Therapists in Millburn, NJ
![Photo of Parin Kamdar, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3edba7db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My interventions are drawn from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), psychodynamic, and family systems approaches. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD and related learning disabilities, developmental disorders, personality disorders, and family conflict. I also have extensive experience working with eating disorders through intensive internship and fellowship placements at The Renfrew Center of Philadelphia and Florida. I am well versed in the administration and interpretation of comprehensive psychological assessments. I work with clients across the lifespan helping to optimize inherent strengths to better cope with the demands of their academic, social, professional, and family contexts.
My interventions are drawn from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), psychodynamic, and family systems approaches. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD and related learning disabilities, developmental disorders, personality disorders, and family conflict. I also have extensive experience working with eating disorders through intensive internship and fellowship placements at The Renfrew Center of Philadelphia and Florida. I am well versed in the administration and interpretation of comprehensive psychological assessments. I work with clients across the lifespan helping to optimize inherent strengths to better cope with the demands of their academic, social, professional, and family contexts.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3574a29-4417-467f-9845-0d001d975e2e/1/320x400.png)
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
![Photo of Jennifer Durso, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9a727e8-5e21-41e8-9cb9-fd0c3e94e04c/2/320x400.jpeg)
, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, trauma, relationship/dating, family, self-esteem).
Hi there! You should be proud of yourself for taking the first step of your mental health journey. Finding the right therapist takes courage, patience, and time. I am here to tell you that the wait is over! I am dedicated to helping you be your best and happiest self. In the therapy room, I will create an environment where you feel heard, supported, and comfortable. Building a strong therapeutic relationship and using it as a catalyst for change, healing, and processing is extremely important to me.
, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, ADHD, trauma, relationship/dating, family, self-esteem).
Hi there! You should be proud of yourself for taking the first step of your mental health journey. Finding the right therapist takes courage, patience, and time. I am here to tell you that the wait is over! I am dedicated to helping you be your best and happiest self. In the therapy room, I will create an environment where you feel heard, supported, and comfortable. Building a strong therapeutic relationship and using it as a catalyst for change, healing, and processing is extremely important to me.
![Photo of Priscilla Schmitt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61fa448b-281b-4a3f-92ab-0e22903cbdb3/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Colleen M. Cavanagh, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ededd461-9dd0-4687-ad39-c3ffc88cce19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen M. Cavanagh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Livingston, NJ 07039
People can heal from abuse, trauma, loss, grief, broken relationships, and life-changing events. Talking with a trusted professional makes a difference. I step into genuine relationships with my clients. I encourage and challenge my clients to do the same with their loved ones and family members. Healing happens in connection with others, and by strengthening emotional bonds, we become more available to renewal and restoration of our emotional selves. We let go of our emotional baggage! It is such an honor and pleasure to walk beside my clients and witness their journey back to wholeness and happiness.
People can heal from abuse, trauma, loss, grief, broken relationships, and life-changing events. Talking with a trusted professional makes a difference. I step into genuine relationships with my clients. I encourage and challenge my clients to do the same with their loved ones and family members. Healing happens in connection with others, and by strengthening emotional bonds, we become more available to renewal and restoration of our emotional selves. We let go of our emotional baggage! It is such an honor and pleasure to walk beside my clients and witness their journey back to wholeness and happiness.
![Photo of Caroline Mgbafor Egekwu - Happy Family Counseling Services, LLC, PhD, DPO, CCBT, MSc, MPA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/521358c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Happy Family Counseling Services, LLC
PhD, DPO, CCBT, MSc, MPA
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
We are professionals who focus on alcoholism, weight loss , crisis , domestic violence and psychological assessments reports and evaluations . We also help our clients / couples to develop a matured , happier relationship with themselves as individuals, and as a couple . We also specialize in crisis management in the work place . We treat substance abuse ,alcohol addictions, and other types of addictions .We work with teenagers and young adults to develop coping skills in high school and universities ." We offer a free visual consultation for adolescents, teenagers, adults , women , men . couples and veterans".
We are professionals who focus on alcoholism, weight loss , crisis , domestic violence and psychological assessments reports and evaluations . We also help our clients / couples to develop a matured , happier relationship with themselves as individuals, and as a couple . We also specialize in crisis management in the work place . We treat substance abuse ,alcohol addictions, and other types of addictions .We work with teenagers and young adults to develop coping skills in high school and universities ." We offer a free visual consultation for adolescents, teenagers, adults , women , men . couples and veterans".
![Photo of Natalie Tarangelo, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4279aab5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Tarangelo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Dialectical Therapy (DBT) techniques help clients address problems in regulating emotions, impulse control, assertiveness, and relationship conflicts. DBT balances cognitive behavioral therapy techniques with self acceptance strategies from Zen practice. Clients will be able to better identify and manage their emotions, and practice applying learned skills to improve their life in all areas.
Dialectical Therapy (DBT) techniques help clients address problems in regulating emotions, impulse control, assertiveness, and relationship conflicts. DBT balances cognitive behavioral therapy techniques with self acceptance strategies from Zen practice. Clients will be able to better identify and manage their emotions, and practice applying learned skills to improve their life in all areas.
![Photo of Chris DeSerio, MA, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed23908-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
In all his work, Chris always looks towards your empowerment and in that provides guidance and helps you to truly recognize your strengths and how to build upon them. Most every appointment is available and is as effective by phone or video chat (Zoom or FaceTime), and can further be more expeditiously scheduled these ways. Guidance, support, and objectivity are key elements in any service provided along with the addition of any tools and action plans as appropriate that have you manifest more of what you want being an active agent of your own change. Chris' experience is with ages 4 and up with children, adolescents, and adults.
In all his work, Chris always looks towards your empowerment and in that provides guidance and helps you to truly recognize your strengths and how to build upon them. Most every appointment is available and is as effective by phone or video chat (Zoom or FaceTime), and can further be more expeditiously scheduled these ways. Guidance, support, and objectivity are key elements in any service provided along with the addition of any tools and action plans as appropriate that have you manifest more of what you want being an active agent of your own change. Chris' experience is with ages 4 and up with children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of James J DeSantis, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce010a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
James J DeSantis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07102
I utilize an integrative clinical approach to counseling and employ various therapeutic methods which I have been trained on. Depending upon what will be most helpful for you on a individual basis, my approach draws upon the principles of Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as several other therapeutic methods.
I utilize an integrative clinical approach to counseling and employ various therapeutic methods which I have been trained on. Depending upon what will be most helpful for you on a individual basis, my approach draws upon the principles of Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as several other therapeutic methods.
![Photo of Jessica Grasso, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a6a0706-7d55-4890-a07d-03eb371a6aa4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Grasso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Welcome to my page! I am a passionate licensed clinical social worker looking to support millennials through the challenges they face. As a millennial myself, I understand the unique experiences and pressures this generation encounters, such as navigating life changes, managing anxiety, and battling the prevalent tendency to people please. I provide practical tools and psychological strategies to help millennials break free from this harmful pattern, empowering them to prioritize their own well-being and establish healthier boundaries.
Welcome to my page! I am a passionate licensed clinical social worker looking to support millennials through the challenges they face. As a millennial myself, I understand the unique experiences and pressures this generation encounters, such as navigating life changes, managing anxiety, and battling the prevalent tendency to people please. I provide practical tools and psychological strategies to help millennials break free from this harmful pattern, empowering them to prioritize their own well-being and establish healthier boundaries.
![Photo of Karin Feldman, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCBT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d302ff7-9e1e-4085-97e3-7f95165862ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life is an exercise in the Unexpected. Often, it is when all is seemingly in-tact, that you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, less connected or struggling to find meaning. You want to be present, find ease and experience joy, but anxiety, life changes, trauma or relationship-struggles keep getting in your way. You have worked hard to create a life worth living and keep up with the demands of all the roles you have taken on. Despite your best efforts, it feels like you have lost the way to feeling connected, anchored and truly present to enjoy the simple day-to-day moments.
Life is an exercise in the Unexpected. Often, it is when all is seemingly in-tact, that you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, less connected or struggling to find meaning. You want to be present, find ease and experience joy, but anxiety, life changes, trauma or relationship-struggles keep getting in your way. You have worked hard to create a life worth living and keep up with the demands of all the roles you have taken on. Despite your best efforts, it feels like you have lost the way to feeling connected, anchored and truly present to enjoy the simple day-to-day moments.
![Photo of Jeni Tyson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ea3aa48-f59c-413b-955c-7698c220730d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeni Tyson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Orange, NJ 07079 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am deeply moved by the strength and resilience of my clients, as they work to find meaning and purpose in their lives, despite challenges, traumas, and losses, that constantly recreate their sense of Self. The work is a collaborative effort between myself and the client towards transforming their suffering, and help them facilitate a deeper relationship with themselves. I utilize an integral approach which encompasses Internal Family Systems, Relational Attachment Based, Somatic and Mindfulness Psychology. I am a certified consultant in both EMDR and Internal Family Systems
I am deeply moved by the strength and resilience of my clients, as they work to find meaning and purpose in their lives, despite challenges, traumas, and losses, that constantly recreate their sense of Self. The work is a collaborative effort between myself and the client towards transforming their suffering, and help them facilitate a deeper relationship with themselves. I utilize an integral approach which encompasses Internal Family Systems, Relational Attachment Based, Somatic and Mindfulness Psychology. I am a certified consultant in both EMDR and Internal Family Systems
![Photo of Client Care - Council for Relationships, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/484976f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
![Photo of Bernadette Silva - Silva Counseling/Couples Counseling/Spanish, MA, LRC, CRC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5f160a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Silva Counseling/Couples Counseling/Spanish
Counselor, MA, LRC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
Finding the right therapist can be difficult. Let’s make it easier. By working together we can develop a personalized plan for you. I provide a friendly and inviting atmosphere, in an exceptional therapeutic environment. Using meditation, Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), we develop constructive skills for you to use in everyday life. Every person who walks in my door is unique and treated with compassion. Tengo fluidez en espaniol y mucha experiencia con parejas latinas.
Finding the right therapist can be difficult. Let’s make it easier. By working together we can develop a personalized plan for you. I provide a friendly and inviting atmosphere, in an exceptional therapeutic environment. Using meditation, Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), we develop constructive skills for you to use in everyday life. Every person who walks in my door is unique and treated with compassion. Tengo fluidez en espaniol y mucha experiencia con parejas latinas.
![Photo of Renee Marter, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee269552-2418-46ab-bbbf-61d4132a5777/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Marter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Renee` Marter and I am a Licensed Social Worker in supervision for my License in Clinical Social Work. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in Camden and my graduate degree in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in New Brunswick in the Addiction Counselor Training (ACT) Certificate program. I am proud to have my TF-CBT Certification through the successful completion of the National Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Therapist Certification Program. This is a wonderful therapeutic intervention for youth ages 3 to 18, who have experienced trauma.
Hello! My name is Renee` Marter and I am a Licensed Social Worker in supervision for my License in Clinical Social Work. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in Camden and my graduate degree in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in New Brunswick in the Addiction Counselor Training (ACT) Certificate program. I am proud to have my TF-CBT Certification through the successful completion of the National Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Therapist Certification Program. This is a wonderful therapeutic intervention for youth ages 3 to 18, who have experienced trauma.
![Photo of Jennifer Carlin-Mathis, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1c372d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I like to work collaboratively with clients of all ages to help with the following: success at work or school, cultivating satisfying relationships, stress reduction, stress management, fostering a hopeful and optimistic attitude, reducing depression and anxiety, and fostering a healthy relationship with one's body. Together, we will explore what gets in the way of maximizing your potential for success and happiness and come up with strategies to help you to feel better.
I like to work collaboratively with clients of all ages to help with the following: success at work or school, cultivating satisfying relationships, stress reduction, stress management, fostering a hopeful and optimistic attitude, reducing depression and anxiety, and fostering a healthy relationship with one's body. Together, we will explore what gets in the way of maximizing your potential for success and happiness and come up with strategies to help you to feel better.
![Photo of Tracie A Sarkar, MA, MSW, NBCFCH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba3a254-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracie A Sarkar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, NBCFCH, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a relaxing nonjudgmental environment to explore who you are, what you want, where you are going, and how you will get there? Well, look no further I'm the Mental Health professional you have been looking for (Counselor MSW/MA, Psychotherapist LCSW, Psychologist, Sociologist, Criminologist, and Hypnotherapist). I'm an open minded, understanding, supportive, unbiased, reliable, and confident therapist in private practice providing individual, couple,mediation, marriage, group, play, family couns to anyone who needs help feeling happy, healthy, and motivated. My web site is orchard-center.com.
Are you looking for a relaxing nonjudgmental environment to explore who you are, what you want, where you are going, and how you will get there? Well, look no further I'm the Mental Health professional you have been looking for (Counselor MSW/MA, Psychotherapist LCSW, Psychologist, Sociologist, Criminologist, and Hypnotherapist). I'm an open minded, understanding, supportive, unbiased, reliable, and confident therapist in private practice providing individual, couple,mediation, marriage, group, play, family couns to anyone who needs help feeling happy, healthy, and motivated. My web site is orchard-center.com.
![Photo of Christopher Larres, LPC, LCADC, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403b994e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Counseling Center at Clark offers a substance abuse Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Outpatient Program (OP) that combines evidence-based, state of the art treatment with 12 Step principles. Our substance abuse programs are designed for individuals struggling with remaining abstinent from the use of alcohol and drugs. The program we offer is focused on the individual and is designed to enable sober and productive living.
The Counseling Center at Clark offers a substance abuse Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Outpatient Program (OP) that combines evidence-based, state of the art treatment with 12 Step principles. Our substance abuse programs are designed for individuals struggling with remaining abstinent from the use of alcohol and drugs. The program we offer is focused on the individual and is designed to enable sober and productive living.
![Photo of Kate Martino, LPC, CMPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/555a4478-3922-487f-91b2-350e1cc580a6/2/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Mental Performance Consultant. I specialize in working with youth, high school, collegiate, and professional athletes by providing mental strategies to help them reach optimal performance in their sport. In addition to enhancing athlete performance, I address mental health issues and develop individualized treatment plans to fit each client’s needs. Along with owning my private practice, Martino Mindset LLC, I am an active member of the Newtown Sport Psychology Team where I service competitive athletes in the Pennsylvania area.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Mental Performance Consultant. I specialize in working with youth, high school, collegiate, and professional athletes by providing mental strategies to help them reach optimal performance in their sport. In addition to enhancing athlete performance, I address mental health issues and develop individualized treatment plans to fit each client’s needs. Along with owning my private practice, Martino Mindset LLC, I am an active member of the Newtown Sport Psychology Team where I service competitive athletes in the Pennsylvania area.
![Photo of Barbara Lee Rosenberg, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbb0ad2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychologist, I believe that good therapy builds upon a trusting, working relationship between therapist and client. For me, each client is a unique individual with his or her own special needs, feelings and life experiences. Of most importance is that my clients see me as a professional who listens with respect and empathy to what he or she tells me. My goal is to work collaboratively with all clients to help them examine and modify self-defeting beliefs and behaviors that prevent healthy and productive funcitoning in family,social and work or school settings.
As a psychologist, I believe that good therapy builds upon a trusting, working relationship between therapist and client. For me, each client is a unique individual with his or her own special needs, feelings and life experiences. Of most importance is that my clients see me as a professional who listens with respect and empathy to what he or she tells me. My goal is to work collaboratively with all clients to help them examine and modify self-defeting beliefs and behaviors that prevent healthy and productive funcitoning in family,social and work or school settings.
See more therapy options for Millburn
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Millburn
- Chatham
- Cranford
- Irvington
- Livingston
- Maplewood
- Mountainside
- Short Hills
- South Orange
- Springfield
- Summit
- Union
- West Orange
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.