Eating Disorders Therapists in Yancey County, NC
![Photo of Matt Riley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f381cfdf-1883-4d47-a40b-341dd672e33e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes we are submerged in complicated feelings that are confusing and scary. This is actually a window into some of the core truths of our inner lives, of internalized relationships, longings, and past experiences. I accompany people through a deep exploration of this inner life and provide a supportive space to understand the unconscious, move through stuck points, and emerge to more genuinely appreciate your life.
Sometimes we are submerged in complicated feelings that are confusing and scary. This is actually a window into some of the core truths of our inner lives, of internalized relationships, longings, and past experiences. I accompany people through a deep exploration of this inner life and provide a supportive space to understand the unconscious, move through stuck points, and emerge to more genuinely appreciate your life.
![Photo of James Stewart - Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe94926-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services
MA
Verified Verified
Burnsville, NC 28714 (Online Only)
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services is a full service testing center providing psychological and neuropsychological testing. We provide diagnostic testing for assessments for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, giftedness, parental fitness evaluations, assessments for cognitive functioning, and post-concussion cognitive assessments.
Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services is a full service testing center providing psychological and neuropsychological testing. We provide diagnostic testing for assessments for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, giftedness, parental fitness evaluations, assessments for cognitive functioning, and post-concussion cognitive assessments.
![Photo of Ron Pallick, LCAS, LCSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40bb7dc0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hearing from the heart and seeking help with paralyzing personal challenges can be a daunting experience. Finding someone to connect with in the process of personal healing is half the battle to a solution. Keeping the person at the center of the therapeutic process is a goal for me. I have employed this approach for over 16 years of practice in Western NC. While this majestic mountain setting is a place of unique beauty it is not free of personal challenges that may need a calm and skilled approach to navigating life' s challenges.
Hearing from the heart and seeking help with paralyzing personal challenges can be a daunting experience. Finding someone to connect with in the process of personal healing is half the battle to a solution. Keeping the person at the center of the therapeutic process is a goal for me. I have employed this approach for over 16 years of practice in Western NC. While this majestic mountain setting is a place of unique beauty it is not free of personal challenges that may need a calm and skilled approach to navigating life' s challenges.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Annie Seier, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a873d1a-e8e4-45e5-b693-4a3e63ec4995/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Seier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I own Firmly Rooted Counseling & Consulting. I specialize in women's issues, birth trauma, postpartum anxiety/depression, eating disorders, LGBTQAI+ affirming, and body image concerns. Parenting and attachment parenting is also a passion of mine. I love to work with parents brainstorming ways to get through tough situations using positive discipline. I also have a specialty in working with children and adults on the autism spectrum. I approach each client as an individual and cater my therapy techniques to what will work best for that specific client.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and I own Firmly Rooted Counseling & Consulting. I specialize in women's issues, birth trauma, postpartum anxiety/depression, eating disorders, LGBTQAI+ affirming, and body image concerns. Parenting and attachment parenting is also a passion of mine. I love to work with parents brainstorming ways to get through tough situations using positive discipline. I also have a specialty in working with children and adults on the autism spectrum. I approach each client as an individual and cater my therapy techniques to what will work best for that specific client.
![Photo of Rachel Weiss, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdb12f8e-ece6-4c38-8d34-65fdcfe486d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805 (Online Only)
Partnering in the healing process with my clients is such an honor for me. I work with a variety of issues, with a focus on healing from trauma, or adverse life experiences. I can also help with life changes and stress, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship issues, secondary traumatic stress, complex trauma and dissociative "disorders." I work hard to meet the needs of each individual, providing a safe, non-judgmental, empathic space essential for healing. I am up front and "real," while highly nurturing, and caring; I believe in the transformative effects of the therapeutic relationship.
Partnering in the healing process with my clients is such an honor for me. I work with a variety of issues, with a focus on healing from trauma, or adverse life experiences. I can also help with life changes and stress, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, phobias, low self-esteem, relationship issues, secondary traumatic stress, complex trauma and dissociative "disorders." I work hard to meet the needs of each individual, providing a safe, non-judgmental, empathic space essential for healing. I am up front and "real," while highly nurturing, and caring; I believe in the transformative effects of the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Lisa Williams - Miracles Counseling Centers, LCSW, LCMHC, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7b3c43e-b4e7-48b6-a6e2-3e97aaedfe11/1/320x400.png)
Miracles Counseling Centers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28027
Miracles is proud to have a variety of highly trained therapists who specialize in marriage therapy, trauma disorders, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addiction and other challenges that life can throw our way! We continuously engage in higher level trainings to ensure we are serving our clients effectively.
Miracles Counseling Centers is invested in helping you build a life you can feel safe in and proud of. Counseling should be more than talk. It should be provided by a professional with experience in delivering therapy that helps you to grow through your struggles. We aspire to provide personalized, productive psychological counseling therapy and support. We offer effective, tailor-made approaches for difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, and trauma. We welcome everyone through our doors, just as you are, and appreciate the confidence you place upon us to faciliate your forward growth!
Miracles is proud to have a variety of highly trained therapists who specialize in marriage therapy, trauma disorders, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addiction and other challenges that life can throw our way! We continuously engage in higher level trainings to ensure we are serving our clients effectively.
Miracles Counseling Centers is invested in helping you build a life you can feel safe in and proud of. Counseling should be more than talk. It should be provided by a professional with experience in delivering therapy that helps you to grow through your struggles. We aspire to provide personalized, productive psychological counseling therapy and support. We offer effective, tailor-made approaches for difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, and trauma. We welcome everyone through our doors, just as you are, and appreciate the confidence you place upon us to faciliate your forward growth!
![Photo of Emily Grime - Grimes Effective Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4872bdb7-00fe-4a3c-9457-09f66b71568e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Grimes Effective Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
She is also trained in the Embodied Recovery model for Eating Disorders.
We believe that you are worthy and capable of living a life that you love. We feel honored to hold space and empower our clients to become their best selves. Life is meant to be lived, not merely survived. We have dedicated ourselves and our practice to providing treatment that brings relief for our clients. It is vital that treatment goes to the root concern to create lasting positive change. You already have so many innate strengths and gifts. Our team of therapists are committed to helping you harness those strengths and will provide resources for resilience, growth, and deep self-acceptance.
She is also trained in the Embodied Recovery model for Eating Disorders.
We believe that you are worthy and capable of living a life that you love. We feel honored to hold space and empower our clients to become their best selves. Life is meant to be lived, not merely survived. We have dedicated ourselves and our practice to providing treatment that brings relief for our clients. It is vital that treatment goes to the root concern to create lasting positive change. You already have so many innate strengths and gifts. Our team of therapists are committed to helping you harness those strengths and will provide resources for resilience, growth, and deep self-acceptance.
![Photo of Sandie Raye Seigal, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8f5203-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I think that we all create our own reality by the unique way in which we perceive and then react to life situations. I’m eager to support clients in seeing “their role” in any life problems they face, and in finding effective ways to create a fulfilling life. I've supported clients having a wide range of problems - eating disorders, conflicted family and job relationships, and dysregulated emotions. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to make positive behavioral changes in their lives. I guide my clients in choosing and implementing those actions which will bring them the meaningful results they seek.
I think that we all create our own reality by the unique way in which we perceive and then react to life situations. I’m eager to support clients in seeing “their role” in any life problems they face, and in finding effective ways to create a fulfilling life. I've supported clients having a wide range of problems - eating disorders, conflicted family and job relationships, and dysregulated emotions. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to make positive behavioral changes in their lives. I guide my clients in choosing and implementing those actions which will bring them the meaningful results they seek.
![Photo of Lauren Britton - Lauren Britton Counseling, MA, LCMHC, LMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb15421e-4e44-41be-8ef9-5a1956e8ef1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Britton Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping individuals recover from eating disorders, disordered eating and body image challenges.
I currently see individuals in SC, FL and NC virtually, or in-person in my Asheville, NC office. Finding the right therapist can feel a bit daunting, so I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk along side of you as you take steps towards personal growth. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the mindset and skills to manage challenges, move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment, and KNOW their inherent worth. I approach therapy from the belief that YOU are the expert on yourself, and together we can help you tap into and utilize your internal wisdom.
I specialize in helping individuals recover from eating disorders, disordered eating and body image challenges.
I currently see individuals in SC, FL and NC virtually, or in-person in my Asheville, NC office. Finding the right therapist can feel a bit daunting, so I hope the information here will answer some of your questions. My goal as your therapist will be to walk along side of you as you take steps towards personal growth. I am passionate about empowering individuals with the mindset and skills to manage challenges, move towards an enhanced sense of fulfillment, and KNOW their inherent worth. I approach therapy from the belief that YOU are the expert on yourself, and together we can help you tap into and utilize your internal wisdom.
![Photo of Natalie Gallant, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb778fc8-8b8e-48cd-ab97-6024356d8dfa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Always trying to be "perfect" is exhausting. Even though you're a high-achiever, you may still feel like you're not good enough, compare yourself to others, and ruminate over past mistakes. Maybe you notice those negative thoughts translate into how you perceive yourself physically and you struggle to accept yourself. I specialize in empowering compassionate young women who are struggling with anxiety, body image, and eating disorders to find peace and acceptance within yourself and regain self-trust.
Always trying to be "perfect" is exhausting. Even though you're a high-achiever, you may still feel like you're not good enough, compare yourself to others, and ruminate over past mistakes. Maybe you notice those negative thoughts translate into how you perceive yourself physically and you struggle to accept yourself. I specialize in empowering compassionate young women who are struggling with anxiety, body image, and eating disorders to find peace and acceptance within yourself and regain self-trust.
![Photo of Shelby Prevatt, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c24e43df-a5fa-4541-be5d-6883b6263938/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 16+ struggling with eating disorders, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and general mood changes.
Hello there! I’m so glad you’re taking the step to reach out and connect with someone familiar with helping people navigate the challenges life often throws at us. From depression to burnout, and anything in between, I’m here to help you not only work on the issues at hand, but help you uncover the core reason why you're no longer feeling like yourself. While I specialize in working with clients 16+ struggling with eating disorders, I’m also passionate about trauma work, neurodivergence, attachment concerns, and general mood changes.
![Photo of Bess Perlstein, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41f1639f-816c-4d0d-982d-e865f58b805c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bess Perlstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
My therapy practice centers around working with individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, attachment patterns, and eating disorders. I primarily work with individuals who identify as female that are seeking ways to increase their sense of self-worth and live a more present and balanced life. Individuals I work with may be wanting to heal patterns of people pleasing, perfectionism, shame, disordered eating, body image, and build more secure relationships. I gently guide clients in exploring and healing their relationship with food and their bodies through embracing a Health At Every Size approach.
My therapy practice centers around working with individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, attachment patterns, and eating disorders. I primarily work with individuals who identify as female that are seeking ways to increase their sense of self-worth and live a more present and balanced life. Individuals I work with may be wanting to heal patterns of people pleasing, perfectionism, shame, disordered eating, body image, and build more secure relationships. I gently guide clients in exploring and healing their relationship with food and their bodies through embracing a Health At Every Size approach.
![Photo of Mattie Weingarten, MA, LMCHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cc07669-b2b9-4918-af60-33787434741a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mattie Weingarten
Counselor, MA, LMCHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with women ages 18 and up dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, eating disorders, life changes, boundary-setting, relationship issues, family conflicts and more.
Life can be full of tough seasons. Perhaps you aren't where you envisioned yourself at this stage, are struggling with self-esteem, or just wish you felt happier. As a therapist, my greatest passion is providing a fresh perspective and working with clients as they learn to navigate these challenges and build resilience. I will support you through life transitions and help you feel less stuck and stressed out.
I work with women ages 18 and up dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, eating disorders, life changes, boundary-setting, relationship issues, family conflicts and more.
Life can be full of tough seasons. Perhaps you aren't where you envisioned yourself at this stage, are struggling with self-esteem, or just wish you felt happier. As a therapist, my greatest passion is providing a fresh perspective and working with clients as they learn to navigate these challenges and build resilience. I will support you through life transitions and help you feel less stuck and stressed out.
![Photo of Heidi Limbrunner, PsyD, ABPP, CEDS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e27fea6-5c22-4a6b-82ba-48edded87ece/2/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic focus is in helping children/teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm and difficulty with emotion regulation. I specialize in DBT which is a therapy approach that provides coping skills and strategies that teens and their parents can use to create a happier and healthier life. I have been providing DBT therapy and leading DBT groups for over 15 years. Additionally, I have extensive experience and training in eating disorders and provide Family Based Therapy. In working with teens and children, I believe it's important that parents are involved appropriately in the treatment process.
My therapeutic focus is in helping children/teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm and difficulty with emotion regulation. I specialize in DBT which is a therapy approach that provides coping skills and strategies that teens and their parents can use to create a happier and healthier life. I have been providing DBT therapy and leading DBT groups for over 15 years. Additionally, I have extensive experience and training in eating disorders and provide Family Based Therapy. In working with teens and children, I believe it's important that parents are involved appropriately in the treatment process.
![Photo of Michelle White, MA, LCHMC-A, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c9cb62c-2c5f-44ea-b97e-a827c61a1797/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am so glad that you are here! I believe that therapy is for everyone. All people deserve a safe space to be truly heard, understood, and supported. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults facing a wide variety of issues, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, grief and/or loss, interpersonal relationship issues, and trauma. I strive to meet people where they are in their mental health journey and assist them in finding peace, joy, and meaning in their lives.
Hello! I am so glad that you are here! I believe that therapy is for everyone. All people deserve a safe space to be truly heard, understood, and supported. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults facing a wide variety of issues, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, grief and/or loss, interpersonal relationship issues, and trauma. I strive to meet people where they are in their mental health journey and assist them in finding peace, joy, and meaning in their lives.
![Photo of Courtney Krolikowski, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d69d2037-c285-410d-a9fa-43f6c2358a90/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with issues such as Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Personality Disorders, Domestic Violence, Anger Management and more.
My name is Courtney Krolikowski. I have been practicing therapy for the past 8 years. I currently hold licenses for practicing in North Carolina, Wisconsin and Illinois. I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. I currently reside in Wisconsin with my husband, two year old daughter and very energetic husky. I am a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have worked with a wide variety of clientele in both group and individual settings, covering a wide variety of issues.
I work with issues such as Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Personality Disorders, Domestic Violence, Anger Management and more.
My name is Courtney Krolikowski. I have been practicing therapy for the past 8 years. I currently hold licenses for practicing in North Carolina, Wisconsin and Illinois. I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. I currently reside in Wisconsin with my husband, two year old daughter and very energetic husky. I am a Nationally Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have worked with a wide variety of clientele in both group and individual settings, covering a wide variety of issues.
![Photo of Allison Gregory, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/805401a6-f84c-409d-a7fa-29148358ede0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing challenges within eating disorders, anxiety, depression, negative body image, low self-esteem and life transitions. I have over 2 years of experience specializing in eating disorders of all types in individual and group settings in PHP and IOP levels of care and had a special passion for running an art therapy group. I appreciate someone who is motivated and willing to lean into the hard things that may come with therapy. I believe vulnerability is key and my hope is to provide a space that you can use how you need, no matter your capacity each day.
I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing challenges within eating disorders, anxiety, depression, negative body image, low self-esteem and life transitions. I have over 2 years of experience specializing in eating disorders of all types in individual and group settings in PHP and IOP levels of care and had a special passion for running an art therapy group. I appreciate someone who is motivated and willing to lean into the hard things that may come with therapy. I believe vulnerability is key and my hope is to provide a space that you can use how you need, no matter your capacity each day.
![Photo of Charlotte Hanks, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4021c21f-5fbe-4567-b7e7-f4a6b1539b20/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Hanks
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, eating disorders, life-adjustments, and more.
You are perhaps feeling disconnected from yourself and others. I can help you to "zoom in" and "zoom out" to better investigate what's happening, what is important to you, and to help you to shift towards your authentic self. My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, eating disorders, life-adjustments, and more.
You are perhaps feeling disconnected from yourself and others. I can help you to "zoom in" and "zoom out" to better investigate what's happening, what is important to you, and to help you to shift towards your authentic self. My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
![Photo of Griffin Moore, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44004f62-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Griffin Moore
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
My background includes working at Atlanta Center for Eating Disorders in intensive treatment and with couples, families, and individuals experiencing anxiety and trauma at Samaritan Center for Counseling.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
My background includes working at Atlanta Center for Eating Disorders in intensive treatment and with couples, families, and individuals experiencing anxiety and trauma at Samaritan Center for Counseling.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
![Photo of Stephanie Bibby Yeatts, MA, LCMHC, CIMHP, CHES, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ee392bd-1c14-4271-a42e-ec313805ec9f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Bibby Yeatts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CIMHP, CHES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brevard, NC 28712
I specialize in working with anxiety, eating disorders, weight loss, and adjusting to life changes.
I am not accepting new clients right now. - Often times past traumas, relationships or events have caused us to separate from or deny certain parts of ourselves. We may notice life getting more difficult or confusing because we are not functioning as our true, whole self. I believe that the symptoms we are experiencing are messengers from parts of our body or mind that need healing. I work with clients holistically to make changes to the mind, body, and spirit in order to heal the individual as a whole. I will encourage you to reconnect with your body, take back control, and live a meaningful life that you love.
I specialize in working with anxiety, eating disorders, weight loss, and adjusting to life changes.
I am not accepting new clients right now. - Often times past traumas, relationships or events have caused us to separate from or deny certain parts of ourselves. We may notice life getting more difficult or confusing because we are not functioning as our true, whole self. I believe that the symptoms we are experiencing are messengers from parts of our body or mind that need healing. I work with clients holistically to make changes to the mind, body, and spirit in order to heal the individual as a whole. I will encourage you to reconnect with your body, take back control, and live a meaningful life that you love.
See more therapy options for Yancey County
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.