Eating Disorders Therapists in Dover, MA
![Photo of Allison Gates, MS, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/517e6408-300c-43d0-ba8e-f81a11134d3c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Gates is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has more than 10 years of experience collaborating with a diverse population of individuals encompassing adults, teens, youth, couples, families, and groups needing psychotherapeutic counseling and support. Allison’s professional practice includes treating individuals amongst varying stages of human development and throughout the lifespan who may present with a variety of co-occurring conditions, including, but not limited to, life transitions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, eating disorders, trauma.
Allison Gates is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has more than 10 years of experience collaborating with a diverse population of individuals encompassing adults, teens, youth, couples, families, and groups needing psychotherapeutic counseling and support. Allison’s professional practice includes treating individuals amongst varying stages of human development and throughout the lifespan who may present with a variety of co-occurring conditions, including, but not limited to, life transitions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, eating disorders, trauma.
![Photo of Porter Charles, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa8cff60-61b5-4bb4-9ca0-05f566e55525/2/320x400.jpeg)
Porter Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dover, MA 02030 (Online Only)
I care deeply about the individuals that have needed help processing their trauma, eating disorders, panic attacks, suicidal ideation, athletic or school pressures, injury or lack of connection with others especially for males.
I work with individuals and/or families who struggle to find hope, balance or freedom from fear in its many forms. I enjoy creating a strong connection with my clients and cater my sessions towards their needs and ways of learning. Tambien hablo espanol y mis clientes ideales son aqellos quien estan frustrado con la vida, o chico/as quien tiene desafios como depression, trastornos de comer y anxiedad. Aqui, yo te escucho! I also love working with young men/boys and individuals who have developmental disabilities and Autism.
I care deeply about the individuals that have needed help processing their trauma, eating disorders, panic attacks, suicidal ideation, athletic or school pressures, injury or lack of connection with others especially for males.
I work with individuals and/or families who struggle to find hope, balance or freedom from fear in its many forms. I enjoy creating a strong connection with my clients and cater my sessions towards their needs and ways of learning. Tambien hablo espanol y mis clientes ideales son aqellos quien estan frustrado con la vida, o chico/as quien tiene desafios como depression, trastornos de comer y anxiedad. Aqui, yo te escucho! I also love working with young men/boys and individuals who have developmental disabilities and Autism.
![Photo of Kara Moody, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4777eb4e-cdc8-4ac7-8664-80f902936e8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel as though life is passing you by? As though you’re not in the driver’s seat of your own life? Oftentimes we go into autopilot mode because it’s familiar and feels comfortable. This autopilot mode can serve us, but when we’re constantly reacting to life automatically rather than responding mindfully, it can start to create issues for us. Therapy can be an effective way to break out of habitual patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are causing us problems. I create a nonjudgmental space where you can pause to explore how to live life more intentionally and wholeheartedly.
Do you feel as though life is passing you by? As though you’re not in the driver’s seat of your own life? Oftentimes we go into autopilot mode because it’s familiar and feels comfortable. This autopilot mode can serve us, but when we’re constantly reacting to life automatically rather than responding mindfully, it can start to create issues for us. Therapy can be an effective way to break out of habitual patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are causing us problems. I create a nonjudgmental space where you can pause to explore how to live life more intentionally and wholeheartedly.
![Photo of Cathy L Sharpe, MS, CGCS, CHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfeddd4d-11ef-4871-9edd-12f0851c363d/2/320x400.jpeg)
These feelings aren’t going away. By neglecting your own needs, you have found yourself in a state of debilitating anxiety and depression. Your mind is foggy and constantly occupied. Coping with the emotional distress of anxiety and depression can result in feelings of isolation, anxiety, and confusion. Whether you are going through a recent life change or still grappling with past trauma, I am here to help you navigate through this difficult period.
These feelings aren’t going away. By neglecting your own needs, you have found yourself in a state of debilitating anxiety and depression. Your mind is foggy and constantly occupied. Coping with the emotional distress of anxiety and depression can result in feelings of isolation, anxiety, and confusion. Whether you are going through a recent life change or still grappling with past trauma, I am here to help you navigate through this difficult period.
![Photo of Brianna Sculley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2640efc0-d8de-4dd0-ac31-c133504d81ed/2/320x400.png)
Brianna Sculley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dover, MA 02030 (Online Only)
It takes courage and strength to share your personal struggles with a therapist. My goal is to help assist you in your journey of discovering ways to cope and manage your mental health with respect, kindness, and warmth. There is something truly incredible about a human being living their authentic and complete truth without feeling burdened by mental or emotional blocks.
It takes courage and strength to share your personal struggles with a therapist. My goal is to help assist you in your journey of discovering ways to cope and manage your mental health with respect, kindness, and warmth. There is something truly incredible about a human being living their authentic and complete truth without feeling burdened by mental or emotional blocks.
![Photo of Meghan Gilliland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e380b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Gilliland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dover, MA 02030 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself overthinking everything or battling an internal critic that tells you what you are doing wrong all the time? You've decided to reach out for therapy because you are tired of managing your insecurities and want to get to the root of the problem. Whether you have a history of trauma that you are ready to work through, or more recent life challenges, I can help.
Do you find yourself overthinking everything or battling an internal critic that tells you what you are doing wrong all the time? You've decided to reach out for therapy because you are tired of managing your insecurities and want to get to the root of the problem. Whether you have a history of trauma that you are ready to work through, or more recent life challenges, I can help.
![Photo of Gregory Curtis - New Inspiration Teen Counseling, LICSW, CCBT, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9c2225d-954e-4d0c-8966-dc95eeb97e58/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Inspiration Teen Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCBT, MSW
Verified Verified
Dover, MA 02030
We're the therapists for "kids who don't like therapy." These days - especially - teens are too often suffering and struggling in their homes and in our schools. And everyone could use some help: kids, parents, and the caring professionals in our schools. Throughout the state, our therapists and life coaches serve as "part of the team," helping teens to feel better, and do better. Together, we'll explore and better understand what's been happening, how to change patterns, and how to get better results!
We're the therapists for "kids who don't like therapy." These days - especially - teens are too often suffering and struggling in their homes and in our schools. And everyone could use some help: kids, parents, and the caring professionals in our schools. Throughout the state, our therapists and life coaches serve as "part of the team," helping teens to feel better, and do better. Together, we'll explore and better understand what's been happening, how to change patterns, and how to get better results!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Nyssa Wittliff Boardman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7452c6a7-d300-4005-b0c2-376c2dfc6ed0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nyssa Wittliff Boardman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 (Online Only)
While I specialize in eating disorders and body image concerns, these issues do not occur in isolation.
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
While I specialize in eating disorders and body image concerns, these issues do not occur in isolation.
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
![Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1194c937-02af-40c1-a739-3684ef7dd91d/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Andrea M Coleman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d14d098-abc3-429b-b3fc-32ada42cd2f9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea M Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
I have spent the last 20+ years in private practice treating people who struggle with eating disorders, food related issues and body image. I have specialized in working with this population because I believe that everyone can recover and build a healthy, happy and fulfilling life free from constant obsessive thoughts and behaviors involving food and body image. I work collaboratively with nutritionists and medical doctors to provide comprehensive care. I am also an expert at treating anxiety, depression, ADD and trauma based responses as these are often underlying conditions that require treatment as well.
I have spent the last 20+ years in private practice treating people who struggle with eating disorders, food related issues and body image. I have specialized in working with this population because I believe that everyone can recover and build a healthy, happy and fulfilling life free from constant obsessive thoughts and behaviors involving food and body image. I work collaboratively with nutritionists and medical doctors to provide comprehensive care. I am also an expert at treating anxiety, depression, ADD and trauma based responses as these are often underlying conditions that require treatment as well.
![Photo of Miriam Iken Goodman, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/381e160e-a27b-44c4-a172-764785efc3ee/3/320x400.jpeg)
Miriam Iken Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wayland, MA 01778 (Online Only)
I have had thorough training in eating disorders, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
Are thoughts about your life's stressors getting in the way of your goals? Are you struggling to get through the day without thinking about food or your body? If you are reading this, you may be contemplating taking that first step to receive support. Setting up an initial therapy appointment can be scary; I hope to ease the stress of the process, while working with you to achieve your therapeutic goals.
I have had thorough training in eating disorders, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
Are thoughts about your life's stressors getting in the way of your goals? Are you struggling to get through the day without thinking about food or your body? If you are reading this, you may be contemplating taking that first step to receive support. Setting up an initial therapy appointment can be scary; I hope to ease the stress of the process, while working with you to achieve your therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Karen Chinca - Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebf446c4-7647-4ae7-97a9-896b3d4fb923/3/320x400.png)
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).
![Photo of Caroline Balz, MA, LMHC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4e637a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![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
Brookline, MA 02445
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 Dr. Yanina Gonzales Blanchard, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d94e6a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of interest include eating disorders, relationship problems, stress management issues, adjustment disorders, acculturation issues, grief/loss, depression and anxiety disorders.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 12th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
My areas of interest include eating disorders, relationship problems, stress management issues, adjustment disorders, acculturation issues, grief/loss, depression and anxiety disorders.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 12th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
![Photo of Jillian Burley - Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e71ed583-09cc-49f5-9e47-15e3baa4bc71/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Naya Schere - Van Dusen Nutrition, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac4576cc-0799-4414-bf95-6c7a63cad26f/2/320x400.png)
Naya Schere - Van Dusen Nutrition
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02494
I specialize in providing therapy to people with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I'm Naya, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to guiding individuals through healing from disordered eating, weight, and body concerns. I believe in the potential for gaining insight, solving problems, and achieving personal growth. With diverse experience, I understand the challenge of finding a supportive, collaborative provider who uses a person-centered approach. Together, we'll explore beyond your eating disorder or co-occurring diagnosis to embrace your best self in a safe and affirming environment.
I specialize in providing therapy to people with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I'm Naya, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to guiding individuals through healing from disordered eating, weight, and body concerns. I believe in the potential for gaining insight, solving problems, and achieving personal growth. With diverse experience, I understand the challenge of finding a supportive, collaborative provider who uses a person-centered approach. Together, we'll explore beyond your eating disorder or co-occurring diagnosis to embrace your best self in a safe and affirming environment.
![Photo of Laura Aversa, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0c39d5d-5970-4bfa-b0fc-d770830112c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders with extensive experience treating eating disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Therapy can be many things. It can start as support and assistance during a crisis and move towards exploration of the underlying factors that maintain unhappiness, anxiety, or maladaptive coping behaviors.
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders with extensive experience treating eating disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Therapy can be many things. It can start as support and assistance during a crisis and move towards exploration of the underlying factors that maintain unhappiness, anxiety, or maladaptive coping behaviors.
![Photo of Jacqueline Rasmussen, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25416001-ed20-47e0-9021-ea2e504ee67a/5/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026 (Online Only)
My name is Jacqueline and I am a LMHC with over 10 years of experience. My work includes a focus on a broad spectrum of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Family Dynamics, Body Image Issues, Eating Disorders, and Substance Abuse Disorders. I recognize the profound impact mental health struggles can have on different aspects of life. My holistic approach to treatment is based on empathy, understanding, and the use of evidence-based practices. I often combine CBT, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques to address both the root causes and symptoms of mental health issues.
My name is Jacqueline and I am a LMHC with over 10 years of experience. My work includes a focus on a broad spectrum of mental health concerns including, but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Family Dynamics, Body Image Issues, Eating Disorders, and Substance Abuse Disorders. I recognize the profound impact mental health struggles can have on different aspects of life. My holistic approach to treatment is based on empathy, understanding, and the use of evidence-based practices. I often combine CBT, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques to address both the root causes and symptoms of mental health issues.
![Photo of Irena Cafasso, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1968c41-e557-492a-b60b-ef87f288a420/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
See more therapy options for Dover
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Dover
- Dedham
- Framingham
- Natick
- Needham
- Newton
- Newton Centre
- Norwood
- Walpole
- Wellesley
- Wellesley Hills
- West Roxbury
- Westwood
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.