Eating Disorders Therapists in Methuen, MA

Photo of Amanda Urato - Anxiety Specialist, Amanda Urato, LMHC , LMHC, Counselor
Anxiety Specialist, Amanda Urato, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety - whether it’s from external demands or internal struggles. Maybe it's social anxiety, "a life transition," or healing from trauma. Or maybe it's something more general, like you want to feel more "in control" of your emotions…and your life. I can help. Together, we’ll uncover the roots of your challenges, empowering you to move forward - with skill and confidence. I use “treatments that work” (CBT, DBT, mindfulness, etc). But we’ll find what works for YOU. Lastly, I don’t just want you to just “feel better.” I want you to live your best life. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety - whether it’s from external demands or internal struggles. Maybe it's social anxiety, "a life transition," or healing from trauma. Or maybe it's something more general, like you want to feel more "in control" of your emotions…and your life. I can help. Together, we’ll uncover the roots of your challenges, empowering you to move forward - with skill and confidence. I use “treatments that work” (CBT, DBT, mindfulness, etc). But we’ll find what works for YOU. Lastly, I don’t just want you to just “feel better.” I want you to live your best life. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(351) 213-7931 View (351) 213-7931
Photo of Carol Sutcliffe, LCMHC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Carol Sutcliffe
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844
Change is an integral part of life. At some point or other, we all face changes. Changes can be very difficult. I strive to help my clients to identify and understand their needs and steps they can take to begin to promote positive change in their lives. I work with people who are facing challenges in their relationships, with their jobs, with managing their weight and coping with anxiety. I enjoy working with all ages, and in particular focus on adolescents and adults. I have access to medication providers who may also be able to assist you with your coping skills and change process.
Change is an integral part of life. At some point or other, we all face changes. Changes can be very difficult. I strive to help my clients to identify and understand their needs and steps they can take to begin to promote positive change in their lives. I work with people who are facing challenges in their relationships, with their jobs, with managing their weight and coping with anxiety. I enjoy working with all ages, and in particular focus on adolescents and adults. I have access to medication providers who may also be able to assist you with your coping skills and change process.
(978) 794-9968 View (978) 794-9968
Photo of Kathy Davis-Gillette - Kathy Davis-Gillette, PhD, New Inspiration LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Kathy Davis-Gillette, PhD, New Inspiration LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844  (Online Only)
Joy. Self-Esteem. Confidence. Fulfillment. Do you ever feel as if something is missing in your Life––either as an individual or couple? If so, let’s join together and find the missing pieces. As a Team, we’ll take an objective look at your Life and your desires. Then we’ll put together a personal Action Plan that will show the way to a more complete and happier You! The possibilities are endless once you take the first step!
Joy. Self-Esteem. Confidence. Fulfillment. Do you ever feel as if something is missing in your Life––either as an individual or couple? If so, let’s join together and find the missing pieces. As a Team, we’ll take an objective look at your Life and your desires. Then we’ll put together a personal Action Plan that will show the way to a more complete and happier You! The possibilities are endless once you take the first step!
(339) 217-9657 View (339) 217-9657
Photo of Sean Lowther - Nova Initia Counseling, LMHC, LISCW, Counselor
Nova Initia Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, LISCW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Methuen, MA 01844
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 Jill Ortolano, LMHC, Counselor
Jill Ortolano
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Jill, a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Massachusetts with 19 years experience. Something I've heard over the years is how hard it is to pick a therapist from a very long list of skilled clinicians that typically sound similar. How can you really know? I can assure you- working with me will be a collaboration because I believe in building a solid rapport first with anyone I work with. Having worked in Boston and surrounding areas, shelters, and internationally online, I can adapt to meet people where they're at.
Hi I'm Jill, a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Massachusetts with 19 years experience. Something I've heard over the years is how hard it is to pick a therapist from a very long list of skilled clinicians that typically sound similar. How can you really know? I can assure you- working with me will be a collaboration because I believe in building a solid rapport first with anyone I work with. Having worked in Boston and surrounding areas, shelters, and internationally online, I can adapt to meet people where they're at.
(978) 404-7550 View (978) 404-7550
Photo of Patricia Butterfield - Partners In Therapy, MSW, LICSW
Partners In Therapy
MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Methuen, MA 01844
Not accepting new clients
We also have experience with trauma related disorders, anxiety/depression, and mood disorders, eating disorders, grief/loss, stress management, and coping with medical conditions.
At Partners In Therapy, we have over 20 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and couples. We strive to work with our clients in a way that allows them to set the tone and pace of their work. We use integrated treatment approaches including but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, strengths based, trauma focused, play therapy, person centered, and dialectical behavior therapy. We believe that progress is achieved through a partnership with our clients.
We also have experience with trauma related disorders, anxiety/depression, and mood disorders, eating disorders, grief/loss, stress management, and coping with medical conditions.
At Partners In Therapy, we have over 20 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and couples. We strive to work with our clients in a way that allows them to set the tone and pace of their work. We use integrated treatment approaches including but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, strengths based, trauma focused, play therapy, person centered, and dialectical behavior therapy. We believe that progress is achieved through a partnership with our clients.
(978) 451-6053 View (978) 451-6053

More Therapists Nearby

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 Kameron Mendes, LMHC, Counselor
Kameron Mendes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
I am trained and certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy as well as Family Based Treatment through the Training Institute for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with a passion for helping people find contentment in life. I've worked extensively with those struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. Through these experiences, I have learned that establishing a genuine, trusting, and welcoming relationship is integral to recovery. I use a person-centered, trauma-informed stance to facilitate healing. To see more about me and request an appointment, you can also go to: renovated-wellness.com
I am trained and certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy as well as Family Based Treatment through the Training Institute for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with a passion for helping people find contentment in life. I've worked extensively with those struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. Through these experiences, I have learned that establishing a genuine, trusting, and welcoming relationship is integral to recovery. I use a person-centered, trauma-informed stance to facilitate healing. To see more about me and request an appointment, you can also go to: renovated-wellness.com
(781) 650-5359 View (781) 650-5359
Photo of Hannah Singer, LICSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Singer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
I am passionate about helping people learn how to cope with the stress and unpredictability of life. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders with extensive experience working across all levels of care in hospital, community mental health, university, and non profit settings. I believe that therapy should be hard work while allowing space for humor, curiosity, compassion, and care.
I am passionate about helping people learn how to cope with the stress and unpredictability of life. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders with extensive experience working across all levels of care in hospital, community mental health, university, and non profit settings. I believe that therapy should be hard work while allowing space for humor, curiosity, compassion, and care.
(978) 579-3387 View (978) 579-3387
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 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 Alyssa Demoulas, LMHC, Counselor
Alyssa Demoulas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810
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 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 Hannah M Watkins, PsyD, Psychologist
Hannah M Watkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boxford, MA 01921  (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 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 Matt Lipson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Lipson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Haverhill, MA 01830
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 Elizabeth Milligan, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Milligan
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haverhill, MA 01830
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 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 Rebekah Doweyko - Bardwell Behavioral, LMHC, CEDS-S, Counselor
Bardwell Behavioral
Counselor, LMHC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Lowell, MA 01850  (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 Hope Rosales, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Rosales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lowell, MA 01854  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Hi! Do you find yourself struggling to manage anxiety, trauma, family/relationship issues, eating concerns, or other difficult aspects of life? Are you looking for a safe and supportive therapy environment to work through a problem or proactively build coping skills? Whether you’re brand new to therapy and not even sure where to start– or have previous experience and looking for a specific type of therapist– I’d love to meet you and see if we would be a good fit to work together. I believe you’re the expert on your life and look forward to collaborating with you to make therapy a helpful space for you!
I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Hi! Do you find yourself struggling to manage anxiety, trauma, family/relationship issues, eating concerns, or other difficult aspects of life? Are you looking for a safe and supportive therapy environment to work through a problem or proactively build coping skills? Whether you’re brand new to therapy and not even sure where to start– or have previous experience and looking for a specific type of therapist– I’d love to meet you and see if we would be a good fit to work together. I believe you’re the expert on your life and look forward to collaborating with you to make therapy a helpful space for you!
(978) 722-4355 View (978) 722-4355
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.