Eating Disorders Therapists in Lake Bluff, IL

Photo of Allison Murphy, MEd, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in eating disorders and body image with additional credentials of becoming Eating Disorder Intuitive Therapy certified, on top of working with a multitude of other issues including anxiety, self-esteem, and depression.
My ideal patients are adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, body image, eating disorders and/or disordered eating behaviors. I focus on targeting patterns while highlighting underlying causes for behaviors, and helping patients work towards healthier relationships with themselves and others. My approach is patient-focused and evidenced based, incorporating techniques from CBT, ACT, and DBT. I incorporate a multitude of techniques depending on the individual needs, and promote positive change for patients to accomplish their goals.
I specialize in eating disorders and body image with additional credentials of becoming Eating Disorder Intuitive Therapy certified, on top of working with a multitude of other issues including anxiety, self-esteem, and depression.
My ideal patients are adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, body image, eating disorders and/or disordered eating behaviors. I focus on targeting patterns while highlighting underlying causes for behaviors, and helping patients work towards healthier relationships with themselves and others. My approach is patient-focused and evidenced based, incorporating techniques from CBT, ACT, and DBT. I incorporate a multitude of techniques depending on the individual needs, and promote positive change for patients to accomplish their goals.
(224) 435-5412 View (224) 435-5412
Photo of Patricia Roy - The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
(224) 427-6245 x1301 View (224) 427-6245 x1301
Photo of Lynn R Moosman - Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
(847) 941-0548 View (847) 941-0548
Photo of Alice Virgil, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alice Virgil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Compassion-focused psychological care is available to you, now. I am committed to strengthening your psychological health, and believe it is a critical part of your overall wellness. As a guardian of your psychological wellness, I listen to you and partner in your care to address psychological and relationship challenges using science-based approaches to therapy that are accessible for your life, and bring about real, lasting change.
Compassion-focused psychological care is available to you, now. I am committed to strengthening your psychological health, and believe it is a critical part of your overall wellness. As a guardian of your psychological wellness, I listen to you and partner in your care to address psychological and relationship challenges using science-based approaches to therapy that are accessible for your life, and bring about real, lasting change.
(773) 919-9170 View (773) 919-9170
Photo of Tracy Steinmetz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Steinmetz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Asking for help when you are having emotional difficulties may not be easy. Whether you are depressed or anxious, dealing with a recent loss, coping with past or present trauma, have low self-esteem, interpersonal difficulties, or facing the challenges of everyday living and/or negotiating life transitions, you hope to find a compassionate and caring person who will understand. In my practice providing psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and couples, I offer a comfortable and confidential place where clients can explore feelings and concerns safely, while also addressing their most difficult problems or life challenges.
Asking for help when you are having emotional difficulties may not be easy. Whether you are depressed or anxious, dealing with a recent loss, coping with past or present trauma, have low self-esteem, interpersonal difficulties, or facing the challenges of everyday living and/or negotiating life transitions, you hope to find a compassionate and caring person who will understand. In my practice providing psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and couples, I offer a comfortable and confidential place where clients can explore feelings and concerns safely, while also addressing their most difficult problems or life challenges.
(847) 550-3573 View (847) 550-3573
Photo of Kyle McGuinness, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kyle McGuinness
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
My integrative therapeutic approach emphasizes empathic receptiveness and mindful observance. I strive to create a safe and productive environment with patients generating a strong therapeutic alliance. My goal is to utilize my patient’s strengths and weaknesses to assist them in generating a healthy well-being and reaching the identified therapeutic goals and expectations. I exercise a variety of perspectives through which patients will gain mindfulness, the ability to empower oneself and self-acceptance in their identity. Emphasis is given to maintaining changes so they exist long term.
My integrative therapeutic approach emphasizes empathic receptiveness and mindful observance. I strive to create a safe and productive environment with patients generating a strong therapeutic alliance. My goal is to utilize my patient’s strengths and weaknesses to assist them in generating a healthy well-being and reaching the identified therapeutic goals and expectations. I exercise a variety of perspectives through which patients will gain mindfulness, the ability to empower oneself and self-acceptance in their identity. Emphasis is given to maintaining changes so they exist long term.
(224) 249-5896 View (224) 249-5896
Photo of Matthew D Selekman, MSW, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew D Selekman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive support in their mental health journey, whether as an individual, couple, or family. They may be facing challenges related to addiction, relationship dynamics, or overall emotional well-being. Their needs include guidance, understanding, and effective strategies to navigate their issues. Ultimately, they want to build healthier relationships, achieve personal growth, and enhance their overall quality of life. As an approved supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, I am dedicated to helping them reach their goals.
My ideal client is someone seeking comprehensive support in their mental health journey, whether as an individual, couple, or family. They may be facing challenges related to addiction, relationship dynamics, or overall emotional well-being. Their needs include guidance, understanding, and effective strategies to navigate their issues. Ultimately, they want to build healthier relationships, achieve personal growth, and enhance their overall quality of life. As an approved supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, I am dedicated to helping them reach their goals.
(847) 850-0712 View (847) 850-0712
Photo of Sophia Shlain - 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC, Counselor
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
(847) 807-1012 View (847) 807-1012
Photo of Paul Smiley, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Paul Smiley
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Dr. Paul Smiley is a board certified psychologist who has been independently licensed in the State of Illinois since 2008. He is on staff at Lake Forest Hospital, and manages Parkside Psychological Services, which is dedicated to serving people of all ages and needs. The team of talented providers is committed to understanding the root of client’s concerns and working with them to bring about effective changes for recovery. We are currently accepting patients with a wide spectrum of symptoms, with flexible hours from Monday-Saturday including day and evening appointments. We look forward to being a trusted provider with you!
Dr. Paul Smiley is a board certified psychologist who has been independently licensed in the State of Illinois since 2008. He is on staff at Lake Forest Hospital, and manages Parkside Psychological Services, which is dedicated to serving people of all ages and needs. The team of talented providers is committed to understanding the root of client’s concerns and working with them to bring about effective changes for recovery. We are currently accepting patients with a wide spectrum of symptoms, with flexible hours from Monday-Saturday including day and evening appointments. We look forward to being a trusted provider with you!
(224) 706-1196 View (224) 706-1196

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nanci Edgcomb, MEd, LCPC
Nanci Edgcomb
MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My areas of specialized training include addictions/recovery, eating disorders, somatic trauma work, marital therapy, depression, anxiety and grief.
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
My areas of specialized training include addictions/recovery, eating disorders, somatic trauma work, marital therapy, depression, anxiety and grief.
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
(847) 244-0701 View (847) 244-0701
Photo of Lisa M Schab, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa M Schab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I work with clients on a wide variety of common life issues, and I also specialize in treating: overeating & eating disorders, anxiety and depression, divorce and blended family issues.
Often we think we should be able to fix everything by ourselves. But recognizing we need help is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. Working with a counselor is not about giving up, but having the courage to keep going. When someone seeks counseling, it usually means they are seeking a change - there is something they want to be different, or better, in their life. This recognition is a significant first step - speaking to the hope, vision, and health of the person seeking help. As a therapist I am trained to assist others on their journey to growth and healing.
I work with clients on a wide variety of common life issues, and I also specialize in treating: overeating & eating disorders, anxiety and depression, divorce and blended family issues.
Often we think we should be able to fix everything by ourselves. But recognizing we need help is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. Working with a counselor is not about giving up, but having the courage to keep going. When someone seeks counseling, it usually means they are seeking a change - there is something they want to be different, or better, in their life. This recognition is a significant first step - speaking to the hope, vision, and health of the person seeking help. As a therapist I am trained to assist others on their journey to growth and healing.
(847) 920-7673 View (847) 920-7673
Photo of Amy Hrad, LCSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Hrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
My work is centered around a strong therapeutic alliance. I am a personable, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist who can provide a safe space for you to build a life worth living. I work best with college-aged clients, as well as clients in their 20's and 30's who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, body image distress, and relationship and attachment issues. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy, and I tailor therapy to each client's specific needs.
My work is centered around a strong therapeutic alliance. I am a personable, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist who can provide a safe space for you to build a life worth living. I work best with college-aged clients, as well as clients in their 20's and 30's who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, body image distress, and relationship and attachment issues. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and yoga therapy, and I tailor therapy to each client's specific needs.
(847) 796-6400 View (847) 796-6400
Photo of Melissa Carava, LCPC, NCC, CEDS-S, Counselor
Melissa Carava
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
As a former therapist and clinical manager at Eating Recovery Center, I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, and depression in teens and adults.
Do you feel that aspects of your life are out of control and unmanageable? Maybe you are noticing a pattern of avoiding people or places you once loved, or a sudden change in appetite, energy, or drive. Or maybe you know something is “off” and can’t quite put your finger on what is missing. The first step to change and healing is sometimes an overwhelming task. It takes a lot of courage to say, “it’s time to do something differently”.
As a former therapist and clinical manager at Eating Recovery Center, I specialize in treating eating disorders, anxiety, and depression in teens and adults.
Do you feel that aspects of your life are out of control and unmanageable? Maybe you are noticing a pattern of avoiding people or places you once loved, or a sudden change in appetite, energy, or drive. Or maybe you know something is “off” and can’t quite put your finger on what is missing. The first step to change and healing is sometimes an overwhelming task. It takes a lot of courage to say, “it’s time to do something differently”.
(847) 582-4482 View (847) 582-4482
Photo of Catherine M Cotter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine M Cotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Served as a past president of the Chicago board of The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders-ANAD.
Contentment and happiness can often feel elusive in the busy, complicated lives that we lead. Sometimes, understanding the reason for our unhappiness seems just as elusive. The way we feel about our true selves as well as the meaning we give certain events in our lives can effect how we cope with the challenges that come our way. Often, we find ourselves in situations that feel beyond our control to recover from. Deep down, you are resilient, and know life could feel better than it does.
Served as a past president of the Chicago board of The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders-ANAD.
Contentment and happiness can often feel elusive in the busy, complicated lives that we lead. Sometimes, understanding the reason for our unhappiness seems just as elusive. The way we feel about our true selves as well as the meaning we give certain events in our lives can effect how we cope with the challenges that come our way. Often, we find ourselves in situations that feel beyond our control to recover from. Deep down, you are resilient, and know life could feel better than it does.
(847) 584-1159 View (847) 584-1159
Photo of Karlee Williams, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karlee Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I often work with life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem, boys and girls issues, peer issues, marital concerns, relationship issues, crisis of faith and spiritual issues.
"I am equipped to assist you in developing new coping strategies to reduce your suffering, effectively adjust to challenging realities in life, and help you gain a sense of healing and adequacy as you move forward in your life. Using an integrative therapeutic approach, I quickly adapt to your needs and personality. I will connect with your story to develop an understanding of your unique circumstance rather than imposing my beliefs or perspectives on you. My highest values in counseling are a nonjudgmental understanding and a nuanced compassion for you and your circumstances. Through these skills and principles, we can achieve fresh perspectives and transformation.
I often work with life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-esteem, boys and girls issues, peer issues, marital concerns, relationship issues, crisis of faith and spiritual issues.
"I am equipped to assist you in developing new coping strategies to reduce your suffering, effectively adjust to challenging realities in life, and help you gain a sense of healing and adequacy as you move forward in your life. Using an integrative therapeutic approach, I quickly adapt to your needs and personality. I will connect with your story to develop an understanding of your unique circumstance rather than imposing my beliefs or perspectives on you. My highest values in counseling are a nonjudgmental understanding and a nuanced compassion for you and your circumstances. Through these skills and principles, we can achieve fresh perspectives and transformation.
(224) 532-5369 View (224) 532-5369
Photo of Stacey Max, PsyD, Psychologist
Stacey Max
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting challenges, ADHD, eating disorders, and trouble with life stressors and adjustments.
Therapy can be a very emotional and rewarding experience. Treatment is most successful when you feel a strong connection with your therapist based on comfort and trust. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to allow you to explore deeply personal issues and patterns in your life. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach to help you gain insight, set goals, and develop realistic strategies based on your strengths to increase your overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting challenges, ADHD, eating disorders, and trouble with life stressors and adjustments.
Therapy can be a very emotional and rewarding experience. Treatment is most successful when you feel a strong connection with your therapist based on comfort and trust. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to allow you to explore deeply personal issues and patterns in your life. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach to help you gain insight, set goals, and develop realistic strategies based on your strengths to increase your overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
(847) 416-2652 View (847) 416-2652
Photo of Jennifer Calliss, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Calliss
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I work with adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self esteem concerns, substance abuse, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, self harm, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have been in private practice since 2002. I have had my own practice for over 15 years and recently joined Lakeshore Psychology Group in Northbrook. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families around a myriad of clinical issues and emotional difficulties. I believe in building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. I recognize that success comes with knowing someone believes that change can happen and I want to guide you through that process. My style is direct, engaging, supportive, and solution focused.
I work with adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self esteem concerns, substance abuse, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, self harm, life transitions, grief/loss, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and have been in private practice since 2002. I have had my own practice for over 15 years and recently joined Lakeshore Psychology Group in Northbrook. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families around a myriad of clinical issues and emotional difficulties. I believe in building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. I recognize that success comes with knowing someone believes that change can happen and I want to guide you through that process. My style is direct, engaging, supportive, and solution focused.
(847) 220-7965 View (847) 220-7965
Photo of Lori Ashbaugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Ashbaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
We all experience trauma in our lives, and sometimes severe life stressors leave us feeling stuck. As an ally, teacher, and therapist, Lori collaborates with you to go from surviving to thriving. She understands that healing is dynamic, and provides a mind-body-spirit approach to treatment. Therapy is an opportunity to honor our experience and become friends with ourselves. Lori uses a combination of holistic modalities including EMDR, clinical hypnotherapy and movement to tackle core issues.
(630) 473-9671 View (630) 473-9671
Photo of Natalie Pollard, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Pollard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My approach is remarkably empathic, attentive, accepting and nonjudgmental. With such approach, I'm able to create a safe and trusting space for patients to openly express themselves. I'm passionate about treating patients from all populations, having worked with patients from birth to 90+ years of age. I'm especially experienced, passionate and devoted to helping individuals come to terms with and find recovery with addictions.
My approach is remarkably empathic, attentive, accepting and nonjudgmental. With such approach, I'm able to create a safe and trusting space for patients to openly express themselves. I'm passionate about treating patients from all populations, having worked with patients from birth to 90+ years of age. I'm especially experienced, passionate and devoted to helping individuals come to terms with and find recovery with addictions.
(224) 970-2264 View (224) 970-2264
Photo of Angela Ceisel - Brighter Pathways, PLLC
Brighter Pathways, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Brighter Pathways, PLLC is a small group practice currently offering individual, couples, family, and group therapies. Our therapists value collaboration, education, and transparency because treatment should make sense to you. In order to best meet your needs, your therapist will strive to understand your unique circumstances. We believe in a team approach to treatment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your personal goals and struggles. We offer a safe, supportive, and open environment for you to explore your struggles and strive for personal growth.
Brighter Pathways, PLLC is a small group practice currently offering individual, couples, family, and group therapies. Our therapists value collaboration, education, and transparency because treatment should make sense to you. In order to best meet your needs, your therapist will strive to understand your unique circumstances. We believe in a team approach to treatment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your personal goals and struggles. We offer a safe, supportive, and open environment for you to explore your struggles and strive for personal growth.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
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.