Eating Disorders Therapists in Wellesley Hills, MA

Photo of Dr. Sarah Levinson, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Levinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Sarah Levinson, a dedicated clinical psychologist with a passion for helping teens, parents, and families overcome challenges and reclaim their lives. With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapies and clinical experience, I'm here to guide you towards a path of growth and recovery. My expertise lies in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders, eating disorders, self-harm, and substance use. I am dedicated to helping teens and families break free from the grips of these challenges and reclaim their lives.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Sarah Levinson, a dedicated clinical psychologist with a passion for helping teens, parents, and families overcome challenges and reclaim their lives. With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapies and clinical experience, I'm here to guide you towards a path of growth and recovery. My expertise lies in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders, eating disorders, self-harm, and substance use. I am dedicated to helping teens and families break free from the grips of these challenges and reclaim their lives.
(760) 316-1023 View (760) 316-1023
Photo of Melissa Crawford, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Crawford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative and solution-focused. I incorporate mindfulness techniques to increase awareness of harmful thoughts and behaviors, and skill building exercises to increase emotion regulation, resilience, and psychological flexibility. I hold an advanced certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from Boston University and have extensive training in mindfulness-based therapies.
My therapeutic approach is warm, collaborative and solution-focused. I incorporate mindfulness techniques to increase awareness of harmful thoughts and behaviors, and skill building exercises to increase emotion regulation, resilience, and psychological flexibility. I hold an advanced certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from Boston University and have extensive training in mindfulness-based therapies.
(781) 859-0243 View (781) 859-0243
Photo of Donna Cvitkovich, PsyD, Psychologist
Donna Cvitkovich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
I am a licensed psychologist in Massachusetts with nearly a decade of clinical experience working with a range of people who have complicated backgrounds and experiences, including trauma. I counsel adults, couples, parents, families, pre-teens, adolescents and veterans. At its core, my style is warm and empathic. I will also take an active and engaged stance in order to challenge my clients' limiting beliefs. Ultimately, I focus on helping clients alleviate their pain and suffering so they can find their potential and live life fully.
I am a licensed psychologist in Massachusetts with nearly a decade of clinical experience working with a range of people who have complicated backgrounds and experiences, including trauma. I counsel adults, couples, parents, families, pre-teens, adolescents and veterans. At its core, my style is warm and empathic. I will also take an active and engaged stance in order to challenge my clients' limiting beliefs. Ultimately, I focus on helping clients alleviate their pain and suffering so they can find their potential and live life fully.
(781) 235-4950 View (781) 235-4950
Photo of Hannah Peters, PsyD, Psychologist
Hannah Peters
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
As a psychologist, I offer individual therapy for adults and college students. I am warm, engaged, and collaborative. Together we create realization, connection, and understanding that lead to deep and lasting change. My clients want to improve quality of life, strengthen relationships, and create their lives with intention. We will collaborate to reduce anxiety, improve your relationship with food, cope with fertility struggles, and recover from trauma. I am also certified to treat Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I truly enjoy working with anyone who wants to reflect on, and grow from, the inevitable challenges life presents.
As a psychologist, I offer individual therapy for adults and college students. I am warm, engaged, and collaborative. Together we create realization, connection, and understanding that lead to deep and lasting change. My clients want to improve quality of life, strengthen relationships, and create their lives with intention. We will collaborate to reduce anxiety, improve your relationship with food, cope with fertility struggles, and recover from trauma. I am also certified to treat Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I truly enjoy working with anyone who wants to reflect on, and grow from, the inevitable challenges life presents.
(781) 705-7142 View (781) 705-7142
Photo of Susan Severson, MSW, LICSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Severson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, Florida, and Massachusetts (LICSW/LCSW). I earned a Master of Social Work degree in Advanced Clinical Social Work in Independent Clinical Practice and Health Care Specialization from Aurora University in 2016. I am a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and received my CADC in 2021. I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, LGBTQ+ issues, imposter syndrome, low self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, loneliness, ADHD, OCD, and substance abuse.
Hello, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, Florida, and Massachusetts (LICSW/LCSW). I earned a Master of Social Work degree in Advanced Clinical Social Work in Independent Clinical Practice and Health Care Specialization from Aurora University in 2016. I am a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and received my CADC in 2021. I have experience working with individuals experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, LGBTQ+ issues, imposter syndrome, low self-esteem, perfectionism, grief, loneliness, ADHD, OCD, and substance abuse.
(617) 609-1149 View (617) 609-1149
Photo of Pamela Slater, PhD, Psychologist
Pamela Slater
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
It takes courage to decide to change and to reach out to a therapist to join you on that journey. The best outcomes occur in the context of a therapeutic relationship that feels like the right match for you, in terms of the therapist's interpersonal style, approach, and expertise. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate with my clients to make the changes they are seeking in their relationships, their self-understanding, their unwanted patterns of behavior, and their mood. My approach is active, supportive, warm, respectful, compassionate, and strength-focused. I use multiple approaches to help clients find solutions.
It takes courage to decide to change and to reach out to a therapist to join you on that journey. The best outcomes occur in the context of a therapeutic relationship that feels like the right match for you, in terms of the therapist's interpersonal style, approach, and expertise. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate with my clients to make the changes they are seeking in their relationships, their self-understanding, their unwanted patterns of behavior, and their mood. My approach is active, supportive, warm, respectful, compassionate, and strength-focused. I use multiple approaches to help clients find solutions.
(781) 230-6218 View (781) 230-6218
Photo of Erin Kuehn, MSW, LICSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Kuehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (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 Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Marshall: Emdr Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
My approach as a therapist is relational & warm & I deeply honor the intentional time set aside by each of my clients to engage in the courageous work of change. As a trauma-informed provider, I work to co-create a compassionate and non-judgmental space & value offering clients transparency, power, & choice in our work together. Clients have shared that our work together has empowered them to feel safer in their bodies & emotions, set healthier boundaries & advocate for their needs, understand origins of beliefs & behaviors, create space to discover & practice new responses, & ultimately reclaim agency in their voice & life story.
(732) 641-6814 View (732) 641-6814

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jillian Burley - Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Birch Hill Behavioral Health, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
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 Caroline Balz, MA, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Caroline Balz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating people with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders but also see people with an array of issues.
It takes so much courage to begin the process of change! By utilizing Dialectaical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), self-psychology and a relational approach, I believe in a model of full recovery. I also believe that you can't feel good about your self if you don't know who that SELF is. This approach tends to gives you the support necessary to help break the cycles of maladaptive behaviors and live the change you want to see in your life.
I specialize in treating people with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders but also see people with an array of issues.
It takes so much courage to begin the process of change! By utilizing Dialectaical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), self-psychology and a relational approach, I believe in a model of full recovery. I also believe that you can't feel good about your self if you don't know who that SELF is. This approach tends to gives you the support necessary to help break the cycles of maladaptive behaviors and live the change you want to see in your life.
(617) 882-7075 View (617) 882-7075
Photo of Naya Schere - Van Dusen Nutrition, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naya Schere - Van Dusen Nutrition
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02494
I specialize in providing therapy to people with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I'm Naya, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to guiding individuals through healing from disordered eating, weight, and body concerns. I believe in the potential for gaining insight, solving problems, and achieving personal growth. With diverse experience, I understand the challenge of finding a supportive, collaborative provider who uses a person-centered approach. Together, we'll explore beyond your eating disorder or co-occurring diagnosis to embrace your best self in a safe and affirming environment.
I specialize in providing therapy to people with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I'm Naya, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to guiding individuals through healing from disordered eating, weight, and body concerns. I believe in the potential for gaining insight, solving problems, and achieving personal growth. With diverse experience, I understand the challenge of finding a supportive, collaborative provider who uses a person-centered approach. Together, we'll explore beyond your eating disorder or co-occurring diagnosis to embrace your best self in a safe and affirming environment.
(339) 293-1936 View (339) 293-1936
Photo of Andrea M Coleman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea M Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
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 Irena Cafasso, LMHC, Counselor
Irena Cafasso
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
(339) 218-3448 View (339) 218-3448
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 Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
I have assisted individuals dealing with an array of mental health challenges, including domestic violence, chronic relapse, relationship issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
(508) 475-5709 View (508) 475-5709
Photo of Dr. Sarah Karytko, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Karytko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
My particular areas of expertise are working with trauma, substance use, eating disorders and all co-occurring disorders (which can include anxiety, depression, and character issues, among others).
I offer psychotherapy for individual adults 18 and older who may be embarking on life transitions related to professional careers, marriage, and family growth. In my practice I take a collaborative, empowering, and in-depth approach. I facilitate a warm, accepting environment that offers understanding and care, coupled with supportive challenges to help you grow. Whether you are seeking therapy to better manage current life stressors, address long-term issues, or improve your life experience, together we can develop an approach to fit your needs.
My particular areas of expertise are working with trauma, substance use, eating disorders and all co-occurring disorders (which can include anxiety, depression, and character issues, among others).
I offer psychotherapy for individual adults 18 and older who may be embarking on life transitions related to professional careers, marriage, and family growth. In my practice I take a collaborative, empowering, and in-depth approach. I facilitate a warm, accepting environment that offers understanding and care, coupled with supportive challenges to help you grow. Whether you are seeking therapy to better manage current life stressors, address long-term issues, or improve your life experience, together we can develop an approach to fit your needs.
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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 Olivia Papakyrikos, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Olivia Papakyrikos
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, MA 02493
I am a licensed therapist and performance psychology consultant, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, anxiety & life transitions.
As a former collegiate athlete, I faced various challenges during my athletic career. As I navigated my recovery from injuries, I became aware of the various mental and physical obstacles that accompany recovering from an injury. My experiences as an athlete motivated me to help individuals tackle their own mental struggles. In our work together, I strive to build a safe space for you to share your own experiences and make changes at your own pace. I will create an individualized with you to target your unique goals, build upon your strengths and explore areas for continued growth.
I am a licensed therapist and performance psychology consultant, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, anxiety & life transitions.
As a former collegiate athlete, I faced various challenges during my athletic career. As I navigated my recovery from injuries, I became aware of the various mental and physical obstacles that accompany recovering from an injury. My experiences as an athlete motivated me to help individuals tackle their own mental struggles. In our work together, I strive to build a safe space for you to share your own experiences and make changes at your own pace. I will create an individualized with you to target your unique goals, build upon your strengths and explore areas for continued growth.
(857) 227-9184 View (857) 227-9184
Photo of Allison Barton, LMHC, Counselor
Allison Barton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Needham, MA 02192  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck in the same patterns? I help people managing stress, anxiety, ADHD, parenting issues, eating disorders/disordered eating and body dysmorphia, college transitions, relationship conflicts, and chronic health problems (specifically organ transplants). I provide a non-judgmental space to work through emotions and life circumstances, to find connection and support, and I can be your non-biased sounding board. I work with each of my clients to help identify where they are feeling stuck in life, what kind of changes they envision, barriers that are getting in the way, and how to work around those barriers.
Feeling stuck in the same patterns? I help people managing stress, anxiety, ADHD, parenting issues, eating disorders/disordered eating and body dysmorphia, college transitions, relationship conflicts, and chronic health problems (specifically organ transplants). I provide a non-judgmental space to work through emotions and life circumstances, to find connection and support, and I can be your non-biased sounding board. I work with each of my clients to help identify where they are feeling stuck in life, what kind of changes they envision, barriers that are getting in the way, and how to work around those barriers.
(339) 229-6109 View (339) 229-6109
Photo of W Rachel Krenis, MA, LMHC, Counselor
W Rachel Krenis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
(774) 479-4199 View (774) 479-4199

See more therapy options for Wellesley Hills

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.