Eating Disorders Therapists in Georgetown, MA

Photo of Kendra DelGaudio Murphy - Kendra Murphy- Newburyport Office of Wellness, LLC, LMHC
Kendra Murphy- Newburyport Office of Wellness, LLC
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, MA 01833
As a Licensed Therapist, I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals, helping them to recognize their full potential. I believe therapy to be an investment in your own happiness and aim to create an environment that will make you enthusiastic about therapy and the commitment to developing a more authentic relationship with yourself and others. Therapy can be a powerful and exciting experience. I offer therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Together, we will identify problematic beliefs/behaviors/feelings and work towards surrendering destructive habits/thoughts/feelings that no longer serve you, causing emotional difficulties and/or personal problems.
As a Licensed Therapist, I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals, helping them to recognize their full potential. I believe therapy to be an investment in your own happiness and aim to create an environment that will make you enthusiastic about therapy and the commitment to developing a more authentic relationship with yourself and others. Therapy can be a powerful and exciting experience. I offer therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Together, we will identify problematic beliefs/behaviors/feelings and work towards surrendering destructive habits/thoughts/feelings that no longer serve you, causing emotional difficulties and/or personal problems.
(617) 858-4194 View (617) 858-4194
Photo of Robyn Deyo, MEd, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Robyn Deyo
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, MA 01833  (Online Only)
I welcome your call to see if working with me is your next best step in feeling better. I work with adults and couples who are struggling with communication, parenting, depression, anxiety, grief, and post traumatic experiences. With 26 years of experience, my clients would tell you that I provide an intuitive compassionate connection, a respectful, curious approach, and a touch of humor to facilitate your increased self awareness and to teach you practical steps that result in the changes you are looking for today.
I welcome your call to see if working with me is your next best step in feeling better. I work with adults and couples who are struggling with communication, parenting, depression, anxiety, grief, and post traumatic experiences. With 26 years of experience, my clients would tell you that I provide an intuitive compassionate connection, a respectful, curious approach, and a touch of humor to facilitate your increased self awareness and to teach you practical steps that result in the changes you are looking for today.
(505) 405-8185 View (505) 405-8185
Photo of Sean Lowther - Nova Initia Counseling, LMHC, LISCW, Counselor
Nova Initia Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, LISCW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Georgetown, MA 01833
Nova Initia is a collaborative group of therapists with a common goal, to help our clients improve their lives and to grow as individuals. This allows for a unified approach to treatment that focuses on the needs of the client, whether that client is an individual, couple or family. Additionally, our clinicians work closely together to offer our clients a robust supportive environment that understands that while we are all responsible for our own lives and choices, we are also affected by the choices of others.
Nova Initia is a collaborative group of therapists with a common goal, to help our clients improve their lives and to grow as individuals. This allows for a unified approach to treatment that focuses on the needs of the client, whether that client is an individual, couple or family. Additionally, our clinicians work closely together to offer our clients a robust supportive environment that understands that while we are all responsible for our own lives and choices, we are also affected by the choices of others.
(978) 241-4908 View (978) 241-4908
Photo of Nike Konstantina Gregory, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nike Konstantina Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, MA 01833
Not accepting new clients
Are you motivated & willing to consider personal challenges from a fresh perspective? Do you want to learn ways to practically apply what you learn in therapy into daily life? Are you ready to explore & tackle obstacles that prevent you from actualizing your goals? Would you like to try something new on your journey towards health and healing? Do you desire to learn more about yourself, identify personal strengths & abilities, and commit to making positive changes, one step at a time? If you believe that change is possible, and are eager to partner with a compassionate, competent professional in the process, please reach out!
Are you motivated & willing to consider personal challenges from a fresh perspective? Do you want to learn ways to practically apply what you learn in therapy into daily life? Are you ready to explore & tackle obstacles that prevent you from actualizing your goals? Would you like to try something new on your journey towards health and healing? Do you desire to learn more about yourself, identify personal strengths & abilities, and commit to making positive changes, one step at a time? If you believe that change is possible, and are eager to partner with a compassionate, competent professional in the process, please reach out!
(351) 200-3294 View (351) 200-3294
Photo of Sean C Lowther, MA, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Sean C Lowther
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Georgetown, MA 01833
Not accepting new clients
***Currently NOT accepting clients***** I endeavor to remain as inclusive in my approach to treatment as possible. I firmly believe that the best treatment is derived from a partnership between the client and the clinician, which necessitates the willingness to use the technique, theory or practice that feels comfortable to the individual. I have experience working with clients of all ages, genders, and issues, including families, couples and individuals, as I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to improve their own happiness.
***Currently NOT accepting clients***** I endeavor to remain as inclusive in my approach to treatment as possible. I firmly believe that the best treatment is derived from a partnership between the client and the clinician, which necessitates the willingness to use the technique, theory or practice that feels comfortable to the individual. I have experience working with clients of all ages, genders, and issues, including families, couples and individuals, as I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to improve their own happiness.
(978) 528-3847 View (978) 528-3847

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alyssa Demoulas, LMHC, Counselor
Alyssa Demoulas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 15 years of experience working in the field of eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and other related issues. I provide care to individuals struggling with unhealthy relationships with food, exercise, body image, as well as co-occurring diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression. I have experience facilitating family, couples, and group therapies. I have also taken part in several speaking engagements and trainings at high schools, colleges, and primary care settings to educate those about feeding and eating disorders. I am also an advocate for anti-diet and intuitive eating approaches.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 15 years of experience working in the field of eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and other related issues. I provide care to individuals struggling with unhealthy relationships with food, exercise, body image, as well as co-occurring diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression. I have experience facilitating family, couples, and group therapies. I have also taken part in several speaking engagements and trainings at high schools, colleges, and primary care settings to educate those about feeding and eating disorders. I am also an advocate for anti-diet and intuitive eating approaches.
(508) 960-7154 View (508) 960-7154
Photo of Bridget Merrill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Merrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
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.
(508) 501-5086 View (508) 501-5086
Photo of Cassandra Donner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Donner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
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.
(508) 290-4275 View (508) 290-4275
Photo of Matt Lipson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Lipson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913
The individuals that I treat most often have varying levels of need and are at different stages in their own therapeutic process. For this reason, I am very person-centered and tailor treatment to each individual's particular needs. I work with all ages but most often with children, adolescents, and young adults. The majority of individuals that I see struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorders, self-injury, school problems, and ADHD. However, I also have advanced training in working with individuals with chronic mental health issues and personality disorders.
The individuals that I treat most often have varying levels of need and are at different stages in their own therapeutic process. For this reason, I am very person-centered and tailor treatment to each individual's particular needs. I work with all ages but most often with children, adolescents, and young adults. The majority of individuals that I see struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorders, self-injury, school problems, and ADHD. However, I also have advanced training in working with individuals with chronic mental health issues and personality disorders.
(978) 979-1649 View (978) 979-1649
Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
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.
(508) 290-8132 View (508) 290-8132
Photo of Holly Harmon, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Harmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
I have spent the majority of my career in the field of eating disorders and anxiety.
I enjoy working with clients who are interested in working on their struggles with body image, eating disorders, disordered eating and anxiety. I am passionate about the Healthy at Every Size movement and bringing that into the forefront of treatment goals. I also enjoy working with couples who are having difficulties within their relationship. I believe in meeting each client where they are and helping them figure out what is needed in their lives to create a better day to day life.
I have spent the majority of my career in the field of eating disorders and anxiety.
I enjoy working with clients who are interested in working on their struggles with body image, eating disorders, disordered eating and anxiety. I am passionate about the Healthy at Every Size movement and bringing that into the forefront of treatment goals. I also enjoy working with couples who are having difficulties within their relationship. I believe in meeting each client where they are and helping them figure out what is needed in their lives to create a better day to day life.
(351) 777-1217 View (351) 777-1217
Photo of Elizabeth Milligan, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Milligan
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913
My specialties include addiction, family of addiction, mood disorders, eating disorders, illness-related depression/anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship or self esteem issues.
I believe that in order to achieve a sense of overall well-being and balance, both our mind and body must be healthy and supported. Depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, illness and eating disorders are all things that can be a part of the human condition. Any of these disorders can become uncomfortable and overwhelming, making it difficult or impossible to achieve balance in the mind and body. I am here to help you.
My specialties include addiction, family of addiction, mood disorders, eating disorders, illness-related depression/anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship or self esteem issues.
I believe that in order to achieve a sense of overall well-being and balance, both our mind and body must be healthy and supported. Depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, illness and eating disorders are all things that can be a part of the human condition. Any of these disorders can become uncomfortable and overwhelming, making it difficult or impossible to achieve balance in the mind and body. I am here to help you.
(978) 290-5056 View (978) 290-5056
Photo of Morgan Herrick, LMHC, Counselor
Morgan Herrick
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topsfield, MA 01983
I offer outpatient therapy for individuals struggling with poor body image, eating disorders and/or food-related struggles, and low self-esteem.
Do you feel guilt or shame surrounding your eating habits or your body? Is it impossible for you to look in the mirror and feel good about what you see? Do you find that you use food to cope with difficult emotions? Is your self-worth based upon your physical appearance and/or external validation? Whether you simply want to free yourself from “diet culture” and learn how to feel good in your skin, or if you are struggling with an eating disorder that is ripping your life away from you, I am here to help you.
I offer outpatient therapy for individuals struggling with poor body image, eating disorders and/or food-related struggles, and low self-esteem.
Do you feel guilt or shame surrounding your eating habits or your body? Is it impossible for you to look in the mirror and feel good about what you see? Do you find that you use food to cope with difficult emotions? Is your self-worth based upon your physical appearance and/or external validation? Whether you simply want to free yourself from “diet culture” and learn how to feel good in your skin, or if you are struggling with an eating disorder that is ripping your life away from you, I am here to help you.
(978) 252-4732 View (978) 252-4732
Photo of Grace Griffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am passionate about helping teens, young adults, and adults learn how to lead a more fulfilling life. I enjoy working with burnt-out perfectionists, those struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of self-esteem/self-worth, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationships, and life transitions. I also have specialized experience in supporting people in recovery from eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with college-age and post grads who are exploring their transition into adulthood as well as individuals facing grief/loss of a pet. My priority in therapy is to create an honest relationship through humor and compassion.
Hi! I am passionate about helping teens, young adults, and adults learn how to lead a more fulfilling life. I enjoy working with burnt-out perfectionists, those struggling with anxiety, depression, lack of self-esteem/self-worth, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationships, and life transitions. I also have specialized experience in supporting people in recovery from eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with college-age and post grads who are exploring their transition into adulthood as well as individuals facing grief/loss of a pet. My priority in therapy is to create an honest relationship through humor and compassion.
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Photo of Lauren Richards, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren Richards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Hamilton, MA 01982
My expertise is in trauma and eating disorders, anxiety disorders including Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
I am a clinical psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and an instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. In my private practice, I offer expertise in posttraumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, mood disorders, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I employ a collaborative approach with each client, and provide empirically supported treatments to help them reach their goals.
My expertise is in trauma and eating disorders, anxiety disorders including Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
I am a clinical psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and an instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. In my private practice, I offer expertise in posttraumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, mood disorders, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I employ a collaborative approach with each client, and provide empirically supported treatments to help them reach their goals.
(978) 403-4028 View (978) 403-4028
Photo of Vanessa Wells, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Vanessa Wells
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
My prior work with school adjustment counseling, university counseling & Eating Disorders provide unique insight to support clients struggling with school anxiety, perfectionism, neurodivergence & eating/body image related issues.
It’s essential clients are seen for who they are and given tools that resonate with them to do the work that therapy requires. This means merging our body and mind, our values and actions, and our personhood with our community. I support clients with these meaningful tools and empower them through life's transitions by increasing insight and skill building. One such tool is using Tarot, which can provide perspective or be used as a powerful projective tool regardless of spiritual affiliation. My ultimate goal is to integrate Eastern and Western ideologies into my practice to provide effective personalized mental health care for all.
My prior work with school adjustment counseling, university counseling & Eating Disorders provide unique insight to support clients struggling with school anxiety, perfectionism, neurodivergence & eating/body image related issues.
It’s essential clients are seen for who they are and given tools that resonate with them to do the work that therapy requires. This means merging our body and mind, our values and actions, and our personhood with our community. I support clients with these meaningful tools and empower them through life's transitions by increasing insight and skill building. One such tool is using Tarot, which can provide perspective or be used as a powerful projective tool regardless of spiritual affiliation. My ultimate goal is to integrate Eastern and Western ideologies into my practice to provide effective personalized mental health care for all.
(978) 296-3998 View (978) 296-3998
Photo of Stephanie Hutter, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Hutter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
I’m particularly passionate about working with adolescents and young adults struggling with self-injurious behaviors, suicidality, eating disorders, and trauma.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - Whether you’re looking to address a recent life transition or hoping to address more chronic mental health concerns, I understand that beginning with a new therapist is a vulnerable, and often challenging, step to take. While I have an eclectic approach to therapy in order to meet the unique needs of each individual client, my approach is always warm, collaborative, laid-back, and client driven. My background includes experience working in a variety of settings, including outpatient, PHP, CBAT, residential programs, and therapeutic schools.
I’m particularly passionate about working with adolescents and young adults struggling with self-injurious behaviors, suicidality, eating disorders, and trauma.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - Whether you’re looking to address a recent life transition or hoping to address more chronic mental health concerns, I understand that beginning with a new therapist is a vulnerable, and often challenging, step to take. While I have an eclectic approach to therapy in order to meet the unique needs of each individual client, my approach is always warm, collaborative, laid-back, and client driven. My background includes experience working in a variety of settings, including outpatient, PHP, CBAT, residential programs, and therapeutic schools.
(978) 591-6084 View (978) 591-6084
Photo of Megan Drake Stillman, LMHC, Counselor
Megan Drake Stillman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913  (Online Only)
I have worked in outpatient, IOP, and PHP levels of care for eating disorders, as well as school based & emergency.
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
I have worked in outpatient, IOP, and PHP levels of care for eating disorders, as well as school based & emergency.
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
(978) 678-9135 View (978) 678-9135
Photo of Hannah M Watkins, PsyD, Psychologist
Hannah M Watkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950  (Online Only)
My specific areas of interest include: eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety and depression, role/life transitions and identity concerns, and developmental trauma.
As inherently social beings, I believe that we learn to love and accept ourselves, gain self awareness, and form a strong self-concept through our connections with others. As such, I consider the psychotherapeutic relationship and process to be of vital importance in working through any barrier that holds us back from enjoying a meaningful and fulfilling life. True healing happens in connection with others through trust, vulnerability and being seen and accepted for who we are at our core. It’s not about changing who we are but about learning how to use our inherent strengths to care for ourselves and reach our full potential.
My specific areas of interest include: eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety and depression, role/life transitions and identity concerns, and developmental trauma.
As inherently social beings, I believe that we learn to love and accept ourselves, gain self awareness, and form a strong self-concept through our connections with others. As such, I consider the psychotherapeutic relationship and process to be of vital importance in working through any barrier that holds us back from enjoying a meaningful and fulfilling life. True healing happens in connection with others through trust, vulnerability and being seen and accepted for who we are at our core. It’s not about changing who we are but about learning how to use our inherent strengths to care for ourselves and reach our full potential.
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Photo of Elizabeth Fipphen, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Fipphen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I enjoy working with those who experience school stress, perfectionism, social anxiety, life transitions, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents in recovery from their ED and supporting parents with FBT, and I also get great enjoyment working with college-age and post grads on transitioning into adulthood. My ideal client wishes to lead a more fulfilling life and to feel confident in utilizing effective coping skills on their own.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I enjoy working with those who experience school stress, perfectionism, social anxiety, life transitions, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I particularly enjoy working with adolescents in recovery from their ED and supporting parents with FBT, and I also get great enjoyment working with college-age and post grads on transitioning into adulthood. My ideal client wishes to lead a more fulfilling life and to feel confident in utilizing effective coping skills on their own.
(508) 687-6320 View (508) 687-6320
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.