Eating Disorders Therapists in Newton Centre, MA

Photo of Cathryn M Freid, PhD, Psychologist
Cathryn M Freid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
In addition to my practice, I currently have appointments as Clinical Teaching Faculty in the Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program (EDCRP) at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and as part-time Lecturer on Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
In addition to my practice, I currently have appointments as Clinical Teaching Faculty in the Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program (EDCRP) at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and as part-time Lecturer on Psychology in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
(617) 553-9222 View (617) 553-9222
Photo of Aliza Phillips-Stoll, PhD, Psychologist
Aliza Phillips-Stoll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, eating disorders and relationship challenges. With adolescents, adults, and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, eating disorders and relationship challenges. With adolescents, adults, and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
(508) 348-7274 View (508) 348-7274
Photo of Susan E Norman, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan E Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
(617) 446-3125 View (617) 446-3125
Photo of Judith Wilner Lawrence, PhD, Psychologist
Judith Wilner Lawrence
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
When beginning psychotherapy, individuals often feel vulnerable and in need of a safe space in which to examine their struggles and work towards healing. With over 30 years of experience, and as a Harvard-trained psychologist, I provide such a space. I work with empathy, intellect, and humor to help clients address such diverse concerns as life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories, and I use CBT and mindfulness techniques where appropriate to help clients understand themselves, achieve their goals, and find satisfaction in their lives.
When beginning psychotherapy, individuals often feel vulnerable and in need of a safe space in which to examine their struggles and work towards healing. With over 30 years of experience, and as a Harvard-trained psychologist, I provide such a space. I work with empathy, intellect, and humor to help clients address such diverse concerns as life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories, and I use CBT and mindfulness techniques where appropriate to help clients understand themselves, achieve their goals, and find satisfaction in their lives.
(617) 739-1212 View (617) 739-1212
Photo of Rachel Kantor, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Kantor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
My experience as an elite athlete and specialized post-doctoral training in health psychology provide me with expertise in treatment of high level athletes, medical professionals, sleep disorders, and eating disorders (over and undereating).
Accepting new patients - Sometimes you make impulsive decisions because of worry or self-esteem. It is hard to concentrate and this is holding you back. You want to work with a goal-oriented nonjudgmental professional who will guide you to a place where you feel confident and in control. Mental health is more than low self-esteem. It impacts all areas of your life including focus, sleep, relationships, athletic performance, and even chronic pain or health conditions.
My experience as an elite athlete and specialized post-doctoral training in health psychology provide me with expertise in treatment of high level athletes, medical professionals, sleep disorders, and eating disorders (over and undereating).
Accepting new patients - Sometimes you make impulsive decisions because of worry or self-esteem. It is hard to concentrate and this is holding you back. You want to work with a goal-oriented nonjudgmental professional who will guide you to a place where you feel confident and in control. Mental health is more than low self-esteem. It impacts all areas of your life including focus, sleep, relationships, athletic performance, and even chronic pain or health conditions.
(617) 812-6164 View (617) 812-6164
Photo of Taylor Lombard, LMHC, R-DMT, CIEC, Counselor
Taylor Lombard
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT, CIEC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Summer 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
Summer 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
(617) 398-4217 View (617) 398-4217
Photo of Aila Jesse McCutchen, PsyD, Psychologist
Aila Jesse McCutchen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Cognitive Therapy is a model of psychotherapy whose objective is to help people identify inaccurate thought patterns and assumptions that cause anxiety or depression, and that may even affect functioning. It can be challenging to pinpoint and correct these thoughts. Nonetheless, the process of acquiring healthier, reality-based ways of perceiving and actually trying out new solutions to old problems can improve symptoms and mood considerably. In cognitive therapy, I work collaboratively with patients to help them identify and understand how perceptions can interfere with their mood and decision-making, and we work together on a plan to achieve better balance for their life.
Cognitive Therapy is a model of psychotherapy whose objective is to help people identify inaccurate thought patterns and assumptions that cause anxiety or depression, and that may even affect functioning. It can be challenging to pinpoint and correct these thoughts. Nonetheless, the process of acquiring healthier, reality-based ways of perceiving and actually trying out new solutions to old problems can improve symptoms and mood considerably. In cognitive therapy, I work collaboratively with patients to help them identify and understand how perceptions can interfere with their mood and decision-making, and we work together on a plan to achieve better balance for their life.
(617) 229-5982 View (617) 229-5982
Photo of Pamela E. Brennecke, LMHC, R-DMT, CMA, Counselor
Pamela E. Brennecke
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT, CMA
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
When you enter therapy there is a sense of possibility. Finding a good match with a therapist is essential. Work on relationship is at the heart of therapy: relationship to oneself, to the past, to others, and to ultimate concerns and values.
When you enter therapy there is a sense of possibility. Finding a good match with a therapist is essential. Work on relationship is at the heart of therapy: relationship to oneself, to the past, to others, and to ultimate concerns and values.
(351) 999-8163 View (351) 999-8163
Photo of Victoria Pappas, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Victoria Pappas
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Victoria! I’m so glad you’re here! I hope this is the first step in your personal growth journey. Mental Health is such an important part of our lives, and I feel it is the ultimate “self care” as it often leads to more insight, self awareness, and positive changes. The goal is to live with more intention and kindness towards others and most importantly ourselves. There are many reasons why someone may be interested in therapy - all of them are valid.
Hi I’m Victoria! I’m so glad you’re here! I hope this is the first step in your personal growth journey. Mental Health is such an important part of our lives, and I feel it is the ultimate “self care” as it often leads to more insight, self awareness, and positive changes. The goal is to live with more intention and kindness towards others and most importantly ourselves. There are many reasons why someone may be interested in therapy - all of them are valid.
(774) 278-5783 View (774) 278-5783
Photo of Erin Kuehn, MSW, LICSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Kuehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Hi! I hope that you find this information helpful. Cultivating health, healing & change guides my work as a clinical social worker. As your therapist, I can provide you with a supportive & collaborative partnership to help with your current circumstances & propel you toward your goals. Through connection and compassion, you will be able to increase your self-awareness & make choices about how you want to respond to your experiences. Using various resources & strategies, you will be an active participant in your treatment and develop the skills you need to provide yourself with effective self-care.
Hi! I hope that you find this information helpful. Cultivating health, healing & change guides my work as a clinical social worker. As your therapist, I can provide you with a supportive & collaborative partnership to help with your current circumstances & propel you toward your goals. Through connection and compassion, you will be able to increase your self-awareness & make choices about how you want to respond to your experiences. Using various resources & strategies, you will be an active participant in your treatment and develop the skills you need to provide yourself with effective self-care.
(617) 663-8814 View (617) 663-8814
Photo of Sarah Kupper, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Kupper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Not accepting new clients
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, women's issues, and eating disorders.
I believe that everyone has the capacity to change, grow and heal. Making the choice to prioritize your mental health is a brave and often necessary step towards feeling better and living an authentic, fulfilling life. As a therapist, I'm passionate about helping clients understand and accept themselves, while supporting them in making positive changes in their lives.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, women's issues, and eating disorders.
I believe that everyone has the capacity to change, grow and heal. Making the choice to prioritize your mental health is a brave and often necessary step towards feeling better and living an authentic, fulfilling life. As a therapist, I'm passionate about helping clients understand and accept themselves, while supporting them in making positive changes in their lives.
(617) 648-9432 View (617) 648-9432

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Chinca - Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02460
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
(857) 384-4858 View (857) 384-4858
Photo of Christina Brothers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Brothers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
Additionally, when treating adolescents with eating disorders, I utilize the modality of Family Based Treatment which I have substantial training in.
My practice has primarily lended itself to the treatment of Eating disorders, and other co-occurring struggles such as OCD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders that are commonly associated with this illness. Currently, I also work in a University setting with both undergrad and grad students, but in the past was the Clinical Director of both an Inpatient Eating Disorder Unit and a Psychiatric Unit. These experiences have provided me with the background of treating adolescents, young adults/adults, and families from all different backgrounds.
Additionally, when treating adolescents with eating disorders, I utilize the modality of Family Based Treatment which I have substantial training in.
My practice has primarily lended itself to the treatment of Eating disorders, and other co-occurring struggles such as OCD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders that are commonly associated with this illness. Currently, I also work in a University setting with both undergrad and grad students, but in the past was the Clinical Director of both an Inpatient Eating Disorder Unit and a Psychiatric Unit. These experiences have provided me with the background of treating adolescents, young adults/adults, and families from all different backgrounds.
(339) 330-1364 View (339) 330-1364
Photo of Larissa Crane - Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT, MSW, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02465
Specialties include trauma, narcissistic abuse, and eating disorders.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
Specialties include trauma, narcissistic abuse, and eating disorders.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
(508) 659-4613 View (508) 659-4613
Photo of Lucie Waldman, MS, CCIEDC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lucie Waldman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CCIEDC
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02494
As a therapist, my goal is to help clients navigate struggles in their lives and provide a space of safety and compassion as they work to overcome challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and clients come to therapy with an inner wisdom. I intend to guide them to understand themselves and live more authentically. I work closely to individualize therapy so it fits the needs of the client. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of concerns, including eating disorders, trauma, relationships, and ADHD.
As a therapist, my goal is to help clients navigate struggles in their lives and provide a space of safety and compassion as they work to overcome challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and clients come to therapy with an inner wisdom. I intend to guide them to understand themselves and live more authentically. I work closely to individualize therapy so it fits the needs of the client. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of concerns, including eating disorders, trauma, relationships, and ADHD.
(781) 230-7480 View (781) 230-7480
Photo of Angela Ficken, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Ficken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
(617) 936-8311 View (617) 936-8311
Photo of Susan Adair, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Adair
Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with caregivers, parents, siblings, partners, and friends of people struggling with eating disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience specializing in treatment of eating disorders, body image, and anxiety. For the last 10 years I have worked in various roles, from Therapist to Clinical Director, at several eating disorder facilities and in university settings. I work with clients who are teenagers to adults, who are struggling with a variety of mental health and life issues. I have a strong background in DBT and CBT and employ an integrative and client-centered treatment approach, drawing on various treatment modalities to individualize treatment for each client.
I have extensive experience working with caregivers, parents, siblings, partners, and friends of people struggling with eating disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience specializing in treatment of eating disorders, body image, and anxiety. For the last 10 years I have worked in various roles, from Therapist to Clinical Director, at several eating disorder facilities and in university settings. I work with clients who are teenagers to adults, who are struggling with a variety of mental health and life issues. I have a strong background in DBT and CBT and employ an integrative and client-centered treatment approach, drawing on various treatment modalities to individualize treatment for each client.
(857) 376-6922 View (857) 376-6922
Photo of Sarai Logue, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarai Logue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464  (Online Only)
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
(857) 598-5399 View (857) 598-5399
Photo of Amanda Destefano - The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Our Vision: We envision a community without eating disorders that promotes a positive body culture.
MEDA believes in providing access to equitable care through a variety of flexible, clinical services for both individuals and families/friends, including assessments, therapy sessions, therapy groups, free drop-in support groups, and coaching sessions. MEDA is a nonprofit located in Newton, Massachusetts.
Our Vision: We envision a community without eating disorders that promotes a positive body culture.
MEDA believes in providing access to equitable care through a variety of flexible, clinical services for both individuals and families/friends, including assessments, therapy sessions, therapy groups, free drop-in support groups, and coaching sessions. MEDA is a nonprofit located in Newton, Massachusetts.
(617) 500-4038 View (617) 500-4038
Photo of Rebecca Wassell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Wassell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my practice! My hope is you can find a safe place here. All are welcome - none are judged. In my work, I most often support LGBTQ+ and transgender folks, as well as people navigating eating disorders and/or struggles with body image. I also do a lot of ADHD and trauma work. I'm affirming of all sexual, gender, and body identities and presentations. I'm very experienced working with polyamory and ethical non-monogamy and am a sex and kink-positive therapist. In my work around eating, bodies, and body image, I work from a Health at Every Size framework, support fat liberation, and believe all bodies are good bodies.
Welcome to my practice! My hope is you can find a safe place here. All are welcome - none are judged. In my work, I most often support LGBTQ+ and transgender folks, as well as people navigating eating disorders and/or struggles with body image. I also do a lot of ADHD and trauma work. I'm affirming of all sexual, gender, and body identities and presentations. I'm very experienced working with polyamory and ethical non-monogamy and am a sex and kink-positive therapist. In my work around eating, bodies, and body image, I work from a Health at Every Size framework, support fat liberation, and believe all bodies are good bodies.
(339) 345-2893 View (339) 345-2893

See more therapy options for Newton Centre

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.