Eating Disorders Therapists in Newton, MA

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 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 Cathryn M Freid, PhD, Psychologist
Cathryn M Freid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
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.
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 Andrea M Coleman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea M Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02468
I have spent the last 20+ years in private practice treating people who struggle with eating disorders, food related issues and body image. I have specialized in working with this population because I believe that everyone can recover and build a healthy, happy and fulfilling life free from constant obsessive thoughts and behaviors involving food and body image. I work collaboratively with nutritionists and medical doctors to provide comprehensive care. I am also an expert at treating anxiety, depression, ADD and trauma based responses as these are often underlying conditions that require treatment as well.
I have spent the last 20+ years in private practice treating people who struggle with eating disorders, food related issues and body image. I have specialized in working with this population because I believe that everyone can recover and build a healthy, happy and fulfilling life free from constant obsessive thoughts and behaviors involving food and body image. I work collaboratively with nutritionists and medical doctors to provide comprehensive care. I am also an expert at treating anxiety, depression, ADD and trauma based responses as these are often underlying conditions that require treatment as well.
(508) 906-7211 View (508) 906-7211
Photo of Christina Brothers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Brothers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
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.
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 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
Photo of Michelle Goldberg, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460
I specialize in eating disorders and offer my clients a space to hear themselves think and try to understand what drives their symptoms while encouraging them to self-nurture and discover who they are beyond their weight.
Asking for help is the first step in taking care of oneself; something that is very difficult to do. We often struggle with our thoughts and feelings and find ourselves using unhealthy behaviors in an effort to cope with everyday life. I believe that we all want to do better and feel better in our lives and in our bodies and that we can achieve this through a positive, nonjudgmental, therapeutic connection.
I specialize in eating disorders and offer my clients a space to hear themselves think and try to understand what drives their symptoms while encouraging them to self-nurture and discover who they are beyond their weight.
Asking for help is the first step in taking care of oneself; something that is very difficult to do. We often struggle with our thoughts and feelings and find ourselves using unhealthy behaviors in an effort to cope with everyday life. I believe that we all want to do better and feel better in our lives and in our bodies and that we can achieve this through a positive, nonjudgmental, therapeutic connection.
(781) 650-9381 View (781) 650-9381
Photo of Yanina Gonzales Blanchard, PsyD, Psychologist
Yanina Gonzales Blanchard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
My areas of interest include eating disorders, relationship problems, stress management issues, adjustment disorders, acculturation issues, grief/loss, depression and anxiety disorders.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 5th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
My areas of interest include eating disorders, relationship problems, stress management issues, adjustment disorders, acculturation issues, grief/loss, depression and anxiety disorders.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 5th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
(617) 934-6265 View (617) 934-6265
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 Jillian Burley - Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
While BHBH therapists have expertise in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns/diagnoses, our clinicians have particular expertise in the treatment of eating disorders, maladaptive coping behaviors, anxiety/mood disorders, trauma and suicidality.
Birch Hill Behavioral Health (BHBH) is a specialty group practice, offering thoughtful and tailored evidence-based treatments for adolescents and adults presenting with unique backgrounds, preferences, strengths, and challenges. We strive for a thorough understanding of our clients, their symptoms and concerns, and their expressed goals. This informs an individualized, integrative, and collaboratively-determined treatment plan. We value transparency in the treatment process, as well as a warm, interactive approach. You can expect your therapist to provide specific recommendations for your care.
While BHBH therapists have expertise in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns/diagnoses, our clinicians have particular expertise in the treatment of eating disorders, maladaptive coping behaviors, anxiety/mood disorders, trauma and suicidality.
Birch Hill Behavioral Health (BHBH) is a specialty group practice, offering thoughtful and tailored evidence-based treatments for adolescents and adults presenting with unique backgrounds, preferences, strengths, and challenges. We strive for a thorough understanding of our clients, their symptoms and concerns, and their expressed goals. This informs an individualized, integrative, and collaboratively-determined treatment plan. We value transparency in the treatment process, as well as a warm, interactive approach. You can expect your therapist to provide specific recommendations for your care.
(781) 253-8493 View (781) 253-8493
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
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 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
Newton, MA 02461
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 Dr. April Berry-Fletcher, LICSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. April Berry-Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
(617) 600-4029 View (617) 600-4029
Photo of Mara Siegman, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mara Siegman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I have worked directly with adolescents in a residential program for the treatment of eating disorders.
Hello! I provide in-person and virtual psychotherapy sessions for adolescents ages 14+, as well as adults. My clinical specialties include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. In my practice, I use tenets of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to provide support, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, and facilitate behavioral change. I am passionate about using an emotionally-focused therapy approach to help people increase awareness of their emotions in order to better understand and face them rather than suppressing them.
I have worked directly with adolescents in a residential program for the treatment of eating disorders.
Hello! I provide in-person and virtual psychotherapy sessions for adolescents ages 14+, as well as adults. My clinical specialties include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. In my practice, I use tenets of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to provide support, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, and facilitate behavioral change. I am passionate about using an emotionally-focused therapy approach to help people increase awareness of their emotions in order to better understand and face them rather than suppressing them.
(617) 958-2779 View (617) 958-2779
Photo of Rachel Kantor, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Kantor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, 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 Amy K Friedman, PhD, Psychologist
Amy K Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
My specialties run the gamut - but they include in no specific order, trauma, spirituality and religion, creativity and creative professionals, relationships, existential identity, fertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and parenting, eating disorders, cutting, couples and families, Depression, and Anxiety.
I am warm, authentic, dynamic, and connective, and I believe in meaning-making and healing through relationship. I also believe in the balance of holding what's challenging or traumatic, while looking at possibilities for growth and change. I truly love the work that I do, providing holding, healing, and transformation in a safe and natural way. Come meet me for a free sample session, and see what possibilities we might explore together. My contact information is (617) 935 - 9116. I look forward to hopefully meeting with you.
My specialties run the gamut - but they include in no specific order, trauma, spirituality and religion, creativity and creative professionals, relationships, existential identity, fertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and parenting, eating disorders, cutting, couples and families, Depression, and Anxiety.
I am warm, authentic, dynamic, and connective, and I believe in meaning-making and healing through relationship. I also believe in the balance of holding what's challenging or traumatic, while looking at possibilities for growth and change. I truly love the work that I do, providing holding, healing, and transformation in a safe and natural way. Come meet me for a free sample session, and see what possibilities we might explore together. My contact information is (617) 935 - 9116. I look forward to hopefully meeting with you.
(617) 379-0441 View (617) 379-0441
Photo of Karen K Rose, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen K Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02468  (Online Only)
My clinical specialties include depression; anxiety disorders; eating disorders; obesity; low self-esteem; infertility; and relationship issues.
Second Chances. We cannot change our past, but we can change how the past plays out in the present. And in our future. I am pleased to be an agent of second chances in people's lives. I help people identify how their first chances in life may have resulted in hidden limitations, then help them construct better pathways forward.
My clinical specialties include depression; anxiety disorders; eating disorders; obesity; low self-esteem; infertility; and relationship issues.
Second Chances. We cannot change our past, but we can change how the past plays out in the present. And in our future. I am pleased to be an agent of second chances in people's lives. I help people identify how their first chances in life may have resulted in hidden limitations, then help them construct better pathways forward.
(339) 329-9153 View (339) 329-9153
Photo of Julie Gardner Mandel, PhD, PC, Psychologist
Julie Gardner Mandel
Psychologist, PhD, PC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
People tend to suffer alone with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Distress, Eating Disorders, Grief over loss & Life Transition Complexities. We are all met with obstacles, unexpected curve-balls and difficult life challenges. I specialize in working with young adults who feel unprepared to deal with transitions to college, first jobs, relationships & sexual identity. Navigating necessary changes in family dynamics can be especially complicated as young adult separate and create space to develop and decide for themselves what their independent adult life will look like.
People tend to suffer alone with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Distress, Eating Disorders, Grief over loss & Life Transition Complexities. We are all met with obstacles, unexpected curve-balls and difficult life challenges. I specialize in working with young adults who feel unprepared to deal with transitions to college, first jobs, relationships & sexual identity. Navigating necessary changes in family dynamics can be especially complicated as young adult separate and create space to develop and decide for themselves what their independent adult life will look like.
(339) 293-0044 View (339) 293-0044
1
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.