Eating Disorders Therapists in Vernon Hills, IL

Photo of Lisa M Schab, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa M Schab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
I work with clients on a wide variety of common life issues, and I also specialize in treating: overeating & eating disorders, anxiety and depression, divorce and blended family issues.
Often we think we should be able to fix everything by ourselves. But recognizing we need help is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. Working with a counselor is not about giving up, but having the courage to keep going. When someone seeks counseling, it usually means they are seeking a change - there is something they want to be different, or better, in their life. This recognition is a significant first step - speaking to the hope, vision, and health of the person seeking help. As a therapist I am trained to assist others on their journey to growth and healing.
I work with clients on a wide variety of common life issues, and I also specialize in treating: overeating & eating disorders, anxiety and depression, divorce and blended family issues.
Often we think we should be able to fix everything by ourselves. But recognizing we need help is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. Working with a counselor is not about giving up, but having the courage to keep going. When someone seeks counseling, it usually means they are seeking a change - there is something they want to be different, or better, in their life. This recognition is a significant first step - speaking to the hope, vision, and health of the person seeking help. As a therapist I am trained to assist others on their journey to growth and healing.
(847) 920-7673 View (847) 920-7673
Photo of Nanci Edgcomb, MEd, LCPC
Nanci Edgcomb
MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
My areas of specialized training include addictions/recovery, eating disorders, somatic trauma work, marital therapy, depression, anxiety and grief.
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
My areas of specialized training include addictions/recovery, eating disorders, somatic trauma work, marital therapy, depression, anxiety and grief.
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
(847) 244-0701 View (847) 244-0701
Photo of Kristen Sanders, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Kristen’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, autism, executive functioning, school and academic issues, career issues, mutism, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and social skills.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. I value a person-centered approach to treatment where you and I work as a team to address the issues you want to explore. I believe that you have the answers to your struggles but need a safe space, support, and guidance, in order to achieve your goals.
Kristen’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, autism, executive functioning, school and academic issues, career issues, mutism, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and social skills.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. I value a person-centered approach to treatment where you and I work as a team to address the issues you want to explore. I believe that you have the answers to your struggles but need a safe space, support, and guidance, in order to achieve your goals.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of Ronald Villejo, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ronald Villejo
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
His main areas of focus include depression and anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, ADHD with school and behavioral problems, and eating disorders among adults and adolescents.
Ron Villejo is a clinician, who has been practicing since 1981. He graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago with a PhD in clinical psychology. Ron believes in understanding the underlying reasons for one's mental health struggles, which may be described as psychodynamic or insight-oriented therapy. At the same time, it's also important to look at practical ways to feel better, such as reframing how one looks at these struggles, part of a cognitive-behavioral approach.
His main areas of focus include depression and anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, ADHD with school and behavioral problems, and eating disorders among adults and adolescents.
Ron Villejo is a clinician, who has been practicing since 1981. He graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago with a PhD in clinical psychology. Ron believes in understanding the underlying reasons for one's mental health struggles, which may be described as psychodynamic or insight-oriented therapy. At the same time, it's also important to look at practical ways to feel better, such as reframing how one looks at these struggles, part of a cognitive-behavioral approach.
(847) 551-0238 View (847) 551-0238
Photo of Stacey Max, PsyD, Psychologist
Stacey Max
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting challenges, ADHD, eating disorders, and trouble with life stressors and adjustments.
Therapy can be a very emotional and rewarding experience. Treatment is most successful when you feel a strong connection with your therapist based on comfort and trust. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to allow you to explore deeply personal issues and patterns in your life. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach to help you gain insight, set goals, and develop realistic strategies based on your strengths to increase your overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting challenges, ADHD, eating disorders, and trouble with life stressors and adjustments.
Therapy can be a very emotional and rewarding experience. Treatment is most successful when you feel a strong connection with your therapist based on comfort and trust. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment to allow you to explore deeply personal issues and patterns in your life. I use a collaborative therapeutic approach to help you gain insight, set goals, and develop realistic strategies based on your strengths to increase your overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
(847) 416-2127 View (847) 416-2127
Photo of Jordyn Hoffman, PsyD, Psychologist
Jordyn Hoffman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I provide individual psychotherapy services to adults and young adults who are struggling with various issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, fertility, and interpersonal relationships. My primarily speciality is bariatric topics, weight management, body image, overeating, and binge eating. I also offer evaluation and therapy services to individuals who are going through or considering bariatric surgery. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and emotion-focused, while also tailoring our work together to fit your individual needs and goals.
I provide individual psychotherapy services to adults and young adults who are struggling with various issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, fertility, and interpersonal relationships. My primarily speciality is bariatric topics, weight management, body image, overeating, and binge eating. I also offer evaluation and therapy services to individuals who are going through or considering bariatric surgery. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, and emotion-focused, while also tailoring our work together to fit your individual needs and goals.
(224) 464-3332 View (224) 464-3332
Photo of Alexis Rosen, MSW,  LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Alexis Blair Rosen is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. Using an evidence-based, eclectic approach Alexis will assist the client/s in developing goals based on their reasons for seeking therapy. Examples of specific therapeutic modalities Alexis uses include play therapy, bibliotherapy, mindfulness/yoga, CBT, DBT, EFT, and solution-focused interventions to meet the unique needs of each person. Outside of work Alexis enjoys cooking, hiking, biking, time with family, yoga, and creating picture books.
Alexis Blair Rosen is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2014. Using an evidence-based, eclectic approach Alexis will assist the client/s in developing goals based on their reasons for seeking therapy. Examples of specific therapeutic modalities Alexis uses include play therapy, bibliotherapy, mindfulness/yoga, CBT, DBT, EFT, and solution-focused interventions to meet the unique needs of each person. Outside of work Alexis enjoys cooking, hiking, biking, time with family, yoga, and creating picture books.
(847) 393-0190 View (847) 393-0190
Photo of Gurinder 'vicki' Bolina, PsyD, Psychologist
Gurinder 'vicki' Bolina
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Vicki Bolina, PsyD, provides a safe space for anyone going through difficult situations or just wanting to improve their mental health. She has experience in private practice, psychiatric hospitals, nursing homes, school systems, outpatient clinics, the prison system, among others. Dr. Bolina welcomes all ages into her office and specializes in anxiety, depression, and more. She’s also especially skilled in treating: Adolescent Psychology: Adolescents who are going through a stressful school life and/or home life need coping mechanisms to regulate anxiety.
Vicki Bolina, PsyD, provides a safe space for anyone going through difficult situations or just wanting to improve their mental health. She has experience in private practice, psychiatric hospitals, nursing homes, school systems, outpatient clinics, the prison system, among others. Dr. Bolina welcomes all ages into her office and specializes in anxiety, depression, and more. She’s also especially skilled in treating: Adolescent Psychology: Adolescents who are going through a stressful school life and/or home life need coping mechanisms to regulate anxiety.
(224) 243-8292 View (224) 243-8292
Photo of Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry, MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
Photo of Hannah Difrancesca, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Difrancesca
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
We are not designed to go through life's battles alone. Whether you are feeling stuck, misunderstood, or weighed down by the many transitions and difficulties life can throw at us, there is always hope. If you are tired of feeling as though you are falling short of walking in your full potential it would be a privilege to walk along side you, learning about your story and helping you reach your full potential. Together, we will embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and hopeful life. I am here to guide and empower you every step of the way. Let's work together to create positive change and build a brighter future.
We are not designed to go through life's battles alone. Whether you are feeling stuck, misunderstood, or weighed down by the many transitions and difficulties life can throw at us, there is always hope. If you are tired of feeling as though you are falling short of walking in your full potential it would be a privilege to walk along side you, learning about your story and helping you reach your full potential. Together, we will embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and hopeful life. I am here to guide and empower you every step of the way. Let's work together to create positive change and build a brighter future.
(847) 595-5596 View (847) 595-5596
Photo of Paige Swan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Swan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Paige Swan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. When life feels overwhelming talking with the right person can help. Paige Swan is here to work with you in hopes of providing long-lasting solutions for a better quality of life. She strives to provide a warm, comfortable, non-judgmental environment where you can express your whole self. Through collaboration you will work together to create a wellness plan that is right for you. These practices can help provide a happier and healthier lifestyle. Paige uniquely offers a safe space and personalized tools to help individuals and families reach their personal goals.
Paige Swan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. When life feels overwhelming talking with the right person can help. Paige Swan is here to work with you in hopes of providing long-lasting solutions for a better quality of life. She strives to provide a warm, comfortable, non-judgmental environment where you can express your whole self. Through collaboration you will work together to create a wellness plan that is right for you. These practices can help provide a happier and healthier lifestyle. Paige uniquely offers a safe space and personalized tools to help individuals and families reach their personal goals.
(224) 267-2294 View (224) 267-2294
Photo of Rashmi Pandey, PsyD, Psychologist
Rashmi Pandey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Trust is how I define myself! Building a strong therapeutic alliance through trust and confidence is quintessential to positive change in life! When life gets tough through *Difficulties in relationships, *Sadness or depression, *Feelings of anxiety or panic, *Difficulties controlling your anger, *Struggling with parenting issues, *Acculturation/Ethnic minority struggles, *Grief over the loss of a loved one, *Dealing with substance abuse in yourself or someone you care about... One should consider beginning treatment with a professional trained with brief, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach towards changes in core beliefs and restructuring the thought processes towards a better outlook.....and that's me!
Trust is how I define myself! Building a strong therapeutic alliance through trust and confidence is quintessential to positive change in life! When life gets tough through *Difficulties in relationships, *Sadness or depression, *Feelings of anxiety or panic, *Difficulties controlling your anger, *Struggling with parenting issues, *Acculturation/Ethnic minority struggles, *Grief over the loss of a loved one, *Dealing with substance abuse in yourself or someone you care about... One should consider beginning treatment with a professional trained with brief, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach towards changes in core beliefs and restructuring the thought processes towards a better outlook.....and that's me!
(847) 416-1460 View (847) 416-1460
Photo of Andrea Watkins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Hello! Thanks for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in children, teens and young adults with mood issues and OCD/Anxiety, as well as with the parents on various parenting struggles, teenagers with self-esteem, bullying and school/peer related stress issues. I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, yet, casual and friendly environment. I have a special interest in Mindfulness and Meditation, incorporating guided imagery and Exposure Response Therapy techniques. I also run occasional groups- check out my website for more up to date info.
Hello! Thanks for visiting my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in children, teens and young adults with mood issues and OCD/Anxiety, as well as with the parents on various parenting struggles, teenagers with self-esteem, bullying and school/peer related stress issues. I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, yet, casual and friendly environment. I have a special interest in Mindfulness and Meditation, incorporating guided imagery and Exposure Response Therapy techniques. I also run occasional groups- check out my website for more up to date info.
(224) 803-2464 View (224) 803-2464
Photo of Bob Marsh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bob Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I work with adults and adolescents utilizing a humanistic, person-centered approach. I seek to establish an emotionally safe space in which clients feel at ease to explore thoughts, feelings, behaviors, experiences that may be impacting their lives in significant ways; and, through that process, to facilitate openings into meaningful self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
I work with adults and adolescents utilizing a humanistic, person-centered approach. I seek to establish an emotionally safe space in which clients feel at ease to explore thoughts, feelings, behaviors, experiences that may be impacting their lives in significant ways; and, through that process, to facilitate openings into meaningful self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
(847) 607-1487 View (847) 607-1487
Photo of Maria N Feldgreber, MS, LCPC
Maria N Feldgreber
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I am committed to providing high quality psychological care for individuals, children and families who are facing a variety of issues in their lives. Whether your needs are for short-term problem solving or long-term growth work, we can work collaboratively to create goals for the future. Helping clients with issues such as ADD/ODD, Behavior Issues, Depression and Anxiety, Divorce issues, Family Counseling, Grief Counseling, Hospice Counseling, Individual Counseling and School Issues.
I am committed to providing high quality psychological care for individuals, children and families who are facing a variety of issues in their lives. Whether your needs are for short-term problem solving or long-term growth work, we can work collaboratively to create goals for the future. Helping clients with issues such as ADD/ODD, Behavior Issues, Depression and Anxiety, Divorce issues, Family Counseling, Grief Counseling, Hospice Counseling, Individual Counseling and School Issues.
(224) 249-6006 View (224) 249-6006
Photo of Courtney Baumann, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Courtney Baumann
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I approach therapy with an openness and a sense-of-humor that allows clients the space to grow in a meaningful and intentional way. I hold the belief that every human experiences pain and that every human is deserving of a meaningful life. I promote a safe non-judgmental environment while working with clients.
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and families. I approach therapy with an openness and a sense-of-humor that allows clients the space to grow in a meaningful and intentional way. I hold the belief that every human experiences pain and that every human is deserving of a meaningful life. I promote a safe non-judgmental environment while working with clients.
(224) 249-5733 View (224) 249-5733
Photo of Angela Ceisel - Brighter Pathways, PLLC
Brighter Pathways, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
In-person & telehealth available: Brighter Pathways, PLLC is a small group practice currently offering individual, couples, family, and group therapies. Our therapists value collaboration, education, and transparency because treatment should make sense to you. In order to best meet your needs, your therapist will strive to understand your unique circumstances. We believe in a team approach to treatment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your personal goals and struggles. We offer a safe, supportive, and open environment for you to explore your struggles and strive for personal growth.
In-person & telehealth available: Brighter Pathways, PLLC is a small group practice currently offering individual, couples, family, and group therapies. Our therapists value collaboration, education, and transparency because treatment should make sense to you. In order to best meet your needs, your therapist will strive to understand your unique circumstances. We believe in a team approach to treatment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your personal goals and struggles. We offer a safe, supportive, and open environment for you to explore your struggles and strive for personal growth.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of Zoya Mirza (Holistic Counselor), MS, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zoya Mirza (Holistic Counselor)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Feeling stuck in endless therapy without clear progress? I offer a different path: therapy that’s focused on real, lasting healing. My approach honors your personal beliefs & tackles mental health challenges, emphasizing holistic care for issues like Couple/Marital and Parenting crisis, anxiety, narcissistic or emotional abuse & more. I’m committed to not just guiding you but empowering you with the tools to uncover your innate problem-solving abilities, aiming for swift and meaningful progress. Your time & investment are precious; together, we strive for autonomy, not dependency, ensuring each session is a step towards your goals.
Feeling stuck in endless therapy without clear progress? I offer a different path: therapy that’s focused on real, lasting healing. My approach honors your personal beliefs & tackles mental health challenges, emphasizing holistic care for issues like Couple/Marital and Parenting crisis, anxiety, narcissistic or emotional abuse & more. I’m committed to not just guiding you but empowering you with the tools to uncover your innate problem-solving abilities, aiming for swift and meaningful progress. Your time & investment are precious; together, we strive for autonomy, not dependency, ensuring each session is a step towards your goals.
(224) 464-3928 View (224) 464-3928
Photo of Kelly DeHaan - Cherry Hill Counseling
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
(847) 386-2109 View (847) 386-2109
Photo of Nancy DeWeese, LCPC, Counselor
Nancy DeWeese
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061  (Online Only)
Are you stuck, unable to make the lasting changes you’re longing for? Maybe you are struggling to figure out what you should do and how to do it? Perhaps relationships are strained and you feel you go around and around. You may know where you want to be but can't figure out how to get there, and maybe even feel like giving up. Often, the first step is simply being heard, feeling understood and accepted unconditionally. The fact that you are reading this shows you have hope, hope that you can find inner peace and clarity, and then be able to take those steps that feel safe to you.
Are you stuck, unable to make the lasting changes you’re longing for? Maybe you are struggling to figure out what you should do and how to do it? Perhaps relationships are strained and you feel you go around and around. You may know where you want to be but can't figure out how to get there, and maybe even feel like giving up. Often, the first step is simply being heard, feeling understood and accepted unconditionally. The fact that you are reading this shows you have hope, hope that you can find inner peace and clarity, and then be able to take those steps that feel safe to you.
(224) 218-5199 View (224) 218-5199
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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.