Eating Disorders Therapists in New Brighton, MN

Photo of Dr. Chris Pfleghaar, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Chris Pfleghaar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have special interests in working with OCD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma (specifically complex posttraumatic stress disorder).
I have been practicing therapy in various settings since 2013. I enjoy working with adults, older-adults and have a specific passion for helping emerging adults. In therapy, I engage with my clients through curiosity, creativity, humor, empathy and collaboration. I also emphasize skills-building, value-guided behaviors, and mindfulness as a means to encourage and support my clients as they identify their path in life.
I have special interests in working with OCD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and trauma (specifically complex posttraumatic stress disorder).
I have been practicing therapy in various settings since 2013. I enjoy working with adults, older-adults and have a specific passion for helping emerging adults. In therapy, I engage with my clients through curiosity, creativity, humor, empathy and collaboration. I also emphasize skills-building, value-guided behaviors, and mindfulness as a means to encourage and support my clients as they identify their path in life.
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Photo of Emileah Most, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emileah Most
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
My clients have described me as thoughtful, empathetic, wise, and funny. I am not a bobble-head that will nod along to anything you say and just keep asking you, "and how does that make you feel?" I'm engaged, I'm funny, and I'm direct. I'm kinda like hard candy. I'm sweet and I can deliver challenging things when needed. With creativity and humor, I will guide you to explore other paths and options. I operate from a holistic lens, welcoming the all aspects of you and your family, including sexual orientation, gender expression, racial and cultural messages, religion and spirituality into the therapeutic exploration.
My clients have described me as thoughtful, empathetic, wise, and funny. I am not a bobble-head that will nod along to anything you say and just keep asking you, "and how does that make you feel?" I'm engaged, I'm funny, and I'm direct. I'm kinda like hard candy. I'm sweet and I can deliver challenging things when needed. With creativity and humor, I will guide you to explore other paths and options. I operate from a holistic lens, welcoming the all aspects of you and your family, including sexual orientation, gender expression, racial and cultural messages, religion and spirituality into the therapeutic exploration.
(651) 359-9798 View (651) 359-9798
Photo of Sandy Clark, LPCC, LADC, NCACII, SAP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandy Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LADC, NCACII, SAP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
Sandy Clark is a Minnesota Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, National Certified Addiction Counselor II, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Grief Educator, EMDR Therapist and Certified Animal-Assisted Interventions Specialist. She holds a master’s degree in Co-Occurring Disorders Counseling with specialization in depression, grief, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders, substance abuse, disordered eating, stepfamilies and justice involved individuals.
Sandy Clark is a Minnesota Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, National Certified Addiction Counselor II, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Grief Educator, EMDR Therapist and Certified Animal-Assisted Interventions Specialist. She holds a master’s degree in Co-Occurring Disorders Counseling with specialization in depression, grief, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders, substance abuse, disordered eating, stepfamilies and justice involved individuals.
(651) 299-6197 View (651) 299-6197
Photo of Jennifer Leigh Pohl - BHSI, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
BHSI
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
We are a group of psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, and marriage-family therapists committed to providing high quality and comprehensive mental health care for adults, adolescents and children. Whether you arrange individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, meetings with a psychiatrist to discuss medication options, or psychological testing to better understand the problem, our fully licensed and credentialed clinicians coordinate all of these services under one roof. When you visit a BHSI clinic, you can expect strict confidentiality and skilled, compassionate care. For your convenience, we offer flexible appointment scheduling.
We are a group of psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, and marriage-family therapists committed to providing high quality and comprehensive mental health care for adults, adolescents and children. Whether you arrange individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, meetings with a psychiatrist to discuss medication options, or psychological testing to better understand the problem, our fully licensed and credentialed clinicians coordinate all of these services under one roof. When you visit a BHSI clinic, you can expect strict confidentiality and skilled, compassionate care. For your convenience, we offer flexible appointment scheduling.
(651) 538-6893 View (651) 538-6893
Photo of Cynthia White Meyer - Cynthia White Meyer LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia White Meyer LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families, (adolescents, adults, medicare seniors and persons with disabilities) who feel disconnected from themselves, their emotions, their relationships, bodies, life purpose, or higher power. This may be because of an addiction, a personality disorder, relationship distress, a developmental or neurological disorder, depression, anxiety or a host of other issues. We work together to imagine and create integration.I am passionate about helping people create personal health and well-being for themselves and in their relationships, however they define this.
I work with individuals, couples and families, (adolescents, adults, medicare seniors and persons with disabilities) who feel disconnected from themselves, their emotions, their relationships, bodies, life purpose, or higher power. This may be because of an addiction, a personality disorder, relationship distress, a developmental or neurological disorder, depression, anxiety or a host of other issues. We work together to imagine and create integration.I am passionate about helping people create personal health and well-being for themselves and in their relationships, however they define this.
(651) 321-1970 View (651) 321-1970
Photo of Stacy Coleman Symons, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Stacy Coleman Symons
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
New Brighton, MN 55112  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals (adults and adolescents), couples, and families. I enjoy working closely with my clients to treat a wide variety of medical and mental health conditions. My specialty areas include mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, complicated grief, and severe mental illness. I also work to help individuals and families cope with the psychological challenges associated with a variety of acute and chronic medical conditions, including cancer, rare developmental and genetic conditions and organ failure/transplant. I particularly enjoy working with armed forces veterans and their families, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.
I work with individuals (adults and adolescents), couples, and families. I enjoy working closely with my clients to treat a wide variety of medical and mental health conditions. My specialty areas include mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, complicated grief, and severe mental illness. I also work to help individuals and families cope with the psychological challenges associated with a variety of acute and chronic medical conditions, including cancer, rare developmental and genetic conditions and organ failure/transplant. I particularly enjoy working with armed forces veterans and their families, as well as members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.
(612) 294-7310 View (612) 294-7310

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tracy R Williams, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy R Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Social trauma (weightism, sexism and gender bias, sexual assault, and racism) contribute to experiences such as negative body image, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD and depression.
I am a white, ciswoman, eager to work with adults interested in integrating Somatic Experiencing work into psychotherapy, a body based trauma therapy. If you recognize that your personal struggles are connected to the pervasive impact of the social, political, structural and power dynamics in which we live, working on that connection can be powerful. Embodied psychotherapy can be helful if you are feeling stuck and flat, or anxious and feel like you can't turn off, or if you flip back and forth between anxious and despairing. I hope to support your natural resilience so you can move through the stressors of life with more ease.
Social trauma (weightism, sexism and gender bias, sexual assault, and racism) contribute to experiences such as negative body image, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD and depression.
I am a white, ciswoman, eager to work with adults interested in integrating Somatic Experiencing work into psychotherapy, a body based trauma therapy. If you recognize that your personal struggles are connected to the pervasive impact of the social, political, structural and power dynamics in which we live, working on that connection can be powerful. Embodied psychotherapy can be helful if you are feeling stuck and flat, or anxious and feel like you can't turn off, or if you flip back and forth between anxious and despairing. I hope to support your natural resilience so you can move through the stressors of life with more ease.
(612) 324-1392 View (612) 324-1392
Photo of Negin Moallem, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Negin Moallem
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
I have over 8 years of experience helping women, young adults and teenagers from many races and ethnicities, work through their struggles ranging from eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues to family conflict.
Seeking therapy, whether it's your first time or returning, is a courageous step .The therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest tools we can develop for healing. I strive to create a non-judgmental, person-centered and compassionate space for all my clients. I believe everyone is an expert in their lives and I provide a space to help you better understand your emotions, relational patterns, life changes, and past and/or present trauma. I utilize evidenced based theories, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment therapy, EFFT and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I have over 8 years of experience helping women, young adults and teenagers from many races and ethnicities, work through their struggles ranging from eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues to family conflict.
Seeking therapy, whether it's your first time or returning, is a courageous step .The therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest tools we can develop for healing. I strive to create a non-judgmental, person-centered and compassionate space for all my clients. I believe everyone is an expert in their lives and I provide a space to help you better understand your emotions, relational patterns, life changes, and past and/or present trauma. I utilize evidenced based theories, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment therapy, EFFT and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(612) 662-1793 View (612) 662-1793
Photo of Pamela Gilliam Martin, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Pamela Gilliam Martin
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I am committed to your health and well-being through the delivery of evidence based therapeutic approaches. As a Mental Health Practitioner, I work with adults addressing a variety of concerns including addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, depression, self-esteem, career, life transitions, grief/loss and relationship issues.
I am committed to your health and well-being through the delivery of evidence based therapeutic approaches. As a Mental Health Practitioner, I work with adults addressing a variety of concerns including addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, stress management, depression, self-esteem, career, life transitions, grief/loss and relationship issues.
(651) 644-4100 x140 View (651) 644-4100 x140
Photo of Natale Garrity, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Natale Garrity
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55110
I have special interest in working with individuals (ages 17-99+) who are eager to make changes and may be struggling with OCD, anxiety, eating disorders, life transitions, perfectionism, self-esteem, work stress, relationship issues, depressed mood, grief/loss, and body image distress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unhappy? Perhaps you've had some recent challenges. You used to be able to handle it all, but lately it hasn’t been as easy. Are you eager to feel better, but not sure where to start? I’m here to help! I know it can be a little scary to start therapy and share your challenges with someone you just met. I totally get it! That's why I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space that allows you to be yourself and make necessary changes. Together we will work to identify unhelpful patterns that might be keeping you stuck. I want you to feel seen, heard and supported.
I have special interest in working with individuals (ages 17-99+) who are eager to make changes and may be struggling with OCD, anxiety, eating disorders, life transitions, perfectionism, self-esteem, work stress, relationship issues, depressed mood, grief/loss, and body image distress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unhappy? Perhaps you've had some recent challenges. You used to be able to handle it all, but lately it hasn’t been as easy. Are you eager to feel better, but not sure where to start? I’m here to help! I know it can be a little scary to start therapy and share your challenges with someone you just met. I totally get it! That's why I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space that allows you to be yourself and make necessary changes. Together we will work to identify unhelpful patterns that might be keeping you stuck. I want you to feel seen, heard and supported.
(651) 427-1277 View (651) 427-1277
Photo of Andrea Schroeder, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Andrea Schroeder
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I specialize in working with clients who have eating disorders and body image issues.
You're very courageous for taking the first step in finding somebody to talk to. Together we'll navigate the challenges you're facing in your life such as depression, anxiety, body image concerns, identity issues, low-self esteem, transitions, and losses. As you share, I'll make sure you feel heard and understood.
I specialize in working with clients who have eating disorders and body image issues.
You're very courageous for taking the first step in finding somebody to talk to. Together we'll navigate the challenges you're facing in your life such as depression, anxiety, body image concerns, identity issues, low-self esteem, transitions, and losses. As you share, I'll make sure you feel heard and understood.
(763) 272-7946 View (763) 272-7946
Photo of Lauri Brunello, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Lauri Brunello
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maplewood, MN 55109
I use both EMDR & IFS for anxiety, trauma, substance use, & eating disorders.
My approach to therapy is client centered. I work in a respectful, collaborative fashion to assist you in developing self-insight and to empower you for lasting change. I believe everyone has the capacity for change. I believe everyone deserves to love themselves, believe in themselves and feel confident in their ability to effect change in their life. This might not be easy to imagine but it is possible with support, compassion and understanding. Together we will work towards these goals and help you achieve the inner peace and happiness you are looking for.
I use both EMDR & IFS for anxiety, trauma, substance use, & eating disorders.
My approach to therapy is client centered. I work in a respectful, collaborative fashion to assist you in developing self-insight and to empower you for lasting change. I believe everyone has the capacity for change. I believe everyone deserves to love themselves, believe in themselves and feel confident in their ability to effect change in their life. This might not be easy to imagine but it is possible with support, compassion and understanding. Together we will work towards these goals and help you achieve the inner peace and happiness you are looking for.
(612) 400-8128 View (612) 400-8128
Photo of Benjamin Wolf - Hope & Healing For Life, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope & Healing For Life
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
My areas of expertise include working with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, post traumatic stress, and trauma.
I believe in encouraging clients to find their inner strength, resilience, and confidence. My approach to therapy includes offering hope and the skills to overcome struggles, no matter how difficult they might seem. Engaging in therapy will work to develop your own strengths and allow you to feel more comfortable in your own skin, leading to a greater sense of vitality and peace of mind. When you are ready to open yourself to these changes, don't wait. Call me today. I currently have openings in my schedule for day appointments and can get an appointment setup quickly.
My areas of expertise include working with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, post traumatic stress, and trauma.
I believe in encouraging clients to find their inner strength, resilience, and confidence. My approach to therapy includes offering hope and the skills to overcome struggles, no matter how difficult they might seem. Engaging in therapy will work to develop your own strengths and allow you to feel more comfortable in your own skin, leading to a greater sense of vitality and peace of mind. When you are ready to open yourself to these changes, don't wait. Call me today. I currently have openings in my schedule for day appointments and can get an appointment setup quickly.
(612) 217-4994 View (612) 217-4994
Photo of Dr. Sara Valentino - Sara Valentino, PhD, LP LLC, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Sara Valentino, PhD, LP LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma, dissociation and eating disorders.
I am straightforward, compassionate, and, at times, a bit irreverent. My style is pretty candid. With a background in behavioral neuroscience, I have a deep understanding of how the brain and behavior interact to create patterns of relating to self, others, and the world. So, I help clients create new patterns. Rather than assume one approach meets the needs of all clients, I adapt strategies from across types of therapies according to the individual.
I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma, dissociation and eating disorders.
I am straightforward, compassionate, and, at times, a bit irreverent. My style is pretty candid. With a background in behavioral neuroscience, I have a deep understanding of how the brain and behavior interact to create patterns of relating to self, others, and the world. So, I help clients create new patterns. Rather than assume one approach meets the needs of all clients, I adapt strategies from across types of therapies according to the individual.
(612) 431-8812 View (612) 431-8812
Photo of Theo Catanzaro, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Theo Catanzaro
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I specialize in treating eating disorders, perfectionism, and low self-esteem in adolescents and adults.
Are you frustrated why it is so hard to stop strict dieting, excessively exercising, and comparing yourself to others even though it has taken over your life? I will help you repair your relationship with food, exercise, and your body image so you can enjoy life without the constant guilt that you ate too much or that you are not the tiniest person in the room. I work with adolescents, families, and adults who are ready to learn, be challenged, and take control back from the eating disorder.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, perfectionism, and low self-esteem in adolescents and adults.
Are you frustrated why it is so hard to stop strict dieting, excessively exercising, and comparing yourself to others even though it has taken over your life? I will help you repair your relationship with food, exercise, and your body image so you can enjoy life without the constant guilt that you ate too much or that you are not the tiniest person in the room. I work with adolescents, families, and adults who are ready to learn, be challenged, and take control back from the eating disorder.
(651) 689-5332 View (651) 689-5332
Photo of Kaitlyn Valdez, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102  (Online Only)
Trauma, chronic illness(es), and eating disorders are intense, unique experiences that can change the way we think, respond, and prepare for day-to-day activities. It can also change the way our body functions on a basic level. My goal is to provide a comfortable environment where everyone can explore traumas, create coping skills, and gain self-confidence. It is within a safe, comforting environment that people have the potential to create meaningful change in their lives.
Trauma, chronic illness(es), and eating disorders are intense, unique experiences that can change the way we think, respond, and prepare for day-to-day activities. It can also change the way our body functions on a basic level. My goal is to provide a comfortable environment where everyone can explore traumas, create coping skills, and gain self-confidence. It is within a safe, comforting environment that people have the potential to create meaningful change in their lives.
(651) 427-7850 View (651) 427-7850
Photo of Nile Hammelman, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Nile Hammelman
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults. My approach centers building connections, offering compassion and staying curious about who you are in the past, present and future; helping you become the author to your own story. I want you to feel seen and heard throughout our time working together. Although I welcome working with a range of client concerns, my areas of special focus include navigating disordered eating, eating disorders, body image, shame and perfectionism, identity exploration and anxiety management.
I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults. My approach centers building connections, offering compassion and staying curious about who you are in the past, present and future; helping you become the author to your own story. I want you to feel seen and heard throughout our time working together. Although I welcome working with a range of client concerns, my areas of special focus include navigating disordered eating, eating disorders, body image, shame and perfectionism, identity exploration and anxiety management.
(651) 867-2929 View (651) 867-2929
Photo of Susan L Buesing, MS, LMFT, LD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan L Buesing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LD
Verified Verified
Shoreview, MN 55126
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a licensed Dietician, in private practice, who specializes in the treatment of Eating Disorders. Since 1984, I have served a clientele of children 12 and over, teens, athletes, adults, and couples. I provide clients suffering from Eating Disorders both therapy and nutritional restoration.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a licensed Dietician, in private practice, who specializes in the treatment of Eating Disorders. Since 1984, I have served a clientele of children 12 and over, teens, athletes, adults, and couples. I provide clients suffering from Eating Disorders both therapy and nutritional restoration.
(651) 433-6068 View (651) 433-6068
Photo of Kristen Hayashi, MA, LPCC
Kristen Hayashi
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55414
I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, drug/alcohol abuse, relationship issues, assertiveness/boundary issues, behavioral issues, self-esteem/self-worth concerns, perfectionism, polyamorous/ethical non-monogamy, non-binary/gender identity, LGBTQ+, and multiple belief systems, and cultures, and more.
Therapy provides a safe space for exploring challenges, developing strengths, gaining coping skills and growing to a better understanding of ourselves. We can share and process our experiences, emotions, beliefs and thoughts without fear of judgment. Therapy is a team relationship, we work together. My goal is to be your teammate, cheerleader, sounding board, empathetic confidant, and guide. As the therapist, I am there with some humor, support, curiosity, compassion, and understanding. I want to empower you so you can regain confidence in your resilience. Be yourself, you matter! You are worthy to get your needs met.
I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, drug/alcohol abuse, relationship issues, assertiveness/boundary issues, behavioral issues, self-esteem/self-worth concerns, perfectionism, polyamorous/ethical non-monogamy, non-binary/gender identity, LGBTQ+, and multiple belief systems, and cultures, and more.
Therapy provides a safe space for exploring challenges, developing strengths, gaining coping skills and growing to a better understanding of ourselves. We can share and process our experiences, emotions, beliefs and thoughts without fear of judgment. Therapy is a team relationship, we work together. My goal is to be your teammate, cheerleader, sounding board, empathetic confidant, and guide. As the therapist, I am there with some humor, support, curiosity, compassion, and understanding. I want to empower you so you can regain confidence in your resilience. Be yourself, you matter! You are worthy to get your needs met.
(612) 886-2524 View (612) 886-2524
Photo of Molly Sartor, MA, LPCC
Molly Sartor
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Golden Valley, MN 55422
I have an immense passion for working with folx who are "late diagnosed" neurodivergent, the LGBTQIA+ community, disordered eating/eating disorders, attachment-related trauma, religious/spiritual trauma, and folx who may be deconstructing and reconstructing personal beliefs and values.
Hi there! I'm Molly, a fellow human navigating this messy world with you. Being a human in this world is difficult to say the least, and I know that often times our needs go unmet to meet the needs of others. If you are feeling burnt out, are struggling with your relationship with food or your body, are experiencing an increase in "dark and twisty" thoughts, have a trauma history that you are having difficulties navigating, or are working through those existential thoughts of "who am I?", "what the heck is life?", and "Is it okay to not believe the things I once believed?" you are not alone.
I have an immense passion for working with folx who are "late diagnosed" neurodivergent, the LGBTQIA+ community, disordered eating/eating disorders, attachment-related trauma, religious/spiritual trauma, and folx who may be deconstructing and reconstructing personal beliefs and values.
Hi there! I'm Molly, a fellow human navigating this messy world with you. Being a human in this world is difficult to say the least, and I know that often times our needs go unmet to meet the needs of others. If you are feeling burnt out, are struggling with your relationship with food or your body, are experiencing an increase in "dark and twisty" thoughts, have a trauma history that you are having difficulties navigating, or are working through those existential thoughts of "who am I?", "what the heck is life?", and "Is it okay to not believe the things I once believed?" you are not alone.
(612) 662-1965 View (612) 662-1965

See more therapy options for New Brighton

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.