Eating Disorders Therapists in Kinnelon, NJ
![Photo of Sarah A Armaghan, MA, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/211fc8ea-56a7-4f72-8437-38220d933c6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults to help them process unhealed trauma and guide them as they build the life they truly want. Practicing from a space of non-judgment and empathy, I recognize that each person is at a different stage of their personal growth and adapt our therapy accordingly. I believe in bodily autonomy and fat liberation and work from a Health At Every Size (HAES) belief system. If you are suffering from low self-esteem, body image issues, and/or eating disorders, we can work together to heal the root causes of these issues and create space for you to learn to love yourself as you are.
I work with adults to help them process unhealed trauma and guide them as they build the life they truly want. Practicing from a space of non-judgment and empathy, I recognize that each person is at a different stage of their personal growth and adapt our therapy accordingly. I believe in bodily autonomy and fat liberation and work from a Health At Every Size (HAES) belief system. If you are suffering from low self-esteem, body image issues, and/or eating disorders, we can work together to heal the root causes of these issues and create space for you to learn to love yourself as you are.
![Photo of Lindsay Bartos - LMB Counseling of New Jersey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03e1ad65-8c00-4591-b3d7-21d3f2bc662d/1/320x400.jpeg)
LMB Counseling of New Jersey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kinnelon, NJ 07405
When you realize you're struggling or you are at a difficult point in your life, the awareness can cultivate growth. Reaching out for assistance is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of your strength and motivation for change. It shows your readiness to address what is needed to move through the challenge. Stress, anxiety, past traumas, life transitions, relationships, or any other challenges can knock anyone off balance. If you are having issues as an individual or as a couple, we can help you.
When you realize you're struggling or you are at a difficult point in your life, the awareness can cultivate growth. Reaching out for assistance is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of your strength and motivation for change. It shows your readiness to address what is needed to move through the challenge. Stress, anxiety, past traumas, life transitions, relationships, or any other challenges can knock anyone off balance. If you are having issues as an individual or as a couple, we can help you.
![Photo of Judy Vartelas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e412fcd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a unique therapist in that I am classically trained and deeply rooted in formal psychoanalysis, yet I am also certified in the complementary techniques of energy psychology to help heal trauma and personal blocks. I have experience with individuals and couples in private practice for over 30 years. Therapy sessions with me allow you the choice of incorporating energy psychology or using only traditional talk therapy.
I am a unique therapist in that I am classically trained and deeply rooted in formal psychoanalysis, yet I am also certified in the complementary techniques of energy psychology to help heal trauma and personal blocks. I have experience with individuals and couples in private practice for over 30 years. Therapy sessions with me allow you the choice of incorporating energy psychology or using only traditional talk therapy.
![Photo of Susan Hirsh Prager, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3bd371-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
People seek therapy because they are in pain or conflict. As an empathic therapist I am very mindful of how careful listening is a critical aspect of therapy. Patients begin to experience relief when they feel they are working with someone they trust and who cares about their struggles. My work as a Psychologist for 25+ years has given me the experience and skills needed to identify the concerns and issues that keep many people stuck in patterns of behavior that hinder their higher functioning. Alleviating troublesome symptoms, and working toward a more positive self-image are key steps toward emotional well-being.
People seek therapy because they are in pain or conflict. As an empathic therapist I am very mindful of how careful listening is a critical aspect of therapy. Patients begin to experience relief when they feel they are working with someone they trust and who cares about their struggles. My work as a Psychologist for 25+ years has given me the experience and skills needed to identify the concerns and issues that keep many people stuck in patterns of behavior that hinder their higher functioning. Alleviating troublesome symptoms, and working toward a more positive self-image are key steps toward emotional well-being.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ava M Frotton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62ed7b39-d1dc-4a7f-a7e4-c01594c32dec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ava M Frotton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pine Brook, NJ 07058
I specialize in treating Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, and OCD. I am intensively trained in both DBT and RO-DBT. I help individuals find emotional balance by changing the self-destructive patterns that are getting in the way of their happiness. I teach my clients how to understand and better manage their emotions and, as a result, make choices that will enhance their lives.
I specialize in treating Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, and OCD. I am intensively trained in both DBT and RO-DBT. I help individuals find emotional balance by changing the self-destructive patterns that are getting in the way of their happiness. I teach my clients how to understand and better manage their emotions and, as a result, make choices that will enhance their lives.
![Photo of Molly Grimes - Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness, LLC, PsyD, LCSW, CED-S, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7114dcb-a06c-47bb-8dce-b745a0d6780c/1/320x400.png)
Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, CED-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montville, NJ 07045
Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness is a group psychotherapy practice focused on helping people of all ages struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, and excessive exercise. Additionally, we have particularly expertise working with adolescents dealing with a host of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship/ social problems, ADHD, generalized trauma, and other mental health concerns.
Spring Psychotherapy and Wellness is a group psychotherapy practice focused on helping people of all ages struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, and excessive exercise. Additionally, we have particularly expertise working with adolescents dealing with a host of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship/ social problems, ADHD, generalized trauma, and other mental health concerns.
![Photo of Erin Scheidle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/927b00e2-28d5-40af-ad34-5f19a07fd4cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Scheidle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pequannock, NJ 07440 (Online Only)
I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image/ body acceptance, and disordered eating patterns.
Life can be like an arrow. The only way to move forward is by being drawn backwards, letting go, and then launching towards success. My goal while working with you, is to guide you and show you how you are the expert in your own life; by embracing the pull back, accepting that it is okay to let go, and to move yourself towards success. "The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination." - Carl Rogers
I help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image/ body acceptance, and disordered eating patterns.
Life can be like an arrow. The only way to move forward is by being drawn backwards, letting go, and then launching towards success. My goal while working with you, is to guide you and show you how you are the expert in your own life; by embracing the pull back, accepting that it is okay to let go, and to move yourself towards success. "The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination." - Carl Rogers
![Photo of Amy Giarratana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/968da60c-375c-4a71-9545-aa9050c63ae7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Giarratana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
I am licensed an LCSW working with those who struggle with eating disorders, depression, and anxiety, as well as other mental issues.
I take a Health in Every Size (HAES) and Intuitive Eating (IE) approach while providing an enthusiastic, authentic, non-judgmental environment. Whether you are dealing with anorexia, OSFED, bulimia or ARFID, disordered eating, or other mental health issues, there is help readily available!
I am licensed an LCSW working with those who struggle with eating disorders, depression, and anxiety, as well as other mental issues.
I take a Health in Every Size (HAES) and Intuitive Eating (IE) approach while providing an enthusiastic, authentic, non-judgmental environment. Whether you are dealing with anorexia, OSFED, bulimia or ARFID, disordered eating, or other mental health issues, there is help readily available!
![Photo of Dana Magid, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/788bad7d-aef3-42ef-a861-7ccc7499fc5e/4/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to working with eating disorders, I also help clients manage the depths of anxiety and depression, which often can feel overwhelming.
Are you trapped by constant self-criticism, disordered eating habits, and the fear or shame that often surrounds food? Are you struggling with feeling like your body is never good enough, endlessly scrutinizing yourself in the mirror, and battling self-hatred? If you’re caught in this cycle, know that you don’t have to face it alone. My practice is here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-acceptance. In a safe, non-judgmental space, we’ll explore your unique experience and work together to find a healthier, more fulfilling path forward.
In addition to working with eating disorders, I also help clients manage the depths of anxiety and depression, which often can feel overwhelming.
Are you trapped by constant self-criticism, disordered eating habits, and the fear or shame that often surrounds food? Are you struggling with feeling like your body is never good enough, endlessly scrutinizing yourself in the mirror, and battling self-hatred? If you’re caught in this cycle, know that you don’t have to face it alone. My practice is here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-acceptance. In a safe, non-judgmental space, we’ll explore your unique experience and work together to find a healthier, more fulfilling path forward.
![Photo of Esha Chabra, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c7001f-91ce-4047-9200-65ae4cff8969/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with: Depression, anxiety, eating disorders, personality disorders, life transitions, self esteem and relationship issues.
Accepting New Clients. My style is warm, safe, direct, and nonjudgemental. I truly believe that everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is build upon safety, trust, and respect. I strive to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental, and warm environment where clients can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. I like to use a variety of evidenced-based practices with each person I work with, based on your individual needs. Being a child of first generation immigrants and from the South Asian community, I truly understand and respect the religions and cultures.
I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with: Depression, anxiety, eating disorders, personality disorders, life transitions, self esteem and relationship issues.
Accepting New Clients. My style is warm, safe, direct, and nonjudgemental. I truly believe that everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is build upon safety, trust, and respect. I strive to provide a nurturing, non-judgmental, and warm environment where clients can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. I like to use a variety of evidenced-based practices with each person I work with, based on your individual needs. Being a child of first generation immigrants and from the South Asian community, I truly understand and respect the religions and cultures.
![Photo of Brittany Murray, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eae6cbd5-9f77-45a0-97a4-692305cfc577/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
Brittany’s areas of specialty are crisis management, mental illness such as anxiety, depression and bipolar, substance abuse, emotional and behavioral health, body image issues, and eating disorders.
Are you looking to make changes in your life for the better? Do you feel lost or overwhelmed due to the lack of support and resources to make that happen? I strongly believe in establishing collaborative therapeutic relationships, with clients being active participants in their own personal growth and recovery. By the creation and implementation of treatment plans tailored around their current needs, preferences, and values, clients will become confident in making their own life's decisions. The first step towards changing your life begins here! Brittany is a Licensed Social Worker with a Masters degree from Fordham University.
Brittany’s areas of specialty are crisis management, mental illness such as anxiety, depression and bipolar, substance abuse, emotional and behavioral health, body image issues, and eating disorders.
Are you looking to make changes in your life for the better? Do you feel lost or overwhelmed due to the lack of support and resources to make that happen? I strongly believe in establishing collaborative therapeutic relationships, with clients being active participants in their own personal growth and recovery. By the creation and implementation of treatment plans tailored around their current needs, preferences, and values, clients will become confident in making their own life's decisions. The first step towards changing your life begins here! Brittany is a Licensed Social Worker with a Masters degree from Fordham University.
![Photo of Cheri Neadle, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4246ff6f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cheri Neadle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
Waitlist for new clients
My experience as a clinician and program director of residential and intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment has provided me with the skill set to treat clients with Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and exercise addiction.
Our emotions can feel so overwhelming sometimes and I am here to help you gain control back over your life. My background in marital and family therapy coupled with intensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) helps my clients to strengthen their skill sets to feel more in control of their emotions while increasing positive interpersonal relationships. My areas of expertise are in working with clients with eating disorders, family discord, anxiety, difficulties with regulating emotions, self-injury, depression, interpersonal problems, and impulsivity.
My experience as a clinician and program director of residential and intensive outpatient eating disorder treatment has provided me with the skill set to treat clients with Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and exercise addiction.
Our emotions can feel so overwhelming sometimes and I am here to help you gain control back over your life. My background in marital and family therapy coupled with intensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) helps my clients to strengthen their skill sets to feel more in control of their emotions while increasing positive interpersonal relationships. My areas of expertise are in working with clients with eating disorders, family discord, anxiety, difficulties with regulating emotions, self-injury, depression, interpersonal problems, and impulsivity.
![Photo of Shannon Theobald, MA, LPC, EMDR *, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36631833-57c7-4a09-ac7d-90e32c422df3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Theobald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR *
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Shannon Theobald is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and trained EMDR Therapist in New Jersey at Thrively Co. Shannon has experience working with individuals, families, and couples dealing with a wide range of issues including: mental illness, co-occurring disorders, trauma, eating disorders, career counseling, grief & loss, and relationship/marital challenges. Shannon is dedicated to helping others find purpose and meaning in who they are and what they do. She uses a variety of approaches & techniques to facilitate this process, accommodating each client’s needs in an effective tailored manner.
Shannon Theobald is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and trained EMDR Therapist in New Jersey at Thrively Co. Shannon has experience working with individuals, families, and couples dealing with a wide range of issues including: mental illness, co-occurring disorders, trauma, eating disorders, career counseling, grief & loss, and relationship/marital challenges. Shannon is dedicated to helping others find purpose and meaning in who they are and what they do. She uses a variety of approaches & techniques to facilitate this process, accommodating each client’s needs in an effective tailored manner.
![Photo of Amanda Bitterman, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cf9dbc6-6564-4a3e-854e-c65d3a4b520b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Bitterman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parsippany, NJ 07054
I specialize in working with individuals with eating disorders and other general mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression. I work with individuals at all stages of the recovery process and am passionate about helping individuals heal their relationship with their body and mind. Through practice, I help individuals use creative forms of expression to improve self-esteem, body image, relationship with self, and more.
I specialize in working with individuals with eating disorders and other general mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression. I work with individuals at all stages of the recovery process and am passionate about helping individuals heal their relationship with their body and mind. Through practice, I help individuals use creative forms of expression to improve self-esteem, body image, relationship with self, and more.
![Photo of Amy Eiten, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476391d2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a warm and empathetic therapist in clinical practice for over 25 years, I appreciate how difficult it is to talk to someone about very personal and challenging issues. I believe that a person can grow and empower oneself via talk therapy and building a therapeutic alliance. My specialties include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, issues of cancer survivors, grief counseling, change of life issues, divorce, marital and couples counseling. My practice draws upon cognitive behavioral, motivational theory, DBT(Dialectic Behavioral Theory), mindfulness and interpersonal dynamics. I work with individuals (age 18 and older), couples and families.
I am a warm and empathetic therapist in clinical practice for over 25 years, I appreciate how difficult it is to talk to someone about very personal and challenging issues. I believe that a person can grow and empower oneself via talk therapy and building a therapeutic alliance. My specialties include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, issues of cancer survivors, grief counseling, change of life issues, divorce, marital and couples counseling. My practice draws upon cognitive behavioral, motivational theory, DBT(Dialectic Behavioral Theory), mindfulness and interpersonal dynamics. I work with individuals (age 18 and older), couples and families.
![Photo of Nicolette Ferrante, MS, LAC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c40cd87a-a9fc-4d5b-97ca-bfb1b40f7fd5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicolette Ferrante
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470 (Online Only)
I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, eating disorders, self esteem and more.
Are you ready to start counseling but, not sure where to begin? Initiating therapy or finding the right provider can be intimidating, confusing, or overwhelming, but it's a step I'm prepared to help you overcome. If you're looking to be heard and understood without judgment, want to gain insight into your feelings, thoughts, patterns, and build a happier more fulfilling life, I'm here to guide you through the process. In our sessions, you can express yourself freely, and connect the dots to build self-understanding. I focus on getting to the root of the problem, going beyond the surface symptoms, to truly heal from the inside out.
I treat anxiety, OCD, depression, eating disorders, self esteem and more.
Are you ready to start counseling but, not sure where to begin? Initiating therapy or finding the right provider can be intimidating, confusing, or overwhelming, but it's a step I'm prepared to help you overcome. If you're looking to be heard and understood without judgment, want to gain insight into your feelings, thoughts, patterns, and build a happier more fulfilling life, I'm here to guide you through the process. In our sessions, you can express yourself freely, and connect the dots to build self-understanding. I focus on getting to the root of the problem, going beyond the surface symptoms, to truly heal from the inside out.
![Photo of Janine Standish, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a60c06f-716a-4552-8ab9-edc32e7c071d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janine Standish
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
Dedicated to improving the quality of life for those who are seeking treatment, I have experience working with individuals, families and couples contending with a variety of challenges including developmental/behavioral/social issues, family/relational conflict, parenting, separation/divorce, adoption, anxiety and depression. Moreover, I have extensive training working with those that have experienced a trauma or suffered a significant loss, as well as who are contending with the challenges of eating disorders and related dietary issues.
Dedicated to improving the quality of life for those who are seeking treatment, I have experience working with individuals, families and couples contending with a variety of challenges including developmental/behavioral/social issues, family/relational conflict, parenting, separation/divorce, adoption, anxiety and depression. Moreover, I have extensive training working with those that have experienced a trauma or suffered a significant loss, as well as who are contending with the challenges of eating disorders and related dietary issues.
![Photo of Gail F. Canavan, DNP, APN, C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce7fa38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gail Canavan is an advanced practice nurse clinician with more than 30 years of experience in private practice treating adolescents and adults with mental health concerns including depression, panic and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), drug and alcohol addiction, out of control sexual behavior, post-traumatic stress disorder (P.T.S.D.), eating disorders, and dementia. In addition to an integrative general psychotherapy and medication management practice, Dr. Canavan specializes in sex therapy and relationship dynamics, working with individuals and couples of all ages and sexual orientations.
Dr. Gail Canavan is an advanced practice nurse clinician with more than 30 years of experience in private practice treating adolescents and adults with mental health concerns including depression, panic and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), drug and alcohol addiction, out of control sexual behavior, post-traumatic stress disorder (P.T.S.D.), eating disorders, and dementia. In addition to an integrative general psychotherapy and medication management practice, Dr. Canavan specializes in sex therapy and relationship dynamics, working with individuals and couples of all ages and sexual orientations.
![Photo of Teresa Fetherman, MS, LCADC, CAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a85cfda-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Fetherman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCADC, CAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ringwood, NJ 07456 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Most recently substance abuse, eating disorders, relationship issues and anxiety/depression are my area of specialties.
"Nothing changes if nothing changes". I am a licensed therapist who will work with you, your family or your partner to help find the change that is specific to you. I believe in working without judgement and together establishing agreed upon goals. I do not believe in "cookie cutter" therapy where one approach is used for all and the goals are determined by the therapist. Now is the time for YOU to start making the changes needed for a fulfilling tomorrow. Your successful tomorrow is my hope.
Most recently substance abuse, eating disorders, relationship issues and anxiety/depression are my area of specialties.
"Nothing changes if nothing changes". I am a licensed therapist who will work with you, your family or your partner to help find the change that is specific to you. I believe in working without judgement and together establishing agreed upon goals. I do not believe in "cookie cutter" therapy where one approach is used for all and the goals are determined by the therapist. Now is the time for YOU to start making the changes needed for a fulfilling tomorrow. Your successful tomorrow is my hope.
![Photo of Amy Edelstein, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9ec5e4d-9653-48e0-9737-c45d582f26ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been interviewed for over 30 publications and live media and served in leadership roles in large organizations to support trauma survivors and individuals with eating disorders.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and parents struggling with overwhelming feelings, infertility, birth trauma, pregnancy/postpartum issues, trauma, anxiety, depression or general life obstacles. I believe that the way you view yourself, your relationships with others, and the world is a gateway to the therapeutic experience. My clients would describe my warmth, compassion, use of humor and realism as a recipe for connection and safety within our relationship. I am an active participant during sessions and willing to be vulnerable to move my client to a place of change.
I have been interviewed for over 30 publications and live media and served in leadership roles in large organizations to support trauma survivors and individuals with eating disorders.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and parents struggling with overwhelming feelings, infertility, birth trauma, pregnancy/postpartum issues, trauma, anxiety, depression or general life obstacles. I believe that the way you view yourself, your relationships with others, and the world is a gateway to the therapeutic experience. My clients would describe my warmth, compassion, use of humor and realism as a recipe for connection and safety within our relationship. I am an active participant during sessions and willing to be vulnerable to move my client to a place of change.
See more therapy options for Kinnelon
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Kinnelon
- Boonton
- Denville
- Fairfield
- Franklin Lakes
- Montville
- Mountain Lakes
- Oakland
- Pine Brook
- Pompton Lakes
- Rockaway
- Watchung
- Wayne
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.