Eating Disorders Therapists in Southborough, MA

Photo of Ben Staines, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Staines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southborough, MA 01745
I have extensive training in Family Based Treatment (FBT / Maudsley) for adolescent eating disorders, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), social thinking, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with my clients to create a safe and collaborative environment where they feel listened to and supported. My approach is solution oriented and client centered with a focus on helping individuals and families set effective boundaries, learn helpful skills and implement healthy changes to move towards their goals. I've received specialized training in a variety of therapeutic models and will work with my clients to determine the best course of action and treatment plan that is right for them.
I have extensive training in Family Based Treatment (FBT / Maudsley) for adolescent eating disorders, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), social thinking, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with my clients to create a safe and collaborative environment where they feel listened to and supported. My approach is solution oriented and client centered with a focus on helping individuals and families set effective boundaries, learn helpful skills and implement healthy changes to move towards their goals. I've received specialized training in a variety of therapeutic models and will work with my clients to determine the best course of action and treatment plan that is right for them.
(978) 874-3249 View (978) 874-3249
Photo of Anner B. Eliot, PhD, Psychologist
Anner B. Eliot
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Southborough, MA 01772
Dr. Eliot is a licensed psychologist specializing in relationally based psychotherapy with individuals, couples, families, and groups.
Dr. Eliot is a licensed psychologist specializing in relationally based psychotherapy with individuals, couples, families, and groups.
(857) 342-3589 View (857) 342-3589
Photo of Josephine Banigo - Victoria Counseling Services, PMNP-BC, ACNP-BC
Victoria Counseling Services
PMNP-BC, ACNP-BC
Verified Verified
Southborough, MA 01772
As an Acute/Critical Care Nurse Practitioner, I was not cognizant of the impact of mental illness on family and society, until I decided to pursue a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Degree. I believe that societal stigmatization of mental illness, and the shame felt by families who have a loved one with mental illness, makes it difficult for these patients to recover, and live peacefully for the rest of their lives. Psychiatric illness should be treated like a medical illness with no stigma, no blame or shame.
As an Acute/Critical Care Nurse Practitioner, I was not cognizant of the impact of mental illness on family and society, until I decided to pursue a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Degree. I believe that societal stigmatization of mental illness, and the shame felt by families who have a loved one with mental illness, makes it difficult for these patients to recover, and live peacefully for the rest of their lives. Psychiatric illness should be treated like a medical illness with no stigma, no blame or shame.
(508) 906-7395 View (508) 906-7395
Photo of Danielle Johnson, LMHC, Counselor
Danielle Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Southborough, MA 01772  (Online Only)
Danielle Johnson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who is skilled in providing therapy to individuals ages 15-80 years old. Danielle has over 7 years of clinical experience working with young adults and children, as well as 5 years of crisis management experience with individuals of all ages. Working with a wide scope of the population, Danielle understands the importance of advocating for her clients, even when they are unable to do so for themselves. She also recognizes that it is essential to have a team-based approach in order to create and implement the treatment goals of individual clients.
Danielle Johnson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who is skilled in providing therapy to individuals ages 15-80 years old. Danielle has over 7 years of clinical experience working with young adults and children, as well as 5 years of crisis management experience with individuals of all ages. Working with a wide scope of the population, Danielle understands the importance of advocating for her clients, even when they are unable to do so for themselves. She also recognizes that it is essential to have a team-based approach in order to create and implement the treatment goals of individual clients.
(774) 310-4001 View (774) 310-4001

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebekah Doweyko - Bardwell Behavioral, LMHC, TPMC, CEDS-S, Counselor
Bardwell Behavioral
Counselor, LMHC, TPMC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Westborough, MA 01581
Offering over 20 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 20 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 Nancy Staelens, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nancy Staelens
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, MA 01757  (Online Only)
Nancy has 20 years of experience working in the counseling field including crisis clinician and supervisor, in-home therapist and currently working as an outpatient therapist with specializations in the following areas: Dual-diagnosis, trauma, substance use, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Nancy’s approach to therapy is to provide clients with guidance, support, and feedback in a safe space where each client feels heard and validated. Nancy’s goal is to support clients in developing the skills needed through different therapeutic techniques including solution focused, CBT, and DBT to work through the difficult times we experience when navigating life challenges.
Nancy has 20 years of experience working in the counseling field including crisis clinician and supervisor, in-home therapist and currently working as an outpatient therapist with specializations in the following areas: Dual-diagnosis, trauma, substance use, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Nancy’s approach to therapy is to provide clients with guidance, support, and feedback in a safe space where each client feels heard and validated. Nancy’s goal is to support clients in developing the skills needed through different therapeutic techniques including solution focused, CBT, and DBT to work through the difficult times we experience when navigating life challenges.
(774) 358-6412 View (774) 358-6412
Photo of Lauren Ineson, MA CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Ineson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA CMHC
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma/PTSD. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and specialize in late adolescence/young adulthood. I believe that every person deserves a space where they can be heard, understood, and appreciated and I hope to offer an environment that will allow client's to grow and build confidence. I have a background in sports and coaching which has taught me effective communication styles and the ability to adapt to every situation.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma/PTSD. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and specialize in late adolescence/young adulthood. I believe that every person deserves a space where they can be heard, understood, and appreciated and I hope to offer an environment that will allow client's to grow and build confidence. I have a background in sports and coaching which has taught me effective communication styles and the ability to adapt to every situation.
(508) 680-0048 View (508) 680-0048
Photo of Lindsay Brady, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Although my primary clinical focus is in the treatment of eating disorders with a sub-specialty in trauma treatment; I also work with many other co-morbid symptoms and diagnoses such as depression/anxiety, negative body image, grief/loss, anger management, and chronic pain or illness.
It takes courage and self awareness to seek support for your stress, and I'm continually honored by the individuals I serve in my practice for their willingness to open up to me. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment that can enhance the process of therapeutic change. All people find themselves "stuck" at times, and through empathy and validation I work to create a path towards hope and healing for my clients.
Although my primary clinical focus is in the treatment of eating disorders with a sub-specialty in trauma treatment; I also work with many other co-morbid symptoms and diagnoses such as depression/anxiety, negative body image, grief/loss, anger management, and chronic pain or illness.
It takes courage and self awareness to seek support for your stress, and I'm continually honored by the individuals I serve in my practice for their willingness to open up to me. I strive to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment that can enhance the process of therapeutic change. All people find themselves "stuck" at times, and through empathy and validation I work to create a path towards hope and healing for my clients.
(774) 217-6339 View (774) 217-6339
Photo of Zaza S Sakhat - Chrysalis Therapy and Wellness, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrysalis Therapy and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northborough, MA 01532
Despite most young girls displaying strong, inherent self-esteem, a natural decline occurs as they mature into adolescent years causing self-harming behaviors, eating disorders, and other detrimental behaviors.
Like a butterfly emerging into life, a child requires safety, care, and attunement. I believe in supporting child and adolescent emotional growth and developmental processes throughout the life cycle especially when hardships are faced, such as, trauma, bullying, anxiety, and other concerns. My approach is collaborative as I work closely with the parents, schools, and other collaterals involved to enhance over all well-being in every capacity of the child's environment. Always stemming from a strength-based perspective, using Play and Expressive Art Therapies, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Somatic Experiencing.
Despite most young girls displaying strong, inherent self-esteem, a natural decline occurs as they mature into adolescent years causing self-harming behaviors, eating disorders, and other detrimental behaviors.
Like a butterfly emerging into life, a child requires safety, care, and attunement. I believe in supporting child and adolescent emotional growth and developmental processes throughout the life cycle especially when hardships are faced, such as, trauma, bullying, anxiety, and other concerns. My approach is collaborative as I work closely with the parents, schools, and other collaterals involved to enhance over all well-being in every capacity of the child's environment. Always stemming from a strength-based perspective, using Play and Expressive Art Therapies, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Somatic Experiencing.
(508) 659-5057 View (508) 659-5057
Photo of Laurie Ghiz, MA, LMHC, MAC, Lic, Ac, Counselor
Laurie Ghiz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MAC, Lic, Ac
Verified Verified
Westborough, MA 01581
I have 32 years of experience working in the mental health field. My areas of training and expertise in therapy include eating disorders, various anxiety and affective disorders, and people in recovery from alcohol and drugs. I have worked with many people with a variety of problems and diagnoses not listed. I work with adults only in individual therapy. Before contacting me please be sure to check if your insurance plan is one I am currently credentialed with: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts and Aetna. Harvard Pilgrim's behavioral health services are received through Optum and I am not yet credentialed with them.
I have 32 years of experience working in the mental health field. My areas of training and expertise in therapy include eating disorders, various anxiety and affective disorders, and people in recovery from alcohol and drugs. I have worked with many people with a variety of problems and diagnoses not listed. I work with adults only in individual therapy. Before contacting me please be sure to check if your insurance plan is one I am currently credentialed with: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tufts and Aetna. Harvard Pilgrim's behavioral health services are received through Optum and I am not yet credentialed with them.
(508) 501-6668 View (508) 501-6668
Photo of Katrina Kush, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Kush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Please inquire to be put on my waitlist. It takes awareness and courage to take the steps necessary in seeking support, and I am passionate about creating a non-judgmental space that can provide safety and comfort. I have experience working with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive expertise and a passion for working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with eating disorders, as well as providing support to the parents of those struggling. Other specialties include anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem challenges and body image concerns.
Welcome! Please inquire to be put on my waitlist. It takes awareness and courage to take the steps necessary in seeking support, and I am passionate about creating a non-judgmental space that can provide safety and comfort. I have experience working with adolescents, adults and families. I have extensive expertise and a passion for working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with eating disorders, as well as providing support to the parents of those struggling. Other specialties include anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem challenges and body image concerns.
(508) 290-7119 View (508) 290-7119
Photo of Miriam Iken Goodman, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Iken Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wayland, MA 01778
I have had thorough training in eating disorders, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
Are thoughts about your life's stressors getting in the way of your goals? Are you struggling to get through the day without thinking about food or your body? If you are reading this, you may be contemplating taking that first step to receive support. Setting up an initial therapy appointment can be scary; I hope to ease the stress of the process, while working with you to achieve your therapeutic goals.
I have had thorough training in eating disorders, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
Are thoughts about your life's stressors getting in the way of your goals? Are you struggling to get through the day without thinking about food or your body? If you are reading this, you may be contemplating taking that first step to receive support. Setting up an initial therapy appointment can be scary; I hope to ease the stress of the process, while working with you to achieve your therapeutic goals.
(781) 394-9068 View (781) 394-9068
Photo of Anne Robinson, LICSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
Sudbury, MA 01776
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating eating disorders and disordered eating, depression, anxiety, and perinatal mood disorders including postpartum depression and anxiety.
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing psychotherapy to individuals, families, couples, and groups. My approach is collaborative, warm, and compassionate and includes a blended approach of therapeutic modalities including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness Based Strategies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). The foundation of my work is grounded in the belief that people feel better and are able to heal in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
I specialize in treating eating disorders and disordered eating, depression, anxiety, and perinatal mood disorders including postpartum depression and anxiety.
I am a licensed clinical social worker providing psychotherapy to individuals, families, couples, and groups. My approach is collaborative, warm, and compassionate and includes a blended approach of therapeutic modalities including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness Based Strategies, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). The foundation of my work is grounded in the belief that people feel better and are able to heal in the context of a safe and trusting relationship.
(617) 544-8366 View (617) 544-8366
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
Natick, MA 01760
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 Monique Bellefleur, EdM, LMHC, Counselor
Monique Bellefleur
Counselor, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01701
I specialize in treating folks with eating disorders/disordered eating, negative body image, anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health struggles.
I offer my clients a non-judgemental space to be heard and sort through their feelings. I aid my clients in building self-compassion and tools for feeling better about themselves. Whether you struggle with your relationship with food, body, or sense of self, I believe it is possible to heal. My clients tend to hold themselves to high standards, spend much of their energy caring for others, and have a hard time putting themselves first. I believe therapy is an avenue for realigning your priorities and understanding how your personal history has informed how you feel today.
I specialize in treating folks with eating disorders/disordered eating, negative body image, anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health struggles.
I offer my clients a non-judgemental space to be heard and sort through their feelings. I aid my clients in building self-compassion and tools for feeling better about themselves. Whether you struggle with your relationship with food, body, or sense of self, I believe it is possible to heal. My clients tend to hold themselves to high standards, spend much of their energy caring for others, and have a hard time putting themselves first. I believe therapy is an avenue for realigning your priorities and understanding how your personal history has informed how you feel today.
(508) 501-8628 View (508) 501-8628
Photo of Wendy Gladu Landry, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Gladu Landry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01701  (Online Only)
I have experience providing Bariatric Assessments for Bariatric surgery and have counseled people who are struggling with eating disorders, obesity, and self-esteem issues.
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
I have experience providing Bariatric Assessments for Bariatric surgery and have counseled people who are struggling with eating disorders, obesity, and self-esteem issues.
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
(617) 622-5674 View (617) 622-5674
Photo of Chelsey Woods, MSW, LICSW, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsey Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
Are you seeking better coping skills to deal with depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder? As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Tele Mental Health therapist with over 11 years in the field, I am here to help you. I have experience working with a wide range of individuals, but have found most of my clients are between 18 and 45 years old. In addition to specializing in anxiety, depression and eating disorders, I also have worked with trauma, interpersonal relationships, and other mood disorders.
Are you seeking better coping skills to deal with depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder? As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Tele Mental Health therapist with over 11 years in the field, I am here to help you. I have experience working with a wide range of individuals, but have found most of my clients are between 18 and 45 years old. In addition to specializing in anxiety, depression and eating disorders, I also have worked with trauma, interpersonal relationships, and other mood disorders.
(781) 650-7611 View (781) 650-7611
Photo of Alannah A. DiBona, LMHC, Counselor
Alannah A. DiBona
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sudbury, MA 01776
With extensive training in eating disorders and performance psychology, I am interested in supporting adults and adolescents in their search for wellness and authenticity. This can entail exploring the root of school-based and somatic issues, partnering with clients on their recovery journeys, nurturing growth and strength in times of anxiety and depression, assisting with transitions, or fostering identity development. My style of practice is holistic, strengths-based and creative, and is infused with warmth and cultural competence. Please note that my canine good citizen, Theo the Bloodhound, is often present to provide support.
With extensive training in eating disorders and performance psychology, I am interested in supporting adults and adolescents in their search for wellness and authenticity. This can entail exploring the root of school-based and somatic issues, partnering with clients on their recovery journeys, nurturing growth and strength in times of anxiety and depression, assisting with transitions, or fostering identity development. My style of practice is holistic, strengths-based and creative, and is infused with warmth and cultural competence. Please note that my canine good citizen, Theo the Bloodhound, is often present to provide support.
(781) 916-9695 View (781) 916-9695
Photo of Marilyn Newman, LICSW, GCEC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marilyn Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, GCEC
Verified Verified
Sudbury, MA 01776
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker, with thirty-two years of experience in helping individuals, couples and families to navigate life's many challenges.While I have maintained a general private practice, I do have expertise in treating eating disorders , substance abuse, ADHD and families struggling with these issues.I worked at Mclean Hospital for many years at the Adult Outpatient Clinic, the Appleton Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program, and the Partial Hospitalization Program.I have given numerous presentations on the treatment of eating disorders, substance abuse and ADHD, and I serve on the board of the Multi-Service Eating Disorder Association.
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker, with thirty-two years of experience in helping individuals, couples and families to navigate life's many challenges.While I have maintained a general private practice, I do have expertise in treating eating disorders , substance abuse, ADHD and families struggling with these issues.I worked at Mclean Hospital for many years at the Adult Outpatient Clinic, the Appleton Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program, and the Partial Hospitalization Program.I have given numerous presentations on the treatment of eating disorders, substance abuse and ADHD, and I serve on the board of the Multi-Service Eating Disorder Association.
(978) 443-5909 View (978) 443-5909
Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sudbury, MA 01776
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.
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) 475-5709 View (508) 475-5709

See more therapy options for Southborough

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.