Eating Disorders Therapists in Holden, MA

Photo of Renee Nelson, PsyD, Psychologist
Renee Nelson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Holden, MA 01520
In addition to client services, I offer clinical supervision and consultations for providers working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with focused training in health psychology and a specialty in eating disorder treatment. I believe in providing personalized care that is informed by research-based treatments, and in providing concrete skills while increasing insight. Those who have worked with or alongside me know that humor and play are central to who I am as a person, and is respectfully present in the work that I do with my clients.
In addition to client services, I offer clinical supervision and consultations for providers working with adolescents and adults with eating disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with focused training in health psychology and a specialty in eating disorder treatment. I believe in providing personalized care that is informed by research-based treatments, and in providing concrete skills while increasing insight. Those who have worked with or alongside me know that humor and play are central to who I am as a person, and is respectfully present in the work that I do with my clients.
(978) 717-2851 View (978) 717-2851
Photo of Katherine LeBlanc, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine LeBlanc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Holden, MA 01520  (Online Only)
Hello, welcome to my page. I am a graduate from Westfield State University with a Master's in Social Work. I currently hold a license in individual clinical social work (LICSW). I am passionate about integrated behavioral health which encourages the integration of mental health and whole-body health. I love the work I do and am inspired by the lives of everyday people.
Hello, welcome to my page. I am a graduate from Westfield State University with a Master's in Social Work. I currently hold a license in individual clinical social work (LICSW). I am passionate about integrated behavioral health which encourages the integration of mental health and whole-body health. I love the work I do and am inspired by the lives of everyday people.
(508) 501-3814 View (508) 501-3814
Photo of Betsy Harris - Betsy Harris, LICSW, LICSW, DBT-LBC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Harris, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holden, MA 01520
Are you looking for help managing emotions? Are you stuck in patterns you can't get out of? Looking to understand how your past has influenced your present? As a DBT and trauma therapist, I help clients make changes to improve their lives. Clients I work with may have difficulty coping with emotions, engage in self-harm or substance abuse, disordered eating or have experienced anxiety, trauma or PTSD. Using empathy and validation, along with direct feedback and humor, I enjoy helping clients discover how to build a life worth living.
Are you looking for help managing emotions? Are you stuck in patterns you can't get out of? Looking to understand how your past has influenced your present? As a DBT and trauma therapist, I help clients make changes to improve their lives. Clients I work with may have difficulty coping with emotions, engage in self-harm or substance abuse, disordered eating or have experienced anxiety, trauma or PTSD. Using empathy and validation, along with direct feedback and humor, I enjoy helping clients discover how to build a life worth living.
(617) 751-6343 View (617) 751-6343
Photo of Rowen Beaudoin-Colegrove, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rowen Beaudoin-Colegrove
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holden, MA 01520  (Online Only)
I am a queer and transmasculine identified family therapist licensed in MA. I am most passionate about family systems work, having trained at the University of Massachusetts in marriage and family therapy. I support people best when approaching treatment through the lens of the systems they are a part of. I believe that people do not exist in a bubble. The interactions that we have with others influence the ways we move through the world. I work with people on understanding these interactions in unique ways to better serve their futures.
I am a queer and transmasculine identified family therapist licensed in MA. I am most passionate about family systems work, having trained at the University of Massachusetts in marriage and family therapy. I support people best when approaching treatment through the lens of the systems they are a part of. I believe that people do not exist in a bubble. The interactions that we have with others influence the ways we move through the world. I work with people on understanding these interactions in unique ways to better serve their futures.
(508) 501-8979 View (508) 501-8979

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laurie Ghiz, MA, LMHC, MAC, Lic, Ac, Counselor
Laurie Ghiz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MAC, Lic, Ac
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583
I have 32 years of experience working in the mental health field. My areas of training and expertise in therapy include eating disorders, various anxiety and affective disorders, and people in recovery from alcohol and drugs. I have worked with many people with a variety of problems and diagnoses not listed. I work with adults only in individual therapy. Before contacting me please be sure to check if your insurance plan is one I am currently credentialed with: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts and Aetna. Harvard Pilgrim's behavioral health services are received through Optum and I am not yet credentialed with them.
I have 32 years of experience working in the mental health field. My areas of training and expertise in therapy include eating disorders, various anxiety and affective disorders, and people in recovery from alcohol and drugs. I have worked with many people with a variety of problems and diagnoses not listed. I work with adults only in individual therapy. Before contacting me please be sure to check if your insurance plan is one I am currently credentialed with: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts and Aetna. Harvard Pilgrim's behavioral health services are received through Optum and I am not yet credentialed with them.
(508) 501-6668 View (508) 501-6668
Photo of Amor Colombres, LMHC, Counselor
Amor Colombres
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01603  (Online Only)
Amor is a Latinx Clinician at ACR Counseling LLC. She earned a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from William James College and has been in the field for over 5 years. She has worked with a vast population of clients at different levels of care over the years, but primarily works with Teens and Adults within the context of individual therapy. Her clinical interests include anxiety/mood disorders, eating disorders, identity/gender development, relationship challenges, and trauma processing.
Amor is a Latinx Clinician at ACR Counseling LLC. She earned a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from William James College and has been in the field for over 5 years. She has worked with a vast population of clients at different levels of care over the years, but primarily works with Teens and Adults within the context of individual therapy. Her clinical interests include anxiety/mood disorders, eating disorders, identity/gender development, relationship challenges, and trauma processing.
(508) 403-7967 View (508) 403-7967
Photo of Iuri Conceicao, PsyD, MSc, MA, Psychologist
Iuri Conceicao
Psychologist, PsyD, MSc, MA
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01610  (Online Only)
I am a multicultural and bilingual clinical psychologist and psychotherapist in Massachusetts. I have 20 years of clinical experience in different countries, and bring an unique cultural and social perspective to my clinical work. I offer individual psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, loneliness and isolation, life transitions and crisis, immigration, PTSD and trauma, impulsivity, relational and work problems, self-esteem, and identity issues. In my post doc in Cambridge I specialized in eating disorders ( anorexia, bulimia, others).
I am a multicultural and bilingual clinical psychologist and psychotherapist in Massachusetts. I have 20 years of clinical experience in different countries, and bring an unique cultural and social perspective to my clinical work. I offer individual psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, loneliness and isolation, life transitions and crisis, immigration, PTSD and trauma, impulsivity, relational and work problems, self-esteem, and identity issues. In my post doc in Cambridge I specialized in eating disorders ( anorexia, bulimia, others).
(781) 544-2423 View (781) 544-2423
Photo of Zaza S Sakhat - Chrysalis Therapy and Wellness, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrysalis Therapy and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01613
Despite most young girls displaying strong, inherent self-esteem, a natural decline occurs as they mature into adolescent years causing self-harming behaviors, eating disorders, and other detrimental behaviors.
Like a butterfly emerging into life, a child requires safety, care, and attunement. I believe in supporting child and adolescent emotional growth and developmental processes throughout the life cycle especially when hardships are faced, such as, trauma, bullying, anxiety, and other concerns. My approach is collaborative as I work closely with the parents, schools, and other collaterals involved to enhance over all well-being in every capacity of the child's environment. Always stemming from a strength-based perspective, using Play and Expressive Art Therapies, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Somatic Experiencing.
Despite most young girls displaying strong, inherent self-esteem, a natural decline occurs as they mature into adolescent years causing self-harming behaviors, eating disorders, and other detrimental behaviors.
Like a butterfly emerging into life, a child requires safety, care, and attunement. I believe in supporting child and adolescent emotional growth and developmental processes throughout the life cycle especially when hardships are faced, such as, trauma, bullying, anxiety, and other concerns. My approach is collaborative as I work closely with the parents, schools, and other collaterals involved to enhance over all well-being in every capacity of the child's environment. Always stemming from a strength-based perspective, using Play and Expressive Art Therapies, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Somatic Experiencing.
(508) 659-5057 View (508) 659-5057
Photo of Rebekah Doweyko - Bardwell Behavioral, LMHC, CEDS-S, Counselor
Bardwell Behavioral
Counselor, LMHC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01608  (Online Only)
Offering over 25 years of experience in treating disordered eating/ eating disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, family conflict and relationship issues, we value and honor diversity, autonomy and inclusivity.
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
Offering over 25 years of experience in treating disordered eating/ eating disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, family conflict and relationship issues, we value and honor diversity, autonomy and inclusivity.
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
(508) 422-4934 View (508) 422-4934
Photo of Celia Cristina Campos Beuter - CamposBeuter Counseling, MA, CAGS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
CamposBeuter Counseling
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01602  (Online Only)
My name is Celia, I am a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish-American) Counselor and Consultant. I have over 25 years of local, national and international clinical experience. I work with clients who want ongoing psychotherapy and those who want a one time consult. I specialize in children, teens and young adults with eating disorders, adoptee trauma, expats adjustment, grief therapy, parenting and school-counseling treatment interventions.I have extensive experience working with school age children in various school settings. You can find me on Grow Therapy. Hablo Español.
My name is Celia, I am a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish-American) Counselor and Consultant. I have over 25 years of local, national and international clinical experience. I work with clients who want ongoing psychotherapy and those who want a one time consult. I specialize in children, teens and young adults with eating disorders, adoptee trauma, expats adjustment, grief therapy, parenting and school-counseling treatment interventions.I have extensive experience working with school age children in various school settings. You can find me on Grow Therapy. Hablo Español.
(508) 719-7806 View (508) 719-7806
Travis J Farrar
MA, CHT, RM
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
For autism, eating disorders and attachment or sleep disorders I take a personal approach and will review which options may be best for that client and how we can approach each step one at time.
I have worked as a psychotherapist and behavioral technician since 2018. As of 2023 I also conduct research in to ASD and associated treatments. My main specialties include Autism, eating disorders, anti-social behavior, borderline personality, PTSD and similar disorders. For moderate and severe ASD I also offer intensive therapy options. My main treatments include CBT, ACT, DBT, and Talk Therapy. I work with individuals of all ages including individuals with moderate to severe ASD and with males and females. At the moment I offer both telehealth and in person services.
For autism, eating disorders and attachment or sleep disorders I take a personal approach and will review which options may be best for that client and how we can approach each step one at time.
I have worked as a psychotherapist and behavioral technician since 2018. As of 2023 I also conduct research in to ASD and associated treatments. My main specialties include Autism, eating disorders, anti-social behavior, borderline personality, PTSD and similar disorders. For moderate and severe ASD I also offer intensive therapy options. My main treatments include CBT, ACT, DBT, and Talk Therapy. I work with individuals of all ages including individuals with moderate to severe ASD and with males and females. At the moment I offer both telehealth and in person services.
(508) 938-8289 View (508) 938-8289
Photo of Ariana LeBlanc-Eydenberg, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Ariana LeBlanc-Eydenberg
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician who serves adolescents, young adults, and adults in the following areas: Eating Disorders, Self Esteem, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Stress Management, and Adjustment Disorders. I also specialize in working with athletes to help increase their sports performance. I work collaboratively with each client to help them gain insight into the presenting problem, and then utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to help each client reach their treatment goals. In treatment, I treat the whole person to help them live a well-adjusted life in all stages of development.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician who serves adolescents, young adults, and adults in the following areas: Eating Disorders, Self Esteem, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Stress Management, and Adjustment Disorders. I also specialize in working with athletes to help increase their sports performance. I work collaboratively with each client to help them gain insight into the presenting problem, and then utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to help each client reach their treatment goals. In treatment, I treat the whole person to help them live a well-adjusted life in all stages of development.
(978) 608-8159 View (978) 608-8159
Photo of Katrina Broadbent, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Broadbent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01602
Welcome! Morning/early-afternoon appointments available at this time; inquire if interested. It takes awareness and courage to make the steps necessary in seeking support, and I am passionate about creating a non-judgmental space that can provide safety and comfort. I have experience working with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive expertise and a passion for working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with eating disorders, as well as providing support to the parents of those struggling. Other specialties include anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem challenges and body image concerns.
Welcome! Morning/early-afternoon appointments available at this time; inquire if interested. It takes awareness and courage to make the steps necessary in seeking support, and I am passionate about creating a non-judgmental space that can provide safety and comfort. I have experience working with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive expertise and a passion for working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with eating disorders, as well as providing support to the parents of those struggling. Other specialties include anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem challenges and body image concerns.
(508) 290-7119 View (508) 290-7119
Photo of Elizabeth Hammond, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01601  (Online Only)
Sessions with me are about the whole person because eating disorders are always one part of a bigger picture.
Your relationship with food and your body has taken over your life, and you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and alone. You may be fed up with the shame, tired of having no control, or sick of feeling isolated. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to leave the eating disorder behind. You want to feel confident and in control of your emotions. Most of all, you’re ready to reconnect with yourself.
Sessions with me are about the whole person because eating disorders are always one part of a bigger picture.
Your relationship with food and your body has taken over your life, and you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and alone. You may be fed up with the shame, tired of having no control, or sick of feeling isolated. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to leave the eating disorder behind. You want to feel confident and in control of your emotions. Most of all, you’re ready to reconnect with yourself.
(857) 214-2413 View (857) 214-2413
Photo of Lauren Ineson, MA CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Ineson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA CMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01604
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma/PTSD. I have experience working with adolescents and adults, with young adults being my primary focus. I believe that every person deserves a space where they can be heard, understood, and appreciated and I hope to offer an environment that will allow client's to grow and build confidence. I have a background in sports and coaching which has taught me effective communication styles and the ability to adapt to every situation.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma/PTSD. I have experience working with adolescents and adults, with young adults being my primary focus. I believe that every person deserves a space where they can be heard, understood, and appreciated and I hope to offer an environment that will allow client's to grow and build confidence. I have a background in sports and coaching which has taught me effective communication styles and the ability to adapt to every situation.
(508) 680-0048 View (508) 680-0048
Photo of Larissa Beecher - Strawberry Therapy - Neurodivergence and EDs, MS, MHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Strawberry Therapy - Neurodivergence and EDs
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01601  (Online Only)
I am accepting new individual, couples, and family clients. My name is Larissa, and I am a specialist in treating eating disorders and neurodivergence.  I have successfully worked with many clients to improve binging, restrictive, and purging behaviors, ARFID, sensory issues, a limited food variety (“picky eaters”), concentration and focus skills, and coping with chronic illness.  I give positive, trauma-informed care without sugar coating of the challenges of mental health recovery. I provide context behind the development and maintenance of symptoms while holding my clients accountable for what is within their own control.
I am accepting new individual, couples, and family clients. My name is Larissa, and I am a specialist in treating eating disorders and neurodivergence.  I have successfully worked with many clients to improve binging, restrictive, and purging behaviors, ARFID, sensory issues, a limited food variety (“picky eaters”), concentration and focus skills, and coping with chronic illness.  I give positive, trauma-informed care without sugar coating of the challenges of mental health recovery. I provide context behind the development and maintenance of symptoms while holding my clients accountable for what is within their own control.
(413) 287-1013 View (413) 287-1013
Photo of Catherine Pearce Campbell, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Pearce Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01602
I have specialty working with adolescents in the areas of depression, behavior problems, eating disorders, family problems, anxiety, social and school related isues.
I work together with clients to help them achieve greater fulfillment and satisfaction in their lives. Together we identify strengths and develop the skills needed to navigate and manage life challenges. I work well with all ages and have many years of experience working in the mental health system. I enjoy working with my clients and am very flexible in my approach.
I have specialty working with adolescents in the areas of depression, behavior problems, eating disorders, family problems, anxiety, social and school related isues.
I work together with clients to help them achieve greater fulfillment and satisfaction in their lives. Together we identify strengths and develop the skills needed to navigate and manage life challenges. I work well with all ages and have many years of experience working in the mental health system. I enjoy working with my clients and am very flexible in my approach.
(508) 213-8277 View (508) 213-8277
Photo of Stephanie Clare Ernst, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Clare Ernst
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01609  (Online Only)
With experiences in anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, and trauma- I try to build a positive rapport and comfort to allow clients to work through uncomfortable and deeper issues.
Life can be painful. Life can be beautiful. Life can be a million in-between things. I like to meet clients where they are at to collaborate on ways to effectively manage and handle all that life brings.
With experiences in anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, and trauma- I try to build a positive rapport and comfort to allow clients to work through uncomfortable and deeper issues.
Life can be painful. Life can be beautiful. Life can be a million in-between things. I like to meet clients where they are at to collaborate on ways to effectively manage and handle all that life brings.
(978) 800-8728 View (978) 800-8728
Photo of Rachel Boyer, LMHC, CMDP, Counselor
Rachel Boyer
Counselor, LMHC, CMDP
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01601  (Online Only)
I am certified in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, and have worked with many different issues such as anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use.
I will work collaboratively with you to help you identify what's getting in the way of feeling better, and to develop goals that will help. We we will explore not only your thoughts and feelings, but other aspects of your life that can contribute to your overall well-being. We will try different techniques to get results.
I am certified in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, and have worked with many different issues such as anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use.
I will work collaboratively with you to help you identify what's getting in the way of feeling better, and to develop goals that will help. We we will explore not only your thoughts and feelings, but other aspects of your life that can contribute to your overall well-being. We will try different techniques to get results.
(351) 217-4200 View (351) 217-4200
Photo of Paul Harris Sandman, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Paul Harris Sandman
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
My specialties include: the treatment of emotional disorders (anger, depression, stress, and anxiety), alcohol, cocaine, opiate addiction, amphetamines, marijuana, nicotine addiction, weight loss, trauma, recovering from sexual and physical abuse, raising self-esteem, any child and parenting issues, relationship issues, hypnosis, divorce recovery, sleep issues, and eating disorders.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My specialties include: the treatment of emotional disorders (anger, depression, stress, and anxiety), alcohol, cocaine, opiate addiction, amphetamines, marijuana, nicotine addiction, weight loss, trauma, recovering from sexual and physical abuse, raising self-esteem, any child and parenting issues, relationship issues, hypnosis, divorce recovery, sleep issues, and eating disorders.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
(774) 768-0617 View (774) 768-0617
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.