Eating Disorders Therapists in Coconut Grove, FL
![Photo of Kristin Elizabeth Jones, DHSc, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a373b0d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Elizabeth Jones
Counselor, DHSc, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (Online Only)
Helping people to live more balanced and healthy lives is my passion. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, and depression, utilizing DBT, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness in my approach. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach to therapy involves collaborating with the client to create a fulfilling and value driven life. I enjoy helping people to improve self-awareness, face fears, and increase feelings of mastery and contentment.
Helping people to live more balanced and healthy lives is my passion. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, and depression, utilizing DBT, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness in my approach. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach to therapy involves collaborating with the client to create a fulfilling and value driven life. I enjoy helping people to improve self-awareness, face fears, and increase feelings of mastery and contentment.
![Photo of Kevin Scholz, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb35cae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am skilled and experienced in treating a wide array of psychological concerns, including: Eating Disorders; Relationship difficulties; Anxiety; Depression; Substance use/abuse; Trauma; Self-esteem issues.
I am the co-director of the Miami Counseling & Resource Center, a multidisciplinary mental health practice in Coral Gables. I provide individual, couples and family therapy for a variety of presenting problems, life struggles and relationship issues. I grew up in Miami, and I have a great love for and familiarity with South Florida and the multi-cultural and ethnic diversity that make it such a colorful place to live and work. I am very enthusiastic about my work with clients from all walks of life, and I hope that I can be of help to you, too!
I am skilled and experienced in treating a wide array of psychological concerns, including: Eating Disorders; Relationship difficulties; Anxiety; Depression; Substance use/abuse; Trauma; Self-esteem issues.
I am the co-director of the Miami Counseling & Resource Center, a multidisciplinary mental health practice in Coral Gables. I provide individual, couples and family therapy for a variety of presenting problems, life struggles and relationship issues. I grew up in Miami, and I have a great love for and familiarity with South Florida and the multi-cultural and ethnic diversity that make it such a colorful place to live and work. I am very enthusiastic about my work with clients from all walks of life, and I hope that I can be of help to you, too!
![Photo of Sammi L. Siegel, PhD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f688c56-50d3-439f-8fe6-afbebd61c693/5/320x400.jpeg)
For over 20 years, I have focused my career goals in the treatment of eating disorders and work from a "non-diet" approach.
Clients seeking treatment typically find that their coping skills which had previously worked, are no longer working. I help individuals and couples regain resilience and strength, which may have been lost during challenging and trying times as well as during major life transitions. My strengths lie in providing pre-surgical evaluations as well as counseling for individuals undergoing Bariatric Surgery for weight loss. As a service to my clients, my office will handle insurance billing for you. Privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. Therapy takes place in a quiet, safe, and peaceful environment.
For over 20 years, I have focused my career goals in the treatment of eating disorders and work from a "non-diet" approach.
Clients seeking treatment typically find that their coping skills which had previously worked, are no longer working. I help individuals and couples regain resilience and strength, which may have been lost during challenging and trying times as well as during major life transitions. My strengths lie in providing pre-surgical evaluations as well as counseling for individuals undergoing Bariatric Surgery for weight loss. As a service to my clients, my office will handle insurance billing for you. Privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance. Therapy takes place in a quiet, safe, and peaceful environment.
![Photo of Lena Sheffield, LMHC, CAP, MAC, CEDS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0183029c-01bb-4ed5-a6a5-88cdfda586e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over 30 years in this field: clinical and administrative positions in pediatric hospital, community outpatient, eating disorders and residential treatment, I am trained in and incorporate a wide range of therapeutic approaches to match the client needs.
Feeling overwhelmed & trapped is exhausting & harmful to your confidence, health & productivity. Are you doubting your competence, overreacting, or having difficulty focusing and making healthy decisions? Reaching out for professional help shows you still have hope, a desire for better life and many personal strengths. We will explore life and relationship patterns that impact you today in an emotionally safe & contained setting. You CAN expand your coping, resiliency, acceptance and mindfulness skills at any age while reducing the self-numbing activities that have too many negative consequences.
With over 30 years in this field: clinical and administrative positions in pediatric hospital, community outpatient, eating disorders and residential treatment, I am trained in and incorporate a wide range of therapeutic approaches to match the client needs.
Feeling overwhelmed & trapped is exhausting & harmful to your confidence, health & productivity. Are you doubting your competence, overreacting, or having difficulty focusing and making healthy decisions? Reaching out for professional help shows you still have hope, a desire for better life and many personal strengths. We will explore life and relationship patterns that impact you today in an emotionally safe & contained setting. You CAN expand your coping, resiliency, acceptance and mindfulness skills at any age while reducing the self-numbing activities that have too many negative consequences.
![Photo of Kym McCabe, PhD, LMFT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49580fc0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced licensed psychologist and marriage and family therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families for a wide range of clinical issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and eating disorders. Clinically, my approach is warm, direct and outcome driven. I am very interested in who you are as an individual as well as within the context of your family and other environments. With this in mind, my initial therapeutic goal is to meet you where you are, identify clinical goals and foster an open and collaborative therapeutic relationship in which we work together towards your goals.
I am an experienced licensed psychologist and marriage and family therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families for a wide range of clinical issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and eating disorders. Clinically, my approach is warm, direct and outcome driven. I am very interested in who you are as an individual as well as within the context of your family and other environments. With this in mind, my initial therapeutic goal is to meet you where you are, identify clinical goals and foster an open and collaborative therapeutic relationship in which we work together towards your goals.
![Photo of Sandra Beggs, MA, LMHC, BC-DMT, RPsych, (AB)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a2708c4-dfb1-4a22-aa05-4618e95a3b6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help my clients deal with depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse/PTSD, grief and loss, eating disorders, conflict in their relationships, and life changes & transitions. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, an EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have over 25 years experience in blending verbal therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and trauma focused therapies such as EMDR with the expressive arts (dance/movement, art, music, writing). I look forward to offering you an effective and personalized approach!
I help my clients deal with depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse/PTSD, grief and loss, eating disorders, conflict in their relationships, and life changes & transitions. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist, an EMDR therapist, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have over 25 years experience in blending verbal therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and trauma focused therapies such as EMDR with the expressive arts (dance/movement, art, music, writing). I look forward to offering you an effective and personalized approach!
![Photo of Lisa A Napolitano, PhD, JD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b52ed555-850f-4777-97a4-8b72457d7bc7/2/320x400.jpeg)
It is a time-limited, skills-based approach for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, stress, worry, relationship conflicts, eating disorders, and addictive behavior.
I'm a concierge psychologist in New York and Miami specializing in in cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults with over 18 years of licensed experience. Currently, I offer only remote sessions for individual and group therapy. In January 2023, my office in Coconut Grove Miami will open for in-person sessions. I work with clients to optimize their potential and life satisfaction. I specialize in evidence-based approaches to change patterns in thinking, behavior and emotional responding that cause distress.
It is a time-limited, skills-based approach for a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, stress, worry, relationship conflicts, eating disorders, and addictive behavior.
I'm a concierge psychologist in New York and Miami specializing in in cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy for adults with over 18 years of licensed experience. Currently, I offer only remote sessions for individual and group therapy. In January 2023, my office in Coconut Grove Miami will open for in-person sessions. I work with clients to optimize their potential and life satisfaction. I specialize in evidence-based approaches to change patterns in thinking, behavior and emotional responding that cause distress.
![Photo of Dr. Hannah Gilfix, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd282d62-e25a-4c88-a6f8-d63d84899aef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hannah Gilfix
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (Online Only)
As a licensed psychologist, I specialize in working with OCD, Anxiety, Phobias, PTSD/Trauma, Eating Disorders, and Relationships.
Are you a young professional, college student, or millennial struggling with the pressures of everyday life while also battling intrusive thoughts, obsessions and compulsions, or past traumas? Do you lay in bed thinking about all the choices you made today or worrying about other people’s opinions? Or maybe you're trying juggle excelling in your career, maintaining friendships, attending countless social events, and navigating the complexities of dating apps. Wouldn't it be amazing to finally have the energy to accomplish your goals and stop feeling stuck all the time? It doesn't have to be this hard. With therapy, I can help you.
As a licensed psychologist, I specialize in working with OCD, Anxiety, Phobias, PTSD/Trauma, Eating Disorders, and Relationships.
Are you a young professional, college student, or millennial struggling with the pressures of everyday life while also battling intrusive thoughts, obsessions and compulsions, or past traumas? Do you lay in bed thinking about all the choices you made today or worrying about other people’s opinions? Or maybe you're trying juggle excelling in your career, maintaining friendships, attending countless social events, and navigating the complexities of dating apps. Wouldn't it be amazing to finally have the energy to accomplish your goals and stop feeling stuck all the time? It doesn't have to be this hard. With therapy, I can help you.
![Photo of Eugenio A. Duarte, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46cedcc9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychoanalyst and psychologist specializing in talk therapy for people who want to live freer, more fulfilling lives. Together we can help you overcome long-standing obstacles and achieve long-desired goals. My approach combines contemporary psychoanalytic principles to help us make sense of your struggles and pragmatic, solution-focused approaches for working through them. We will explore your unconscious patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior and the significance of your present-day choices and realities. My goal is to strengthen your self-awareness and use it to make real, significant improvements in your life.
I am a psychoanalyst and psychologist specializing in talk therapy for people who want to live freer, more fulfilling lives. Together we can help you overcome long-standing obstacles and achieve long-desired goals. My approach combines contemporary psychoanalytic principles to help us make sense of your struggles and pragmatic, solution-focused approaches for working through them. We will explore your unconscious patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior and the significance of your present-day choices and realities. My goal is to strengthen your self-awareness and use it to make real, significant improvements in your life.
![Photo of Francesca Vazquez, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bb74800-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I combine my knowledge in nutritional psychology and as a health psychologist to guide my clients in gaining mind-body wellness. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood, health issues, chronic pain, insomnia, addiction, emotional sequelae after injury or medical diagnoses, I can help. If your goal is to use more than just talk therapy and want to actually heal both your mind and body through nutrition, relaxation training, guidance/support, and lifestyle changes, you’re in the right place! As a licensed psychologist and a yoga instructor, I have developed a holistic approach to mental health and treatment.
I combine my knowledge in nutritional psychology and as a health psychologist to guide my clients in gaining mind-body wellness. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, low mood, health issues, chronic pain, insomnia, addiction, emotional sequelae after injury or medical diagnoses, I can help. If your goal is to use more than just talk therapy and want to actually heal both your mind and body through nutrition, relaxation training, guidance/support, and lifestyle changes, you’re in the right place! As a licensed psychologist and a yoga instructor, I have developed a holistic approach to mental health and treatment.
![Photo of Jeanethe Guerrero, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81fd358d-7595-4f5a-851a-947d6ccbd4e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanethe Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coconut Grove, FL 33133
Counseling, consultant and mentor over thirty years of relevant experience with Educational Facilities, Corporations and Organizations on personal and professional development. Bilingual with multicultural perspective and ease for intercultural communication. B.A. in Early Childhood Education and Masters in Psychology from Colombia, and Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy in USA. Extensive experience in providing children, individual, family, marriage and group therapy, serving as a resource for government agencies and community groups. Experience as supervisor, international speaker, school and University teacher. Practice with Cancer patients and their families, grieving, children with academic challenges, career orientation, assessing individual's needs, couples in relational problems, and diagnosis.
Counseling, consultant and mentor over thirty years of relevant experience with Educational Facilities, Corporations and Organizations on personal and professional development. Bilingual with multicultural perspective and ease for intercultural communication. B.A. in Early Childhood Education and Masters in Psychology from Colombia, and Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy in USA. Extensive experience in providing children, individual, family, marriage and group therapy, serving as a resource for government agencies and community groups. Experience as supervisor, international speaker, school and University teacher. Practice with Cancer patients and their families, grieving, children with academic challenges, career orientation, assessing individual's needs, couples in relational problems, and diagnosis.
![Photo of Michal F Keshen-Philips, MA, MSEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba86c94-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michal F Keshen-Philips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MSEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Coconut Grove, FL 33146
As a marriage and family therapist, my goal is to assist you individually,as a couple, and/or as a family to move forward towards a healthy, happy, and balanced life. In a boutique private practice setting, I counsel children, adolescents, adults, and elders contending with various life challenges. Sensitivity, compassion, confidentiality, and comprehensive care to every individual is of highlighted importance.
As a marriage and family therapist, my goal is to assist you individually,as a couple, and/or as a family to move forward towards a healthy, happy, and balanced life. In a boutique private practice setting, I counsel children, adolescents, adults, and elders contending with various life challenges. Sensitivity, compassion, confidentiality, and comprehensive care to every individual is of highlighted importance.
![Photo of Hilary Bone, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7ee049a-d685-48ff-849e-c0130352b60e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to prioritize your own well-being and explore the best version of yourself? Have been experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? Perhaps you are facing problems involving your family, your partner, or your employment, and you are struggling to cope? You are not alone, and I am here to help.
Are you ready to prioritize your own well-being and explore the best version of yourself? Have been experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? Perhaps you are facing problems involving your family, your partner, or your employment, and you are struggling to cope? You are not alone, and I am here to help.
![Photo of Shay Harati, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec3be23b-41bd-4bf4-8736-c50271528cbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the challenges they face and supporting their mental and emotional well-being. I have a deep understanding of the unique needs and developmental stages of children and young adults, allowing me to provide effective and compassionate care. One of my primary goals is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and emotions. I believe in the power of building a strong therapeutic alliance. I offer individual therapy, group therapy and psychological evaluations.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate the challenges they face and supporting their mental and emotional well-being. I have a deep understanding of the unique needs and developmental stages of children and young adults, allowing me to provide effective and compassionate care. One of my primary goals is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and emotions. I believe in the power of building a strong therapeutic alliance. I offer individual therapy, group therapy and psychological evaluations.
![Photo of Jessica Malvicino, LMHC, MS, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17e2c888-01bf-4f69-90ba-1664de59335e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who graduated in 2006 with my Bachelor’s degree in Communications, and in 2013 received my Master’s degree, with honors, in Mental Health Counseling. I have received the prestigious recognition from the National Board for Certified Counselors to be a National Certified Counselor and Subject Matter Expert for the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination. I'm also the current recipient of the 2023 Healthcare Champion Emerging Leader Award by the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, I'm certified as a Level II TEAM-CBT Therapist.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who graduated in 2006 with my Bachelor’s degree in Communications, and in 2013 received my Master’s degree, with honors, in Mental Health Counseling. I have received the prestigious recognition from the National Board for Certified Counselors to be a National Certified Counselor and Subject Matter Expert for the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination. I'm also the current recipient of the 2023 Healthcare Champion Emerging Leader Award by the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, I'm certified as a Level II TEAM-CBT Therapist.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sage Rubinstein, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a070277a-3e9d-4b30-b271-45c3dd498f24/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sage Rubinstein
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33134 (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, including food, body image, and self-esteem.
If you are open to deeper exploration, reconnecting to your authentic self, and challenging problematic patterns of thinking/behaviors, then I can provide a safe space for you. Making the decision to start therapy can often feel daunting and part of the work may revolve around confronting those fears. I ascribe to a psychodynamic approach that allows me to focus on you as a whole, not just your presenting concerns.Together, we can work towards identifying and exploring the barriers to growth and self-fulfillment that may be holding you back in your life.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, including food, body image, and self-esteem.
If you are open to deeper exploration, reconnecting to your authentic self, and challenging problematic patterns of thinking/behaviors, then I can provide a safe space for you. Making the decision to start therapy can often feel daunting and part of the work may revolve around confronting those fears. I ascribe to a psychodynamic approach that allows me to focus on you as a whole, not just your presenting concerns.Together, we can work towards identifying and exploring the barriers to growth and self-fulfillment that may be holding you back in your life.
![Photo of Nancy Fink, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/465b2dbf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I treat clients suffering with emotional eating and disordered eating including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating.
I enjoy helping my clients to solve life's puzzles. I strive to partner with my clients in understanding their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in order to help them achieve their desired life plan. I have been a licensed psychotherapist for more than 25 years. I have worked with a wide variety of relationship couple issues both marital and pre-marital. I have helped many couples to improve their level of marital satisfaction and to heal their trust issues. I also have worked extensively with patients struggling with depression, anxiety, childhood sexual abuse grief, career choices,infidelity, and self-worth issues.
I treat clients suffering with emotional eating and disordered eating including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating.
I enjoy helping my clients to solve life's puzzles. I strive to partner with my clients in understanding their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors in order to help them achieve their desired life plan. I have been a licensed psychotherapist for more than 25 years. I have worked with a wide variety of relationship couple issues both marital and pre-marital. I have helped many couples to improve their level of marital satisfaction and to heal their trust issues. I also have worked extensively with patients struggling with depression, anxiety, childhood sexual abuse grief, career choices,infidelity, and self-worth issues.
![Photo of Coral Seco, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e16052f1-9ffb-436f-bb83-693a6e212e2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that we all have the opportunity to thrive in our existence & live out the life we were meant to live to our fullest potential , starting today at this very moment. Something brought you to look for someone to help guide you at this time and here we are. Hi! My name is Coral Seco. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor here in South Florida. I specialize in Eating Disorders, Trauma work & life transitions. I am an EMDR therapist & offer this service in office with equipment & virtually. I also offer Brain Spotting & Ketamine assisted therapy.
I believe that we all have the opportunity to thrive in our existence & live out the life we were meant to live to our fullest potential , starting today at this very moment. Something brought you to look for someone to help guide you at this time and here we are. Hi! My name is Coral Seco. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor here in South Florida. I specialize in Eating Disorders, Trauma work & life transitions. I am an EMDR therapist & offer this service in office with equipment & virtually. I also offer Brain Spotting & Ketamine assisted therapy.
![Photo of Rebecca Russ, LMHC, R-DMT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a681e5c-257e-4335-9417-30b1ebde8711/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Rebecca Russ, a licensed mental health counselor and dance/movement therapist here in Miami. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety spectrum disorders like OCD, PTSD, GAD, and also eating disorders. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and direct, focusing on practical strategies to address underlying issues with empathy and understanding.
I'm Rebecca Russ, a licensed mental health counselor and dance/movement therapist here in Miami. I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety spectrum disorders like OCD, PTSD, GAD, and also eating disorders. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and direct, focusing on practical strategies to address underlying issues with empathy and understanding.
![Photo of Alissa Vitale, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc7d005c-ab01-499a-ba8c-b06e29c1e176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth thrives! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am here to offer you a warm embrace on your journey to well-being. Whether you're navigating the complexities of eating disorders, overcoming trauma, managing anxiety, or healing from narcissistic abuse, this is a place where you're heard and understood. My focus on eating disorders allows me to provide specialized support for those seeking to develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies. Considering the complexities surrounding these issues, I offer a non-judgmental space for exploration and growth.
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth thrives! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am here to offer you a warm embrace on your journey to well-being. Whether you're navigating the complexities of eating disorders, overcoming trauma, managing anxiety, or healing from narcissistic abuse, this is a place where you're heard and understood. My focus on eating disorders allows me to provide specialized support for those seeking to develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies. Considering the complexities surrounding these issues, I offer a non-judgmental space for exploration and growth.
See more therapy options for Coconut Grove
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Coconut Grove
- Coral Gables
- Doral
- Hialeah
- Kendall
- Key Biscayne
- Miami
- Miami Beach
- Miami Shores
- North Miami
- Palmetto Bay
- Pinecrest
- South Miami
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.