Eating Disorders Therapists in Cary, IL

Photo of Amy Fujino, LCPC, Counselor
Amy Fujino
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cary, IL 60013
In Touch Counseling Center, LLC is officially open for business! I am providing individual, family and couples therapy in person and Telehealth for individuals experiencing depression, generalized anxiety, ADHD, anger, adjustment difficulty, low self-esteem, grief & loss, eating disorders, negative body image, borderline personality disorder and stress.
In Touch Counseling Center, LLC is officially open for business! I am providing individual, family and couples therapy in person and Telehealth for individuals experiencing depression, generalized anxiety, ADHD, anger, adjustment difficulty, low self-esteem, grief & loss, eating disorders, negative body image, borderline personality disorder and stress.
(815) 524-8249 View (815) 524-8249
Photo of Lu Gregory, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lu Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Not Verified Not Verified
Cary, IL 60013
Lu is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults and their families. She has experience working with individuals with Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury and Substance Abuse. Lu utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in achieving positive changes in mood, thought process and their behavior.
Lu is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults and their families. She has experience working with individuals with Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury and Substance Abuse. Lu utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in achieving positive changes in mood, thought process and their behavior.
(847) 293-7983 View (847) 293-7983
Photo of Jim Grimm, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jim Grimm
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013
My broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. I utilize insight oriented, cognitive-behavioral and family oriented approaches in my counseling milieu. I am devoted to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
My broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. I utilize insight oriented, cognitive-behavioral and family oriented approaches in my counseling milieu. I am devoted to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
(847) 607-1125 View (847) 607-1125
Photo of Angela Fieldhouse, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Fieldhouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013
As a parent, we all want what's best for our kids and to be able to set them up for a successful future. Depression, anxiety, school stressors, peer relationships, family conflict, and social media are all things that may affect children and adolescents differently than adults, which can be difficult for parents to help their children navigate through. I value transparency, humor, and honesty when it comes to building relationships with my clients. Don't let your mental health decide your happiness, reach out today to start taking control back of your own life.
As a parent, we all want what's best for our kids and to be able to set them up for a successful future. Depression, anxiety, school stressors, peer relationships, family conflict, and social media are all things that may affect children and adolescents differently than adults, which can be difficult for parents to help their children navigate through. I value transparency, humor, and honesty when it comes to building relationships with my clients. Don't let your mental health decide your happiness, reach out today to start taking control back of your own life.
(224) 208-1934 View (224) 208-1934
Photo of Sara Rogers, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013
Sara Rogers is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Arizona University. Sara provides an inclusive, safe therapeutic environment. Her approach is to support you by being a safe space for your challenging life experiences, thoughts, and emotions. As we move through life everyone deserves a place to feel supported and heard without judgment.
Sara Rogers is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northern Arizona University. Sara provides an inclusive, safe therapeutic environment. Her approach is to support you by being a safe space for your challenging life experiences, thoughts, and emotions. As we move through life everyone deserves a place to feel supported and heard without judgment.
(224) 243-5400 View (224) 243-5400
Photo of Vanessa Botti - Kids.Spot.Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kids.Spot.Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, IL 60013
Are you a frustrated parent struggling to find answers and strategies that work? Is your child worried and nervous, unable to relax or have fun? Does your heart break as you watch your child hurting and feeling hopeless to help? You are not alone! At least 17% of children in the US struggle with emotional difficulties. We can help you understand what is happening with your child and choose strategies that support your child through their journey to happiness and health. I offer individual sessions, play therapy, sand tray therapy, parent consultations, coaching, and family therapy sessions to help your child be their best self.
Are you a frustrated parent struggling to find answers and strategies that work? Is your child worried and nervous, unable to relax or have fun? Does your heart break as you watch your child hurting and feeling hopeless to help? You are not alone! At least 17% of children in the US struggle with emotional difficulties. We can help you understand what is happening with your child and choose strategies that support your child through their journey to happiness and health. I offer individual sessions, play therapy, sand tray therapy, parent consultations, coaching, and family therapy sessions to help your child be their best self.
(224) 707-0156 View (224) 707-0156
Photo of Haley Lochan, LCSW
Haley Lochan
LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, IL 60013
Hello! I am a trauma-informed therapist who is fluent in Spanish and an ally to the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. I am certified in Crisis Intervention and am drawn to clients who can relate to domestic violence, human trafficking, depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, and complex trauma. I also can help if you have trouble with sleep, motivation, phobias or stress. I see children, adolescents, adults, and families. Even if you are not sure what you want from therapy or how to get there, I will meet you where you are at in your journey, and together we will figure out a plan for you to live your best, most fulfilled life!
Hello! I am a trauma-informed therapist who is fluent in Spanish and an ally to the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. I am certified in Crisis Intervention and am drawn to clients who can relate to domestic violence, human trafficking, depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, and complex trauma. I also can help if you have trouble with sleep, motivation, phobias or stress. I see children, adolescents, adults, and families. Even if you are not sure what you want from therapy or how to get there, I will meet you where you are at in your journey, and together we will figure out a plan for you to live your best, most fulfilled life!
(847) 851-4546 View (847) 851-4546
Photo of Christine Gardner - Christine Gardner (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.), MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine Gardner (Meadowspring Counseling, Ltd.)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, IL 60013
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. I believe the relationship you form with your therapist is one of the most important predictors of whether therapy is successful. I offer a caring and supportive environment to explore life’s challenges. I completely recognize the strength and courage it took to make that first step. The struggles of our day to day challenges, anxiety and depression can make our lives seem unmanageable and overwhelming. Life is meant to be enjoyed. My desire is to come alongside you and help you to navigate through these challenges while meeting your personal goals.
I have immediate openings for both in person and online appointments. I believe the relationship you form with your therapist is one of the most important predictors of whether therapy is successful. I offer a caring and supportive environment to explore life’s challenges. I completely recognize the strength and courage it took to make that first step. The struggles of our day to day challenges, anxiety and depression can make our lives seem unmanageable and overwhelming. Life is meant to be enjoyed. My desire is to come alongside you and help you to navigate through these challenges while meeting your personal goals.
(847) 447-2776 View (847) 447-2776
Photo of Jackie Ann Rhew - Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Center for Emotional Wellness of the Northwest
Counselor, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
At the Center for Emotional Wellness, we are committed to helping our clients live their best life. Our team of clinicians are devoted to providing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other best practices in treating diverse disorders affecting children, adolescents, and adults. We are continually working to bring the most effective and innovative techniques and approaches to our center in order to better serve the individuals and families in our community. With over 10 therapists, we will match each client with the clinician with the most appropriate style and expertise to match individual needs.
(847) 550-3946 View (847) 550-3946
Photo of Mary J. Krueger, MS, LCPC, CGP, AGPA-F
Mary J. Krueger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, CGP, AGPA-F
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013
Not accepting new clients
I have had the privilege of listening to the stories of those who have entered my office over the last 30 years. I know that every person is unique with their own experience of life. I work with issues such as relationship issues, loss, struggle, betrayal, fears, trauma and internal conflict. Through therapy you will come to understand your experience and develop tools for creating change. I am convinced me that each of us has the ability to heal.I have successfully worked with individuals, couples, families and groups around issues of anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, self-esteem, relationship issues.
I have had the privilege of listening to the stories of those who have entered my office over the last 30 years. I know that every person is unique with their own experience of life. I work with issues such as relationship issues, loss, struggle, betrayal, fears, trauma and internal conflict. Through therapy you will come to understand your experience and develop tools for creating change. I am convinced me that each of us has the ability to heal.I have successfully worked with individuals, couples, families and groups around issues of anxiety, depression, loss, trauma, self-esteem, relationship issues.
(847) 908-3472 View (847) 908-3472
Photo of Karen Kozlowski Graham, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Kozlowski Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, IL 60013
Not accepting new clients
Feeling anxious or down? Going through a transition and can't seem to adjust? Problems with your teenagers? I'm a veteran licensed clinical social worker who is here to talk with you about your life, your family, and your relationships. Together we can develop ways of coping and even finding new meaning in your life. Send me an email or give me a call, let's talk.
Feeling anxious or down? Going through a transition and can't seem to adjust? Problems with your teenagers? I'm a veteran licensed clinical social worker who is here to talk with you about your life, your family, and your relationships. Together we can develop ways of coping and even finding new meaning in your life. Send me an email or give me a call, let's talk.
(847) 386-8957 View (847) 386-8957

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Lynn Leifeld, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Rebecca Lynn Leifeld
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress management, eating disorders, and self-injury.
Do you suffer from intense emotions, experience difficulty regulating your stress in this chaotic, high speed environment? Do you have difficulty managing relationships, coping with life changes, and or regulating your moods? I have developed a practice helping children, adolescents, and adults bridge the gap between where they are and where they would like to be. I am passionate about helping others and provide encouragement to people trying to reach their goals. I ensure a safe environment for people to explore their thoughts and feelings and identify the tools that they need to improve their quality of life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress management, eating disorders, and self-injury.
Do you suffer from intense emotions, experience difficulty regulating your stress in this chaotic, high speed environment? Do you have difficulty managing relationships, coping with life changes, and or regulating your moods? I have developed a practice helping children, adolescents, and adults bridge the gap between where they are and where they would like to be. I am passionate about helping others and provide encouragement to people trying to reach their goals. I ensure a safe environment for people to explore their thoughts and feelings and identify the tools that they need to improve their quality of life.
(847) 708-4527 View (847) 708-4527
Photo of Desiree Hawley, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist
Desiree Hawley
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60050
Desiree works with adults struggling with all types of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, self-harm, life transitions, stress, female issues, older adults, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Desiree’s primary goal as a clinician is to create a warm, supportive, and safe environment that promotes deeper exploration and understanding of one’s emotional experiences. She enjoys teaching others about mental health and how to cope in ways that individuals can feel proud of by utilizing psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Desiree works with adults struggling with all types of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, self-harm, life transitions, stress, female issues, older adults, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Desiree’s primary goal as a clinician is to create a warm, supportive, and safe environment that promotes deeper exploration and understanding of one’s emotional experiences. She enjoys teaching others about mental health and how to cope in ways that individuals can feel proud of by utilizing psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Person Centered Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(815) 527-6267 View (815) 527-6267
Photo of Sabrina Kreier, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Kreier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60050
I have extensive training and experience working with individuals with eating disorders, trauma, mood disorders, and relational issues.
I believe that therapy is a time for people to explore and better themselves leading to a more fulfilled life. I work from a person-centered approach meeting the client where they are at, but also utilize strategies from all different practices. I believe that the client is the expert in their own life and needs someone to show empathy, support, and guidance. I approach each session as a unique situation and involves the client in every step.
I have extensive training and experience working with individuals with eating disorders, trauma, mood disorders, and relational issues.
I believe that therapy is a time for people to explore and better themselves leading to a more fulfilled life. I work from a person-centered approach meeting the client where they are at, but also utilize strategies from all different practices. I believe that the client is the expert in their own life and needs someone to show empathy, support, and guidance. I approach each session as a unique situation and involves the client in every step.
(815) 393-1139 x707 View (815) 393-1139 x707
Photo of Kelly Canavan, MSEd, LCPC, NBCC
Kelly Canavan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I also treat clients with abuse history, traumas, self-injurious behaviors, eating disorders, and substance abuse histories.
Hello and Welcome - My journey into counseling began with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. I opened my practice in 2014 after meeting and working with Brene Brown’s team in San Antonio, Texas. If her work resonates with you our office is named after the “Man in the Arena Quote” - Arena Counseling LLC. With close to 20 years of experience. I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing various issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and trauma. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment.
I also treat clients with abuse history, traumas, self-injurious behaviors, eating disorders, and substance abuse histories.
Hello and Welcome - My journey into counseling began with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. I opened my practice in 2014 after meeting and working with Brene Brown’s team in San Antonio, Texas. If her work resonates with you our office is named after the “Man in the Arena Quote” - Arena Counseling LLC. With close to 20 years of experience. I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families facing various issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, and trauma. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment.
(815) 769-5331 View (815) 769-5331
Photo of Erin O'Donohue, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin O'Donohue
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I work with a range of presenting concerns including mood anxiety and eating disorders, loss, relationship and career struggles, perfectionism, trauma, identity development, substance abuse, self-esteem enhancement, and management of stress and anger.
I admire when an individual is ready to confront their problems and gain insight into accepting and overcoming these struggles. My style emphasizes a collaborative genuine relationship in order to enhance your social, emotional, and physical well-being. My hope is to assist you with developing skills to find relief from your symptoms while enhancing your self-awareness. Additionally I hope to invite you to change unhealthy patterns, and guide you to a more balanced and satisfying life.
I work with a range of presenting concerns including mood anxiety and eating disorders, loss, relationship and career struggles, perfectionism, trauma, identity development, substance abuse, self-esteem enhancement, and management of stress and anger.
I admire when an individual is ready to confront their problems and gain insight into accepting and overcoming these struggles. My style emphasizes a collaborative genuine relationship in order to enhance your social, emotional, and physical well-being. My hope is to assist you with developing skills to find relief from your symptoms while enhancing your self-awareness. Additionally I hope to invite you to change unhealthy patterns, and guide you to a more balanced and satisfying life.
(630) 489-6236 View (630) 489-6236
Photo of Catharine M Devlin, PsyD, CEDS-S, Psychologist
Catharine M Devlin
Psychologist, PsyD, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, I treat eating disorders/disordered eating, weight concerns, and body image issues.
Are you tired of obsessing over food and weight? There are so many messages that make us feel like we need to control our body size, above all else. Trying to figure out how to be healthy and take care of yourself can feel like an exhausting, uphill battle. It's not your fault and you don’t have to go through it alone. Wherever you are in your treatment process - if you have an eating disorder or are concerned about your body, your weight or food - I can consult to help you decide your next step. Therapy isn't just for those with a diagnosable eating disorder. If your relationship with your food is distressing, you may need support.
As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, I treat eating disorders/disordered eating, weight concerns, and body image issues.
Are you tired of obsessing over food and weight? There are so many messages that make us feel like we need to control our body size, above all else. Trying to figure out how to be healthy and take care of yourself can feel like an exhausting, uphill battle. It's not your fault and you don’t have to go through it alone. Wherever you are in your treatment process - if you have an eating disorder or are concerned about your body, your weight or food - I can consult to help you decide your next step. Therapy isn't just for those with a diagnosable eating disorder. If your relationship with your food is distressing, you may need support.
(773) 672-8684 View (773) 672-8684
Photo of Catherine Ness, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Catherine Ness
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, mental illness, eating disorders, and women's issues including self-esteem and relationship difficulties.
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, mental illness, eating disorders, and women's issues including self-esteem and relationship difficulties.
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
(224) 334-3976 x2 View (224) 334-3976 x2
Photo of Abby Watel, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby Watel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Long Grove, IL 60047
My principal areas of expertise include: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety& Phobias, Autistic Spectrum/Aspergers,Grief&Loss, Divorce Adjustment Peer Problems, Eating Disorders, School Adjustment, Depression, Development and Identity Issues, Behavior Problems, Blended Family Issues, Career/Work Issues, Infertility and Health Problems,Parenting, Marital & Relationship Issues, Family Systems, Co-Dependency, & Personal Growth.
I am a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of experience working in community mental health, hospital, child welfare, and private practice settings; I have both direct practice and supervisory experience. I currently enjoy dividing my caseload between working with children, adolescents, parents and families and working with individual adults and couples. I believe in helping people of all ages to continue learning and developing throughout their lives. I use play therapy with young children; I use behavioral and solution focused treatment with all clients.; for adults and adolescents more insight oriented approaches are available.
My principal areas of expertise include: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety& Phobias, Autistic Spectrum/Aspergers,Grief&Loss, Divorce Adjustment Peer Problems, Eating Disorders, School Adjustment, Depression, Development and Identity Issues, Behavior Problems, Blended Family Issues, Career/Work Issues, Infertility and Health Problems,Parenting, Marital & Relationship Issues, Family Systems, Co-Dependency, & Personal Growth.
I am a seasoned therapist with 25+ years of experience working in community mental health, hospital, child welfare, and private practice settings; I have both direct practice and supervisory experience. I currently enjoy dividing my caseload between working with children, adolescents, parents and families and working with individual adults and couples. I believe in helping people of all ages to continue learning and developing throughout their lives. I use play therapy with young children; I use behavioral and solution focused treatment with all clients.; for adults and adolescents more insight oriented approaches are available.
(847) 920-7810 View (847) 920-7810
Photo of Emily G Spillios, LSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily G Spillios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
With extensive experience in working with addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and co-occurring disorders, Emily embraces a holistic approach to therapy.
In the realm of personal growth and emotional healing, the decision to embark on the path of counseling represents a remarkable display of bravery. It is a profound recognition of the need for support and a willingness to confront the complexities of one’s inner world. Choosing counseling is an act of self-compassion, as it requires facing vulnerabilities, acknowledging past wounds, and embracing the potential for positive change. In this safe and nurturing environment, individuals dare to explore the depths of their emotions, unearthing the roots of their challenges and paving the way for transformation and resilience.
With extensive experience in working with addiction, eating disorders, trauma, and co-occurring disorders, Emily embraces a holistic approach to therapy.
In the realm of personal growth and emotional healing, the decision to embark on the path of counseling represents a remarkable display of bravery. It is a profound recognition of the need for support and a willingness to confront the complexities of one’s inner world. Choosing counseling is an act of self-compassion, as it requires facing vulnerabilities, acknowledging past wounds, and embracing the potential for positive change. In this safe and nurturing environment, individuals dare to explore the depths of their emotions, unearthing the roots of their challenges and paving the way for transformation and resilience.
(224) 302-6147 View (224) 302-6147
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.