and person centered approach. I believe in meeting you where you are and supporting you in developing your own goals for the course of treatment. Whether your areas of need are depression, anxiety, self-harm, or eating disorders I am here to support and empower you in overcoming these challenges.
I believe in utilizing a strengths based and person centered approach. I believe in meeting you where you are and supporting you in developing your own goals for the course of treatment. Whether your areas of need are depression, anxiety, self-harm, or eating disorders I am here to support and empower you in overcoming these challenges.
(734) 304-5006 View (734) 304-5006
Photo of Aleksandra Nedelkoski, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aleksandra Nedelkoski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
My specialties include but are not limited to: mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma recovery, life transitions, relational problems and women issues.
Each of us holds the power to choose the manner in which we give meaning to our life circumstances and experiences. Earlier automatic and unconscious patterns often get in the way of moving forward in an empowering and liberating way. Identifying these patterns, learning the practice of self-reflection and gaining self-awareness is the foundation of personal growth and transformation. In addition, focusing on the present moment, the practice of mindfulness, learning to trust the inner voice and emotional responsiveness leads each client to a more conscious place of being. Moving forward with conscious choice and courage is the key.
My specialties include but are not limited to: mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma recovery, life transitions, relational problems and women issues.
Each of us holds the power to choose the manner in which we give meaning to our life circumstances and experiences. Earlier automatic and unconscious patterns often get in the way of moving forward in an empowering and liberating way. Identifying these patterns, learning the practice of self-reflection and gaining self-awareness is the foundation of personal growth and transformation. In addition, focusing on the present moment, the practice of mindfulness, learning to trust the inner voice and emotional responsiveness leads each client to a more conscious place of being. Moving forward with conscious choice and courage is the key.
(248) 461-3564 View (248) 461-3564
Photo of Emily Anderson, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saline, MI 48176
Welcome. As a clinician, it is an honor to walk beside you in your journey. I specialize in postpartum mood disorders (such as anxiety or depression), birth trauma, and recovering from spiritual abuse (such as leaving high demand religions or cults), and eating disorders. I am specifically trained in EMDR for trauma reprocessing and healing.
Welcome. As a clinician, it is an honor to walk beside you in your journey. I specialize in postpartum mood disorders (such as anxiety or depression), birth trauma, and recovering from spiritual abuse (such as leaving high demand religions or cults), and eating disorders. I am specifically trained in EMDR for trauma reprocessing and healing.
(734) 201-0332 View (734) 201-0332
Photo of Dr. Carol Ann Crowley, Psychologist
Dr. Carol Ann Crowley
Psychologist
Verified Verified
I have clinical expertise in: depression, anxiety, grief and loss (including perinatal loss), sexual trauma, relationship dysfunction, medical illness issues (including infertility), eating disorders and women's issues.
"There are just some times in life when it can often help to talk." I have twenty-five years of experience in providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and older adolescents. Talking and working in a therapeutic relationship can be an opportunity to identify issues, thoughts and behaviors that may cause distress for someone in their life and relationships. I believe that a deepened and thoughtful understanding of the self offers the possibility of new choices and healthy choices that can enhance personal peace and contentment.
I have clinical expertise in: depression, anxiety, grief and loss (including perinatal loss), sexual trauma, relationship dysfunction, medical illness issues (including infertility), eating disorders and women's issues.
"There are just some times in life when it can often help to talk." I have twenty-five years of experience in providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and older adolescents. Talking and working in a therapeutic relationship can be an opportunity to identify issues, thoughts and behaviors that may cause distress for someone in their life and relationships. I believe that a deepened and thoughtful understanding of the self offers the possibility of new choices and healthy choices that can enhance personal peace and contentment.
(248) 639-4892 View (248) 639-4892
Photo of Kyle Phillip Wawrzyniec, MSCP, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Kyle Phillip Wawrzyniec
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MSCP, TLLP
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
I am a member of the American Psychological Association, The National Eating Disorders Association, and Psi Chi.
Special Note: The current global pandemic has presented many unforeseen consequences; including consequences around social distancing. Decreased social contact can present emotional challenges to all types of people. Tele-mental health may be an appropriate way to address these challenges. My integrative style allows me to tailor treatment to the individual. My experience includes working with people of all ages and stages of life. I have extensive experience working with clients having anxiety, depression, attachment struggles and personality disorders.
I am a member of the American Psychological Association, The National Eating Disorders Association, and Psi Chi.
Special Note: The current global pandemic has presented many unforeseen consequences; including consequences around social distancing. Decreased social contact can present emotional challenges to all types of people. Tele-mental health may be an appropriate way to address these challenges. My integrative style allows me to tailor treatment to the individual. My experience includes working with people of all ages and stages of life. I have extensive experience working with clients having anxiety, depression, attachment struggles and personality disorders.
(734) 607-1028 View (734) 607-1028
Photo of Julie Moore, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Jackson, MI 49202
She has had experience working with people from all walks of life, including children, young adults, to older adults. She has experience with counseling couples, individuals with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, LGTBQ+ issues, and more. She loves working with teens and young adults and is passionate about walking alongside her clients as they pursue healing and wholeness in their lives.
She has had experience working with people from all walks of life, including children, young adults, to older adults. She has experience with counseling couples, individuals with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, LGTBQ+ issues, and more. She loves working with teens and young adults and is passionate about walking alongside her clients as they pursue healing and wholeness in their lives.
(517) 300-7197 View (517) 300-7197
Photo of Dr. Elyse Rocco, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Elyse Rocco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
I have worked with clients experiencing a broad array of concerns, including life-transitions, relationship issues, eating disorders, and sexual trauma.
I practice from an insight oriented, relational, and multicultural approach tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual I work with. My priority as a therapist is to create a warm, collaborative, non-judgmental space where you can work through your concerns and make the changes in your life you desire. People seek therapy for a number of reasons, perhaps to alleviate symptoms or distress, improve self-esteem, or address relationship issues. In my experience, symptoms often “mark the spot” of a deeper theme you may be grappling with and I aim to assist you uncover what the root of your concerns may be.
I have worked with clients experiencing a broad array of concerns, including life-transitions, relationship issues, eating disorders, and sexual trauma.
I practice from an insight oriented, relational, and multicultural approach tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual I work with. My priority as a therapist is to create a warm, collaborative, non-judgmental space where you can work through your concerns and make the changes in your life you desire. People seek therapy for a number of reasons, perhaps to alleviate symptoms or distress, improve self-esteem, or address relationship issues. In my experience, symptoms often “mark the spot” of a deeper theme you may be grappling with and I aim to assist you uncover what the root of your concerns may be.
(616) 737-0566 View (616) 737-0566
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.