Eating Disorders Therapists in Palatine, IL

Photo of Rebecca Lynn Leifeld, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Rebecca Lynn Leifeld
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress management, eating disorders, and self-injury.
Do you suffer from intense emotions, experience difficulty regulating your stress in this chaotic, high speed environment? Do you have difficulty managing relationships, coping with life changes, and or regulating your moods? I have developed a practice helping children, adolescents, and adults bridge the gap between where they are and where they would like to be. I am passionate about helping others and provide encouragement to people trying to reach their goals. I ensure a safe environment for people to explore their thoughts and feelings and identify the tools that they need to improve their quality of life.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress management, eating disorders, and self-injury.
Do you suffer from intense emotions, experience difficulty regulating your stress in this chaotic, high speed environment? Do you have difficulty managing relationships, coping with life changes, and or regulating your moods? I have developed a practice helping children, adolescents, and adults bridge the gap between where they are and where they would like to be. I am passionate about helping others and provide encouragement to people trying to reach their goals. I ensure a safe environment for people to explore their thoughts and feelings and identify the tools that they need to improve their quality of life.
(847) 708-4527 View (847) 708-4527
Photo of Catherine Ness, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Catherine Ness
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, mental illness, eating disorders, and women's issues including self-esteem and relationship difficulties.
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, mental illness, eating disorders, and women's issues including self-esteem and relationship difficulties.
I believe that every person has the right and ability to be happy in life, but that most people face obstacles at some point that makes happiness elusive. I have learned that no one better understands these obstacles and distressing emotions than those who are experiencing them. I, therefore, utilize a client-centered approach in therapy wherein I join the client in order to better appreciate his/her perspective and emotional state. I dedicate myself to my clients and helping them better define where they are in life and where they would like to go in the future.
(224) 334-3976 View (224) 334-3976
Photo of Christina Sun Oo, LCPC, CCTP
Christina Sun Oo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60038  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults of all ages seeking support with eating disorders, body image, negative eating disorder treatment experiences, gender and sexuality exploration, unique stressors of graduate school, and challenging relationships with parents/caregivers. Little Bird provides a deep understanding and compassion for all persons and their parts and is committed to maintaining space free of pathologization and hierarchical relationships between therapist and client.
I enjoy working with adults of all ages seeking support with eating disorders, body image, negative eating disorder treatment experiences, gender and sexuality exploration, unique stressors of graduate school, and challenging relationships with parents/caregivers. Little Bird provides a deep understanding and compassion for all persons and their parts and is committed to maintaining space free of pathologization and hierarchical relationships between therapist and client.
(224) 385-0499 View (224) 385-0499
Photo of Stefanie Schanaberger, MA, LCPC
Stefanie Schanaberger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
I specialize in counseling adults with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, relationship conflict, life transitions, and other related challenges.
Life is a journey with unexpected challenges and changes, but it is also full of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. While some people struggle with fear and anxiety related to life transitions, others may struggle with feeling stuck in their lives, permanently on "autopilot" and feeling powerless to make a change. I am here to join you on a path of self-reflection and positive change, so that you can discover your inner strengths and build a life more congruent with your true values and goals.
I specialize in counseling adults with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, relationship conflict, life transitions, and other related challenges.
Life is a journey with unexpected challenges and changes, but it is also full of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. While some people struggle with fear and anxiety related to life transitions, others may struggle with feeling stuck in their lives, permanently on "autopilot" and feeling powerless to make a change. I am here to join you on a path of self-reflection and positive change, so that you can discover your inner strengths and build a life more congruent with your true values and goals.
(847) 241-1544 View (847) 241-1544
Photo of Greta Nielsen, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Greta Nielsen
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
I have extensive experience with clients struggling with Attention-Deficit Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and Eating Disorders.
I have over 25 years experience helping clients of all ages tap into their strengths to achieve their life's goals. My non-judgmental, authentic and empathic approach inspires, motivates and guides clients into becoming healthier, happier and more connected in their lives. I blend many types of research-based theories and practices to find the unique strategy that helps clients triumph over their weaknesses. I am a tireless advocate for my clients, tapping into their resiliency to overcome their challenges.
I have extensive experience with clients struggling with Attention-Deficit Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and Eating Disorders.
I have over 25 years experience helping clients of all ages tap into their strengths to achieve their life's goals. My non-judgmental, authentic and empathic approach inspires, motivates and guides clients into becoming healthier, happier and more connected in their lives. I blend many types of research-based theories and practices to find the unique strategy that helps clients triumph over their weaknesses. I am a tireless advocate for my clients, tapping into their resiliency to overcome their challenges.
(224) 864-9110 x100 View (224) 864-9110 x100
Photo of Lu Gregory, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lu Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Not Verified Not Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
Lu is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults and their families. She has experience working with individuals with Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury and Substance Abuse. Lu utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in achieving positive changes in mood, thought process and their behavior.
Lu is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults and their families. She has experience working with individuals with Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury and Substance Abuse. Lu utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in achieving positive changes in mood, thought process and their behavior.
(847) 607-6217 View (847) 607-6217
Photo of Denise Casey, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT, Psychologist
Denise Casey
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
(888) 265-6418 View (888) 265-6418
Photo of Mark DeDonato, LCSW, ACSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark DeDonato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults experiencing: substance abuse, eating disorders, sex addiction, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and other issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I graduated from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago, and earned a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration with a concentration in clinical social work and school social work Type 73 certification.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults experiencing: substance abuse, eating disorders, sex addiction, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and other issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I graduated from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago, and earned a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration with a concentration in clinical social work and school social work Type 73 certification.
(847) 737-1249 View (847) 737-1249
Photo of Colleen Middendorf, MS, LCPC, CTRS, Counselor
Colleen Middendorf
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CTRS
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
I am experienced in working with an array of emotional struggles including depression, anger, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, impulse control issues, addictions and grief.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck and powerless, I can help you find your strength and make your way to a more serene and satisfying life. Occasionally people are well aware of how their suffering has emerged, but often the cause is unclear. My aim is to partner with clients to help them understand themselves and confront any life-limiting beliefs. From there, we can facilitate changes that will bring relief and build a positive sense of self, which in turn, will enrich your relationships and your life.
I am experienced in working with an array of emotional struggles including depression, anger, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, impulse control issues, addictions and grief.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck and powerless, I can help you find your strength and make your way to a more serene and satisfying life. Occasionally people are well aware of how their suffering has emerged, but often the cause is unclear. My aim is to partner with clients to help them understand themselves and confront any life-limiting beliefs. From there, we can facilitate changes that will bring relief and build a positive sense of self, which in turn, will enrich your relationships and your life.
(847) 665-1824 View (847) 665-1824
Photo of Joan Durlacher, PsyD, Psychologist
Joan Durlacher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
I have worked extensively with people suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, health issues, grief, couple issues, parents with special needs children, fertility issues, addictions, life transitions, procrastination, eating disorders, adjustment disorders, ADD, family issues, work concerns, and more.
"I appreciate that you are down to earth and real. You have a passion for life, for my life". If these are qualities you would appreciate in your therapist, then contact me. I will guide you through identifying and exploring your core concerns and issues, utilizing the expertise developed in 20 years of practice. My style of therapy is respectful, non-judgmental, practical, soothing and solution focused. Collaboratively we will create new, adaptive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to enhance the quality of your life and your relationships.
I have worked extensively with people suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, health issues, grief, couple issues, parents with special needs children, fertility issues, addictions, life transitions, procrastination, eating disorders, adjustment disorders, ADD, family issues, work concerns, and more.
"I appreciate that you are down to earth and real. You have a passion for life, for my life". If these are qualities you would appreciate in your therapist, then contact me. I will guide you through identifying and exploring your core concerns and issues, utilizing the expertise developed in 20 years of practice. My style of therapy is respectful, non-judgmental, practical, soothing and solution focused. Collaboratively we will create new, adaptive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to enhance the quality of your life and your relationships.
(847) 379-1756 View (847) 379-1756
Photo of Valerie Lucas, PhD, Psychologist
Valerie Lucas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Valerie Lucas is a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults with a variety of presenting issues. Dr. Lucas works with adults addressing depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, relationship issues, eating disorders, behavioral weight management, and increasing general coping strategies. Her theoretical orientation is cognitive behavioral, utilizing DBT strategies and techniques, and solution-focused feedback. She approaches therapy as a process to help clients recognize and build on strengths and collaboratively developing and working on goals to decrease psychological distress.
Valerie Lucas is a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults with a variety of presenting issues. Dr. Lucas works with adults addressing depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, relationship issues, eating disorders, behavioral weight management, and increasing general coping strategies. Her theoretical orientation is cognitive behavioral, utilizing DBT strategies and techniques, and solution-focused feedback. She approaches therapy as a process to help clients recognize and build on strengths and collaboratively developing and working on goals to decrease psychological distress.
(872) 239-3206 View (872) 239-3206
Photo of Justin Fink, LCPC, RMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justin Fink
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, RMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
Justin has spent years working in residential centers, school settings, and community outpatient centers. Growing as a clinician he has learned to intuitively understand how trauma and development impacts the personality as well the body. He has formed a practice of therapy which integrates mindfulness, intuition, compassion, and guidance in order to help clients best understand themselves. He is skilled in various therapy modalities, as well practices Reiki energy healing for those interested in more integrative, physical healing of old emotional traumas.
Justin has spent years working in residential centers, school settings, and community outpatient centers. Growing as a clinician he has learned to intuitively understand how trauma and development impacts the personality as well the body. He has formed a practice of therapy which integrates mindfulness, intuition, compassion, and guidance in order to help clients best understand themselves. He is skilled in various therapy modalities, as well practices Reiki energy healing for those interested in more integrative, physical healing of old emotional traumas.
(847) 241-1139 View (847) 241-1139
Photo of Edward DeBellis, PsyD, Psychologist
Edward DeBellis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
I have over 30 years of experience treating anxiety, anger, stress, trauma, and sadness and helping improve relationships and enjoyment of life. I can help you find relief from poor self-image, fears, and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. I also offer help with smoking cessation and performance enhancement. If you are ready to change destructive patterns, getting relief is easier than you might expect. I participate actively in the process by offering feedback designed to increase insight into what drives troubling behavior, conflictual relationships, and symptoms.
I have over 30 years of experience treating anxiety, anger, stress, trauma, and sadness and helping improve relationships and enjoyment of life. I can help you find relief from poor self-image, fears, and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. I also offer help with smoking cessation and performance enhancement. If you are ready to change destructive patterns, getting relief is easier than you might expect. I participate actively in the process by offering feedback designed to increase insight into what drives troubling behavior, conflictual relationships, and symptoms.
(224) 243-3942 View (224) 243-3942
Photo of Michelle Kukla, PsyD, Psychologist
Michelle Kukla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
Feeling better is no longer a mystery. This is fantastic news! We no longer need to be stuck in negative mood states, feel paralyzing levels of anxiety & debilitating emotional/physical pain. Instead, our brain can be transformed when the right combination of therapy skills and techniques are utilized. My 15 years of extensive training as a psychologist has uniquely equipped me with the ability to apply integrative and evidenced-based interventions to achieve maximum results. I blend compassion focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral methods, eastern practices and cutting-edge neuroscience to help you rewire the brain for a healthier you! There is hope!
Feeling better is no longer a mystery. This is fantastic news! We no longer need to be stuck in negative mood states, feel paralyzing levels of anxiety & debilitating emotional/physical pain. Instead, our brain can be transformed when the right combination of therapy skills and techniques are utilized. My 15 years of extensive training as a psychologist has uniquely equipped me with the ability to apply integrative and evidenced-based interventions to achieve maximum results. I blend compassion focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral methods, eastern practices and cutting-edge neuroscience to help you rewire the brain for a healthier you! There is hope!
(847) 906-2513 View (847) 906-2513
Photo of Michelle Kukla - Healthy Living Counseling Center, PsyD, Psychologist
Healthy Living Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067  (Online Only)
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
Chicago Psychologists are bringing their expertise & boutique therapies to Washington, DC! Dr. Michelle Kukla is a luminary in the world of clinical psychology & a seasoned expert with over 15 years of enriching the lives of courageous emotional growth seekers. This dynamic powerhouse is a frequent podcast guest for her innovative use of therapies to help accelerate people's healing. Dr. Kukla uses 21st Century mental health care to empower people to become their best version of themselves. She is frequently sought out by entrepreneurs, athletes, & media personalities for her unique therapeutic style. Thriving is within reach!
(847) 423-8223 View (847) 423-8223
Photo of Suzanne Snyder, PsyD, Psychologist
Suzanne Snyder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
People seek therapy for many different reasons. Sometimes, people need a healthy outlet for pent up emotions. Sometimes, people need help understanding their own psychological functioning or need help coping with intense emotions. I'm happy to help with everything in between. I believe that regardless of the reason for seeking therapy, there is always a place for it in my office. Therapy works best with people who are motivated to achieve a change, as do I.
People seek therapy for many different reasons. Sometimes, people need a healthy outlet for pent up emotions. Sometimes, people need help understanding their own psychological functioning or need help coping with intense emotions. I'm happy to help with everything in between. I believe that regardless of the reason for seeking therapy, there is always a place for it in my office. Therapy works best with people who are motivated to achieve a change, as do I.
(331) 207-9116 View (331) 207-9116
Photo of Ana Stefaniuk, MA, LCPC, EMDR, Counselor
Ana Stefaniuk
Counselor, MA, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I believe in the human spirit and our natural capacity to grow, heal, and overcome limitations and challenges. My goal is to provide you with a safe atmosphere where you can feel secure enough to risk being vulnerable while mustering up the courage to overcome your own obstacles. I meet my clients where they are, tune into what they need, and work hard to help them solve the problems that originally brought them to me. My therapeutic style is best summed up as collaborative, supportive, goal oriented, and empathic.
I believe in the human spirit and our natural capacity to grow, heal, and overcome limitations and challenges. My goal is to provide you with a safe atmosphere where you can feel secure enough to risk being vulnerable while mustering up the courage to overcome your own obstacles. I meet my clients where they are, tune into what they need, and work hard to help them solve the problems that originally brought them to me. My therapeutic style is best summed up as collaborative, supportive, goal oriented, and empathic.
(224) 207-4329 x103 View (224) 207-4329 x103
Photo of Lynne M. Terranova, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynne M. Terranova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
I have an open genuine heart willing to understand how to help you get back on track to meet your goals and develop consistent healthy life choices. In session, we will utilize an interactive and solution-focused approach aimed at creating a safe environment to identify those obstacles, without judgement, and to explore the core issues of the problem. My goal is to empower my clients to independently and constructively problem solve, create strategies to learn their potential, and to heal past mistakes for the future they desire.
I have an open genuine heart willing to understand how to help you get back on track to meet your goals and develop consistent healthy life choices. In session, we will utilize an interactive and solution-focused approach aimed at creating a safe environment to identify those obstacles, without judgement, and to explore the core issues of the problem. My goal is to empower my clients to independently and constructively problem solve, create strategies to learn their potential, and to heal past mistakes for the future they desire.
(847) 737-3833 View (847) 737-3833
Photo of Kristen Christensen - Serenity Counseling and Wellness, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Counseling and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
At Serenity, you will find a relaxed, warm, and nonjudgmental environment. Our practice is an inclusive practice, created to provide person-centered, strengths-based therapy to individuals, children, adolescents, and families. Our goal is to create, promote, and maintain positive bidirectional helping relationships with our clients, local hospitals, associates, and staff, and most importantly our community with the goal of self-sufficiency and community improvement and empowerment. No matter what you are facing, Serenity Counseling and Wellness has therapists who are passionate about helping you to feel resilient and calm.
At Serenity, you will find a relaxed, warm, and nonjudgmental environment. Our practice is an inclusive practice, created to provide person-centered, strengths-based therapy to individuals, children, adolescents, and families. Our goal is to create, promote, and maintain positive bidirectional helping relationships with our clients, local hospitals, associates, and staff, and most importantly our community with the goal of self-sufficiency and community improvement and empowerment. No matter what you are facing, Serenity Counseling and Wellness has therapists who are passionate about helping you to feel resilient and calm.
(847) 305-3046 View (847) 305-3046
Photo of Ron L Jordan, LCSW, CMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ron L Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMFT
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
MY GOAL FOR HELPING YOU IS SIMPLE. I want to help you feel more in control and better about yourself, your relationships and your overall life. I see clients through teletherapy and in-person. Currently accepting new clients, I am confident that I can help you to find the solutions you want one step at a time. Counseling can be one of the best "investments" that you will ever make. If you have never been for counseling before or if you are dealing with some issues that feel overwhelming or even frightening, you can count on me to help you to feel more comfortable facing them.
MY GOAL FOR HELPING YOU IS SIMPLE. I want to help you feel more in control and better about yourself, your relationships and your overall life. I see clients through teletherapy and in-person. Currently accepting new clients, I am confident that I can help you to find the solutions you want one step at a time. Counseling can be one of the best "investments" that you will ever make. If you have never been for counseling before or if you are dealing with some issues that feel overwhelming or even frightening, you can count on me to help you to feel more comfortable facing them.
(847) 752-0515 View (847) 752-0515
1
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.