Eating Disorders Therapists in Lakeview, IL

Photo of Natalie Baur, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Baur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
For Eating Disorders, I offer a comprehensive approach when it comes to recovery.
In session, I am focused on being your teammate and collaborator to help guide you through your journey of self healing and self discovery. I specialize in treating ADHD, Eating Disorders, Anxiety & Depression. The tools I use are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & Mindfulness. Working with ADHD, I am able to draw upon personal experience as well as clinical knowledge to offer ways to manage symptoms. This ranges from organization and task management, to working through how we experience our emotions and daily life due to the symptoms.
For Eating Disorders, I offer a comprehensive approach when it comes to recovery.
In session, I am focused on being your teammate and collaborator to help guide you through your journey of self healing and self discovery. I specialize in treating ADHD, Eating Disorders, Anxiety & Depression. The tools I use are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), & Mindfulness. Working with ADHD, I am able to draw upon personal experience as well as clinical knowledge to offer ways to manage symptoms. This ranges from organization and task management, to working through how we experience our emotions and daily life due to the symptoms.
(872) 274-4108 View (872) 274-4108
Photo of Nicole Tyrpak - Somatic And Nervous System Trauma Healing, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Tyrpak - Somatic And Nervous System Trauma Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613  (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.
(773) 249-9314 View (773) 249-9314
Photo of Kirstin Schafer, PsyD, Psychologist
Kirstin Schafer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
My clinical areas of focus include: LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, eating disorders, body image disturbance, fat positivity, gender and sexuality exploration, and mood disorders.
I am on staff at SpringSource Psychological Center and am currently accepting new patients. I believe in connection as healing and will work to cocreate a space in which you feel seen and heard. I have a strong foundation in treating disordered eating and am committed to being a fat-positive, Health At Every Size informed clinician. As a queer-identified clinician, I am passionate about working in the LGBTQIA+ communities and helping folks explore their authentic selves. I am devoted to being keenly aware of the intersectionality of identity, and the systems of oppression that impact individual functioning.
My clinical areas of focus include: LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, eating disorders, body image disturbance, fat positivity, gender and sexuality exploration, and mood disorders.
I am on staff at SpringSource Psychological Center and am currently accepting new patients. I believe in connection as healing and will work to cocreate a space in which you feel seen and heard. I have a strong foundation in treating disordered eating and am committed to being a fat-positive, Health At Every Size informed clinician. As a queer-identified clinician, I am passionate about working in the LGBTQIA+ communities and helping folks explore their authentic selves. I am devoted to being keenly aware of the intersectionality of identity, and the systems of oppression that impact individual functioning.
(312) 313-2530 View (312) 313-2530
Photo of Suzie Thomas, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Suzie Thomas
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Are you looking to understand yourself better, clarify your values and make strides towards your desired life? I'd love to support you. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I strive to create an accepting and non-judgmental environment where hard things can be explored and held with curiosity and compassion.
Are you looking to understand yourself better, clarify your values and make strides towards your desired life? I'd love to support you. I have extensive experience helping clients through eating disorder recovery (including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID), body image, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I believe change is possible for every individual and that it’s easier to attain with support, skills and encouragement. I strive to create an accepting and non-judgmental environment where hard things can be explored and held with curiosity and compassion.
(312) 586-9716 View (312) 586-9716
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Bergen, PhD, LCP, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca Bergen
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
Explore. Understand. Grow. These three words best explain my approach to therapy. Through the establishment of a trusted therapeutic relationship, together, we will embark on the process of psychological change. We will explore what is preventing you from reaching your full potential. You will develop a greater understanding of yourself, which will facilitate your growth into the person you want to become. I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering counseling to adults, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, parenting issues, behavioral problems and career concerns.
Explore. Understand. Grow. These three words best explain my approach to therapy. Through the establishment of a trusted therapeutic relationship, together, we will embark on the process of psychological change. We will explore what is preventing you from reaching your full potential. You will develop a greater understanding of yourself, which will facilitate your growth into the person you want to become. I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering counseling to adults, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, parenting issues, behavioral problems and career concerns.
(773) 877-3250 View (773) 877-3250
Photo of Rikki Casas - Health in Tandem, LCPC, Counselor
Health in Tandem
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
We work with adults and couples who experience distress and/or disconnect from their bodies as a result of trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, chronic pain, injury recovery and rehabilitation, athletic performance, eating disorders, and body image concerns.
At Health in Tandem, our motto is "where mind and body meet." We passionately believe that we cannot manage mental health without incorporating physical wellness, and that in order to improve physical performance, we must incorporate mental skills training. You are not a one-size-fits-all, so the approach our therapists take with you shouldn't be either. We take a step back and look at your life as a whole - what are all of the components that make you, you? What are the factors in your life that have been out of whack, maybe for awhile? How can we treat the whole of who you are, rather than the symptoms you list off?
We work with adults and couples who experience distress and/or disconnect from their bodies as a result of trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, chronic pain, injury recovery and rehabilitation, athletic performance, eating disorders, and body image concerns.
At Health in Tandem, our motto is "where mind and body meet." We passionately believe that we cannot manage mental health without incorporating physical wellness, and that in order to improve physical performance, we must incorporate mental skills training. You are not a one-size-fits-all, so the approach our therapists take with you shouldn't be either. We take a step back and look at your life as a whole - what are all of the components that make you, you? What are the factors in your life that have been out of whack, maybe for awhile? How can we treat the whole of who you are, rather than the symptoms you list off?
(773) 675-1983 View (773) 675-1983
Photo of Tricia Dwyer, LCPC
Tricia Dwyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
I have experience with depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, eating disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA issues, interpersonal issues, and trauma/PTSD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. I believe everyone deserves to live a life worth living and it's my role to help clients achieve that goal. I believe in a very collaborative relationship with clients to help build an open and honest relationship. I will work very hard to provide you with a nonjudgmental space to allow for safe self-expression while processing and gaining an understanding of behaviors, thought patterns, and core beliefs.
I have experience with depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, eating disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA issues, interpersonal issues, and trauma/PTSD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. I believe everyone deserves to live a life worth living and it's my role to help clients achieve that goal. I believe in a very collaborative relationship with clients to help build an open and honest relationship. I will work very hard to provide you with a nonjudgmental space to allow for safe self-expression while processing and gaining an understanding of behaviors, thought patterns, and core beliefs.
(773) 923-3631 View (773) 923-3631
Photo of Jacqueline Westin, PEL, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Westin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PEL, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
I work with adolescents and adults who are experiencing significant life transitions, relationship challenges, trauma or PTSD, depression and anxiety, or struggling to deal with shame and low self-esteem. I also work with men’s issues and LGBTQ+ issues. My area of expertise is working with individuals who are overcoming painful emotions such as guilt, shame, or inadequacy that have been holding them back from living their best lives.
I work with adolescents and adults who are experiencing significant life transitions, relationship challenges, trauma or PTSD, depression and anxiety, or struggling to deal with shame and low self-esteem. I also work with men’s issues and LGBTQ+ issues. My area of expertise is working with individuals who are overcoming painful emotions such as guilt, shame, or inadequacy that have been holding them back from living their best lives.
(872) 219-0665 View (872) 219-0665
Photo of Katie Hochleutner, LCPC, R-DMT, Counselor
Katie Hochleutner
Counselor, LCPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
Congratulations for taking the first step towards a healthier you! As a Licensed Counselor (LCPC) and Dance/Movement Therapist (R-DMT), I am dedicated to providing the space and support you need to reach your full potential. Coming from a body-based approach to therapy, I use the mind/body connection and a holistic perspective to assist you in navigating the speed bumps of life. Turning the volume up on what your body is trying to tell you through slowing down and learning your own body’s language, helps to foster healing and promote growth from within.
Congratulations for taking the first step towards a healthier you! As a Licensed Counselor (LCPC) and Dance/Movement Therapist (R-DMT), I am dedicated to providing the space and support you need to reach your full potential. Coming from a body-based approach to therapy, I use the mind/body connection and a holistic perspective to assist you in navigating the speed bumps of life. Turning the volume up on what your body is trying to tell you through slowing down and learning your own body’s language, helps to foster healing and promote growth from within.
(872) 278-1970 View (872) 278-1970
Photo of Sydney Kurtz, LPC, Counselor
Sydney Kurtz
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
If you’re struggling with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, depression, feeling lost with your direction in life/career, or struggling with disordered eating, you have come to the right place. During our sessions, we will be doing values based work, along with CBT to explore if you are living a life in alignment with your core values. I challenge clients on their thoughts and actions to encourage them to be the best versions of themselves. I use approaches that emphasize growth and resilience. I believe strongly in embracing discomfort. I believe that in discomfort, there is growth; and with growth, comes change.
If you’re struggling with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, depression, feeling lost with your direction in life/career, or struggling with disordered eating, you have come to the right place. During our sessions, we will be doing values based work, along with CBT to explore if you are living a life in alignment with your core values. I challenge clients on their thoughts and actions to encourage them to be the best versions of themselves. I use approaches that emphasize growth and resilience. I believe strongly in embracing discomfort. I believe that in discomfort, there is growth; and with growth, comes change.
(872) 266-9847 View (872) 266-9847
Photo of Joey Rea, PsyD, Psychologist
Joey Rea
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Many of us have been wounded at some point in our lives. Psychological wounds have the capacity to change the way we view ourselves and the way we view and interact with others. Sometimes people experience difficulties articulating the way they feel or find themselves stuck in the same maladaptive patterns in relationships. Therapy can be a useful way to make sense of how your past may be affecting your emotional well being in the here-and-now by putting some of these unformulated experiences into words to help you heal.
Many of us have been wounded at some point in our lives. Psychological wounds have the capacity to change the way we view ourselves and the way we view and interact with others. Sometimes people experience difficulties articulating the way they feel or find themselves stuck in the same maladaptive patterns in relationships. Therapy can be a useful way to make sense of how your past may be affecting your emotional well being in the here-and-now by putting some of these unformulated experiences into words to help you heal.
(773) 786-9117 View (773) 786-9117
Photo of Victoriya Tsaran, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Victoriya Tsaran
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
(847) 786-2098 View (847) 786-2098
Photo of Jennifer Fuller - Fuller Counseling Group, LCPC, Counselor
Fuller Counseling Group
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
Fuller Counseling was founded with the mission of creating a space that is comfortable, warm, compassionate, and free of judgment. We aim to work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and families to challenge negative beliefs, patterns, maladaptive coping skills, along with other difficult cycles that may have appeared throughout the course of life. We work with clients to create goals and treatment plans that will lead to healthier ways of living and utilize productive coping mechanisms. We empower our clients to make changes and gain insight that will stop old patterns and increase self-awareness and confidence.
Fuller Counseling was founded with the mission of creating a space that is comfortable, warm, compassionate, and free of judgment. We aim to work with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples and families to challenge negative beliefs, patterns, maladaptive coping skills, along with other difficult cycles that may have appeared throughout the course of life. We work with clients to create goals and treatment plans that will lead to healthier ways of living and utilize productive coping mechanisms. We empower our clients to make changes and gain insight that will stop old patterns and increase self-awareness and confidence.
(773) 242-9523 View (773) 242-9523
Photo of Saloumeh DeGood - Evolve Wellness - Chicago, Psychologist
Evolve Wellness - Chicago
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
You are exactly where you need to be even though it may not feel that way. Everything you need to move through this chapter is with you. Our job is to help you unfold that and give a little push. We utilize an integrative and holistic approach, based on your personality, needs and area of concern. Therefore, treatment is different for each person.
You are exactly where you need to be even though it may not feel that way. Everything you need to move through this chapter is with you. Our job is to help you unfold that and give a little push. We utilize an integrative and holistic approach, based on your personality, needs and area of concern. Therefore, treatment is different for each person.
(773) 786-9455 View (773) 786-9455
Photo of Emily Woods, LCPC, Counselor
Emily Woods
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
(312) 436-2271 View (312) 436-2271
Photo of Michael R Vargas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael R Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Diving into the therapeutic process can often be overwhelming and perhaps daunting at times. It is definitely a big shift required from us to be vulnerable and open with our concerns to a stranger. Michael has also felt these similar feelings when beginning his own therapeutic journey. Michael has learned that looking for an ideal fit would mean finding someone who is compassionate, unconditional, empathic, and humorous. Michael has enriched these traits throughout the years which has laid the foundation to create the same safe, inviting, and accepting space for his clients.
Diving into the therapeutic process can often be overwhelming and perhaps daunting at times. It is definitely a big shift required from us to be vulnerable and open with our concerns to a stranger. Michael has also felt these similar feelings when beginning his own therapeutic journey. Michael has learned that looking for an ideal fit would mean finding someone who is compassionate, unconditional, empathic, and humorous. Michael has enriched these traits throughout the years which has laid the foundation to create the same safe, inviting, and accepting space for his clients.
(773) 207-3793 View (773) 207-3793
Photo of Jessica Kingsdale, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Kingsdale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless. But you're also feeling ready for change, which is why you're here. It's common to feel like our thoughts and emotions are in a confusing and tangled knot, whether we have experienced trauma, challenging family dynamics, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and/or other mental health challenges. What I can do is help you untangle the knot one thread at a time, make sense of these parts, and understand their origins and connections. Most importantly, together we can start to weave a new pattern that suits you, so you feel empowered to live an authentic and fulfilling life.
Perhaps you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless. But you're also feeling ready for change, which is why you're here. It's common to feel like our thoughts and emotions are in a confusing and tangled knot, whether we have experienced trauma, challenging family dynamics, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and/or other mental health challenges. What I can do is help you untangle the knot one thread at a time, make sense of these parts, and understand their origins and connections. Most importantly, together we can start to weave a new pattern that suits you, so you feel empowered to live an authentic and fulfilling life.
View
Photo of Sielle Kearney, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sielle Kearney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakeview, IL 60613
I work with couples, families, individuals, and children. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and life transition issues. I believe that every person is equipped with their own unique skill sets that can help them in and out of the therapy room. These skills are often buried in the harmful stories we tell ourselves, but these stories can be edited and rewritten. I wholeheartedly believe in providing culturally sensitive and competent care to each and every client.
I work with couples, families, individuals, and children. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and life transition issues. I believe that every person is equipped with their own unique skill sets that can help them in and out of the therapy room. These skills are often buried in the harmful stories we tell ourselves, but these stories can be edited and rewritten. I wholeheartedly believe in providing culturally sensitive and competent care to each and every client.
(773) 917-1245 View (773) 917-1245
Photo of Lexi Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lexi Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Battling anxiety, depression, and overwhelming stress can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Your inner dialogue can become increasingly negative, and you may find yourself stuck in a seemingly unbreakable pattern of unhelpful thoughts. Through therapy, it is possible to break that cycle and engineer a new, positive, and healthy view of one's self and one's life. Through the utilization of an integrative approach, I am able to draw from a variety of therapeutic principles, to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
Battling anxiety, depression, and overwhelming stress can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Your inner dialogue can become increasingly negative, and you may find yourself stuck in a seemingly unbreakable pattern of unhelpful thoughts. Through therapy, it is possible to break that cycle and engineer a new, positive, and healthy view of one's self and one's life. Through the utilization of an integrative approach, I am able to draw from a variety of therapeutic principles, to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
(414) 626-7163 View (414) 626-7163
Photo of Christi Chatman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Chatman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeview, IL 60613
Engaging in the process of therapy is both art and science. Individual and collaborative. Hard work and relationship. Working together to create a safe space to heal and grow, I am committed to helping my clients find the version of self they desire. I believe that our truest selves lie in between our goals and our wounds. Whether you walk into my practice at the lowest of lows or ready to be your best self, together we'll uncover the next layer to your growth. Exploring both your goals and your pain, my practice utilizes a variety of approaches to help you create the life and relationships you desire.
Engaging in the process of therapy is both art and science. Individual and collaborative. Hard work and relationship. Working together to create a safe space to heal and grow, I am committed to helping my clients find the version of self they desire. I believe that our truest selves lie in between our goals and our wounds. Whether you walk into my practice at the lowest of lows or ready to be your best self, together we'll uncover the next layer to your growth. Exploring both your goals and your pain, my practice utilizes a variety of approaches to help you create the life and relationships you desire.
(630) 333-4373 View (630) 333-4373
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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.