Eating Disorders Therapists in Fanwood, NJ

Photo of Kristina Cofone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Cofone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
I specialize in treating, perinatal mental health, eating disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, stress management and basic life transitions.
Upon entering therapy, my clinical approach is tailored to meet each individual's needs. There is not a cookie cutter person, thus, there is no cookie cutter approach to therapy. I work from an eclectic approach, incorporating a multitude of therapeutic modalities to assist my clients in meeting their treatment goals. I generally incorporate cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, person centered, and solution focused therapy strategies into each session. My clients and I will identify struggles and develop empowerment strategies to improve quality of life. In a non judgmental and supportive environment, one can feel safe to explore encountered problems.
I specialize in treating, perinatal mental health, eating disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, stress management and basic life transitions.
Upon entering therapy, my clinical approach is tailored to meet each individual's needs. There is not a cookie cutter person, thus, there is no cookie cutter approach to therapy. I work from an eclectic approach, incorporating a multitude of therapeutic modalities to assist my clients in meeting their treatment goals. I generally incorporate cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, person centered, and solution focused therapy strategies into each session. My clients and I will identify struggles and develop empowerment strategies to improve quality of life. In a non judgmental and supportive environment, one can feel safe to explore encountered problems.
(908) 660-0098 View (908) 660-0098
Photo of Erin Sweeney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Sweeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
I combine my supportive, empathic approach with treatment modalities including DBT, CBT, extended CBT for eating disorders, trauma-focused CBT, the Nurtured Heart Approach, and person-centered therapy.
As a therapist, I am most effective when I work with clients who want to change their lives but struggle with knowing what changes to make and how to make them. Your specific challenge may be related to anxiety, depression, perfectionism, self esteem, body image, disordered eating, or relationships with others, or you may be struggling with generally feeling "stuck" and knowing that what you're doing isn't working any longer. By working together in a supportive therapeutic relationship, we can find and practice ways to overcome your difficulties so you can start living your most fulfilled life.
I combine my supportive, empathic approach with treatment modalities including DBT, CBT, extended CBT for eating disorders, trauma-focused CBT, the Nurtured Heart Approach, and person-centered therapy.
As a therapist, I am most effective when I work with clients who want to change their lives but struggle with knowing what changes to make and how to make them. Your specific challenge may be related to anxiety, depression, perfectionism, self esteem, body image, disordered eating, or relationships with others, or you may be struggling with generally feeling "stuck" and knowing that what you're doing isn't working any longer. By working together in a supportive therapeutic relationship, we can find and practice ways to overcome your difficulties so you can start living your most fulfilled life.
(908) 676-7967 View (908) 676-7967
Photo of Elana Mundorff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elana Mundorff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Specializations I have include anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders.
If you are tired of feeling this way, know that there is hope. Sometimes life seems to get off track, but you can reclaim your life...regaining strength, balance, direction, and meaning. Therapy can be a place to begin this journey and gain lasting relief. Through a whole mind-body approach, we will explore all contributing factors, and address the root causes of your symptoms. I've been helping people for over 20 years with a variety of issues. So if you are dealing with trauma, abuse history, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, or just day-to-day stressors, I will work with you to achieve the healing you deserve.
Specializations I have include anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders.
If you are tired of feeling this way, know that there is hope. Sometimes life seems to get off track, but you can reclaim your life...regaining strength, balance, direction, and meaning. Therapy can be a place to begin this journey and gain lasting relief. Through a whole mind-body approach, we will explore all contributing factors, and address the root causes of your symptoms. I've been helping people for over 20 years with a variety of issues. So if you are dealing with trauma, abuse history, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, or just day-to-day stressors, I will work with you to achieve the healing you deserve.
(908) 214-7046 View (908) 214-7046
Photo of Kathy Most, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Most
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Do you want to thrive instead of just survive each day? Self care and self compassion are key components to mental and emotional health. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, family issues, low self-esteem, or stress management, you are not alone. Therapy is a place just for you, to be heard, validated and supported. I aim to help you better understand whatever issues you are dealing with and to learn positive, healthy ways to cope with and manage these stressors. My experience is primarily with late adolescent and adult women.
Do you want to thrive instead of just survive each day? Self care and self compassion are key components to mental and emotional health. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, family issues, low self-esteem, or stress management, you are not alone. Therapy is a place just for you, to be heard, validated and supported. I aim to help you better understand whatever issues you are dealing with and to learn positive, healthy ways to cope with and manage these stressors. My experience is primarily with late adolescent and adult women.
(908) 280-1848 View (908) 280-1848
Photo of Cheryl A Stein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl A Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Cheryl Stein, and I am here to help you work through whatever is keeping you from living your most fulfilling and authentic life. I've been in the field of mental health for a few decades, and have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, families and adults on a variety of issues. From hospitals, to schools, intensive outpatient programs and private practice, I am experienced in quickly identifying areas of strength and challenge, and together, we will go on a journey to discover how your path to happiness is being blocked.
Hello. My name is Cheryl Stein, and I am here to help you work through whatever is keeping you from living your most fulfilling and authentic life. I've been in the field of mental health for a few decades, and have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, families and adults on a variety of issues. From hospitals, to schools, intensive outpatient programs and private practice, I am experienced in quickly identifying areas of strength and challenge, and together, we will go on a journey to discover how your path to happiness is being blocked.
(908) 663-1341 View (908) 663-1341
Photo of Angelo Fouras - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023  (Online Only)
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(201) 503-3919 View (201) 503-3919
Photo of Lidia D Abrams - Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc, PhD
Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
(908) 365-1160 View (908) 365-1160

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laura Cunningham- Eating Disorders, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Cunningham- Eating Disorders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Do you hate what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror? Do you feel like your thoughts are racing at a million miles a minute? Do you have intrusive thoughts? I work with young women who have eating disorders and OCD. I’m here to help you quiet the inner critic so you can go to brunch with your friends without thinking twice about it. Eating disorders can come with a lot of secrecy and shame. We can break down the walls of isolation and let go of the guilt that doesn't belong to you.
Do you hate what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror? Do you feel like your thoughts are racing at a million miles a minute? Do you have intrusive thoughts? I work with young women who have eating disorders and OCD. I’m here to help you quiet the inner critic so you can go to brunch with your friends without thinking twice about it. Eating disorders can come with a lot of secrecy and shame. We can break down the walls of isolation and let go of the guilt that doesn't belong to you.
(908) 364-8905 View (908) 364-8905
Photo of Suzanne Rubinetti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Rubinetti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My area of expertise in eating disorders.
I bring a sense of empowernment, confidence and security into my work. These qualities, I believe are some of lifes most valuable assets . The responsibilities that we as women face today can be overwhelming. These demands can become so intense that maladaptive patterns of behavior can ensue.Women often neglect their own emotional needs. Often symptoms such as binge eating, rigid dieting, substance abuse, depression and anxiety emerge and make it difficult for women to function at an optimum level of health. Sometimes women experience an exacerbation in physical symptoms such as TMJ disorders, migraine headaches and chronic back pain.
My area of expertise in eating disorders.
I bring a sense of empowernment, confidence and security into my work. These qualities, I believe are some of lifes most valuable assets . The responsibilities that we as women face today can be overwhelming. These demands can become so intense that maladaptive patterns of behavior can ensue.Women often neglect their own emotional needs. Often symptoms such as binge eating, rigid dieting, substance abuse, depression and anxiety emerge and make it difficult for women to function at an optimum level of health. Sometimes women experience an exacerbation in physical symptoms such as TMJ disorders, migraine headaches and chronic back pain.
(908) 977-6133 View (908) 977-6133
Photo of Ginamarie Miro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ginamarie Miro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I offer a warm, safe space for those struggling with low self-esteem, eating disorders, body image issues, and relationship issues.
My Ideal client would be someone willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. My ideal client may be struggling with self-esteem, body image, or relationship issues. They may be in a relationship that contributes to their low self-esteem and want to find the strength and confidence they need in order to leave it behind.
I offer a warm, safe space for those struggling with low self-esteem, eating disorders, body image issues, and relationship issues.
My Ideal client would be someone willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. My ideal client may be struggling with self-esteem, body image, or relationship issues. They may be in a relationship that contributes to their low self-esteem and want to find the strength and confidence they need in order to leave it behind.
(908) 860-9458 View (908) 860-9458
Photo of Ginamarie Miro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ginamarie Miro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I offer a warm, safe space for those struggling with low self-esteem, eating disorders, body image issues, and relationship issues.
My Ideal client would be someone willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. My ideal client may be struggling with self-esteem, body image, or relationship issues. They may be in a relationship that contributes to their low self-esteem and want to find the strength and confidence they need in order to leave it behind.
I offer a warm, safe space for those struggling with low self-esteem, eating disorders, body image issues, and relationship issues.
My Ideal client would be someone willing to put in the work to achieve their goals. My ideal client may be struggling with self-esteem, body image, or relationship issues. They may be in a relationship that contributes to their low self-esteem and want to find the strength and confidence they need in order to leave it behind.
(908) 883-4125 View (908) 883-4125
Photo of Jessica Ribeiro, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Ribeiro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07091
Hi there! I’m a clinical psychologist and university professor with over 15 years of clinical, research, and teaching experience licensed in NJ, NC, and FL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In my practice, I use leading evidence-based therapies, which are treatments that are backed by decades of scientific research and shown to work. Primarily, these are cognitive-behavioral approaches (e.g., CBT) that are highly collaborative, active, and goal-oriented treatments that help people achieve desired symptom changes quickly and build more fulfilling lives.
Hi there! I’m a clinical psychologist and university professor with over 15 years of clinical, research, and teaching experience licensed in NJ, NC, and FL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In my practice, I use leading evidence-based therapies, which are treatments that are backed by decades of scientific research and shown to work. Primarily, these are cognitive-behavioral approaches (e.g., CBT) that are highly collaborative, active, and goal-oriented treatments that help people achieve desired symptom changes quickly and build more fulfilling lives.
(973) 750-9851 View (973) 750-9851
Photo of Hayley Perelman, PhD, Psychologist
Hayley Perelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922  (Online Only)
, starting college; leaving athletics; becoming a mother), body image, eating disorders, confidence, self-esteem, anxiety, athletic identity, and sport/performance issues for recreational to elite & Olympic-level athletes and high-level corporate executives.
Currently I am accepting new clients located in NJ, NY, MA, & VT, and clients seated in DC and the 40+ PSYPACT states (listed below in note). People often seek therapy for personal growth, to reduce suffering, and to live meaningful lives. I believe in meeting you wherever you are in your journey, and will empower and challenge you to find your own voice. This may mean exploring where you are feeling stuck and working to remove obstacles in your path, and discussing the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and how they are affecting you.
, starting college; leaving athletics; becoming a mother), body image, eating disorders, confidence, self-esteem, anxiety, athletic identity, and sport/performance issues for recreational to elite & Olympic-level athletes and high-level corporate executives.
Currently I am accepting new clients located in NJ, NY, MA, & VT, and clients seated in DC and the 40+ PSYPACT states (listed below in note). People often seek therapy for personal growth, to reduce suffering, and to live meaningful lives. I believe in meeting you wherever you are in your journey, and will empower and challenge you to find your own voice. This may mean exploring where you are feeling stuck and working to remove obstacles in your path, and discussing the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and how they are affecting you.
(973) 313-8109 View (973) 313-8109
Photo of Maxine Shannon, LAC, Counselor
Maxine Shannon
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Maxine has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and group settings. She specializes in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and stress management. Maxine has specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused treatment, and Structural Family Therapy.
Maxine has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual and group settings. She specializes in working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and stress management. Maxine has specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused treatment, and Structural Family Therapy.
(908) 529-8579 View (908) 529-8579
Photo of Joe Sciarretta, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe Sciarretta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I have been helping people recover from eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, and depression for more than 10 years.
Is your relationship with food and your body taking over? Does your mind get stuck on every little thought? Do you feel like if you aren’t absolutely 100% perfect, then you lose all self-esteem? If you said “yes” to any of these questions, I want you to know that there is hope! Feeling better is not just possible, but by working with the right therapist who understands your unique challenges, you can take control of your life and find real peace.
I have been helping people recover from eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, and depression for more than 10 years.
Is your relationship with food and your body taking over? Does your mind get stuck on every little thought? Do you feel like if you aren’t absolutely 100% perfect, then you lose all self-esteem? If you said “yes” to any of these questions, I want you to know that there is hope! Feeling better is not just possible, but by working with the right therapist who understands your unique challenges, you can take control of your life and find real peace.
(908) 258-9581 View (908) 258-9581
Photo of Lindsay James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Utilizing evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for eating disorders (CBT-E), CBT for ARFID (CBT-AR), Family Based Therapy for eating disorders (FBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD (CPT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), if you reach out to me your treatment will be tailored to you every step of the way.
I specialize in supporting individuals and families grappling with the intricate challenges of eating disorders and trauma, as well as their accompanying struggles of depression, anxiety, body image concerns, self-doubt, and more. With unending empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, taking that first step can feel like a leap, but trust me, you're not doing it alone. My goal is to help you thrive, which is why I make it a priority to create a space where you can open up about anything without worrying about being judged.
Utilizing evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy for eating disorders (CBT-E), CBT for ARFID (CBT-AR), Family Based Therapy for eating disorders (FBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD (CPT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), if you reach out to me your treatment will be tailored to you every step of the way.
I specialize in supporting individuals and families grappling with the intricate challenges of eating disorders and trauma, as well as their accompanying struggles of depression, anxiety, body image concerns, self-doubt, and more. With unending empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, taking that first step can feel like a leap, but trust me, you're not doing it alone. My goal is to help you thrive, which is why I make it a priority to create a space where you can open up about anything without worrying about being judged.
(201) 771-9794 View (201) 771-9794
Photo of Sandy Stein, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandy Stein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking this first step. Seeking help is an act of courage and while therapy may explore painful emotions it can also be fun, joyful and enlivening. I work with adults and couples. My specialties include working with relationship conflict, career stress, family dysfunction, depression, anxiety, trauma and eating disorders.
Congratulations on taking this first step. Seeking help is an act of courage and while therapy may explore painful emotions it can also be fun, joyful and enlivening. I work with adults and couples. My specialties include working with relationship conflict, career stress, family dysfunction, depression, anxiety, trauma and eating disorders.
(908) 987-3224 View (908) 987-3224
Photo of Liz Glanzman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz Glanzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Our thoughts, feelings, and our daily life can be overwhelming at times, I help people navigate through those difficult periods. I offer a warm and supportive place to talk about life's challenges, gain insight into one's thoughts and actions, and learn how to cope and solve problems. I have experience working with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, womens issues, eating disorders, martial and family conflict, grief/loss, low self-esteem, school avoidance, and offer parental support and psychoeducation.
Our thoughts, feelings, and our daily life can be overwhelming at times, I help people navigate through those difficult periods. I offer a warm and supportive place to talk about life's challenges, gain insight into one's thoughts and actions, and learn how to cope and solve problems. I have experience working with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, womens issues, eating disorders, martial and family conflict, grief/loss, low self-esteem, school avoidance, and offer parental support and psychoeducation.
(973) 457-4252 View (973) 457-4252
Photo of Cathy Hong - Center for Hope and Renewal, LCSW, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Center for Hope and Renewal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
Center for Hope and Renewal is committed to helping the residents of New Jersey with a variety of presenting concerns. Our staff are expertly trained and devoted therapists who share CHR's commitment to high-quality mental and emotional health services using a multi-tiered approach to help our clients on their journey to wellness. CHR is a group practice with therapists who work with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. Our therapists specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, loss/grief, relationship issues and life transitions amongst many other presenting issues.
Center for Hope and Renewal is committed to helping the residents of New Jersey with a variety of presenting concerns. Our staff are expertly trained and devoted therapists who share CHR's commitment to high-quality mental and emotional health services using a multi-tiered approach to help our clients on their journey to wellness. CHR is a group practice with therapists who work with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. Our therapists specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, loss/grief, relationship issues and life transitions amongst many other presenting issues.
(201) 890-4377 View (201) 890-4377
Photo of Tara Colandrea, LPC, MA, SAC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Colandrea
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, SAC, ACS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
(908) 884-1198 View (908) 884-1198

See more therapy options for Fanwood

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.