Eating Disorders Therapists in Auburndale, MA

Photo of Hannah Burford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Burford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Auburndale, MA 02466  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with children for years and it is my passion in life.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with children for years and it is my passion in life.
(617) 398-4125 View (617) 398-4125

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarai Logue, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarai Logue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464  (Online Only)
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.
(857) 598-5399 View (857) 598-5399
Photo of Caroline Balz, MA, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Caroline Balz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Weston, MA 02493  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating people with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders but also see people with an array of issues.
It takes so much courage to begin the process of change! By utilizing Dialectaical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), self-psychology and a relational approach, I believe in a model of full recovery. I also believe that you can't feel good about your self if you don't know who that SELF is. This approach tends to gives you the support necessary to help break the cycles of maladaptive behaviors and live the change you want to see in your life.
I specialize in treating people with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders but also see people with an array of issues.
It takes so much courage to begin the process of change! By utilizing Dialectaical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), self-psychology and a relational approach, I believe in a model of full recovery. I also believe that you can't feel good about your self if you don't know who that SELF is. This approach tends to gives you the support necessary to help break the cycles of maladaptive behaviors and live the change you want to see in your life.
(617) 882-7075 View (617) 882-7075
Photo of Amanda Destefano - The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Our Vision: We envision a community without eating disorders that promotes a positive body culture.
MEDA believes in providing access to equitable care through a variety of flexible, clinical services for both individuals and families/friends, including assessments, therapy sessions, therapy groups, free drop-in support groups, and coaching sessions. MEDA is a nonprofit located in Newton, Massachusetts.
Our Vision: We envision a community without eating disorders that promotes a positive body culture.
MEDA believes in providing access to equitable care through a variety of flexible, clinical services for both individuals and families/friends, including assessments, therapy sessions, therapy groups, free drop-in support groups, and coaching sessions. MEDA is a nonprofit located in Newton, Massachusetts.
(617) 500-4038 View (617) 500-4038
Photo of Olivia Papakyrikos, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Olivia Papakyrikos
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
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.
(857) 227-9184 View (857) 227-9184
Photo of Larissa Crane - Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT, MSW, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02465
Specialties include trauma, narcissistic abuse, and eating disorders.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
Specialties include trauma, narcissistic abuse, and eating disorders.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
(508) 659-4613 View (508) 659-4613
Photo of Cassandra Donner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Donner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, eating disorders and body image, & sexual health. My ideal client is anyone who comes to me ready to engage in the real work of therapy. Someone looking for guidance, connection, and relentless support. Someone who wants to change something about their inner experience so they can show up differently for the people in their lives and have a positive ripple effect on the world.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, eating disorders and body image, & sexual health. My ideal client is anyone who comes to me ready to engage in the real work of therapy. Someone looking for guidance, connection, and relentless support. Someone who wants to change something about their inner experience so they can show up differently for the people in their lives and have a positive ripple effect on the world.
(617) 609-0871 View (617) 609-0871
Photo of Bridget Merrill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Merrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
In the ideal scenario, my client seeks therapy to address a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and everyday life stressors. They desire a safe and supportive space to freely express themselves without fear of judgment. Their goals include developing healthier thought patterns, improving emotional regulation, and fostering greater self-awareness. Ultimately, they aspire to cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment, inner peace, and authenticity, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections with others.
In the ideal scenario, my client seeks therapy to address a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and everyday life stressors. They desire a safe and supportive space to freely express themselves without fear of judgment. Their goals include developing healthier thought patterns, improving emotional regulation, and fostering greater self-awareness. Ultimately, they aspire to cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment, inner peace, and authenticity, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections with others.
(857) 598-7832 View (857) 598-7832
Photo of Karen Chinca - Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02460
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
(857) 384-4858 View (857) 384-4858
Photo of Christina Brothers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Brothers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
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.
(339) 330-1364 View (339) 330-1364
Photo of Lucie Waldman, MS, CCIEDC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lucie Waldman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CCIEDC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
As a therapist, my goal is to help clients navigate struggles in their lives and provide a space of safety and compassion as they work to overcome challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and clients come to therapy with an inner wisdom. I intend to guide them to understand themselves and live more authentically. I work closely to individualize therapy so it fits the needs of the client. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of concerns, including eating disorders, trauma, relationships, and ADHD.
As a therapist, my goal is to help clients navigate struggles in their lives and provide a space of safety and compassion as they work to overcome challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and clients come to therapy with an inner wisdom. I intend to guide them to understand themselves and live more authentically. I work closely to individualize therapy so it fits the needs of the client. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of concerns, including eating disorders, trauma, relationships, and ADHD.
(781) 230-7480 View (781) 230-7480
Photo of Constance Mccashin, MA, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Constance Mccashin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
West Newton, MA 02465
I have a concentration of clients among college age students, and young adults. I specialize in eating disorders, and related issues. I also have a strong background in the performing arts, and see a significant number of creative clients. For twelve years I worked in a college counseling center. This has afforded me the opportunity to work with students who struggle with the concerns of people in their late teens, early twenties: depression; anxiety; ADD; OCD; substance abuse (as well as the more common issues surrounding living away from home, roommates, academic rigor, awaking sexual identity, etc.)
I have a concentration of clients among college age students, and young adults. I specialize in eating disorders, and related issues. I also have a strong background in the performing arts, and see a significant number of creative clients. For twelve years I worked in a college counseling center. This has afforded me the opportunity to work with students who struggle with the concerns of people in their late teens, early twenties: depression; anxiety; ADD; OCD; substance abuse (as well as the more common issues surrounding living away from home, roommates, academic rigor, awaking sexual identity, etc.)
(617) 300-0563 View (617) 300-0563
Photo of Rebecca Wassell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Wassell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! My hope is you can find a safe place here. All are welcome - none are judged. In my work, I most often support LGBTQ+ and transgender folks, as well as people navigating eating disorders and/or struggles with body image. I also do a lot of ADHD and trauma work. I'm affirming of all sexual, gender, and body identities and presentations. I'm very experienced working with polyamory and ethical non-monogamy and am a sex and kink-positive therapist. In my work around eating, bodies, and body image, I work from a Health at Every Size framework, support fat liberation, and believe all bodies are good bodies.
Welcome to my practice! My hope is you can find a safe place here. All are welcome - none are judged. In my work, I most often support LGBTQ+ and transgender folks, as well as people navigating eating disorders and/or struggles with body image. I also do a lot of ADHD and trauma work. I'm affirming of all sexual, gender, and body identities and presentations. I'm very experienced working with polyamory and ethical non-monogamy and am a sex and kink-positive therapist. In my work around eating, bodies, and body image, I work from a Health at Every Size framework, support fat liberation, and believe all bodies are good bodies.
(339) 345-2893 View (339) 345-2893
Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
(857) 367-1785 View (857) 367-1785
Photo of Jillian Burley - Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
While BHBH therapists have expertise in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns/diagnoses, our clinicians have particular expertise in the treatment of eating disorders, maladaptive coping behaviors, anxiety/mood disorders, trauma and suicidality.
Birch Hill Behavioral Health (BHBH) is a specialty group practice, offering thoughtful and tailored evidence-based treatments for adolescents and adults presenting with unique backgrounds, preferences, strengths, and challenges. We strive for a thorough understanding of our clients, their symptoms and concerns, and their expressed goals. This informs an individualized, integrative, and collaboratively-determined treatment plan. We value transparency in the treatment process, as well as a warm, interactive approach. You can expect your therapist to provide specific recommendations for your care.
While BHBH therapists have expertise in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns/diagnoses, our clinicians have particular expertise in the treatment of eating disorders, maladaptive coping behaviors, anxiety/mood disorders, trauma and suicidality.
Birch Hill Behavioral Health (BHBH) is a specialty group practice, offering thoughtful and tailored evidence-based treatments for adolescents and adults presenting with unique backgrounds, preferences, strengths, and challenges. We strive for a thorough understanding of our clients, their symptoms and concerns, and their expressed goals. This informs an individualized, integrative, and collaboratively-determined treatment plan. We value transparency in the treatment process, as well as a warm, interactive approach. You can expect your therapist to provide specific recommendations for your care.
(781) 253-8493 View (781) 253-8493
Photo of Cathryn M Freid, PhD, Psychologist
Cathryn M Freid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
In addition to my practice, I currently have appointments as Clinical Teaching Faculty in the Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program (EDCRP) at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and as part-time Lecturer on Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
In addition to my practice, I currently have appointments as Clinical Teaching Faculty in the Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program (EDCRP) at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and as part-time Lecturer on Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
(617) 553-9222 View (617) 553-9222
Photo of Amy K Friedman, PhD, Psychologist
Amy K Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
My specialties run the gamut - but they include in no specific order, trauma, spirituality and religion, creativity and creative professionals, relationships, existential identity, fertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and parenting, eating disorders, cutting, couples and families, Depression, and Anxiety.
I am warm, authentic, dynamic, and connective, and I believe in meaning-making and healing through relationship. I also believe in the balance of holding what's challenging or traumatic, while looking at possibilities for growth and change. I truly love the work that I do, providing holding, healing, and transformation in a safe and natural way. Come meet me for a free sample session, and see what possibilities we might explore together. My contact information is (617) 935 - 9116. I look forward to hopefully meeting with you.
My specialties run the gamut - but they include in no specific order, trauma, spirituality and religion, creativity and creative professionals, relationships, existential identity, fertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and parenting, eating disorders, cutting, couples and families, Depression, and Anxiety.
I am warm, authentic, dynamic, and connective, and I believe in meaning-making and healing through relationship. I also believe in the balance of holding what's challenging or traumatic, while looking at possibilities for growth and change. I truly love the work that I do, providing holding, healing, and transformation in a safe and natural way. Come meet me for a free sample session, and see what possibilities we might explore together. My contact information is (617) 935 - 9116. I look forward to hopefully meeting with you.
(617) 379-0441 View (617) 379-0441
Photo of Libby Flavin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Libby Flavin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02456
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) who graduated from Boston College School of Social Work. I specialize in the areas include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, body image distress, and peer/family conflict. I have a background in higher levels of care as well as outpatient settings. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. I value connection and aim to provide a nonjudgmental space that meets each clients individual needs. I hope to assist you in navigating life’s various challenges through the development of effective coping skills and problem-solving techniques.
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) who graduated from Boston College School of Social Work. I specialize in the areas include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, body image distress, and peer/family conflict. I have a background in higher levels of care as well as outpatient settings. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. I value connection and aim to provide a nonjudgmental space that meets each clients individual needs. I hope to assist you in navigating life’s various challenges through the development of effective coping skills and problem-solving techniques.
(857) 420-6292 View (857) 420-6292
Photo of Laura Curtiss Feder, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Curtiss Feder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
(508) 466-6390 View (508) 466-6390
Photo of Susan E Norman, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan E Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
(617) 446-3125 View (617) 446-3125

See more therapy options for Auburndale

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.