Eating Disorders Therapists in Allston, MA
![Photo of Jialin Xiang, EdM, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39f49914-cf2d-4556-aab7-680f8dd15daa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jialin Xiang
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdM
Verified Verified
Allston, MA 02134 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a compassionate and dedicated Chinese counselor. Being a Chinese woman myself, I have a profound understanding of the unique challenges that Asian individuals face in the American context. I strongly believe that culture plays a significant role in shaping our mental health. It influences our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Recognizing this, I am committed to empowering Asian individuals living in the United States.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Chinese counselor. Being a Chinese woman myself, I have a profound understanding of the unique challenges that Asian individuals face in the American context. I strongly believe that culture plays a significant role in shaping our mental health. It influences our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Recognizing this, I am committed to empowering Asian individuals living in the United States.
![Photo of Susana Rodriguez, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/915c0514-e6cc-430d-b59b-f50bcca6ee5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susana Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allston, MA 02134 (Online Only)
Drawing from my own experience as a first-generation queer Latinx, I strive to create an accessible, inclusive and validating space in which you can explore your own authenticity and cultivate your own empowerment. I enjoy providing a compassionate, emotionally-attuned space for you to understand how earlier life experiences have influenced your thoughts, feelings and behaviors- whether you are embarking on your own self-discovery journey, navigating a difficult life transition, processing a painful past experience, or managing persistent thoughts and feelings that you are unsure how to change.
Drawing from my own experience as a first-generation queer Latinx, I strive to create an accessible, inclusive and validating space in which you can explore your own authenticity and cultivate your own empowerment. I enjoy providing a compassionate, emotionally-attuned space for you to understand how earlier life experiences have influenced your thoughts, feelings and behaviors- whether you are embarking on your own self-discovery journey, navigating a difficult life transition, processing a painful past experience, or managing persistent thoughts and feelings that you are unsure how to change.
![Photo of Vahid Hosseini, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b1e9c7-ee4b-4078-bec3-d40c47420414/2/320x400.jpeg)
The mind is like an iceberg. It floats with one seventh of its bulk above water - Sigmund Freud
The mind is like an iceberg. It floats with one seventh of its bulk above water - Sigmund Freud
![Photo of Grace Lawton, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1052d92-6876-46f4-9587-33fcee3079fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Lawton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Allston, MA 02134 (Online Only)
I offer individual, couples & group psychotherapy to adults and adolescents, taking an integrative holistic approach to treatment. If you are navigating challenges with anxiety, OCD, depression, family/relationship conflicts, trauma, women's issues, low self-esteem, impulsivity, or a life transition, we may be a good fit! My expertise is in integrative psychotherapy, where I draw from a variety of modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, ACT, relational & strengths-based approaches to provide individualized treatment. If you have a spiritual practice or faith, I also incorporate your faith and spiritual practices into our work.
I offer individual, couples & group psychotherapy to adults and adolescents, taking an integrative holistic approach to treatment. If you are navigating challenges with anxiety, OCD, depression, family/relationship conflicts, trauma, women's issues, low self-esteem, impulsivity, or a life transition, we may be a good fit! My expertise is in integrative psychotherapy, where I draw from a variety of modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, ACT, relational & strengths-based approaches to provide individualized treatment. If you have a spiritual practice or faith, I also incorporate your faith and spiritual practices into our work.
![Photo of Whitney Lew, MA, LMHC, LPCC, CCH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50fcedc2-1ad1-4449-825c-42c8d52afc07/4/320x400.jpeg)
In these times of uncertainty and change, I am offering a space of hope and connection. I believe that therapy is a space to be seen and valued - a space to slow down, reflect, and engage in vulnerability. I understand the unique challenges faced by POC and immigrants, such as navigating cultural differences, acculturation stress, and intergenerational conflicts. In addition, I have a focus on working with college students and working professionals. In our work, we'll explore how cultural factors intersect with your mental health, nurturing a strong sense of identity, helping you to navigate life's complexities.
In these times of uncertainty and change, I am offering a space of hope and connection. I believe that therapy is a space to be seen and valued - a space to slow down, reflect, and engage in vulnerability. I understand the unique challenges faced by POC and immigrants, such as navigating cultural differences, acculturation stress, and intergenerational conflicts. In addition, I have a focus on working with college students and working professionals. In our work, we'll explore how cultural factors intersect with your mental health, nurturing a strong sense of identity, helping you to navigate life's complexities.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jena Kenny, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df0b50d6-2958-4de3-b937-bf4a2516dc3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist in training and a trained EMDR therapist, I help clients process traumatic experiences that often underlie eating disorders.
I believe everything happens for a reason and we all have a purpose. That being said, it's sometimes hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Often times, we are stuck in old habits of thinking, feeling and communicating. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you through the change process while providing a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to explore their feelings, hopes and fears. Keeping therapy both interactive and collaborative we embark together on this journey. My therapeutic approach is integrative, blending evidence-based treatments with client-centered and strength-based interventions.
Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist in training and a trained EMDR therapist, I help clients process traumatic experiences that often underlie eating disorders.
I believe everything happens for a reason and we all have a purpose. That being said, it's sometimes hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Often times, we are stuck in old habits of thinking, feeling and communicating. As a therapist, my goal is to assist you through the change process while providing a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to explore their feelings, hopes and fears. Keeping therapy both interactive and collaborative we embark together on this journey. My therapeutic approach is integrative, blending evidence-based treatments with client-centered and strength-based interventions.
![Photo of Jenna Hickey, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34affa32-b8b0-42bb-be25-da48dbc47782/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety/depression, eating disorders, trauma, low self-esteem, and women’s issues.
I’m firmly rooted in the stance that you already have everything needed within you to build the life you want for yourself - and tapping into your own strengths and unique skill set (& maybe discovering a few new ones along the way) is the ethos of self-healing. I have an eclectic therapeutic approach that emphasizes person-centered care. I work closely with clients by collaborating on problem-solving, exploring the complexities of your inner world, building awareness to old patterns and habits, establishing goals that feel exciting to work towards, and above all, centering our work around your own inherent inner wisdom.
I specialize in anxiety/depression, eating disorders, trauma, low self-esteem, and women’s issues.
I’m firmly rooted in the stance that you already have everything needed within you to build the life you want for yourself - and tapping into your own strengths and unique skill set (& maybe discovering a few new ones along the way) is the ethos of self-healing. I have an eclectic therapeutic approach that emphasizes person-centered care. I work closely with clients by collaborating on problem-solving, exploring the complexities of your inner world, building awareness to old patterns and habits, establishing goals that feel exciting to work towards, and above all, centering our work around your own inherent inner wisdom.
![Photo of Kristina Wischhusen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70a7d431-4745-4344-b9fe-469fd19e4d54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Wischhusen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02139
Through relational and trauma informed lenses, I work with individuals who struggle in areas that include anxiety, depression, relationship problems, eating disorders, grief and loss, transitions, ADHD, identity issues, and much more.
With the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship, I offer a safe space for adults and older adolescents to self-reflect and grow through their personal development. I use a curious, collaborative, and compassionate approach so my clients can feel seen, heard, and even challenged at times. Growth and change can happen when we explore our vulnerabilities, feelings, and struggles in a safe and supportive environment. I aspire for each of my clients to live a grounded, fulfilling, and optimal life.
Through relational and trauma informed lenses, I work with individuals who struggle in areas that include anxiety, depression, relationship problems, eating disorders, grief and loss, transitions, ADHD, identity issues, and much more.
With the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship, I offer a safe space for adults and older adolescents to self-reflect and grow through their personal development. I use a curious, collaborative, and compassionate approach so my clients can feel seen, heard, and even challenged at times. Growth and change can happen when we explore our vulnerabilities, feelings, and struggles in a safe and supportive environment. I aspire for each of my clients to live a grounded, fulfilling, and optimal life.
![Photo of Sarai Logue, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45117b69-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
![Photo of Nicholas Esposito, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af871dcf-55f2-425e-a495-6ce417c8872e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Esposito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138 (Online Only)
Many clients I've seen have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment issues, eating disorders, and LGBTQ+ issues. I have also provided support to loved ones as well. I like to provide a safe & nurturing space for you to explore your past and help develop your future. I use a strength's based and developmental approach to understand your needs and skills. I hope to be a space in your week for you to recharge, analyze yourself, and continue positive coping skills. I have over a decade's worth experience working with adolescents, students, and adults.
Many clients I've seen have struggled with depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment issues, eating disorders, and LGBTQ+ issues. I have also provided support to loved ones as well. I like to provide a safe & nurturing space for you to explore your past and help develop your future. I use a strength's based and developmental approach to understand your needs and skills. I hope to be a space in your week for you to recharge, analyze yourself, and continue positive coping skills. I have over a decade's worth experience working with adolescents, students, and adults.
![Photo of Christina Brothers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/458a2d11-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, when treating adolescents with eating disorders, I utilize the modality of Family Based Treatment which I have substantial training in.
My practice has primarily lended itself to the treatment of Eating disorders, and other co-occurring struggles such as OCD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders that are commonly associated with this illness. Currently, I also work in a University setting with both undergrad and grad students, but in the past was the Clinical Director of both an Inpatient Eating Disorder Unit and a Psychiatric Unit. These experiences have provided me with the background of treating adolescents, young adults/adults, and families from all different backgrounds.
Additionally, when treating adolescents with eating disorders, I utilize the modality of Family Based Treatment which I have substantial training in.
My practice has primarily lended itself to the treatment of Eating disorders, and other co-occurring struggles such as OCD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders that are commonly associated with this illness. Currently, I also work in a University setting with both undergrad and grad students, but in the past was the Clinical Director of both an Inpatient Eating Disorder Unit and a Psychiatric Unit. These experiences have provided me with the background of treating adolescents, young adults/adults, and families from all different backgrounds.
![Photo of Wendy Gladu Landry, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d859097-494f-4314-b7dc-0ad1b2f30b41/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Gladu Landry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
I have experience providing Bariatric Assessments for Bariatric surgery and have counseled people who are struggling with eating disorders, obesity, and self-esteem issues.
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
I have experience providing Bariatric Assessments for Bariatric surgery and have counseled people who are struggling with eating disorders, obesity, and self-esteem issues.
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
![Photo of Meghan Brown, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ca8dab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
**Please email me if you are interested in being added to my waiting list for individual therapy** I believe that clients who struggle with eating disorders have inherently painful emotions which are managed by various harmful behaviors. In that context these behaviors make sense! I work collaboratively with clients, their support network, and their outpatient providers to find ways to change these behaviors and manage emotions in both the short and long term.
**Please email me if you are interested in being added to my waiting list for individual therapy** I believe that clients who struggle with eating disorders have inherently painful emotions which are managed by various harmful behaviors. In that context these behaviors make sense! I work collaboratively with clients, their support network, and their outpatient providers to find ways to change these behaviors and manage emotions in both the short and long term.
![Photo of Elizabeth D. Driscoll, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c384cccf-b240-4d65-9a80-1c01f03dce0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
As Clinical Director at Monte Nido and as Staff Psychologist at Cambridge Eating Disorder Center, my expertise in treating eating disorders and associated diagnoses includes the entire spectrum of care.
I believe the decision to seek help from a therapist is one that takes tremendous courage. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe and supportive environment in which to explore the issues causing them discomfort. I view therapy as a collaborative relationship between client and therapist to help foster the client's self-discovery and self-acceptance. My goal is to assist my clients to develop an authentic sense of themselves, authentic relationships with others, and a meaningful purpose in their world.
As Clinical Director at Monte Nido and as Staff Psychologist at Cambridge Eating Disorder Center, my expertise in treating eating disorders and associated diagnoses includes the entire spectrum of care.
I believe the decision to seek help from a therapist is one that takes tremendous courage. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe and supportive environment in which to explore the issues causing them discomfort. I view therapy as a collaborative relationship between client and therapist to help foster the client's self-discovery and self-acceptance. My goal is to assist my clients to develop an authentic sense of themselves, authentic relationships with others, and a meaningful purpose in their world.
![Photo of Iuri Conceicao, PsyD, MSc, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c95af43-2ffb-49a8-ac40-492c41960356/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a multicultural and bilingual clinical psychologist and psychotherapist in Massachusetts. I have 20 years of clinical experience in different countries, and bring an unique cultural and social perspective to my clinical work. I offer individual psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, loneliness and isolation, life transitions and crisis, immigration, PTSD and trauma, impulsivity, relational and work problems, self-esteem, and identity issues. In my post doc in Cambridge I specialized in eating disorders ( anorexia, bulimia, others).
I am a multicultural and bilingual clinical psychologist and psychotherapist in Massachusetts. I have 20 years of clinical experience in different countries, and bring an unique cultural and social perspective to my clinical work. I offer individual psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, loneliness and isolation, life transitions and crisis, immigration, PTSD and trauma, impulsivity, relational and work problems, self-esteem, and identity issues. In my post doc in Cambridge I specialized in eating disorders ( anorexia, bulimia, others).
![Photo of Dr. Gabrielle Roy, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6a34e0e-33ee-4ab9-bae0-69b6b2567d51/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, relationship concerns (of all kinds), and mild eating disorders.
Accepting new clients! Many clients I work with are looking for a space to process symptoms related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and body image/eating concerns. I work to help my clients identify what may have happened in their past that has impacted the way they feel today, and to build skills to live a more fulfilling life now. I acknowledge that therapy is an incredibly vulnerable experience, and work at the pace my clients feel most comfortable at. It is not uncommon for laughter to find it's way into my sessions, and I am able to find a unique balance between warmth and challenging to best assist you.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, relationship concerns (of all kinds), and mild eating disorders.
Accepting new clients! Many clients I work with are looking for a space to process symptoms related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and body image/eating concerns. I work to help my clients identify what may have happened in their past that has impacted the way they feel today, and to build skills to live a more fulfilling life now. I acknowledge that therapy is an incredibly vulnerable experience, and work at the pace my clients feel most comfortable at. It is not uncommon for laughter to find it's way into my sessions, and I am able to find a unique balance between warmth and challenging to best assist you.
![Photo of Jennifer Burgin, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CEDS, CIEC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad5cfdb0-e7f2-4a30-920b-c2a0af5fc45a/2/320x400.png)
Jennifer Burgin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CEDS, CIEC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02131
I specialize in substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health issues.
Accepting NEW patients! I am licensed in 14 states and offer evening and weekend appointments to meet you hectic scheduling needs. I strive to be different than other therapists and will go above and beyond to customize therapy just for you, so your therapy experience will be one that focuses on your goals and desires without fear of judgement or expressing yourself with someone that truly "gets it." I have worked with patients 3-83 years old and I am passionate about taking you from where you are to where you want to be in life. Go to this link to schedule a consult/appointment: secure.helloalma.com/providers/jennifer-burgin/
I specialize in substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health issues.
Accepting NEW patients! I am licensed in 14 states and offer evening and weekend appointments to meet you hectic scheduling needs. I strive to be different than other therapists and will go above and beyond to customize therapy just for you, so your therapy experience will be one that focuses on your goals and desires without fear of judgement or expressing yourself with someone that truly "gets it." I have worked with patients 3-83 years old and I am passionate about taking you from where you are to where you want to be in life. Go to this link to schedule a consult/appointment: secure.helloalma.com/providers/jennifer-burgin/
![Photo of Rita Gilman, LMHC, MA, LPC, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcfcb702-756d-4e9f-a3c3-36eb5ef8e7e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to eating disorders, my practice focuses on grief counseling, depression, anxiety, assertiveness, relaxation, and PTSD for those in the military.
People often go into therapy feeling a great deal of shame, guilt and with secrets. It's important to me that the therapeutic environment I provide allow people to feel they are part of a non-judgmental, safe and warm environment. The goal of therapy is to help clients make behavioral changes and increase insight into the cause of those behaviors and the purpose they serve. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, emotional/stress eating, body image, depression and anxiety. In addition, I run groups for individuals struggling with binge eating disorder.
In addition to eating disorders, my practice focuses on grief counseling, depression, anxiety, assertiveness, relaxation, and PTSD for those in the military.
People often go into therapy feeling a great deal of shame, guilt and with secrets. It's important to me that the therapeutic environment I provide allow people to feel they are part of a non-judgmental, safe and warm environment. The goal of therapy is to help clients make behavioral changes and increase insight into the cause of those behaviors and the purpose they serve. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, emotional/stress eating, body image, depression and anxiety. In addition, I run groups for individuals struggling with binge eating disorder.
![Photo of Olivia Papakyrikos, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2a2d13e-954b-433a-a6ed-9d1cb5cfef1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed therapist and performance psychology consultant, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, anxiety & life transitions.
As a former collegiate athlete, I faced various challenges during my athletic career. As I navigated my recovery from injuries, I became aware of the various mental and physical obstacles that accompany recovering from an injury. My experiences as an athlete motivated me to help individuals tackle their own mental struggles. In our work together, I strive to build a safe space for you to share your own experiences and make changes at your own pace. I will create an individualized with you to target your unique goals, build upon your strengths and explore areas for continued growth.
I am a licensed therapist and performance psychology consultant, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, anxiety & life transitions.
As a former collegiate athlete, I faced various challenges during my athletic career. As I navigated my recovery from injuries, I became aware of the various mental and physical obstacles that accompany recovering from an injury. My experiences as an athlete motivated me to help individuals tackle their own mental struggles. In our work together, I strive to build a safe space for you to share your own experiences and make changes at your own pace. I will create an individualized with you to target your unique goals, build upon your strengths and explore areas for continued growth.
![Photo of Erin Johnson - Actualize Counseling & Nutrition, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fba1adb3-f012-4552-88dd-ab9aa6f27e4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Actualize Counseling & Nutrition
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 (Online Only)
With a deep focus on groups and family relationships, I specialize in assisting individuals who face fears of abandonment and loss of control, which can manifest in eating disorders, anxiety, and mood and personality disorders. By championing a healing journey centered on compassionate exploration, I employ effective strategies to help regulate emotions, alleviate stress, and promote self-discovery. My aim is to empower you to embark on a transformative journey equipped with courage and resilience. Together, we will chart a course towards profound healing and personal growth.
With a deep focus on groups and family relationships, I specialize in assisting individuals who face fears of abandonment and loss of control, which can manifest in eating disorders, anxiety, and mood and personality disorders. By championing a healing journey centered on compassionate exploration, I employ effective strategies to help regulate emotions, alleviate stress, and promote self-discovery. My aim is to empower you to embark on a transformative journey equipped with courage and resilience. Together, we will chart a course towards profound healing and personal growth.
See more therapy options for Allston
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Allston
- Belmont
- Boston
- Brighton
- Brookline
- Cambridge
- Charlestown
- Chestnut Hill
- Jamaica Plain
- Newton
- Newton Centre
- Somerville
- Watertown
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.