Eating Disorders Therapists in Marlboro, NJ
![Photo of Joanne Gerr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f99bc3d-c9cd-4bc7-aad0-bc227f535911/3/320x400.jpeg)
We resolve depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and couples’ issues.
How many times have you said to yourself, "I've got to stop doing this"? And then you do it again. I know because I've worked with hundreds of people, individually and in groups, who have said the same thing. But together we have found a way to get them unstuck and onto a path of increased self-esteem and happiness. Whether the issue is putting unhealthy food in your body or not effectively communicating, I'm here to help you identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck so that you can take charge of your life.
We resolve depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and couples’ issues.
How many times have you said to yourself, "I've got to stop doing this"? And then you do it again. I know because I've worked with hundreds of people, individually and in groups, who have said the same thing. But together we have found a way to get them unstuck and onto a path of increased self-esteem and happiness. Whether the issue is putting unhealthy food in your body or not effectively communicating, I'm here to help you identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck so that you can take charge of your life.
![Photo of Sally Rose Sauter, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50896ec5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Rose Sauter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from The College of New Jersey. I earned my graduate degree in Professional Counseling from Monmouth University with highest honors. I completed my clinical hours at The College of New Jersey’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) as an individual and group psychotherapist. I worked in the field as a Community Health Educator and I have been a practicing psychotherapist since 2006. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, anxiety and depression, interpersonal strife, and OCD/OCPD.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from The College of New Jersey. I earned my graduate degree in Professional Counseling from Monmouth University with highest honors. I completed my clinical hours at The College of New Jersey’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) as an individual and group psychotherapist. I worked in the field as a Community Health Educator and I have been a practicing psychotherapist since 2006. I have extensive experience in treating eating disorders, anxiety and depression, interpersonal strife, and OCD/OCPD.
![Photo of Ann Basta, MD , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5f7f8cd-91da-4c01-920c-027358006d50/4/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! You have just taken a step towards self care. Simply seeking out a resource can put you on the path to becoming your true self. Be kind to yourself because you have overcome so much and despite it all you are here now. Life is a journey full of highs and lows and whether we realize it or not, each one of us has the ability to handle anything life brings. Therapy allows a person to understand how to use their amazing strengths. It equips you with the knowledge that you can successfully realize any goal and address any issue.
Welcome! You have just taken a step towards self care. Simply seeking out a resource can put you on the path to becoming your true self. Be kind to yourself because you have overcome so much and despite it all you are here now. Life is a journey full of highs and lows and whether we realize it or not, each one of us has the ability to handle anything life brings. Therapy allows a person to understand how to use their amazing strengths. It equips you with the knowledge that you can successfully realize any goal and address any issue.
![Photo of Sara Ellen Helfrich, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af678422-eccf-4302-87ad-a50b0bddee67/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Ellen Helfrich
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746 (Online Only)
I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for almost 30 years. I began my career doing play therapy with young children. While I loved that, I discovered that there is so much more to be explored in therapy when working with a variety of age groups. Over the years I have worked with many different ages and populations and I feel as though I’ve learned from my clients as much as they have learned from me. I believe that the connection that you have with your therapist is the first step to meeting any goal. While I often take a direct approach with my clients, I also tell them, “my goals can’t be your goals."
I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for almost 30 years. I began my career doing play therapy with young children. While I loved that, I discovered that there is so much more to be explored in therapy when working with a variety of age groups. Over the years I have worked with many different ages and populations and I feel as though I’ve learned from my clients as much as they have learned from me. I believe that the connection that you have with your therapist is the first step to meeting any goal. While I often take a direct approach with my clients, I also tell them, “my goals can’t be your goals."
![Photo of Jarrah Kratzer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cde2e9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The decision to enter into therapy is a challenging one, which is why I strive to make your experience as comfortable and as empowering as possible. My goal is to develop a trusting and encouraging therapeutic relationship by drawing on your personal strengths and creating attainable and realistic goals. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults working toward achieving emotional well-being and life balance. I have experience working with people facing a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief & loss, infertility and pregnancy loss issues, postpartum mood disorders, substance abuse, and many others.
The decision to enter into therapy is a challenging one, which is why I strive to make your experience as comfortable and as empowering as possible. My goal is to develop a trusting and encouraging therapeutic relationship by drawing on your personal strengths and creating attainable and realistic goals. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults working toward achieving emotional well-being and life balance. I have experience working with people facing a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief & loss, infertility and pregnancy loss issues, postpartum mood disorders, substance abuse, and many others.
![Photo of Jody Weiner Davis, MA, MSW, DCSW, BCD, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f964398-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jody Weiner Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, DCSW, BCD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746 (Online Only)
I enjoy helping people to change, to improve their lives, and to achieve their goals that we set out to work on together in therapy. I provide Individual, Couple, Family therapy, treating children and adults. I enjoy the diversity of my practice. I am the type of therapist that interacts in the session: feedback, questions, homework... I have specialized experience in the treatment of: Anxiety Disorder; Grief and Loss; Depression; Attention Deficit Disorder in children and adults; Asperger's Syndrome; Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; Binge/Compulsive Eating; Marriage Counseling; Divorce/ Remarried Family Counseling; Infertility and Adoption Counseling; Postpartum Depression; School Related Problems; Stress Management.
I enjoy helping people to change, to improve their lives, and to achieve their goals that we set out to work on together in therapy. I provide Individual, Couple, Family therapy, treating children and adults. I enjoy the diversity of my practice. I am the type of therapist that interacts in the session: feedback, questions, homework... I have specialized experience in the treatment of: Anxiety Disorder; Grief and Loss; Depression; Attention Deficit Disorder in children and adults; Asperger's Syndrome; Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; Binge/Compulsive Eating; Marriage Counseling; Divorce/ Remarried Family Counseling; Infertility and Adoption Counseling; Postpartum Depression; School Related Problems; Stress Management.
![Photo of Pat Smith, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e433ef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe whatever problem you may be facing is solvable. I am passionate about helping people and I have been doing it for over 35 yrs. I have worked in private practice, inpatient and outpatient settings. I have experience in the most relevant evidenced based/best practices (cbt, dbt, MI, 12 Step/Harm Reduction, trauma informed, mindfulness ) One size does not fit all! I am compassionate, kind and non judgemental with a strong desire to help people achieve a life worth living. I provide a safe place and am committed to having an open and affirming practice for people of all races, religions, genders and sexualities.
I believe whatever problem you may be facing is solvable. I am passionate about helping people and I have been doing it for over 35 yrs. I have worked in private practice, inpatient and outpatient settings. I have experience in the most relevant evidenced based/best practices (cbt, dbt, MI, 12 Step/Harm Reduction, trauma informed, mindfulness ) One size does not fit all! I am compassionate, kind and non judgemental with a strong desire to help people achieve a life worth living. I provide a safe place and am committed to having an open and affirming practice for people of all races, religions, genders and sexualities.
![Photo of Nicole Rachel Wegweiser - Mindful Therapy of Monmouth County LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/601fe61a-466a-44b9-9666-48488195daf0/4/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Therapy of Monmouth County LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Life can be challenging and we all have our ups and downs. At times, it can be difficult to move past what is getting in our way of our happiness in order to be our true selves. There is nothing like having an objective outsider that can truly listen in a non-judgmental way, help you to reflect on the situation and factors that may be contributing, and together come up with strategies which can allow you to move forward in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. I am here to be that person for you.
Life can be challenging and we all have our ups and downs. At times, it can be difficult to move past what is getting in our way of our happiness in order to be our true selves. There is nothing like having an objective outsider that can truly listen in a non-judgmental way, help you to reflect on the situation and factors that may be contributing, and together come up with strategies which can allow you to move forward in a more thoughtful and meaningful way. I am here to be that person for you.
![Photo of Ada Zak - Hypnotherapy Advantage, CCHt](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8272fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel stressed or anxious all the time? Are you struggling with Chronic Diseases - Autoimmune, Pain, Depression, etc. Is Addiction ruling your life? I am a caring Certified Hypnotist, Addiction Relapse Prevention Specialist, and a licensed health professional who utilizes the latest research in neuroplasticity that supports brain's ability to change at any age. The lasting change in habits / behavior is created by building new neural pathways while rewiring/replacing old patterns that caused unwanted habits or addiction/relapse. Please call for more information at 732-333-6680 and/or visit www.HypnotherapyAdvantage.com
Do you feel stressed or anxious all the time? Are you struggling with Chronic Diseases - Autoimmune, Pain, Depression, etc. Is Addiction ruling your life? I am a caring Certified Hypnotist, Addiction Relapse Prevention Specialist, and a licensed health professional who utilizes the latest research in neuroplasticity that supports brain's ability to change at any age. The lasting change in habits / behavior is created by building new neural pathways while rewiring/replacing old patterns that caused unwanted habits or addiction/relapse. Please call for more information at 732-333-6680 and/or visit www.HypnotherapyAdvantage.com
![Photo of Lisa Hillman - Exceptional Wellness Counseling, LCSW, PAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b06b3e92-90ae-4ac5-9bbb-2156ee96beb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Exceptional Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PAT
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
We know how difficult and stressful life can be. Our staff is committed in helping you reach your goals which will lead to a more fulfilling and happier life. At exceptional wellness we are dedicated to making our clients feel that they are of top priority. We work with children, adolescents, College students, adults, couples and families on identifying and fulfilling their goals. Reaching out and asking for assistance is the first courageous step in your journey. If you are ready to take that step please contact us. We look forward to meeting you!
We know how difficult and stressful life can be. Our staff is committed in helping you reach your goals which will lead to a more fulfilling and happier life. At exceptional wellness we are dedicated to making our clients feel that they are of top priority. We work with children, adolescents, College students, adults, couples and families on identifying and fulfilling their goals. Reaching out and asking for assistance is the first courageous step in your journey. If you are ready to take that step please contact us. We look forward to meeting you!
![Photo of Daniel Chabarek, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d12a554-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you suffer from a Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Problem (drug and/or alcohol) Experience working with all ages and populations. Providing Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy. I am also SAP certified (Substance Abuse Professional). My approaches and therapy is designed to be a short-term utilizing a variety of concrete techniques that help achieve your goals and are tailored towards you. Progress is a step by step process, but the ultimate goal is to help you resolve difficulties as quickly as possible. Contact me to help you learn the past, live the present, and dream the future.
Do you suffer from a Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse Problem (drug and/or alcohol) Experience working with all ages and populations. Providing Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy. I am also SAP certified (Substance Abuse Professional). My approaches and therapy is designed to be a short-term utilizing a variety of concrete techniques that help achieve your goals and are tailored towards you. Progress is a step by step process, but the ultimate goal is to help you resolve difficulties as quickly as possible. Contact me to help you learn the past, live the present, and dream the future.
![Photo of Bernice Garfield-Szita - Contemporary Counseling Center, MS, LPC, TEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b5ffac3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Contemporary Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, TEP
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746 (Online Only)
Contemporary Counseling Center is a private counseling center directed by Bernice Garlfield-Szita, MS LPC TEP, and Robert Szita, MS LPC TEP. Bernice and Bob Share a vision of providing quality service to each person they work with, As Licensed Professional Counselors they draw on their over forty years of combined counseling experience to custom design treatment plans for individuals, couples, families and groups. ActionArtz Training Institute, a division of Contemporary Counseling Center, is dedicated to creating powerful training programs that expand professional skills and assist organizations in team building, diversity, and effective communication. They are international trainers in psychodrama and interactive creative arts group programs that stimulate learning in education, healthcare and business settings.
Contemporary Counseling Center is a private counseling center directed by Bernice Garlfield-Szita, MS LPC TEP, and Robert Szita, MS LPC TEP. Bernice and Bob Share a vision of providing quality service to each person they work with, As Licensed Professional Counselors they draw on their over forty years of combined counseling experience to custom design treatment plans for individuals, couples, families and groups. ActionArtz Training Institute, a division of Contemporary Counseling Center, is dedicated to creating powerful training programs that expand professional skills and assist organizations in team building, diversity, and effective communication. They are international trainers in psychodrama and interactive creative arts group programs that stimulate learning in education, healthcare and business settings.
![Photo of Dr. Margo Rappaport, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b59d78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 20 years experience helping people cope with difficult life transitions and heal from loss, weight and self-image issues, postpartum depression, new parent concerns, anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunctions. I use an integrative approach by looking into a root cause of the problem and relate in a non-judgmental way. Together, I'll work with you to build coping strategies, strength and courage to move forward to in the presence of loss, pain and change. Whatever your circumstances, if you're struggling to cope and manage painful feelings, I'd like to help you find your way.
I have over 20 years experience helping people cope with difficult life transitions and heal from loss, weight and self-image issues, postpartum depression, new parent concerns, anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunctions. I use an integrative approach by looking into a root cause of the problem and relate in a non-judgmental way. Together, I'll work with you to build coping strategies, strength and courage to move forward to in the presence of loss, pain and change. Whatever your circumstances, if you're struggling to cope and manage painful feelings, I'd like to help you find your way.
![Photo of Michele R Kleiman, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9e7426d-a9d9-4a12-939d-a434a9375c79/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michele R Kleiman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marlboro, NJ 07746
My approach to therapy considers that the mind and body are integral parts of a whole being. Achieving balance between these parts is an important component of the healing process and my goal is to help clients achieve this stability. Anxiety and depression can be unbearable and sometimes immobilizing; relationship problems can weaken our capacity for experiencing happiness; death, divorce and trauma can leave us hopeless and empty. My therapeutic approach strives to help client's emotional wounds heal in order to regain inner peace and improve personal growth.
My approach to therapy considers that the mind and body are integral parts of a whole being. Achieving balance between these parts is an important component of the healing process and my goal is to help clients achieve this stability. Anxiety and depression can be unbearable and sometimes immobilizing; relationship problems can weaken our capacity for experiencing happiness; death, divorce and trauma can leave us hopeless and empty. My therapeutic approach strives to help client's emotional wounds heal in order to regain inner peace and improve personal growth.
![Photo of Irina B Stuchinsky, LCSW, CMHIMP, INHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c46ff29-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Irina B Stuchinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMHIMP, INHC
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
I work with individuals struggling with complex chronic health conditions, body image, and self-esteem. I offer compassionate, whole-person, and solution-focused care based on your individual needs. I use trauma-focused mind-body therapies to ensure that you have the support and guidance that can transform your life. I value honesty, respect, and patience; these guide my practice and how I relate to my patients.
I work with individuals struggling with complex chronic health conditions, body image, and self-esteem. I offer compassionate, whole-person, and solution-focused care based on your individual needs. I use trauma-focused mind-body therapies to ensure that you have the support and guidance that can transform your life. I value honesty, respect, and patience; these guide my practice and how I relate to my patients.
![Photo of Rachel H Bruncati, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d392d8f-7904-4a1c-ac45-760981e9dd2f/4/320x400.png)
Rachel H Bruncati
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Welcome in my friend! My name is Rachel and I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Thrive Counseling Center. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families - currently working with teens, premarital, and adjustments in life stages for families. I have a person-centered and embodied approach, intending to explore factors in and outside of our control to tailor coping skills appropriate for the client(s).
Welcome in my friend! My name is Rachel and I am a Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Thrive Counseling Center. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families - currently working with teens, premarital, and adjustments in life stages for families. I have a person-centered and embodied approach, intending to explore factors in and outside of our control to tailor coping skills appropriate for the client(s).
![Photo of Kimberly Kahn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51196801-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You’re an empathic, sensitive and creative woman who is finally ready to motivate and find meaning, but stuck in a negative spiral and struggling with emotions. Many creative and empathic women struggle with highly sensitive temperaments and appear typical on the outside but often feel like a hot mess and struggle in their relationships, parenting, careers, health. We can’t get rid of emotions, nor do we want to! It’s what makes us human! Anyone can benefit from learning ways to better regulate or express emotions. Anxiety and emotions can suck, but I can help you cope better.
You’re an empathic, sensitive and creative woman who is finally ready to motivate and find meaning, but stuck in a negative spiral and struggling with emotions. Many creative and empathic women struggle with highly sensitive temperaments and appear typical on the outside but often feel like a hot mess and struggle in their relationships, parenting, careers, health. We can’t get rid of emotions, nor do we want to! It’s what makes us human! Anyone can benefit from learning ways to better regulate or express emotions. Anxiety and emotions can suck, but I can help you cope better.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Estelle Lewis - Estelle Lewis LCSW Enterprises PLLC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1dc3066-17f7-4ef7-bbf2-6296a3c4f0d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Estelle Lewis LCSW Enterprises PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, familial conflict, depression or an overall feeling of emotional malaise, please know that I am here to support your travels out of the dark tunnel. Many people suffered social isolation during Covid. Some people continue to lack confidence of "getting back to living" because they aren't sure how to live without fear and uncertainty provoked by Covid. Please know that finding out who you are and what you are capable of will give you the strength to stand tall and feel confident and, most importantly, enjoy your life. Let's talk!
Hello and welcome to my profile. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, work-related stress, familial conflict, depression or an overall feeling of emotional malaise, please know that I am here to support your travels out of the dark tunnel. Many people suffered social isolation during Covid. Some people continue to lack confidence of "getting back to living" because they aren't sure how to live without fear and uncertainty provoked by Covid. Please know that finding out who you are and what you are capable of will give you the strength to stand tall and feel confident and, most importantly, enjoy your life. Let's talk!
![Photo of Mayya Fleyshmakher, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4502bb56-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a modern and hip child/adolescent and adult psychotherapist looking to remove the stigma of therapy by making it accessible, solution based and engaging to young kids and teens. Therapy shouldn't be a punishment or a seen as a defeat. Yes of course, we will do hard work and it won't always be easy, but with years of experience and education, I am able to connect with my young clients and show them that together we can find a solution.
I am a modern and hip child/adolescent and adult psychotherapist looking to remove the stigma of therapy by making it accessible, solution based and engaging to young kids and teens. Therapy shouldn't be a punishment or a seen as a defeat. Yes of course, we will do hard work and it won't always be easy, but with years of experience and education, I am able to connect with my young clients and show them that together we can find a solution.
Chrissy Groelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, MA
Verified Verified
Morganville, NJ 07751
Support is here; don't delay...I strive to provide an environment that advocates compassion, support, and understanding. My goal is to help resolve conflict by offering strategies and techniques to promote change while helping you feel safe, secure, and comfortable. I utilize various approaches, including solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral techniques. I provide therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I offer services to support you with including, but not limited to, stress, sadness, and anxiety. I would enjoy speaking with you further so that I may answer any questions.
Support is here; don't delay...I strive to provide an environment that advocates compassion, support, and understanding. My goal is to help resolve conflict by offering strategies and techniques to promote change while helping you feel safe, secure, and comfortable. I utilize various approaches, including solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral techniques. I provide therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I offer services to support you with including, but not limited to, stress, sadness, and anxiety. I would enjoy speaking with you further so that I may answer any questions.
See more therapy options for Marlboro
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Marlboro
- Colts Neck
- Englishtown
- Freehold
- Hazlet
- Holmdel
- Jamesburg
- Lincroft
- Manalapan
- Matawan
- Monroe
- Monroe Township
- Old Bridge
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.