Eating Disorders Therapists in Livingston, NJ

Photo of Brittany Ruane, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Ruane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a former therapist at the Renfrew Center, specializing in eating disorders, treating teenagers to adults.
Sometimes, when we feel anxious or depressed, life can appear to come to a standstill. The rest of the world is moving, but we feel stuck or fearful of moving forward. As your therapist, I will provide a safe space for you to explore what may be holding you back. I will help guide you towards making positive changes and choices.
I am a former therapist at the Renfrew Center, specializing in eating disorders, treating teenagers to adults.
Sometimes, when we feel anxious or depressed, life can appear to come to a standstill. The rest of the world is moving, but we feel stuck or fearful of moving forward. As your therapist, I will provide a safe space for you to explore what may be holding you back. I will help guide you towards making positive changes and choices.
(203) 745-2132 View (203) 745-2132
Photo of Debra S Gill, PhD, Psychologist
Debra S Gill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I have run DBT groups and currently teach DBT skills in an Individual basis for Binge Eating, Emotional Eating, Bulimia, Addiction, and Anxiety.
I have 30+ years experience using therapy, coaching, and mindfulness to help people meet their goals and grow more confident in their ability to manage feelings, anxieties, relationships, weight, and health. I stand with my clients to develop lasting healthy habits including self-care and self-compassion. My style is highly interactive and focused on making sure you gain something valuable from every session we share. I listen compassionately and ask questions to help you understand yourself better. Also, I will teach you strategies to use when your feelings are strong or when you feel urges to something unhealthy or unhelpful.
I have run DBT groups and currently teach DBT skills in an Individual basis for Binge Eating, Emotional Eating, Bulimia, Addiction, and Anxiety.
I have 30+ years experience using therapy, coaching, and mindfulness to help people meet their goals and grow more confident in their ability to manage feelings, anxieties, relationships, weight, and health. I stand with my clients to develop lasting healthy habits including self-care and self-compassion. My style is highly interactive and focused on making sure you gain something valuable from every session we share. I listen compassionately and ask questions to help you understand yourself better. Also, I will teach you strategies to use when your feelings are strong or when you feel urges to something unhealthy or unhelpful.
(973) 435-4978 View (973) 435-4978
Photo of Julie K. Alter, PhD, Psychologist
Julie K. Alter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I work with adolescents and adults, both individually and in groups, on issues such as eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship problems, as well as a wide variety of other problems.
People end up in my office because what were once adaptive styles of coping no longer work for them. I provide a warm, safe environment in which they can begin to understand why they feel and/or act the way they do, and to try to learn new, more effective ways to cope with what they are dealing with now, and what may come their way in the future.
I work with adolescents and adults, both individually and in groups, on issues such as eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood swings, relationship problems, as well as a wide variety of other problems.
People end up in my office because what were once adaptive styles of coping no longer work for them. I provide a warm, safe environment in which they can begin to understand why they feel and/or act the way they do, and to try to learn new, more effective ways to cope with what they are dealing with now, and what may come their way in the future.
(973) 996-8932 View (973) 996-8932
Photo of Ellen Gamza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Gamza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am passionate about working with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders and adolescents and their families. I strongly believe that a safe, collaborative and caring therapeutic relationship is essential to effective therapy and can provide a foundation for healing and growth. Drawing from relational, cognitive-behavioral, insight-oriented and family systems models, my approach is always tailored to individual client needs. I am intensively-trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT),an evidence-based practice, successful with eating disorders and other self-injurious behavior and am part of one of the few intensively-trained teams in Northern NJ.
I am passionate about working with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders and adolescents and their families. I strongly believe that a safe, collaborative and caring therapeutic relationship is essential to effective therapy and can provide a foundation for healing and growth. Drawing from relational, cognitive-behavioral, insight-oriented and family systems models, my approach is always tailored to individual client needs. I am intensively-trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT),an evidence-based practice, successful with eating disorders and other self-injurious behavior and am part of one of the few intensively-trained teams in Northern NJ.
(973) 457-1005 View (973) 457-1005
Photo of Emily Bitton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Bitton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I also specializie in eating disorders and weight management - both ends of the spectrum - from anorexia to post-gastric bypass surgery.
Are you looking for someone who can help you figure out why things aren't working the way you want them to, whether it is your weight, your love life, your work or your home environment? Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your best life, but you feel helpless in knowing what that is? Do you wish you could find someone who seems to "get" you, who is on your side, and is committed to going down this road with you not only to help you figure it out, but help you with real life strategies to make it better?
I also specializie in eating disorders and weight management - both ends of the spectrum - from anorexia to post-gastric bypass surgery.
Are you looking for someone who can help you figure out why things aren't working the way you want them to, whether it is your weight, your love life, your work or your home environment? Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your best life, but you feel helpless in knowing what that is? Do you wish you could find someone who seems to "get" you, who is on your side, and is committed to going down this road with you not only to help you figure it out, but help you with real life strategies to make it better?
(973) 317-8083 View (973) 317-8083
Photo of Abby Sarrett-Cooper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Sarrett-Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in eating disorders, borderline PD, parenting, adolescents, and depression/anxiety. I work with individuals, couples and families in an active, caring, strengths based approach. I have advanced training in research based treatment methods such as DBT,and FBT that are proven to be effective! I combine compassion with evidenced based cognitive/behavioral interventions. I work to build collaboration with my clients and change lives by empowering individuals and families. I'm a speaker/group leader with the Eating Disorder Assoc of NJ and have appeared on CN8, WLTW-FM radio, News12 NJ.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in eating disorders, borderline PD, parenting, adolescents, and depression/anxiety. I work with individuals, couples and families in an active, caring, strengths based approach. I have advanced training in research based treatment methods such as DBT,and FBT that are proven to be effective! I combine compassion with evidenced based cognitive/behavioral interventions. I work to build collaboration with my clients and change lives by empowering individuals and families. I'm a speaker/group leader with the Eating Disorder Assoc of NJ and have appeared on CN8, WLTW-FM radio, News12 NJ.
(973) 568-0647 View (973) 568-0647
Photo of Heidi W Neuberg - EVE Counseling & Coaching, LLC, MS, LPC, LRC, Counselor
EVE Counseling & Coaching, LLC
Counselor, MS, LPC, LRC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Passionate about improving lives of women and their significant others using counseling, education, skills training, individual & group support, and problem solving strategies. Counseling is delivered with compassion and empathy by Heidi W. Neuberg, Licensed Professional Counselor, Eating Disorder Intuitive therapist & weight loss/food freedom Coach. Increased self-empowerment, positive self-esteem, and balanced living are possible. My clients are adults working to resolve eating disorders, chronic dieting, relationship conflicts, transitions of divorce, relocation, retirement, and grief/loss. www.evecounseling.com
Passionate about improving lives of women and their significant others using counseling, education, skills training, individual & group support, and problem solving strategies. Counseling is delivered with compassion and empathy by Heidi W. Neuberg, Licensed Professional Counselor, Eating Disorder Intuitive therapist & weight loss/food freedom Coach. Increased self-empowerment, positive self-esteem, and balanced living are possible. My clients are adults working to resolve eating disorders, chronic dieting, relationship conflicts, transitions of divorce, relocation, retirement, and grief/loss. www.evecounseling.com
(973) 355-6059 View (973) 355-6059
Photo of Ginamarie Miro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ginamarie Miro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
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.
(973) 860-3633 View (973) 860-3633
Photo of Stephanie Warm, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Warm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I work with people who are dealing with eating disorders, body issues, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders / depression, family & relationship issues, low self-confidence, interpersonal issues, existential questions, dissociation, loss, trauma, and disabilities.
Psychotherapy is a unique experience, in that it is encouraged that you share all of your thoughts & feelings, to include those that you might withhold in other contexts. Ideally, you will have an experience of feeling affirmed/acknowledged, thoroughly listened to, and seen as a complex person. That said, it can take a long time to feel free enough to share yourself in this way, and it is important that we move at your pace, plus respect that there are reasons why certain pieces of you are protected away. Your symptoms/difficulties are there for various reasons. You lead the way; I will support you in your process.
I work with people who are dealing with eating disorders, body issues, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders / depression, family & relationship issues, low self-confidence, interpersonal issues, existential questions, dissociation, loss, trauma, and disabilities.
Psychotherapy is a unique experience, in that it is encouraged that you share all of your thoughts & feelings, to include those that you might withhold in other contexts. Ideally, you will have an experience of feeling affirmed/acknowledged, thoroughly listened to, and seen as a complex person. That said, it can take a long time to feel free enough to share yourself in this way, and it is important that we move at your pace, plus respect that there are reasons why certain pieces of you are protected away. Your symptoms/difficulties are there for various reasons. You lead the way; I will support you in your process.
(973) 524-7045 View (973) 524-7045
Photo of Yael Bernstein, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yael Bernstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
I hold extensive experience working with the adolescent population struggling with things such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self harm, and eating disorders.
Struggling with any mental health concern can feel like an isolating journey. I provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals seeking support and healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with specialized training in maternal mental health, including the Postpartum Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) from PSI, I am dedicated to helping you find your path to wellness. Whether you're grappling with issues related to women's health, or are a teen searching for help with a current struggle, I offer tailored therapy solutions to meet your unique need.
I hold extensive experience working with the adolescent population struggling with things such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self harm, and eating disorders.
Struggling with any mental health concern can feel like an isolating journey. I provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals seeking support and healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with specialized training in maternal mental health, including the Postpartum Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) from PSI, I am dedicated to helping you find your path to wellness. Whether you're grappling with issues related to women's health, or are a teen searching for help with a current struggle, I offer tailored therapy solutions to meet your unique need.
(862) 420-0281 View (862) 420-0281
Photo of Susan L Saunders, LCSW, NCPsyA, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan L Saunders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA, ACS
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Issues I have worked successfully with are addictions, marital problems, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders,low self-esteem, stress-related physical problems, achieving career goals, improving relationships, sexual problems, parenting, child/adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, adoption, infertility, thought disorders, and many more.
What gets in the way of having a satisfying life? Repetitive behaviors, thoughts, and feelings can be troubling. How can problems be resolved? Through talk therapy! Individuals, couples, and families enter treatment with concerns: issues in relationships, addictions, careers, school issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, child/adolescent issues, phobias, and many others. I work collaboratively with clients to resolve issues that prevent having a fulfilled life or reaching goals or accomplishments. For over 25 years I have worked with adolescents, families, individuals, couples, and young adults. Why not discuss your concerns?
Issues I have worked successfully with are addictions, marital problems, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders,low self-esteem, stress-related physical problems, achieving career goals, improving relationships, sexual problems, parenting, child/adolescent issues, depression, anxiety, adoption, infertility, thought disorders, and many more.
What gets in the way of having a satisfying life? Repetitive behaviors, thoughts, and feelings can be troubling. How can problems be resolved? Through talk therapy! Individuals, couples, and families enter treatment with concerns: issues in relationships, addictions, careers, school issues, depression, anxiety, parenting, child/adolescent issues, phobias, and many others. I work collaboratively with clients to resolve issues that prevent having a fulfilled life or reaching goals or accomplishments. For over 25 years I have worked with adolescents, families, individuals, couples, and young adults. Why not discuss your concerns?
(908) 962-7170 View (908) 962-7170
Photo of Jan Weiner, PhD, Psychologist
Jan Weiner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, working with persons ages 12+ who have trouble coping with anxiety, depression, and other interpersonal issues. I work primarily within the Cognitive- Behavioral Orientation, using empirically supported treatments. I have extensive experience treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Pure-O, Phobias, Social Phobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Mood Disorders, and Eating Disorders. My work also frequently addresses perfectionism and relationship issues (marraiges, breakups, career changes). I am a compassionate, empathetic psychologist who understands the importance of a strong clinical understanding of your issues so that we can work together to achieve your goals.
I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, working with persons ages 12+ who have trouble coping with anxiety, depression, and other interpersonal issues. I work primarily within the Cognitive- Behavioral Orientation, using empirically supported treatments. I have extensive experience treating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Pure-O, Phobias, Social Phobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Mood Disorders, and Eating Disorders. My work also frequently addresses perfectionism and relationship issues (marraiges, breakups, career changes). I am a compassionate, empathetic psychologist who understands the importance of a strong clinical understanding of your issues so that we can work together to achieve your goals.
(908) 838-0809 View (908) 838-0809
Photo of Rick Yaverbaum, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rick Yaverbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Emotional Distress/Depression/Anxiety ADD/ADHD Relationship Issues - Couples/Families/Adolescents and Children Coping Mechanisms/Strategies Eating Disorders Loss Personal Growth Rick has been helping people overcome a wide range of problems for over 18 years.
As individuals we may feel angry, sad, anxious or overly stressed in our daily lives. As couples, we may have problems in our relationship that lead to conflict with our spouse or partner. As parents, we may face various challenges (educational, emotional and behavioral) with our children, and need guidance in how to help them, and ourselves. These life circumstances can erode our sense of well-being and strain our relationships in all spheres of life. They stop us from functioning to the best of our capabilities. I work to improve your functioning, decrease conflict and to make life enjoyable.
Emotional Distress/Depression/Anxiety ADD/ADHD Relationship Issues - Couples/Families/Adolescents and Children Coping Mechanisms/Strategies Eating Disorders Loss Personal Growth Rick has been helping people overcome a wide range of problems for over 18 years.
As individuals we may feel angry, sad, anxious or overly stressed in our daily lives. As couples, we may have problems in our relationship that lead to conflict with our spouse or partner. As parents, we may face various challenges (educational, emotional and behavioral) with our children, and need guidance in how to help them, and ourselves. These life circumstances can erode our sense of well-being and strain our relationships in all spheres of life. They stop us from functioning to the best of our capabilities. I work to improve your functioning, decrease conflict and to make life enjoyable.
(201) 490-4133 View (201) 490-4133
Photo of Cyndi Koch - The Koch Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Morristown, Waldwick, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Our DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have an outpatient Trauma Program for Adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Morristown, Waldwick, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Children, and Families. Our DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have an outpatient Trauma Program for Adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
(201) 439-8093 View (201) 439-8093
Photo of Priscilla Schmitt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla Schmitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families as they navigate daily life and additional stressors related to issues such as birth history, developmental / learning disabilities, behavioral problems, ADHD, community/school conflicts, family relationship issues, parenting, addictions, eating disorders, and trauma history.
Are you ready to explore why you and/or your children / spouse / partner and family have been struggling to deal with life’s normal activities as well as new challenges and stressors? Do you struggle to fall asleep or wake-up each morning feeling anxious and overwhelmed? You have found a safe, friendly, and nonjudgmental environment where together we can start a journey together to identify the challenges and then develop goals that you want to achieve in order to decrease negative stressors in your life. A variety of therapeutic tools and resources will be used to help you achieve your goals and truly live the life of your dreams.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families as they navigate daily life and additional stressors related to issues such as birth history, developmental / learning disabilities, behavioral problems, ADHD, community/school conflicts, family relationship issues, parenting, addictions, eating disorders, and trauma history.
Are you ready to explore why you and/or your children / spouse / partner and family have been struggling to deal with life’s normal activities as well as new challenges and stressors? Do you struggle to fall asleep or wake-up each morning feeling anxious and overwhelmed? You have found a safe, friendly, and nonjudgmental environment where together we can start a journey together to identify the challenges and then develop goals that you want to achieve in order to decrease negative stressors in your life. A variety of therapeutic tools and resources will be used to help you achieve your goals and truly live the life of your dreams.
(201) 654-0670 View (201) 654-0670
Photo of Daniel Linehan - Cognitive Change, LPC, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cognitive Change
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
We all use CBT which is effective in depression, eating disorders, anger mgt, relationship issues, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, PTSD, panic, and phobias.
Cognitive Change has been providing excellent service to each individual, couple, and family for over 12 years through the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for all ages. Our clients include all cultural, racial, gender, and economic backgrounds. All our therapists are either certified in CBT, TEAM-CBT, or DBT and are supervised by a certified CBT therapist. We work with co-dependency, anger, OCD, phobias, panic disorders, PTSD & trauma. Our goal with all clients is to learn how to move toward the life the client wants to live while accepting themselves and the world around them.
We all use CBT which is effective in depression, eating disorders, anger mgt, relationship issues, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, PTSD, panic, and phobias.
Cognitive Change has been providing excellent service to each individual, couple, and family for over 12 years through the use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for all ages. Our clients include all cultural, racial, gender, and economic backgrounds. All our therapists are either certified in CBT, TEAM-CBT, or DBT and are supervised by a certified CBT therapist. We work with co-dependency, anger, OCD, phobias, panic disorders, PTSD & trauma. Our goal with all clients is to learn how to move toward the life the client wants to live while accepting themselves and the world around them.
(862) 289-7894 View (862) 289-7894
Photo of Susan Simon-Fleischer - DBT Skills Group NJ LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DBT Skills Group NJ LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039  (Online Only)
* Feel like you are often on an emotional rollercoaster? * Do you have difficulties in relationships or fear abandonment? * Have trouble managing your emotions? * Looking to find a path to a fulfilling life?? * Perhaps you should consider Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Class
* Feel like you are often on an emotional rollercoaster? * Do you have difficulties in relationships or fear abandonment? * Have trouble managing your emotions? * Looking to find a path to a fulfilling life?? * Perhaps you should consider Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Class
(973) 319-8972 View (973) 319-8972
Photo of Diane M Zicarelli, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane M Zicarelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Everyone faces adversity in their lives, but with the right coping skills and support, one can learn to move through life feeling healthy, happy and whole. A therapist can offer the trust, connection, time and attention necessary to help their client achieve his or her personal goals, whether it's learning to break free from a cycle of anxiety and/or depression, dealing with loss, struggling with self-esteem or dealing with an eating disorder. The therapeutic relationship can be a corrective experience, allowing clients to take what is learned in therapy and use it in everyday relationships and experiences.
Everyone faces adversity in their lives, but with the right coping skills and support, one can learn to move through life feeling healthy, happy and whole. A therapist can offer the trust, connection, time and attention necessary to help their client achieve his or her personal goals, whether it's learning to break free from a cycle of anxiety and/or depression, dealing with loss, struggling with self-esteem or dealing with an eating disorder. The therapeutic relationship can be a corrective experience, allowing clients to take what is learned in therapy and use it in everyday relationships and experiences.
(973) 988-4789 View (973) 988-4789
Photo of Rebecca Nir, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Nir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
My ideal client is female, male, or nonbinary and is kind and generous, has good ethics, and loves to help others. They have been experiencing low self-esteem and have been numbing out emotions through food, technology, work, or other distractions. Their numbing-out practices have held them back from being their authentic self, productivity with work, maintaining healthy and loving friendships and relationships, having enough energy, and their overall self-esteem. They are ready to commit to putting in the work in therapeutic services to help them develop and maintain healthier coping skills.
My ideal client is female, male, or nonbinary and is kind and generous, has good ethics, and loves to help others. They have been experiencing low self-esteem and have been numbing out emotions through food, technology, work, or other distractions. Their numbing-out practices have held them back from being their authentic self, productivity with work, maintaining healthy and loving friendships and relationships, having enough energy, and their overall self-esteem. They are ready to commit to putting in the work in therapeutic services to help them develop and maintain healthier coping skills.
(973) 604-4866 View (973) 604-4866
Photo of Gina DiNiro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina DiNiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
It is hard to say what my ideal client is because I believe that I am capable of working with various types of people and that each person is unique. Even with a "challenging" client, I have learned a lot and found value in the work. With that being said, my ideal client has a history of trauma that has impacted their ability to connect with others and themselves. They are struggling with body image, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety about how others are perceiving them. They want to be empowered to advocate for themselves when necessary and create a wellness routine that serves as a preventative measure for mental health problems.
It is hard to say what my ideal client is because I believe that I am capable of working with various types of people and that each person is unique. Even with a "challenging" client, I have learned a lot and found value in the work. With that being said, my ideal client has a history of trauma that has impacted their ability to connect with others and themselves. They are struggling with body image, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety about how others are perceiving them. They want to be empowered to advocate for themselves when necessary and create a wellness routine that serves as a preventative measure for mental health problems.
(973) 784-8941 View (973) 784-8941
1
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.