Eating Disorders Therapists in Ipswich, MA

Photo of Kate Graham, LMHC, SEP, Counselor
Kate Graham
Counselor, LMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ipswich, MA 01938
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are curious and motivated for change. I focus on building relationships with people so they may deepen their awareness and understanding of themselves and their experiences. My work connects clients with their strength, intelligence and embodied experience to expand their inner resources and feel empowered to make lasting change. I specializes in working with complex trauma, sexual trauma, attachment issues, relationship challenges, sexual health, gender and identity issues.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are curious and motivated for change. I focus on building relationships with people so they may deepen their awareness and understanding of themselves and their experiences. My work connects clients with their strength, intelligence and embodied experience to expand their inner resources and feel empowered to make lasting change. I specializes in working with complex trauma, sexual trauma, attachment issues, relationship challenges, sexual health, gender and identity issues.
(978) 506-9503 View (978) 506-9503
Photo of Lakshmi Linda Sirois, LMHC, BC-DMT, KRIC, Counselor
Lakshmi Linda Sirois
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT, KRIC
Verified Verified
Ipswich, MA 01938
Are you stressed by life, overwhelming feelings, illness, relationships, and/or lack of connection to others/Self/God? I meet you as you are, with presence, compassion, and hope. I help shine a light of awareness onto patterns you no longer want. I help you befriend your shadow - the parts of yourself you don't yet accept. I join with you in a therapeutic relationship to increase connection and acceptance. I work with my clients to find the light at the end of the tunnel by creating new patterns and a more fulfilling, authentic, empowered and present life.
Are you stressed by life, overwhelming feelings, illness, relationships, and/or lack of connection to others/Self/God? I meet you as you are, with presence, compassion, and hope. I help shine a light of awareness onto patterns you no longer want. I help you befriend your shadow - the parts of yourself you don't yet accept. I join with you in a therapeutic relationship to increase connection and acceptance. I work with my clients to find the light at the end of the tunnel by creating new patterns and a more fulfilling, authentic, empowered and present life.
(978) 903-3071 View (978) 903-3071
Photo of Leah M Alexander, MA, PsyaD
Leah M Alexander
MA, PsyaD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ipswich, MA 01938
Do you feel like other people are having a better experience in life than you are? Do you have the idea that you're experiencing more stress, more dissatisfaction, facing more issues? Would you like to get along with your children or parents better, or develop the relationship with your partner? Are you trying to figure out these things on your own? Many find it difficult to turn to someone else to get help with what we feel we 'should' be able to manage alone. Truth is, we're meant to seek out support from those around us.
Do you feel like other people are having a better experience in life than you are? Do you have the idea that you're experiencing more stress, more dissatisfaction, facing more issues? Would you like to get along with your children or parents better, or develop the relationship with your partner? Are you trying to figure out these things on your own? Many find it difficult to turn to someone else to get help with what we feel we 'should' be able to manage alone. Truth is, we're meant to seek out support from those around us.
(857) 362-0938 View (857) 362-0938
Photo of Mary Ellen DeBiase, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Ellen DeBiase
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ipswich, MA 01938
Not accepting new clients
As a former Instructor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School, I am committed to helping my clients understand what has become challenging and develop new ways to address these difficulties. My approach is collaborative, warm, strength based and adapted to each individual. I offer psychotherapy emphasizing modern cognitive behavioral and mindfulness strategies, and treat adolescents and adults. People seek help from me for a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, difficulties in relationships, women’s health issues such as infertility, adjustment to losses and life transitions.
As a former Instructor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School, I am committed to helping my clients understand what has become challenging and develop new ways to address these difficulties. My approach is collaborative, warm, strength based and adapted to each individual. I offer psychotherapy emphasizing modern cognitive behavioral and mindfulness strategies, and treat adolescents and adults. People seek help from me for a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, difficulties in relationships, women’s health issues such as infertility, adjustment to losses and life transitions.
(978) 356-0027 View (978) 356-0027
Photo of Lance Hartmut Linke, PhD, Psychologist
Lance Hartmut Linke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ipswich, MA 01938
Not accepting new clients
I provide child, adolescent and adult clinical services to individuals and families. I am trained as a clinical, developmental and educational psychologist with two doctoral-level degrees in clinical and educational psychology. I have worked nationally and internationally with departments and ministries of health and education to offer services focused on emotional development across cultures. I have held faculty positions at Hawaii Pacific University, Yale University School of Medicine and Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. My publications are in the fields of cultural, educational and clinical psychology.
I provide child, adolescent and adult clinical services to individuals and families. I am trained as a clinical, developmental and educational psychologist with two doctoral-level degrees in clinical and educational psychology. I have worked nationally and internationally with departments and ministries of health and education to offer services focused on emotional development across cultures. I have held faculty positions at Hawaii Pacific University, Yale University School of Medicine and Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. My publications are in the fields of cultural, educational and clinical psychology.
(978) 306-0017 View (978) 306-0017

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristle Deforge Ullman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kristle Deforge Ullman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues, identity/self esteem issues, and relationships.
I have a genuine interest in helping clients feel better about themselves, their relationships and their overall outlook on life. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where curiosity and vulnerability are encouraged. I am strengths-based, and encourage clients to explore their own unique values and qualities in order to build resilience and self-compassion. My practice is LGBTQ+ friendly and affirming.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues, identity/self esteem issues, and relationships.
I have a genuine interest in helping clients feel better about themselves, their relationships and their overall outlook on life. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where curiosity and vulnerability are encouraged. I am strengths-based, and encourage clients to explore their own unique values and qualities in order to build resilience and self-compassion. My practice is LGBTQ+ friendly and affirming.
(978) 288-1577 View (978) 288-1577
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Traver, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Stephanie Traver
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
With experience across diverse age groups, I've supported clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, learning difficulties, substance use, eating disorders, identity development, and relationship concerns.
Welcome! Starting therapy can be overwhelming. Reaching out for help shows significant strength, and taking this step toward healing is a powerful act of courage. I look forward to supporting you along the way.
With experience across diverse age groups, I've supported clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, learning difficulties, substance use, eating disorders, identity development, and relationship concerns.
Welcome! Starting therapy can be overwhelming. Reaching out for help shows significant strength, and taking this step toward healing is a powerful act of courage. I look forward to supporting you along the way.
(978) 574-7895 View (978) 574-7895
Photo of Elizabeth Milligan, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Milligan
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
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 Lauren Richards, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren Richards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Hamilton, MA 01982
Waitlist for new clients
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
Rowley, MA 01969
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 Alex Maranto, LMHC, Counselor
Alex Maranto
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
Upcoming availability in October, office hours M-Th 8a-2p - My practice is dedicated to helping clients feel at peace in their bodies and minds. I approach complex issues from a place of non-judgement and encourage creative solutions. I am passionate about helping clients recover from, or survive with, anxiety and depression, as well as many forms of eating disorders and disordered eating. I also treat associated issues such as perfectionism, body image, and difficulties with self esteem.
Upcoming availability in October, office hours M-Th 8a-2p - My practice is dedicated to helping clients feel at peace in their bodies and minds. I approach complex issues from a place of non-judgement and encourage creative solutions. I am passionate about helping clients recover from, or survive with, anxiety and depression, as well as many forms of eating disorders and disordered eating. I also treat associated issues such as perfectionism, body image, and difficulties with self esteem.
(978) 525-0340 View (978) 525-0340
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 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 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 Rayna Fontana, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rayna Fontana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
While I treat a wide array of needs, I maintain a primary focus on the treatment of eating disorders, women's issues, anxiety, depression and supporting students transitioning to and navigating college.
Taking the steps to pursue mental health wellness, recovery or personal change can be an exciting and hopeful endeavor. Yet, pursuing change can equally feel anxiety provoking or outside of your comfort zone. This is particularly true when change may mean altering or letting go of thoughts and behaviors that have felt protective or familiar. It is expected that you might enter into therapy with a range of feelings and desired outcomes. It is my intention to partner with you at any stage of readiness to better understand your needs and develop a unique plan of treatment specifically tailored to meet those needs.
While I treat a wide array of needs, I maintain a primary focus on the treatment of eating disorders, women's issues, anxiety, depression and supporting students transitioning to and navigating college.
Taking the steps to pursue mental health wellness, recovery or personal change can be an exciting and hopeful endeavor. Yet, pursuing change can equally feel anxiety provoking or outside of your comfort zone. This is particularly true when change may mean altering or letting go of thoughts and behaviors that have felt protective or familiar. It is expected that you might enter into therapy with a range of feelings and desired outcomes. It is my intention to partner with you at any stage of readiness to better understand your needs and develop a unique plan of treatment specifically tailored to meet those needs.
(781) 910-7258 View (781) 910-7258
Photo of Susan Stahl, PhD, Psychologist
Susan Stahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Danvers, MA 01923
I also run two advanced Dialectical Behavior Therapy groups for individuals: one for individuals with BPD, and the other for those with Eating Disorders.
I am a licensed behavioral psychologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, impulsivity, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through a relational approach that is both eclectic and skill based, a key goal of our therapy will be to provide symptom relief and improved quality of life.
I also run two advanced Dialectical Behavior Therapy groups for individuals: one for individuals with BPD, and the other for those with Eating Disorders.
I am a licensed behavioral psychologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, impulsivity, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through a relational approach that is both eclectic and skill based, a key goal of our therapy will be to provide symptom relief and improved quality of life.
(617) 300-0478 View (617) 300-0478
Photo of Matt Lipson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Lipson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
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 Darcy Brandt, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darcy Brandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, MA 01982
My psychotherapy practice is informed by my extensive training and experience on the Klarman Eating Disorders Unit at McLean Hospital and at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.
My patients are typically older adolescents, college students, and adults who are facing a range of difficulties relating to relationships, changes, school, work, or body image. In a psychotherapy treatment, I aim to build a genuine connection with my patients and work collaboratively with them to deepen an understanding of behavior. I am trained to listen closely for underlying dynamics that might be contributing to current symptoms or troubles, and I work tactfully to address this with my patients to help reduce symptoms and experience more fulfillment and freedom in the many dimensions of their lives.
My psychotherapy practice is informed by my extensive training and experience on the Klarman Eating Disorders Unit at McLean Hospital and at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.
My patients are typically older adolescents, college students, and adults who are facing a range of difficulties relating to relationships, changes, school, work, or body image. In a psychotherapy treatment, I aim to build a genuine connection with my patients and work collaboratively with them to deepen an understanding of behavior. I am trained to listen closely for underlying dynamics that might be contributing to current symptoms or troubles, and I work tactfully to address this with my patients to help reduce symptoms and experience more fulfillment and freedom in the many dimensions of their lives.
(857) 675-6230 View (857) 675-6230
Photo of Amy Blackburn, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy Blackburn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
I am experienced in treating a wide array of psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and identity disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both NH and Mass. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families for more than 30 years in many different settings including public and independent schools, colleges, hospitals, and private and group practice. I have much experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in outpatient settings, and I understand schools and the myriad issues that can arise in schools. I am a thoughtful, warm professional with a good sense of humor. My approach is solution-focused and I integrate various treatment modalities, tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs of my clients.
I am experienced in treating a wide array of psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and identity disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both NH and Mass. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families for more than 30 years in many different settings including public and independent schools, colleges, hospitals, and private and group practice. I have much experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in outpatient settings, and I understand schools and the myriad issues that can arise in schools. I am a thoughtful, warm professional with a good sense of humor. My approach is solution-focused and I integrate various treatment modalities, tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs of my clients.
(857) 271-5231 View (857) 271-5231
Photo of Carolyn MacDonald, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carolyn MacDonald
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
I have clinical interests in eating disorders, body image, exercise, managing stress and life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-harm.
I am a clinical psychology doctoral student at William James College with a masters in Professional Psychology. I am supervised by licensed psychologist, Molly Falkowski PsyD. I have experience working with elementary-age children in a school as well as with transition-age and young adults in a college counseling center. I am passionate about the therapeutic relationship and believe it is a fundamental part of therapy. I use empathy and compassion to establish a safe and trusting space for my clients to process emotions. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
I have clinical interests in eating disorders, body image, exercise, managing stress and life transitions, anxiety, depression, and self-harm.
I am a clinical psychology doctoral student at William James College with a masters in Professional Psychology. I am supervised by licensed psychologist, Molly Falkowski PsyD. I have experience working with elementary-age children in a school as well as with transition-age and young adults in a college counseling center. I am passionate about the therapeutic relationship and believe it is a fundamental part of therapy. I use empathy and compassion to establish a safe and trusting space for my clients to process emotions. I practice cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(978) 723-5324 View (978) 723-5324

See more therapy options for Ipswich

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.