Eating Disorders Therapists in New Orleans, LA

Photo of Emily Pavel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Pavel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118
Waitlist for new clients
It is my goal to create a safe and inclusive treatment environment for adults and adolescents seeking therapeutic collaboration around eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, trauma, and life transitions.
It is my goal to create a safe and inclusive treatment environment for adults and adolescents seeking therapeutic collaboration around eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, trauma, and life transitions.
(504) 603-6145 View (504) 603-6145
Photo of Richard Scott Brown, MA, LPC-S, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Scott Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70125  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on trauma, eating disorders and life transitions; while also working with more general presentations of anxiety, depression, mood swings, impulsivity, grief and loss, emotional regulation, and self-view.
As we navigate our lives, we develop beliefs about ourself through our experiences. These beliefs have powerful effects on our sense of belonging, our attempts to receive love and affection, and our desires for intimacy. Feeling accepted and valued can result in a sense of self that approaches life with trust, confidence and flexibility. When difficult events arise, or we feel rejected and mistreated, the way we view ourself and our efficacy can be impacted. While we cannot change the experiences of our life, we can rewrite the meaning we assign to those experiences and free ourself from the associated distress.
My practice focuses on trauma, eating disorders and life transitions; while also working with more general presentations of anxiety, depression, mood swings, impulsivity, grief and loss, emotional regulation, and self-view.
As we navigate our lives, we develop beliefs about ourself through our experiences. These beliefs have powerful effects on our sense of belonging, our attempts to receive love and affection, and our desires for intimacy. Feeling accepted and valued can result in a sense of self that approaches life with trust, confidence and flexibility. When difficult events arise, or we feel rejected and mistreated, the way we view ourself and our efficacy can be impacted. While we cannot change the experiences of our life, we can rewrite the meaning we assign to those experiences and free ourself from the associated distress.
(504) 370-2905 View (504) 370-2905
Photo of Rachele Judd Thompson, MSW, LCSW, TCTSY-F, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachele Judd Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TCTSY-F, SEP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
I specialize in treating eating disorders and work closely with a team which includes a nutritionist and your doctor.
Many people feel disconnected, floating through life looking okay on the outside while suffering silently inside. This masked lifestyle causes great distress on the mind, body, and spirit resulting in varying symptoms such as depression, isolation, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, body image disturbance, health problems...etc. Psychotherapy can be a place to help people achieve their life goals, make life changes, move through difficult transitions or better understand ongoing relational concerns. Offering a compassionate and collaborative environment, I can help you develop coping strategies that promote acceptance, healing, and the creation of a more meaningful life.
I specialize in treating eating disorders and work closely with a team which includes a nutritionist and your doctor.
Many people feel disconnected, floating through life looking okay on the outside while suffering silently inside. This masked lifestyle causes great distress on the mind, body, and spirit resulting in varying symptoms such as depression, isolation, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, body image disturbance, health problems...etc. Psychotherapy can be a place to help people achieve their life goals, make life changes, move through difficult transitions or better understand ongoing relational concerns. Offering a compassionate and collaborative environment, I can help you develop coping strategies that promote acceptance, healing, and the creation of a more meaningful life.
(504) 564-7567 View (504) 564-7567
Photo of Celeste M Lopez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Celeste M Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
Waitlist for new clients
I have special training in working with eating disorders, mood disorders, depression, and fertility issues.
I'm currently unable to take on new clients at this time. I see my job as helping people identify and develop their personal goals to living fuller, more satisfactory lives. Blending conventional and alternative approaches, I draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. I work with each client to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals.
I have special training in working with eating disorders, mood disorders, depression, and fertility issues.
I'm currently unable to take on new clients at this time. I see my job as helping people identify and develop their personal goals to living fuller, more satisfactory lives. Blending conventional and alternative approaches, I draw on a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. I work with each client to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals.
(504) 684-8407 View (504) 684-8407
Photo of Leigh Miller, PsyD, Psychologist
Leigh Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118
Change can be scary. Ironically, in order to enact change we actually need to start with self-acceptance. A deep sense of I-am-OK-ness provides the empowerment necessary to embark on change. This is where a solid therapeutic relationship can be profoundly supportive. It can provide a space of strength, safety and compassion - where the fears and obstacles can be unpacked and where you can discover and trust your innate abilities and strengths. Areas of expertise: Eating Disorders, Body Image and Body Dysmorphia, Women's Issues, Social Anxiety, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Concerns and Life Transitions.
Change can be scary. Ironically, in order to enact change we actually need to start with self-acceptance. A deep sense of I-am-OK-ness provides the empowerment necessary to embark on change. This is where a solid therapeutic relationship can be profoundly supportive. It can provide a space of strength, safety and compassion - where the fears and obstacles can be unpacked and where you can discover and trust your innate abilities and strengths. Areas of expertise: Eating Disorders, Body Image and Body Dysmorphia, Women's Issues, Social Anxiety, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Concerns and Life Transitions.
(504) 294-3848 View (504) 294-3848
Photo of Angel Vaccaro, Angel V, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angel Vaccaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, Angel V, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
I'm Angel and I am excited that you found my page. I am a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania with over 8 years of counseling experience working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and addictions. I love working with individuals to find freedom and remove any obstacles that prevent living the life they have always dreamed of. My therapy style is unique, creative, individual, warm, and accepting. I treat individuals with respect, compassion, and empathy. My ability to see different perspectives enables me to meet people where they are.
I'm Angel and I am excited that you found my page. I am a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania with over 8 years of counseling experience working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and addictions. I love working with individuals to find freedom and remove any obstacles that prevent living the life they have always dreamed of. My therapy style is unique, creative, individual, warm, and accepting. I treat individuals with respect, compassion, and empathy. My ability to see different perspectives enables me to meet people where they are.
(272) 206-2060 View (272) 206-2060
Photo of Ashley Scott, LCSW, MSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118  (Online Only)
In particular, I work well with women in need of perinatal mental health support, parents of people with eating disorders, and males struggling with an eating disorder.
If you are struggling with life transitions, perinatal mental health, body acceptance, or eating disorders and are motivated to start living more freely and true to your values, I might be the therapist for you. My skill set lies in my ability to connect with people and my commitment to helping you through whatever is moving you to seek therapy. We all benefit from the support of others, but some of us have a hard time asking for help (myself included). If there’s something you could use a hand in conquering, I hope you will take that next step and reach out! I'm glad you are here and look forward to chatting soon.
In particular, I work well with women in need of perinatal mental health support, parents of people with eating disorders, and males struggling with an eating disorder.
If you are struggling with life transitions, perinatal mental health, body acceptance, or eating disorders and are motivated to start living more freely and true to your values, I might be the therapist for you. My skill set lies in my ability to connect with people and my commitment to helping you through whatever is moving you to seek therapy. We all benefit from the support of others, but some of us have a hard time asking for help (myself included). If there’s something you could use a hand in conquering, I hope you will take that next step and reach out! I'm glad you are here and look forward to chatting soon.
(225) 500-2046 View (225) 500-2046
Photo of Leo j Burke - The Uptown Counseling Center, PsyD, MP
The Uptown Counseling Center
PsyD, MP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118  (Online Only)
We specialize in Eating Disorders, Addictive Disorders, Couples Therapy, and Anxiety and Depressive Disorders.
At the Uptown Counseling Center, we provide expert treatment for your Life Stressors, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Couples/Relational Therapy, Eating Disorders, and Addictive and Substance Abuse Disorders. Our staff is here to help you enjoy your better life.
We specialize in Eating Disorders, Addictive Disorders, Couples Therapy, and Anxiety and Depressive Disorders.
At the Uptown Counseling Center, we provide expert treatment for your Life Stressors, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Couples/Relational Therapy, Eating Disorders, and Addictive and Substance Abuse Disorders. Our staff is here to help you enjoy your better life.
(504) 226-6425 View (504) 226-6425
Photo of Ashlie Aurora Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashlie Aurora Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115
Other expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists in our group believe that what sets us apart from many others is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. Our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the skills and techniques you need.
Other expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists in our group believe that what sets us apart from many others is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. Our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the skills and techniques you need.
(504) 414-5467 View (504) 414-5467
Photo of Crystal Broussard, PhD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Broussard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115
Our expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
Our expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
(504) 321-0242 View (504) 321-0242
Photo of Catie Shockey, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catie Shockey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70118  (Online Only)
Eating disorders and body image distress is often a trauma response.
Welcome! I am down to earth, approachable, funny and provide a warm and supportive environment for growth and transformation. I work with adults and adolescents to help them reach their most authentic selves. I utilize a relational, holistic and attachment based approach that looks at the entire individual emotionally, mentally and physically. I believe that our suffering comes from a disconnection from the Self. Eating disorders, obsessive behaviors, anxiety over working, over scrolling all come down to a fear of sitting with our own emotions.
Eating disorders and body image distress is often a trauma response.
Welcome! I am down to earth, approachable, funny and provide a warm and supportive environment for growth and transformation. I work with adults and adolescents to help them reach their most authentic selves. I utilize a relational, holistic and attachment based approach that looks at the entire individual emotionally, mentally and physically. I believe that our suffering comes from a disconnection from the Self. Eating disorders, obsessive behaviors, anxiety over working, over scrolling all come down to a fear of sitting with our own emotions.
(504) 579-8905 View (504) 579-8905
Photo of Ellen Fleming, PLPC, NCC
Ellen Fleming
PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
Accepting new clients. Immediate availability. My name is Ellen. I’m so glad that you’re here. I work with individuals and couples. I work with clients in the following areas: addiction, trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, life adjustments, and relationship therapy. I received a Master's degree in counseling and have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Accepting new clients. Immediate availability. My name is Ellen. I’m so glad that you’re here. I work with individuals and couples. I work with clients in the following areas: addiction, trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, life adjustments, and relationship therapy. I received a Master's degree in counseling and have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(504) 414-8437 View (504) 414-8437
Allyson D Bennett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118
Actively engaging in therapy is both challenging and rewarding. I feel privileged that my clients allow to me a part of their journey. I have experience treating a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, borderline personality disorder and eating disorders. In 2010, I completed the intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) training by Behavioral Tech. Although I specialize in DBT, I have training in a variety of therapeutic genres (such as CBT and Interpersonal therapy) and take an individualized approach to therapy, meeting my client where he/she is and helping them reach their goals.
Actively engaging in therapy is both challenging and rewarding. I feel privileged that my clients allow to me a part of their journey. I have experience treating a variety of disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, borderline personality disorder and eating disorders. In 2010, I completed the intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) training by Behavioral Tech. Although I specialize in DBT, I have training in a variety of therapeutic genres (such as CBT and Interpersonal therapy) and take an individualized approach to therapy, meeting my client where he/she is and helping them reach their goals.
(504) 608-0309 View (504) 608-0309
Photo of Katherine McGuire, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine McGuire
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
I have extensive training and experience with individuals and couples struggling with substance and sex addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues.
Are you suffering or having a hard time coping? Do your feelings or behaviors feel out of control? Has your relationship lost that spark or is tension increasing? Often, our attempts to manage our stress and pain can end up creating more pain for us. In therapy, I will provide a space that is safe and free of judgment, so we can work together to explore the changes you envision for yourself and your relationships. Change can be scary but we will build off the strengths and resources you already have that make change feel possible.
I have extensive training and experience with individuals and couples struggling with substance and sex addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues.
Are you suffering or having a hard time coping? Do your feelings or behaviors feel out of control? Has your relationship lost that spark or is tension increasing? Often, our attempts to manage our stress and pain can end up creating more pain for us. In therapy, I will provide a space that is safe and free of judgment, so we can work together to explore the changes you envision for yourself and your relationships. Change can be scary but we will build off the strengths and resources you already have that make change feel possible.
(504) 688-3863 View (504) 688-3863
Photo of Leo J Burke III - The Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville, MP, PsyD, Psychologist
The Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville
Psychologist, MP, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118
We specialize in Eating Disorders, Addictive Disorders, Couples Therapy, and Anxiety and Depressive Disorders.
At the Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville, we provide expert treatment for Life Stressors, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Couples/Relational Therapy, Eating Disorders, and Addictive and Substance Abuse Disorders. Our counselors are here to help you enjoy your better life.
We specialize in Eating Disorders, Addictive Disorders, Couples Therapy, and Anxiety and Depressive Disorders.
At the Uptown Counseling Center of Mandeville, we provide expert treatment for Life Stressors, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Couples/Relational Therapy, Eating Disorders, and Addictive and Substance Abuse Disorders. Our counselors are here to help you enjoy your better life.
(504) 442-5128 View (504) 442-5128
Photo of Shelley B Holmes, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Shelley B Holmes
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118
I work collaboratively with each unique individual, providing safety and support to encourage growth and change. I believe for counseling to be effective, a sound therapeutic relationship should be established and each client treated with respect and dignity. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Additional areas of expertise include anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, self harm, and trauma related disorders. I also offer coaching to parents on behavioral interventions and assertive parenting.
I work collaboratively with each unique individual, providing safety and support to encourage growth and change. I believe for counseling to be effective, a sound therapeutic relationship should be established and each client treated with respect and dignity. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Additional areas of expertise include anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, self harm, and trauma related disorders. I also offer coaching to parents on behavioral interventions and assertive parenting.
(504) 396-2840 View (504) 396-2840
Photo of Frank Trupiano, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frank Trupiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
Specialties include: Blended Families, Marital and Couple Relationship Problems; Addictions (substance abuse and gambling); Eating Disorders (Obesity, Anorexia and Bulimia); Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Victims of Sexual Abuse; chronic pain management.
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
Specialties include: Blended Families, Marital and Couple Relationship Problems; Addictions (substance abuse and gambling); Eating Disorders (Obesity, Anorexia and Bulimia); Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Victims of Sexual Abuse; chronic pain management.
I provide individual, marriage, and family counseling services. I also create health and wellness programs . Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, manage stress, or improve your relationships, I can help. I also offer a number of complementary therapies: Reiki , hypnotherapy, (EFT) Emotional Freedom Techniques, the Sedona Method,and Psych-k . For clients experiencing a lack of direction, purpose, or meaning in their life, I offer psycho-spiritual counseling, utilizing the Akashic Records and Wisdom Teachings from the Bible and other spiritual tradition.
(504) 358-0517 View (504) 358-0517
Photo of Noelle Raymond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noelle Raymond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70124
I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, family and friend relationships, and eating disorders.
Hi there. My name is Noelle Raymond and I am a licensed and skilled psychotherapist with several years of clinical experience. In my practice, I utilize various approaches to meet the individual needs of each client which most often include those rooted in psychodynamic, interpersonal, and existential therapy. I also incorporate CBT and DBT skills into my practice to help my clients develop coping tools to take with them outside of the therapy room.
I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, family and friend relationships, and eating disorders.
Hi there. My name is Noelle Raymond and I am a licensed and skilled psychotherapist with several years of clinical experience. In my practice, I utilize various approaches to meet the individual needs of each client which most often include those rooted in psychodynamic, interpersonal, and existential therapy. I also incorporate CBT and DBT skills into my practice to help my clients develop coping tools to take with them outside of the therapy room.
(504) 788-1577 View (504) 788-1577
Photo of Da'netha Saunders - Effective Therapy Solutions, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Effective Therapy Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70112
EMDR and Eating Disorders.
Effective Therapy Solutions incorporate the whole person into the healing process. This includes the spirit, mind, body, and soul. We empower clients to navigate and overcome trauma, fostering resilience for a thriving, prosperous future beyond therapy. Our mission is to provide accessible, effective, and empowering trauma therapy to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through advocacy, education, and personalized treatment, we aim to break down barriers to mental health care and empower her clients to rewrite their stories of resilience and growth.
EMDR and Eating Disorders.
Effective Therapy Solutions incorporate the whole person into the healing process. This includes the spirit, mind, body, and soul. We empower clients to navigate and overcome trauma, fostering resilience for a thriving, prosperous future beyond therapy. Our mission is to provide accessible, effective, and empowering trauma therapy to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through advocacy, education, and personalized treatment, we aim to break down barriers to mental health care and empower her clients to rewrite their stories of resilience and growth.
(469) 966-4423 View (469) 966-4423
Photo of Rebecca Oyer, MSW, LCSW, SEP, ISPP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Oyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP, ISPP
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70116  (Online Only)
I work with the areas listed below, including isolation, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, verbal, physical, sexual and other types of abuse, eating disorders, child and parenting problems.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years and I very much enjoy my work. My goal is to help people with healing, and in so doing help them to live a more joyful and meaningful life. I have years of experience helping clients address and recover from many different issues. I work with emotional wounds that are often at the core of issues that clients bring to me, and with healing trauma including religious trauma. I have found that when these wounds can be addressed in a safe environment, healing can take place. I work with adults of all life stages, with adolescents, children, with individuals, families and groups.
I work with the areas listed below, including isolation, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, verbal, physical, sexual and other types of abuse, eating disorders, child and parenting problems.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years and I very much enjoy my work. My goal is to help people with healing, and in so doing help them to live a more joyful and meaningful life. I have years of experience helping clients address and recover from many different issues. I work with emotional wounds that are often at the core of issues that clients bring to me, and with healing trauma including religious trauma. I have found that when these wounds can be addressed in a safe environment, healing can take place. I work with adults of all life stages, with adolescents, children, with individuals, families and groups.
(337) 243-6887 View (337) 243-6887
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.