Therapists in Wildwood, FL
![Photo of Naomi Corey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/536b57c3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 40 years of experience and have worked with hundreds of adults, Children, Teens, and Families specializing in relationship issues, addictions, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life changes, retirement issues, stress, anger and more.
I have over 40 years of experience and have worked with hundreds of adults, Children, Teens, and Families specializing in relationship issues, addictions, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, life changes, retirement issues, stress, anger and more.
![Photo of Dr. Javier Mouriz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3fb5c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
English/Spanish, over 20 years of experience & have worked with hundreds of clients: teens ages 14+, adults, couples/relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and more. I can offer you Personable & Experienced Psychological Services. There are times in our lives when we all may be able to benefit from help in getting life back on track. As a therapist I work mostly to help individuals identify the thinking and behaviors which have not been helpful to them over time and assist in the development of new patterns which will lead to happiness and success.
English/Spanish, over 20 years of experience & have worked with hundreds of clients: teens ages 14+, adults, couples/relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and more. I can offer you Personable & Experienced Psychological Services. There are times in our lives when we all may be able to benefit from help in getting life back on track. As a therapist I work mostly to help individuals identify the thinking and behaviors which have not been helpful to them over time and assist in the development of new patterns which will lead to happiness and success.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Megan Hunt, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afe79d39-7149-4229-955b-1df26ab66aa2/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are seeking support with issues related to eating disorders, anxiety, self-harming, or self-esteem, I have the knowledge and expertise to assist you.
Hello and welcome to my page, I am dedicated to providing you with a safe and comfortable space to explore your emotions and personal struggles. My goal is to help you challenge your fears and insecurities, and ultimately find the path to the fulfilling life you desire. My approach is rooted in evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These techniques allow me to tailor my approach to your specific needs, and to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique circumstances.
If you are seeking support with issues related to eating disorders, anxiety, self-harming, or self-esteem, I have the knowledge and expertise to assist you.
Hello and welcome to my page, I am dedicated to providing you with a safe and comfortable space to explore your emotions and personal struggles. My goal is to help you challenge your fears and insecurities, and ultimately find the path to the fulfilling life you desire. My approach is rooted in evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These techniques allow me to tailor my approach to your specific needs, and to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique circumstances.
![Photo of Alexandra Englert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71119c01-ebb0-483e-95ff-c10db7c1b64e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
![Photo of Annette Marie Bushfield, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1228f908-f94e-478c-92ff-03df6a439a62/3/320x400.jpeg)
Annette Bushfield, a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, has served as a therapist in NY and FL for 20 years. In addition to working with soldiers, incarcerated persons, executives and retirees, she coaches Florida clinicians on using trauma informed responses, motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT and Schema Therapy to help navigate the challenges their patients bring to the therapeutic process. Ms. Bushfield’s reviews are public, and they demonstrate her goal to ensure that clients are seen, heard, validated, informed, empowered, and challenged to grow.
Annette Bushfield, a Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, has served as a therapist in NY and FL for 20 years. In addition to working with soldiers, incarcerated persons, executives and retirees, she coaches Florida clinicians on using trauma informed responses, motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT and Schema Therapy to help navigate the challenges their patients bring to the therapeutic process. Ms. Bushfield’s reviews are public, and they demonstrate her goal to ensure that clients are seen, heard, validated, informed, empowered, and challenged to grow.
![Photo of Debra Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c07a28b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you going through transitions in life? Recently moved or tying to figure out what to do in retirement? Grieving after a loss? Having difficulty in your relationship? Suffering from anxiety or depression? You may have goals that you have been unable to follow through on and ready to take the next step, or need to learn to make decisions. You are not alone. I provide confidential and supportive counseling to couples and individuals who are struggling and want to feel better. I can help individuals to find their own strengths.
Are you going through transitions in life? Recently moved or tying to figure out what to do in retirement? Grieving after a loss? Having difficulty in your relationship? Suffering from anxiety or depression? You may have goals that you have been unable to follow through on and ready to take the next step, or need to learn to make decisions. You are not alone. I provide confidential and supportive counseling to couples and individuals who are struggling and want to feel better. I can help individuals to find their own strengths.
![Photo of Kelly Hunsaker, RMHCI, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99855c47-44fe-42e9-8a05-3104005de778/4/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of feeling stuck and are ready to embrace a healthier and more fulfilling life? Are you desiring emotional support, effective coping strategies, healing, recovery, personal growth, and self-empowerment? You are at the right place. In counseling, I will help you regain control of your mental and emotional well-being. To achieve this I will guide you in healing from your past wounds and break free from destructive patterns. You will learn how to effectively manage your addiction, anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. You will finally feel empowered to break from the old habits and unhealthy relationships.
Are you tired of feeling stuck and are ready to embrace a healthier and more fulfilling life? Are you desiring emotional support, effective coping strategies, healing, recovery, personal growth, and self-empowerment? You are at the right place. In counseling, I will help you regain control of your mental and emotional well-being. To achieve this I will guide you in healing from your past wounds and break free from destructive patterns. You will learn how to effectively manage your addiction, anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms. You will finally feel empowered to break from the old habits and unhealthy relationships.
![Photo of Doc Brady - Village Mind and Body Institute, DCH, EdD, PsyD, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f621f5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Village Mind and Body Institute
Pastoral Counselor, DCH, EdD, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Lady Lake, FL 32159
I practice Positive Psychology to help with an array of mental health issues for couples, individuals and groups. I have been counseling since the mid 1970's. I have written a book on and also teach the power of positive thinking. New book in 2017 is on Counseling and psychology.
I practice Positive Psychology to help with an array of mental health issues for couples, individuals and groups. I have been counseling since the mid 1970's. I have written a book on and also teach the power of positive thinking. New book in 2017 is on Counseling and psychology.
![Photo of Aliyatta P. Weston, MS, LMHC, CEAP, SAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/007c4754-271b-44e9-967b-c69a32a024a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aliyatta P. Weston
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Villages, FL 32159 (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe space for healing & self-discovery!I'm here to support you on your journey towards a happier & more fulfilled life. My passion lies in helping those who are dedicated to self-improvement & seeking guidance on a path to healing. Life is often challenging, we all face obstacles that can take a toll on our mental health. Whether it's difficult relationships, life transitions, past traumas, or ups and downs that come with being human, it's completely natural to experience moments of doubt & struggle. It's during these times that I want to extend my hand to help you find your way back to a place of balance and strength.
Welcome to a safe space for healing & self-discovery!I'm here to support you on your journey towards a happier & more fulfilled life. My passion lies in helping those who are dedicated to self-improvement & seeking guidance on a path to healing. Life is often challenging, we all face obstacles that can take a toll on our mental health. Whether it's difficult relationships, life transitions, past traumas, or ups and downs that come with being human, it's completely natural to experience moments of doubt & struggle. It's during these times that I want to extend my hand to help you find your way back to a place of balance and strength.
![Photo of Bettina Yanez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/465cd035-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At times life can be challanging & reaching out for support & assistance is necessary. Counseling is a way to have a non-judgemental professional help you manage your particular stresses & learn ways to cope. Whether its addressing past struggles or managing current ones appropriate treatment can help. You can improve relationships, overall health, focus & live happier! Bettina has several years of experience providing counseling.She is a mother, friend, & a real person who has the professional education & experience to assist you. Daytime, evenings appts provided via tele-therapy (online/video counseling) for individuals or couples
At times life can be challanging & reaching out for support & assistance is necessary. Counseling is a way to have a non-judgemental professional help you manage your particular stresses & learn ways to cope. Whether its addressing past struggles or managing current ones appropriate treatment can help. You can improve relationships, overall health, focus & live happier! Bettina has several years of experience providing counseling.She is a mother, friend, & a real person who has the professional education & experience to assist you. Daytime, evenings appts provided via tele-therapy (online/video counseling) for individuals or couples
Online Therapists
![Photo of Kaitlyn Farmer Eating Disorder Therapist, MS, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd4f593-1eb4-4f59-b750-5ab522ebfaee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kaitlyn Farmer Eating Disorder Therapist
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33618
Are you feeling frustrated with your teen’s alcohol use, eating habits, or excessive worry? Is your child struggling in school or relationships? I am a child/teen specialist in improving communication skills, building self-esteem, eating disorders, and substance abuse. I create a relaxing and fun play therapy setting to allow children to open up and feel welcomed.
Are you feeling frustrated with your teen’s alcohol use, eating habits, or excessive worry? Is your child struggling in school or relationships? I am a child/teen specialist in improving communication skills, building self-esteem, eating disorders, and substance abuse. I create a relaxing and fun play therapy setting to allow children to open up and feel welcomed.
![Photo of Samantha Ammann - Samantha Ammann, RN, LCSW, CSAT, RYT, RN, LCSW, CSAT, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45973d63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Ammann, RN, LCSW, CSAT, RYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, LCSW, CSAT, RYT
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710 (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with clients who have eating disorders such as compulsive overeating, anorexia and bulimia.
My passion is working with clients who have sexual compulsive issues, sexual addictions, internet pornography, and their partners including partners of those who offend sexually. I provide a non judgmental, confidential, and safe environment for clients to explore the areas of their lives where they may struggle. I also specialize in working with clients who have substance abuse issues, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns and codependency. I also assist clients with chronic pain and tinnitus. I am actively licensed in Florida, New York, and Tennessee and serve clients in those states.
I have many years of experience working with clients who have eating disorders such as compulsive overeating, anorexia and bulimia.
My passion is working with clients who have sexual compulsive issues, sexual addictions, internet pornography, and their partners including partners of those who offend sexually. I provide a non judgmental, confidential, and safe environment for clients to explore the areas of their lives where they may struggle. I also specialize in working with clients who have substance abuse issues, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship concerns and codependency. I also assist clients with chronic pain and tinnitus. I am actively licensed in Florida, New York, and Tennessee and serve clients in those states.
![Photo of Dolly Ferraiuolo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16163ab5-41bb-411e-973d-a56b23616146/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dolly Ferraiuolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33759
I offer judgment-free and evidenced-based Sexual Health, OCD, anxiety, eating disorders, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world, symbolizes the change in the perspective of self-realization. The kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life. We weave this meaning into the fabric of our mission and in the work we provide to every client enrolled at SHARE. Are you stuck or lost? Are you struggling with anxiety and fear? Are those intrusive thoughts derailing your days? Feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner(s) can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable, and alone. Whatever your struggle, I am here for you.
I offer judgment-free and evidenced-based Sexual Health, OCD, anxiety, eating disorders, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world, symbolizes the change in the perspective of self-realization. The kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life. We weave this meaning into the fabric of our mission and in the work we provide to every client enrolled at SHARE. Are you stuck or lost? Are you struggling with anxiety and fear? Are those intrusive thoughts derailing your days? Feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner(s) can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable, and alone. Whatever your struggle, I am here for you.
![Photo of Gabby Lafond, RCSWI, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cf768a6-6db3-4f78-a711-a35c9dfc2399/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabby Lafond
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33635
I have a passion working with every individual who are struggling with Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions and other general mental health issues.
Are you ready to take your first small steps towards change and growth? Are you looking for ways that will make your life feel more meaningful and purposeful? Do you feel it’s hard to understand and process your emotions? Do you feel stuck, disconnected and misunderstood? I am here to help support you through this difficult time. Reaching out and asking for help is one of the hardest things you can do, and it is the start of achieving your goals towards wellness.
I have a passion working with every individual who are struggling with Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions and other general mental health issues.
Are you ready to take your first small steps towards change and growth? Are you looking for ways that will make your life feel more meaningful and purposeful? Do you feel it’s hard to understand and process your emotions? Do you feel stuck, disconnected and misunderstood? I am here to help support you through this difficult time. Reaching out and asking for help is one of the hardest things you can do, and it is the start of achieving your goals towards wellness.
![Photo of Marisa V. Byles, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a7d371-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My specialties include eating disorders and body image concerns, anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, relationships and interpersonal problems, and adjustment disorders.
As a licensed psychologist and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, I take great pride in my work with patients. I utilize an individual approach, being mindful of each person's unique experiences, needs, and goals. I use evidenced-based treatments and interventions in order to help my patients successfully manage and improve psychological distress. I primarily use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which are effective at treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
My specialties include eating disorders and body image concerns, anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, relationships and interpersonal problems, and adjustment disorders.
As a licensed psychologist and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, I take great pride in my work with patients. I utilize an individual approach, being mindful of each person's unique experiences, needs, and goals. I use evidenced-based treatments and interventions in order to help my patients successfully manage and improve psychological distress. I primarily use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which are effective at treating a wide variety of mental health concerns.
![Photo of Mari W. Broome, LCSW, CST, RYT, RCY, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08d88e22-3019-4471-a114-5a26dfb98067/5/320x400.jpeg)
Mari W. Broome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, RYT, RCY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clearwater, FL 33756
My areas of expertise encompass eating disorders, sexual health, anxiety, and mindfulness.
As a therapist emphasizing both mental and physical well-being, my objective is to collaborate with you to help you understand and navigate the obstacles you encounter in life. I have a degree in Exercise and Sports Sciences from the University of Florida and a Masters in Clinical Social Work from Florida International University. I am trained as a Yoga Therapy Teacher and Children's Yoga Teacher, integrating these practices with clients open to the approach. Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), I blend evidence-based modalities like CBT and mindfulness skills to create personalized treatment.
My areas of expertise encompass eating disorders, sexual health, anxiety, and mindfulness.
As a therapist emphasizing both mental and physical well-being, my objective is to collaborate with you to help you understand and navigate the obstacles you encounter in life. I have a degree in Exercise and Sports Sciences from the University of Florida and a Masters in Clinical Social Work from Florida International University. I am trained as a Yoga Therapy Teacher and Children's Yoga Teacher, integrating these practices with clients open to the approach. Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), I blend evidence-based modalities like CBT and mindfulness skills to create personalized treatment.
![Photo of Yanet Vanegas, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bc8df64-8c65-4990-b805-4d4d7adc5635/3/320x400.jpeg)
With 10 years of experience and training at Harvard Medical School's McLean Hospital, I specialize in treating OCD, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, ADHD, and self-esteem concerns.
Hello, I'm Dr. Yanet Vanegas, and I understand that seeking support for mental well-being can be a challenging journey. I'm a child and adolescent psychologist and a perinatal mental health certified provider. My approach goes beyond merely treating symptoms. It’s about sparking lasting change and fostering personal growth. I create personalized treatment plans using the latest therapeutic techniques, including CBT, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD, and DBT.
With 10 years of experience and training at Harvard Medical School's McLean Hospital, I specialize in treating OCD, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, ADHD, and self-esteem concerns.
Hello, I'm Dr. Yanet Vanegas, and I understand that seeking support for mental well-being can be a challenging journey. I'm a child and adolescent psychologist and a perinatal mental health certified provider. My approach goes beyond merely treating symptoms. It’s about sparking lasting change and fostering personal growth. I create personalized treatment plans using the latest therapeutic techniques, including CBT, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD, and DBT.
![Photo of Ellen Babanin, LMFT, MS, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60cd306e-31c5-4647-a178-dc53425e439a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Reaching out for help takes great strength. You have already taken the first step in healing and improving your life. It is difficult to see the positives and the hope when you are discouraged or overwhelmed. I work with my clients to help them overcome the barriers that prevent them from leading a fulfilling life. I specialize in eating disorders, depression, self-harming behaviors, couple and adolescent counseling. I encourage you to take the next step in working on those concerns and problems that prevent you from being happy and content. I would welcome the opportunity to help you start believing that change is possible.
Reaching out for help takes great strength. You have already taken the first step in healing and improving your life. It is difficult to see the positives and the hope when you are discouraged or overwhelmed. I work with my clients to help them overcome the barriers that prevent them from leading a fulfilling life. I specialize in eating disorders, depression, self-harming behaviors, couple and adolescent counseling. I encourage you to take the next step in working on those concerns and problems that prevent you from being happy and content. I would welcome the opportunity to help you start believing that change is possible.
![Photo of Alexandra Englert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15d7cd96-95a4-4b7a-8aff-f89107c4435e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
![Photo of Katy Rosini, MPH, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/362406df-ac4b-4c84-adf8-2a34c1365618/2/320x400.jpeg)
I know the importance of compassion when treating eating disorders and I aim to provide a safe and confidential space for people to heal and recognize they are not alone.
Treating eating disorders is my passion. After recovering from my own eating disorder, I decided I would dedicate my life to helping others recover too. I am a skilled clinician who has been extensively trained in the treatment of eating disorders and co-occuring disorders. I am a board member of the Tampa Bay chapter of International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals and I co-facilitate support groups for the Alliance for Eating Disorder Awareness. I have worked at all levels of care, inpatient, residential, intensive outpatient and out-patient and understand the seriousness and severity of eating disorders.
I know the importance of compassion when treating eating disorders and I aim to provide a safe and confidential space for people to heal and recognize they are not alone.
Treating eating disorders is my passion. After recovering from my own eating disorder, I decided I would dedicate my life to helping others recover too. I am a skilled clinician who has been extensively trained in the treatment of eating disorders and co-occuring disorders. I am a board member of the Tampa Bay chapter of International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals and I co-facilitate support groups for the Alliance for Eating Disorder Awareness. I have worked at all levels of care, inpatient, residential, intensive outpatient and out-patient and understand the seriousness and severity of eating disorders.
See more therapy options for Wildwood
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Wildwood
- Brooksville
- Clermont
- Eustis
- Groveland
- Hernando
- Lady Lake
- Leesburg
- Mount Dora
- Oakland
- Ocala
- Tavares
- The Villages
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.