Therapists in Lexington, NC
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.Online Therapists
![Photo of Susan S Miller - Miller Counseling Services, PLLC, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb25358-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Miller specializes in holistic approaches, working with eating disorders, body acceptance, women's concerns, depression and mood disorders, and anxiety disorders, She is trained and certified in creativity coaching, spiritual direction, energy healing practices (Reiki and somatic approaches) and life coaching.
Miller Counseling Services, PC provides compassionate clinical counseling services for adults with the desire to promote healing in the whole person: emotional, spiritual, cognitive, physical and relational. It is Dr. Susan Miller's desire to help individuals improve relationships, find balance, and seek wellness in order to realize full potential and purpose in their lives. Dr. Miller also blends creative art experiences, somatic practices, spiritual direction, mindfulness meditation and energy healing with other therapeutic approaches to facilitate healing of the body, mind and spirit.
Miller specializes in holistic approaches, working with eating disorders, body acceptance, women's concerns, depression and mood disorders, and anxiety disorders, She is trained and certified in creativity coaching, spiritual direction, energy healing practices (Reiki and somatic approaches) and life coaching.
Miller Counseling Services, PC provides compassionate clinical counseling services for adults with the desire to promote healing in the whole person: emotional, spiritual, cognitive, physical and relational. It is Dr. Susan Miller's desire to help individuals improve relationships, find balance, and seek wellness in order to realize full potential and purpose in their lives. Dr. Miller also blends creative art experiences, somatic practices, spiritual direction, mindfulness meditation and energy healing with other therapeutic approaches to facilitate healing of the body, mind and spirit.
![Photo of Kia Weaver Byrd, MA, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3a20f22-c359-421e-81c3-53bede42c333/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kia Weaver Byrd
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27620 (Online Only)
I am so glad you are here. Getting the right professional support can be an important step towards the positive change you want in your life. Are you feeling overwhelmed or having problems managing emotions? Are you struggling to build and maintain supportive relationships or set boundaries? Have difficulty communicating with a partner or child? Experienced past trauma that is impacting your current relationships or your ability to function? Are strong feelings of sadness or worry keeping you stuck or living in fear? Do you have a challenging relationship with food and body image? I’m here to help.
I am so glad you are here. Getting the right professional support can be an important step towards the positive change you want in your life. Are you feeling overwhelmed or having problems managing emotions? Are you struggling to build and maintain supportive relationships or set boundaries? Have difficulty communicating with a partner or child? Experienced past trauma that is impacting your current relationships or your ability to function? Are strong feelings of sadness or worry keeping you stuck or living in fear? Do you have a challenging relationship with food and body image? I’m here to help.
![Photo of Jessica Jeremiah, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9df7008b-8da5-40e8-9d30-b7b3253654ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
![Photo of Linda Elma - Life Skills Management Services LLC, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e72277e-0243-490b-995a-743ad012fef5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life Skills Management Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204 (Online Only)
We are licensed in Utah, Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
We are licensed in Utah, Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
![Photo of Megan Johnson, MAEds, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1218d36b-c538-467d-9510-e2e3228de979/4/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEds, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28027 (Online Only)
Often the most difficult step is scheduling and attending the first appointment. I assure you that helping you create and meet your goals is my only goal. I simply ask that you commit yourself to the process of expressing your thoughts and feelings and I will commit myself to you through a safe and caring environment. Don't waste another minute trying to decide if you are worth the time and energy. You are.
Often the most difficult step is scheduling and attending the first appointment. I assure you that helping you create and meet your goals is my only goal. I simply ask that you commit yourself to the process of expressing your thoughts and feelings and I will commit myself to you through a safe and caring environment. Don't waste another minute trying to decide if you are worth the time and energy. You are.
![Photo of Ernestine Stewart, LCMHC, LCPC, LCAS, CSI, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc5560c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ernestine Stewart
Counselor, LCMHC, LCPC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705 (Online Only)
Are you a caretaker experiencing depression, stress or resentment towards your loved one? Have you been actively using substances or had a recent slip in use after years of being in recovery? Do you find yourself engaging in emotional eating or caloric restriction? Are you in need of emotional support after terminating a pregnancy? Has something occurred that caused you to start anew? Do you need a supportive ear that will listen and allow you to express your thoughts and feelings? Are you seeking skills to help you cope with everyday issues? Asking for help can be scary, but trying to go it alone can be even scarier.
Are you a caretaker experiencing depression, stress or resentment towards your loved one? Have you been actively using substances or had a recent slip in use after years of being in recovery? Do you find yourself engaging in emotional eating or caloric restriction? Are you in need of emotional support after terminating a pregnancy? Has something occurred that caused you to start anew? Do you need a supportive ear that will listen and allow you to express your thoughts and feelings? Are you seeking skills to help you cope with everyday issues? Asking for help can be scary, but trying to go it alone can be even scarier.
![Photo of Stacie Bliss, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43cfc5e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a sensitive soul who feels exhausted by the demands of life, and stuck in a cycle of habits that leave you feeling numb and disconnected? *Take a breath.* You’ve come to the right place for relief! We are all living through stressful and uncertain times, and it makes perfect sense if you haven’t been feeling yourself lately. And yet you deserve to feel healthy, happy and whole! Together we can work to explore the challenges you’re facing, build up your resilience to move through them with greater ease, and incorporate sustainable habits that support you in feeling more joyful, alive and connected to your soul's purpose.
Are you a sensitive soul who feels exhausted by the demands of life, and stuck in a cycle of habits that leave you feeling numb and disconnected? *Take a breath.* You’ve come to the right place for relief! We are all living through stressful and uncertain times, and it makes perfect sense if you haven’t been feeling yourself lately. And yet you deserve to feel healthy, happy and whole! Together we can work to explore the challenges you’re facing, build up your resilience to move through them with greater ease, and incorporate sustainable habits that support you in feeling more joyful, alive and connected to your soul's purpose.
![Photo of Nicole Moriarty - Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy, MS, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf8d4833-e604-4c81-ba83-450edb24d3d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that our resources were overwhelmed. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we don't have the support to process it, we store it.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that our resources were overwhelmed. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we don't have the support to process it, we store it.
![Photo of Alli Becker, MEd, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f14e2f-ba6f-47eb-b367-95e1fe13d717/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alli Becker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could wake up every morning feeling happy, fulfilled, and free of any consuming negative thoughts? If your answer is yes, you are in the right place. Whether you are struggling personally or in your relationships (of any sort: romantic, parent/child, etc.) we can help you. With over 15 years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, we are able to provide world class treatment for a variety of mental health concerns. Take the step to end your suffering today. It is time for you to learn how to live the life you deserve.
![Photo of Meg Higgins, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a63f495-c9a4-4784-8d99-dff60c21bb00/3/320x400.jpeg)
Meg Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27704 (Online Only)
You are sitting in therapy watching your therapist's lips move while she tells you for the fourth time that her cousin is gay and just got a “very butch” haircut. You can’t help thinking, “She just doesn’t get it.” He misgenders you, or forgets your partner’s pronouns, she pulls out Food and Mood, and he talks about how apple cider vinegar might be the solution to all your problems. She hasn't lived in a fat body. He hasn’t experienced homophobia or heterosexism from the inside. What initially seemed like a small hill to climb in your relationship has started to feel like a mountain.
You are sitting in therapy watching your therapist's lips move while she tells you for the fourth time that her cousin is gay and just got a “very butch” haircut. You can’t help thinking, “She just doesn’t get it.” He misgenders you, or forgets your partner’s pronouns, she pulls out Food and Mood, and he talks about how apple cider vinegar might be the solution to all your problems. She hasn't lived in a fat body. He hasn’t experienced homophobia or heterosexism from the inside. What initially seemed like a small hill to climb in your relationship has started to feel like a mountain.
![Photo of Kristin Leonheart - Kristin Leonheart, M.S., LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89c4c63b-6678-4cb3-b262-8d47be7b5aaf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Leonheart, M.S., LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I want to support you in healing in the deepest possible way. This has led me to explore the very roots of suffering, from the perspective of the ancient sages and from the perspective of modern trauma therapy. I support my people in experiencing the reality that exists beyond the bounds of the conditioned mind. I wield the wisdom of the body to facilitate deep transformation. I weave a nuanced understanding of the particular challenges modern minds face into what I offer to support my people in safely opening more and more fully to the freedom, love, and deep internal well-being available to us when we connect to who we truly are.
I want to support you in healing in the deepest possible way. This has led me to explore the very roots of suffering, from the perspective of the ancient sages and from the perspective of modern trauma therapy. I support my people in experiencing the reality that exists beyond the bounds of the conditioned mind. I wield the wisdom of the body to facilitate deep transformation. I weave a nuanced understanding of the particular challenges modern minds face into what I offer to support my people in safely opening more and more fully to the freedom, love, and deep internal well-being available to us when we connect to who we truly are.
![Photo of Lin Shlonsky, MBHt, BFPR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ebd3b92-5e9f-44eb-b83f-cabd120f4d7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you ever dreamed of reaching unprecedented heights in your career and personal life? What if you could turn self-criticism into constructive self-expression, gain incredible confidence in your decisions, and live guided by your heart? We are here to help you unlock your true potential. Forget chasing an unattainable ideal—the goal is to become the best "YOU" you can imagine!
Have you ever dreamed of reaching unprecedented heights in your career and personal life? What if you could turn self-criticism into constructive self-expression, gain incredible confidence in your decisions, and live guided by your heart? We are here to help you unlock your true potential. Forget chasing an unattainable ideal—the goal is to become the best "YOU" you can imagine!
![Photo of Sheila Maitland Relationship Enrichment Center, LCMHCS, LCMHCA, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51b0082d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila Maitland Relationship Enrichment Center
Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHCA, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Many of our clients look good on the outside, yet feel mildly miserable on the inside. Pain is motivating and when clients are hurting, they call to schedule an appointment. It takes more than intellect to change behavior. Most of our clients are intelligent and know what they "should" do, yet struggle to take action. Our team works with people (or partners) who struggle with substances and behavioral medicators such as alcohol, porn, overeating and codependency. We treat individuals, couples and families that need help with addiction, mental illness, infidelity or simply feeling stuck. It is a relief to not have to do it alone.
Many of our clients look good on the outside, yet feel mildly miserable on the inside. Pain is motivating and when clients are hurting, they call to schedule an appointment. It takes more than intellect to change behavior. Most of our clients are intelligent and know what they "should" do, yet struggle to take action. Our team works with people (or partners) who struggle with substances and behavioral medicators such as alcohol, porn, overeating and codependency. We treat individuals, couples and families that need help with addiction, mental illness, infidelity or simply feeling stuck. It is a relief to not have to do it alone.
![Photo of Dr. Lamont Barnett, PhD, LCASA , CPLC , MAC, CNHP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/097d6256-f700-42cc-99cb-e02e8b758cbb/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Lamont Barnett
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCASA , CPLC , MAC, CNHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
I specialize in helping you navigate through life's challenges, learn how to be more aware of your thoughts, feelings, emotions, surroundings, situations, & to reduce automatic responses. My clients are often experiencing stressors related to burnout, life transitions, life stagnation, relationships, perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome, high achievement/striving, challenging family dynamics, & struggling with managing anxiety/depression symptoms, addictions, or just feeling "stuck". The goal is to find your peace, recognize that you are not separated by your mental, physical, & spiritual health but interdependently connected by them.
I specialize in helping you navigate through life's challenges, learn how to be more aware of your thoughts, feelings, emotions, surroundings, situations, & to reduce automatic responses. My clients are often experiencing stressors related to burnout, life transitions, life stagnation, relationships, perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome, high achievement/striving, challenging family dynamics, & struggling with managing anxiety/depression symptoms, addictions, or just feeling "stuck". The goal is to find your peace, recognize that you are not separated by your mental, physical, & spiritual health but interdependently connected by them.
![Photo of Brelonda R Walker - Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bf19438-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070 (Online Only)
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
![Photo of Chelsie Ciminelli, LMSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f96a5a4e-0dea-4a78-a366-643e8e8c7838/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsie Ciminelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
It’s okay to ask for what you need. This is something I need to remind myself of on a daily basis. So many of us focus intently on making sure everyone else is taken care of and we completely abandon ourselves and ignore our own needs. This leaves us feeling exhausted, depleted, and quite frankly, resentful because we think to ourselves “why isn’t anyone taking care of me?” I teach my clients what a healthy relationship looks like because if this wasn’t modeled to you at some point throughout your life, no one can expect you to know what it means.
It’s okay to ask for what you need. This is something I need to remind myself of on a daily basis. So many of us focus intently on making sure everyone else is taken care of and we completely abandon ourselves and ignore our own needs. This leaves us feeling exhausted, depleted, and quite frankly, resentful because we think to ourselves “why isn’t anyone taking care of me?” I teach my clients what a healthy relationship looks like because if this wasn’t modeled to you at some point throughout your life, no one can expect you to know what it means.
![Photo of Kelli Underwood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae105ecf-e712-4554-9c04-16b75f63f95a/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
I have been successfully treating children, teenagers, adults, couples and families since 1996. I offer a diverse menu of treatment options, from concrete skills to deep healing techniques to attain sustainable change. Viewing you holistically in all the contexts of your life, by recognizing your vulnerabilities while building on your strengths, is essential. I create a validating environment and an authentic, collaborative relationship. I am honest, empathic and an effective teacher. I will support you and challenge you to grow in the direction you desire.
![Photo of Sandra Kahn, MA, LCMHC, LCPC, TRC, CCPS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10c9fdcf-d6fc-4d09-b5b8-4b71acb5fd06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Kahn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCPC, TRC, CCPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
May I come along side as you embark with on a gentle heroic journey toward change? I seek to encourage clients to find rest and new skills so old habits and wounds might become scars of life to empower a stronger sense of self and a more hopeful future. I provide trained and experienced professional services with a warm, calm, compassionate presence as I assist individuals and couples. I join with individuals whose lives are interrupted by anger, perfectionism, loss, life stage or career changes, health concerns, intrusive thoughts, behaviors, or betrayal injury, on first or next steps.
May I come along side as you embark with on a gentle heroic journey toward change? I seek to encourage clients to find rest and new skills so old habits and wounds might become scars of life to empower a stronger sense of self and a more hopeful future. I provide trained and experienced professional services with a warm, calm, compassionate presence as I assist individuals and couples. I join with individuals whose lives are interrupted by anger, perfectionism, loss, life stage or career changes, health concerns, intrusive thoughts, behaviors, or betrayal injury, on first or next steps.
![Photo of Elizabeth (Betsy) Shuster, MEd, LCMHCA, RYT-200, RP II, NSCA-PT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6880d941-fd73-48c2-aee7-9cc0f9b548f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth (Betsy) Shuster
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA, RYT-200, RP II, NSCA-PT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
My ideal clients are… individuals, couples and adolescents who seek to restore balance and find joy in their bodies, lives, relationships and communications.
My ideal clients are… individuals, couples and adolescents who seek to restore balance and find joy in their bodies, lives, relationships and communications.
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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.