Eating Disorders Therapists in Elburn, IL
Deborah Horcher-Shramovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elburn, IL 60119
Psychological and emotional upset do not have to dominate your life. Learn to move through your concerns and issues to improve fulfillment in your life. From common every day problems to more serious problems hope is a phone call away. Let's work together to get you back in the driver's seat of life.
Psychological and emotional upset do not have to dominate your life. Learn to move through your concerns and issues to improve fulfillment in your life. From common every day problems to more serious problems hope is a phone call away. Let's work together to get you back in the driver's seat of life.
![Photo of Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438268ed-3142-48b8-a5a1-7ba4757f6e7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, treats each client relationship as unique and constantly evolving. She believes life is a journey full of obstacles that impact one's well-being, but any challenge can be overcome with the correct tools.Veris supports adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, and more. She is an expert at helping clients identify and understand unhealthy behaviors and create a plan for change.
Veris Hawkins-Smith, LPC, treats each client relationship as unique and constantly evolving. She believes life is a journey full of obstacles that impact one's well-being, but any challenge can be overcome with the correct tools.Veris supports adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, and more. She is an expert at helping clients identify and understand unhealthy behaviors and create a plan for change.
![Photo of LaTasha Keltner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/169761a7-3f9d-4c29-bbac-0267586fb14a/2/320x400.jpeg)
It is a privilege to provide a safe space where the innermost thoughts, emotions, and fears of the human experience can be shared in an unfiltered way. This is a journey that has many twists and turns and if you are looking for compassionate, consistent support with a focus on growth and healing, you've made it to the right place. I specialize in the individualized care of those seeking to collaborate on changing their relationship with their anxiety, depression, and substance use.
It is a privilege to provide a safe space where the innermost thoughts, emotions, and fears of the human experience can be shared in an unfiltered way. This is a journey that has many twists and turns and if you are looking for compassionate, consistent support with a focus on growth and healing, you've made it to the right place. I specialize in the individualized care of those seeking to collaborate on changing their relationship with their anxiety, depression, and substance use.
![Photo of Shawn Garry, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f913253-264f-4fdb-9931-8a9b210540a4/1/320x400.png)
Shawn earned his Master's Degree in Counseling from National Louis University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from Lake Forest College. I began my career working in Mchenry County SASS which was the child and adolescent crisis response team. During that time I developed and honed skills that resonate with children and adolescents in order to help determine core issues and work towards action plans on how to progress on those issues. Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can decrease your quality of life and make you feel not like yourself.
Shawn earned his Master's Degree in Counseling from National Louis University and received his Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy from Lake Forest College. I began my career working in Mchenry County SASS which was the child and adolescent crisis response team. During that time I developed and honed skills that resonate with children and adolescents in order to help determine core issues and work towards action plans on how to progress on those issues. Anxiety, depression, and other symptoms can decrease your quality of life and make you feel not like yourself.
![Photo of Michelle Hansen, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52cded5e-bd16-4444-9aca-ef20f7a96085/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Michelle Hansen, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, is guided by compassion for the human experience in assisting her clients. She specializes in providing psychological testing services for her clients as the underlying cause for difficulties in cognitive, learning, emotional, or interpersonal difficulties is not always clear. Dr. Hansen's goals in assessment services are helping her clients discover their strengths and utilizing their challenges as opportunities to promote personal and interpersonal growth.
Dr. Michelle Hansen, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, is guided by compassion for the human experience in assisting her clients. She specializes in providing psychological testing services for her clients as the underlying cause for difficulties in cognitive, learning, emotional, or interpersonal difficulties is not always clear. Dr. Hansen's goals in assessment services are helping her clients discover their strengths and utilizing their challenges as opportunities to promote personal and interpersonal growth.
![Photo of Allison Grendzinski, LSCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f02a117b-8139-4dc4-9620-16e18d8fbcdf/1/320x400.png)
Allison Grendzinski, LCSW, is flexible, supportive, and engages meaningfully with clients. She takes the time to understand each client's journey and meets them where they are to overcome challenges. Allison serves clients of all ages struggling with depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, and more. She is also especially skilled at treating mood, psychotic, and anxiety disorders. In addition, Allison has extensive experience working with people who at high-risk or in crisis situations. In therapy, Allison tailors her treatment to meet individual needs.
Allison Grendzinski, LCSW, is flexible, supportive, and engages meaningfully with clients. She takes the time to understand each client's journey and meets them where they are to overcome challenges. Allison serves clients of all ages struggling with depression, ADHD, life transitions, stress, and more. She is also especially skilled at treating mood, psychotic, and anxiety disorders. In addition, Allison has extensive experience working with people who at high-risk or in crisis situations. In therapy, Allison tailors her treatment to meet individual needs.
![Photo of Nicole Kothe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f78b8c8-21e1-440b-a577-03fc33efd122/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Kothe, LPC, helps clients overcome challenges by finding their strengths. She works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, motivation issues, stress, and more. Nicole received an undergraduate degree from Hope College and an MSED from Northern Illinois University. Her career includes over two decades of experience as a middle and high school counselor where she served students with various social, emotional, and academic issues. In therapy, Nicole uses a client-centered approach and also incorporates mindfulness. Her goal is for each client to feel heard and gain the skills they need to move forward.
Nicole Kothe, LPC, helps clients overcome challenges by finding their strengths. She works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, motivation issues, stress, and more. Nicole received an undergraduate degree from Hope College and an MSED from Northern Illinois University. Her career includes over two decades of experience as a middle and high school counselor where she served students with various social, emotional, and academic issues. In therapy, Nicole uses a client-centered approach and also incorporates mindfulness. Her goal is for each client to feel heard and gain the skills they need to move forward.
![Photo of Leslie Albion, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d853f3a8-0829-4801-a8a6-a0cc686ea148/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Gwyn Zmolek, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-T, CCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0e3d935-1908-45c2-87ef-66eef8c825f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gwyn Zmolek
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-T, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174 (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of Trauma and Eating Disorders.
I realize that for some clients, the decision to enter therapy is made during a stressful time. However, I believe that these times can be useful in serving as a catalyst for change that leads to a happier, healthier life. I am strongly committed to helping my clients achieve satisfaction in all areas of their lives. I use a practical and skillful approach to problem solving that enables my clients to identify and overcome obstacles impeding their personal growth. I assists my clients in embracing their potential and building on their strengths so that they may experience improved interactions with others and their environment.
I specialize in the treatment of Trauma and Eating Disorders.
I realize that for some clients, the decision to enter therapy is made during a stressful time. However, I believe that these times can be useful in serving as a catalyst for change that leads to a happier, healthier life. I am strongly committed to helping my clients achieve satisfaction in all areas of their lives. I use a practical and skillful approach to problem solving that enables my clients to identify and overcome obstacles impeding their personal growth. I assists my clients in embracing their potential and building on their strengths so that they may experience improved interactions with others and their environment.
![Photo of Lizzy Lowe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f47cbe0f-f2cc-4704-b979-1643547a7beb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lizzy Lowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
I am working toward specialization in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
Are you looking for a therapist to help you unravel the messiness of life or those difficult internal experiences? Maybe you are looking to better understand yourself, or change behaviors that are holding you back from having a more vital life? Whatever the reason you are on this page, I am happy you landed here. I tailor my approach to therapy based on the individual needs of my clients. Clients know themselves the best and offers valuable insight into their treatment goals. It is my goal to create a non-judgmental and safe space for every client I meet.
I am working toward specialization in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
Are you looking for a therapist to help you unravel the messiness of life or those difficult internal experiences? Maybe you are looking to better understand yourself, or change behaviors that are holding you back from having a more vital life? Whatever the reason you are on this page, I am happy you landed here. I tailor my approach to therapy based on the individual needs of my clients. Clients know themselves the best and offers valuable insight into their treatment goals. It is my goal to create a non-judgmental and safe space for every client I meet.
I have created a supportive environment that services clients that struggle with all facets of eating disorders that include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and emotional eating while addressing the mood components that occur along side disordered eating from a self-regulatory position. When struggling with disordered eating it is difficult to find treatment that will fit your needs wherever you are on your journey. If you are new to treatment, continuing on your treatment journey or if you have recently been discharged from treatment I offer individual and group services to meet you where you are at.
I have created a supportive environment that services clients that struggle with all facets of eating disorders that include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and emotional eating while addressing the mood components that occur along side disordered eating from a self-regulatory position. When struggling with disordered eating it is difficult to find treatment that will fit your needs wherever you are on your journey. If you are new to treatment, continuing on your treatment journey or if you have recently been discharged from treatment I offer individual and group services to meet you where you are at.
![Photo of Nicole Tyrpak - Somatic And Nervous System Trauma Healing, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3312b07-9da5-40bb-9b0c-11a0e030c287/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Tyrpak - Somatic And Nervous System Trauma Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Nicole. Whether it's unraveling the impact of trauma, managing the complexities of eating disorders, or navigating the depths of depression and anxiety, I'm here to provide you with tailored, evidence-based strategies for healing.I understand the unique struggles associated with identity and stigma in the context of these conditions. I prioritize feelings of safety and belonging. Together, we'll explore ways to develop a strong and resilient sense of self, free from the burdens of societal judgment.My ultimate goal is to empower you to not only overcome your challenges but to thrive and find a path to a more fulfilling life.
Hi! I'm Nicole. Whether it's unraveling the impact of trauma, managing the complexities of eating disorders, or navigating the depths of depression and anxiety, I'm here to provide you with tailored, evidence-based strategies for healing.I understand the unique struggles associated with identity and stigma in the context of these conditions. I prioritize feelings of safety and belonging. Together, we'll explore ways to develop a strong and resilient sense of self, free from the burdens of societal judgment.My ultimate goal is to empower you to not only overcome your challenges but to thrive and find a path to a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Melissa Kozlowski, PsyD, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f66e9b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, and health related issues such as insomnia, eating disorders, and chronic pain.
When you make the choice to seek counseling, you are no longer alone in your struggles. Time is too precious to spend it feeling lost, hopeless, and frustrated. My goal is to help you find hope and healing by developing new skills to cope with personal, emotional, and relationship difficulties. You deserve a healthier, balanced, more fulfilling life. Working together in a safe relationship that meets your needs can help you to stop struggling and start living a more satisfying life. I look forward to helping you.
I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, and health related issues such as insomnia, eating disorders, and chronic pain.
When you make the choice to seek counseling, you are no longer alone in your struggles. Time is too precious to spend it feeling lost, hopeless, and frustrated. My goal is to help you find hope and healing by developing new skills to cope with personal, emotional, and relationship difficulties. You deserve a healthier, balanced, more fulfilling life. Working together in a safe relationship that meets your needs can help you to stop struggling and start living a more satisfying life. I look forward to helping you.
![Photo of Maria Rago, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89d04029-1c13-4c28-857e-7eea23725aa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Maria, and I am extremely passionate about helping individuals struggling with eating disorders to rediscover happiness and fulfillment in their lives. I have spent over 25 years providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families enduring the burden of an eating disorder, and I have served as the President of ANAD (The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders) for 13 years. My experience across residential, inpatient, and outpatient settings has provided me with a foundational understanding that every person has a unique path to healing - it is an honor to walk that path with you.
Hello! My name is Maria, and I am extremely passionate about helping individuals struggling with eating disorders to rediscover happiness and fulfillment in their lives. I have spent over 25 years providing psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families enduring the burden of an eating disorder, and I have served as the President of ANAD (The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders) for 13 years. My experience across residential, inpatient, and outpatient settings has provided me with a foundational understanding that every person has a unique path to healing - it is an honor to walk that path with you.
![Photo of Fran Tierney, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23711453-5d38-48af-9cf9-9f697fe624a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of treatment expertise include: Depressive & Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury Behaviors, Bipolar & Trauma Disorders, OCD, Women's Issues, Professional Stress, Motivation Challenges, Unexpected Life & Relational Changes, as well as Codependency concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with over 20 years of experience in working with individuals, couples, families and groups. I believe that clients benefit most in a therapeutic relationship which is based on positive regard, understanding, support, acceptance, encouragement and expectations. I work in partnership with each of my clients and their families to elicit change in their daily lives and relationships. It is an honor to witness the change that occurs as my clients grow and develop into the person they wish to be, with greater skills and belief in themselves.
Areas of treatment expertise include: Depressive & Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury Behaviors, Bipolar & Trauma Disorders, OCD, Women's Issues, Professional Stress, Motivation Challenges, Unexpected Life & Relational Changes, as well as Codependency concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with over 20 years of experience in working with individuals, couples, families and groups. I believe that clients benefit most in a therapeutic relationship which is based on positive regard, understanding, support, acceptance, encouragement and expectations. I work in partnership with each of my clients and their families to elicit change in their daily lives and relationships. It is an honor to witness the change that occurs as my clients grow and develop into the person they wish to be, with greater skills and belief in themselves.
![Photo of Mariah Cox, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25dedf0c-d3d6-405a-8078-950a24eb403a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there, I'm a Mental Health Clinician at Ellie Mental Health Aurora, and I'm all about bringing the sunshine to my clients' mental wellness journey! Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Illinois State University (with a Criminal Justice minor, no less!) and a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, I've been exploring the human mind for five years now. My areas of expertise include forensic psychology, crisis intervention, trauma, eating disorders, mood disorders, and emotional regulation. Let's team up and make your mental health journey the best adventure ever!
Hey there, I'm a Mental Health Clinician at Ellie Mental Health Aurora, and I'm all about bringing the sunshine to my clients' mental wellness journey! Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Illinois State University (with a Criminal Justice minor, no less!) and a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, I've been exploring the human mind for five years now. My areas of expertise include forensic psychology, crisis intervention, trauma, eating disorders, mood disorders, and emotional regulation. Let's team up and make your mental health journey the best adventure ever!
![Photo of Kimberly Just, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67dcc7e4-c8df-4bfa-a897-be37101e1223/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Just
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174 (Online Only)
My name is Kim, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. I have vast experience working in settings, such as community mental health, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing both individual, and family therapy. My experience has primarily involved treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, women’s issues, life transitions, and ADHD.
My name is Kim, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. I have vast experience working in settings, such as community mental health, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing both individual, and family therapy. My experience has primarily involved treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, women’s issues, life transitions, and ADHD.
![Photo of Christine Anderson, MSEd, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46cbe089-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Anderson
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Christine's areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Couples Issues, and Adjustment/Life Transitions.
Christine is an experienced therapist who engages clients in the therapeutic process by developing treatment goals based on clients' individual needs. She partners with clients to develop a treatment plan that utilizes the clients' support system which may include their family and other medical providers in order to ensure appropriate treatment goals are set and achieved. Christine enjoys engaging clients in the therapeutic process by giving value to each client's perspective through her client-centered approach. Christine has experience working with adolescents and adults.
Christine's areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Couples Issues, and Adjustment/Life Transitions.
Christine is an experienced therapist who engages clients in the therapeutic process by developing treatment goals based on clients' individual needs. She partners with clients to develop a treatment plan that utilizes the clients' support system which may include their family and other medical providers in order to ensure appropriate treatment goals are set and achieved. Christine enjoys engaging clients in the therapeutic process by giving value to each client's perspective through her client-centered approach. Christine has experience working with adolescents and adults.
![Photo of Lisa Hardekopf, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5d4e452-3900-4cc0-a687-d3e74e248d6c/1/320x400.png)
Hi there! I'm Lisa Hardekopf, a Certified Eating Disorders Associate with over 20 years of experience. I've worked extensively with teens and adults, addressing eating disorders, body image concerns, trauma, substance abuse, and OCD. I am passionate about making therapy more approachable and effective through creative and thoughtful interventions, utilizing a variety of expressive forms of therapy for those times when talking isn't quite enough. My therapeutic approach is creatively tailored to each individual, and infused with warmth and humor. I also offer innovative animal-assisted therapy with my therapy dog and/or my horse!
Hi there! I'm Lisa Hardekopf, a Certified Eating Disorders Associate with over 20 years of experience. I've worked extensively with teens and adults, addressing eating disorders, body image concerns, trauma, substance abuse, and OCD. I am passionate about making therapy more approachable and effective through creative and thoughtful interventions, utilizing a variety of expressive forms of therapy for those times when talking isn't quite enough. My therapeutic approach is creatively tailored to each individual, and infused with warmth and humor. I also offer innovative animal-assisted therapy with my therapy dog and/or my horse!
![Photo of Sarah L. Lloyd, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d04031-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah specializes in treatment for addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, managing stress, relational conflict resolution, communication problems, grief, and loss, adjusting to difficult experiences, and transitioning from crisis to stability.
Sarah has an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing various styles that are needed by her clients to overcome and grow through a particular challenge they are experiencing. Sarah is passionate about using experiences and adventure during the therapeutic process. Through activities, client's engage in authentic learning and are able to practice new skills within the session to gain confidence. As long as the weather is conducive, she and her clients can often be found outdoors. Overall, Sarah leans towards a very goal-orientated style that incorporates the family system when available.
Sarah specializes in treatment for addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, managing stress, relational conflict resolution, communication problems, grief, and loss, adjusting to difficult experiences, and transitioning from crisis to stability.
Sarah has an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing various styles that are needed by her clients to overcome and grow through a particular challenge they are experiencing. Sarah is passionate about using experiences and adventure during the therapeutic process. Through activities, client's engage in authentic learning and are able to practice new skills within the session to gain confidence. As long as the weather is conducive, she and her clients can often be found outdoors. Overall, Sarah leans towards a very goal-orientated style that incorporates the family system when available.
See more therapy options for Elburn
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Elburn
- Batavia
- Dekalb
- Elgin
- Geneva
- Montgomery
- North Aurora
- Oswego
- Saint Charles
- South Elgin
- Sycamore
- Warrenville
- West Chicago
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.