Eating Disorders Therapists in Lake Forest, IL
![Photo of Catherine M Cotter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4638ed52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine M Cotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I enjoy working with the spectrum of eating disorders from teens through adults, as well as working with depression and anxiety based disorders.
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.
I enjoy working with the spectrum of eating disorders from teens through adults, as well as working with depression and anxiety based disorders.
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.
![Photo of Melissa Carava, LCPC, NCC, CEDS-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f6f4343-ae2c-45d6-91ed-14ae907028e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
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”.
![Photo of Amy Hrad, LCSW, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fde9fef4-4875-4fb6-b4f9-bd6af54fedf6/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Nanci Edgcomb, MEd, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8493179d-77fe-408b-8b00-9456ccaaf553/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lisa M Schab, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55045b10-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Stelter, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce11b06a-46d6-4b44-89f8-bbb0a2a41005/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
![Photo of Allison Murphy, MEd, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebc122f5-0eaa-4ed3-9eac-23d58b50b536/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
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.
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.
![Photo of Karlee Williams, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459a5a85-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Calliss, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/418cff61-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Stacey Max, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e803735-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lori Ashbaugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a320f0a-f6ba-4be4-93b2-bfd850e109c5/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Sophia Shlain - 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad10e311-641c-4346-9b5f-5322fa78d0a7/2/320x400.png)
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
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.
![Photo of Missy Tuber Davis, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5283bac4-c521-40d3-a3f6-3344efa4f3aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Social Worker and have worked in a variety of different settings in the mental health field. I am experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a wide range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief and loss, parenting challenges, family conflict, anger and stress management, trauma and adjustment issues. I work collaboratively with clients to help them develop essential tools and coping skills that empower them while facing life's challenges. We work together to confront difficult issues and find ways to achieve positive change.
I am a Clinical Social Worker and have worked in a variety of different settings in the mental health field. I am experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a wide range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief and loss, parenting challenges, family conflict, anger and stress management, trauma and adjustment issues. I work collaboratively with clients to help them develop essential tools and coping skills that empower them while facing life's challenges. We work together to confront difficult issues and find ways to achieve positive change.
![Photo of Matthew D Selekman, MSW, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6c7a8b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew D Selekman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I am the Clinical Supervisor at 360 Degree Wellness and Coaching as well as a clinical social worker, addiction counselor and a highly seasoned couple and family therapist. I am an approved supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
I am the Clinical Supervisor at 360 Degree Wellness and Coaching as well as a clinical social worker, addiction counselor and a highly seasoned couple and family therapist. I am an approved supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
![Photo of Robert R Dunevant, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01ea8127-b7b1-4dec-808b-917da9946614/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
I work with people who want to overcome personal obstacles that seem to recur again and again. While it is sometimes possible to face such issues alone, you may reach the point where another set of eyes and ears is necessary. Difficulties such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trust, and anger issues, can be more complex than they first appear. Together, we will pay close attention to the way you experience yourself and others. Over time, you may begin to see and do things differently and with a greater sense of freedom and authenticity.
![Photo of Thea Rossmiller, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/baff478c-5e80-4644-9c2f-20a05a447424/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
![Photo of Paul Smiley, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdcbc628-817f-4290-ab28-507c1da735f0/2/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Amy M Schloer (Diaz), MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/314a8e0a-2162-4a39-81c4-073cd0ad43a1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy M Schloer (Diaz)
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Amy has a master’s degree in forensic psychology and she has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. Her clinical expertise includes having worked in a variety of clinical settings such as residential, community mental health centers, hospitals, and correctional settings. Amy has experience working with adolescents, emerging adults and adults who present with life stressors/changes, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, binge eating disorder, bariatric patients, issues related to legal issues/incarceration, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and sex and sexuality concerns.
Amy has a master’s degree in forensic psychology and she has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. Her clinical expertise includes having worked in a variety of clinical settings such as residential, community mental health centers, hospitals, and correctional settings. Amy has experience working with adolescents, emerging adults and adults who present with life stressors/changes, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, binge eating disorder, bariatric patients, issues related to legal issues/incarceration, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse, and sex and sexuality concerns.
![Photo of Linda A Hochfeld - Ascent Counseling Services, MA, LCPC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6c1889-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ascent Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045 (Online Only)
I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
![Photo of Jody Kroll Rotblatt, PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dabf5e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The therapists in our practice joined together because of our shared belief that our clients, who have reached out for help in managing and overcoming the challenges their lives, each have a unique set of strengths that often need to be better understood and developed. In our own styles, we each use the therapeutic relationship to understand what is interfering with an individual's sense of fulfillment in life. We approach therapy from the perspective that, at our core, our clients are health seeking but may be repeating old patterns that are not serving them well.
The therapists in our practice joined together because of our shared belief that our clients, who have reached out for help in managing and overcoming the challenges their lives, each have a unique set of strengths that often need to be better understood and developed. In our own styles, we each use the therapeutic relationship to understand what is interfering with an individual's sense of fulfillment in life. We approach therapy from the perspective that, at our core, our clients are health seeking but may be repeating old patterns that are not serving them well.
See more therapy options for Lake Forest
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Lake Forest
- Bannockburn
- Buffalo Grove
- Deerfield
- Highland Park
- Highwood
- Lake Bluff
- Libertyville
- Lincolnshire
- Mundelein
- Northbrook
- Vernon Hills
- Wheeling
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.