Eating Disorders Therapists in Verona, NJ

Photo of Nicole Gali Strope, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Gali Strope
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I have found that providing a warm and nurturing environment has helped my clients explore areas of their lives that they were previously unwilling to look at. The therapeutic relationship that develops between us, can lead to both introspection and healing. I am a licensed psychologist specializing predominantly in the well being of women across a range of issues including eating disorders, relationship struggles, infertility, anxiety, and post-partum depression. I am also interested in helping people through life transitions, such as entering a new relationship or becoming single again, beginning college, entering the "real world", and becoming a mother.
I have found that providing a warm and nurturing environment has helped my clients explore areas of their lives that they were previously unwilling to look at. The therapeutic relationship that develops between us, can lead to both introspection and healing. I am a licensed psychologist specializing predominantly in the well being of women across a range of issues including eating disorders, relationship struggles, infertility, anxiety, and post-partum depression. I am also interested in helping people through life transitions, such as entering a new relationship or becoming single again, beginning college, entering the "real world", and becoming a mother.
(973) 821-7529 View (973) 821-7529
Photo of Christopher J Ratte, LCSW, LCADC, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher J Ratte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, IFS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
This experience has allowed me to cultivate a comfort and confidence in treating numerous client concerns; be it emotional, interpersonal, psychiatric, addictions (early and advanced recovery enhancement needs), trauma recovery, adjustment, sexual identity, eating disorders, compulsive gambling, mood disorders, self-esteem, anger management, spiritual concerns and creativity enhancement.
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
This experience has allowed me to cultivate a comfort and confidence in treating numerous client concerns; be it emotional, interpersonal, psychiatric, addictions (early and advanced recovery enhancement needs), trauma recovery, adjustment, sexual identity, eating disorders, compulsive gambling, mood disorders, self-esteem, anger management, spiritual concerns and creativity enhancement.
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
(973) 556-4029 View (973) 556-4029
Photo of Cyndi Koch - The Koch Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
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 Ginny Laracy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ginny Laracy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
I have experience working with a variety of populations: people with eating disorders, those who struggle with addictions, adolescents, people who are older and adjusting to aging, and people struggling with loss.
I hope for my clients to walk away from therapy feeling like they can handle whatever bumps they may encounter in life. This can happen by becoming aware of habits and patterns that are problematic; fully exploring and understanding them spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and then coming up with alternative ways of navigating. I offer short and long term treatment options as well as a sliding scale fee when appropriate. I enjoy teaching meditation so that people can move through the world from a place of mindfulness.
I have experience working with a variety of populations: people with eating disorders, those who struggle with addictions, adolescents, people who are older and adjusting to aging, and people struggling with loss.
I hope for my clients to walk away from therapy feeling like they can handle whatever bumps they may encounter in life. This can happen by becoming aware of habits and patterns that are problematic; fully exploring and understanding them spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and then coming up with alternative ways of navigating. I offer short and long term treatment options as well as a sliding scale fee when appropriate. I enjoy teaching meditation so that people can move through the world from a place of mindfulness.
(973) 520-0071 View (973) 520-0071
Photo of Mario Dartayet-Rodriguez, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mario Dartayet-Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
Mario Dartayet- Rodriguez holds an M.S.W from New York University. He is a New York State Licensed Master Social Worker and a New Jersey Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Mr. Dartayet-Rodriguez is a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist (CSAT) and is graduate of the Eating Disorders, Compulsions and Addictions Program at the William Alanson White Institute.
Mario Dartayet- Rodriguez holds an M.S.W from New York University. He is a New York State Licensed Master Social Worker and a New Jersey Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Mr. Dartayet-Rodriguez is a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist (CSAT) and is graduate of the Eating Disorders, Compulsions and Addictions Program at the William Alanson White Institute.
(973) 355-6293 View (973) 355-6293
Photo of Sharon J Freedman, PhD, Psychologist
Sharon J Freedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I believe we all have an innate orientation toward health, growth, and the expression of our full potential. We may experience, however, blocks in the form of thinking, feeling, and/or bodily symptoms that cause significant distress, interfering with our ability to function optimally and to access our resources and our more complete selves. This may manifest itself in the form of overwhelming feelings such as depression, anxiety, and/or rage; disordered eating and body image; flashbacks and/or other symptoms of unprocessed traumatic experiences; or other signs that we have lost touch with the fullness of who we are.
I believe we all have an innate orientation toward health, growth, and the expression of our full potential. We may experience, however, blocks in the form of thinking, feeling, and/or bodily symptoms that cause significant distress, interfering with our ability to function optimally and to access our resources and our more complete selves. This may manifest itself in the form of overwhelming feelings such as depression, anxiety, and/or rage; disordered eating and body image; flashbacks and/or other symptoms of unprocessed traumatic experiences; or other signs that we have lost touch with the fullness of who we are.
(862) 290-3892 View (862) 290-3892
Photo of Beth T Hastings, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth T Hastings
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
You can really have a life of love, peace, joy, forgiveness, and deep healing. You may doubt it, but it is true! Perhaps you are so despondent, stressed, or overwhelmed that you cannot receive this good news—it is the good news of the Gospel. In my practice I invite people just like you to experience the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Through Gospel-centered counseling, I can help you find clarity in confusion, peace in distress, light in the darkness, hope in despair, freedom from addiction, and guidance when facing life’s most difficult choices.
You can really have a life of love, peace, joy, forgiveness, and deep healing. You may doubt it, but it is true! Perhaps you are so despondent, stressed, or overwhelmed that you cannot receive this good news—it is the good news of the Gospel. In my practice I invite people just like you to experience the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Through Gospel-centered counseling, I can help you find clarity in confusion, peace in distress, light in the darkness, hope in despair, freedom from addiction, and guidance when facing life’s most difficult choices.
(973) 798-9669 View (973) 798-9669
Photo of Michaela D'Urso, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michaela D'Urso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
Michaela is a passionate Cognitive Behavioral therapist (which is the most effective, researched, and validated therapy to date). She will work with you to identify and change overly negative thinking and unhelpful behaviors that interfere with your mood, reaching your goals, or hampering interpersonal relationships. She works with those struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, phobias, stress, body image issues, performance anxiety, defiant behavior in children, relationship struggles, and work/school issues.
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Photo of Samantha J Smith: Transgender Queer Specialized Hrt letters, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha J Smith: Transgender Queer Specialized Hrt letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
We are a group of LGBT affirming and informed therapists dedicated to providing adequate support to the community. Life can throw obstacles our way and it is when we have a supportive, safe environment to help us get on the path toward who we truly are that we can thrive and be the best version of ourselves. We embody a positive, strength-based approach designed to empower the individual and guide them in helping themselves. We also aim to assist clients in regulating symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(201) 399-3591 View (201) 399-3591
Photo of Sonja Gray, MD
Sonja Gray
MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
I provide personalized care including medical evaluations and therapy form a holistic approach. I work closely with existing therapist if you are already in therapy. Highly trained at Cornell and UCLA. Experienced in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. I treat all general psychiatric disorders, but specialize in Women and Family concerns which may including pregnancy, post partum disorders,hormone disorders, job transitions and relationship difficulties. I have a special affinity for addictive disorders associated with depression and anxiety. Our goal is to provide compassionate holistic care to all clients.
I provide personalized care including medical evaluations and therapy form a holistic approach. I work closely with existing therapist if you are already in therapy. Highly trained at Cornell and UCLA. Experienced in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders. I treat all general psychiatric disorders, but specialize in Women and Family concerns which may including pregnancy, post partum disorders,hormone disorders, job transitions and relationship difficulties. I have a special affinity for addictive disorders associated with depression and anxiety. Our goal is to provide compassionate holistic care to all clients.
(732) 587-5459 View (732) 587-5459
Photo of Colleen M. Cavanagh, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen M. Cavanagh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
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.
(201) 820-0699 View (201) 820-0699
Dr. L F Varriale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Depressed, anxious, stuck,??? Let me teach you the skills to empower yourself and move forward in your life with ease and comfortability. Whether you need help moving on from a relationship, a loss, depression and/or anxiety; life sometimes makes it difficult to do on one's own. I will equip you with the skills to deal with anything in your life as it comes towards you. My experience encompasses addictions, maladaptive disorders, loss, grief, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, depression, identity/sexual issues, etc. I specialize in work with individuals that are experiencing "the nervous break-down".....
Depressed, anxious, stuck,??? Let me teach you the skills to empower yourself and move forward in your life with ease and comfortability. Whether you need help moving on from a relationship, a loss, depression and/or anxiety; life sometimes makes it difficult to do on one's own. I will equip you with the skills to deal with anything in your life as it comes towards you. My experience encompasses addictions, maladaptive disorders, loss, grief, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, depression, identity/sexual issues, etc. I specialize in work with individuals that are experiencing "the nervous break-down".....
(917) 993-5803 View (917) 993-5803
Photo of Tara Griswold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Griswold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Perhaps it seems that life feels harder than it should be, or you are unable to manage stress and your emotions in a way that you would like. Maybe you feel isolated or depressed, or are concerned about some of your habits, behaviors or relationships. The challenges and struggles you might be facing, although very painful at times, can actually be an invitation to engage in the journey of becoming a better version of your self. Whether you are dealing with difficult emotions, self-defeating behaviors, relationship/parenting issues, or just a feeling that something is off, attuned and compassionate therapy can help.
Perhaps it seems that life feels harder than it should be, or you are unable to manage stress and your emotions in a way that you would like. Maybe you feel isolated or depressed, or are concerned about some of your habits, behaviors or relationships. The challenges and struggles you might be facing, although very painful at times, can actually be an invitation to engage in the journey of becoming a better version of your self. Whether you are dealing with difficult emotions, self-defeating behaviors, relationship/parenting issues, or just a feeling that something is off, attuned and compassionate therapy can help.
(862) 397-7372 View (862) 397-7372
Photo of Jen Marshall, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
Are you a woman who grew up in a challenging or even unsafe family environment? Do you struggle with self-judgement, self-doubt, or self-sabotage? Do you find yourself confused in personal/professional relationships? If so, you may believe your difficulties are your own fault, and that if only you could be better or stronger, things would be easier. In truth, you may be dealing with unhealed trauma. Unsteady attachment to one or both parents can be the unrecognized source of a lot of adult suffering, Understanding its impact and learning to care for yourself instead of judging yourself is the path to freedom.
Are you a woman who grew up in a challenging or even unsafe family environment? Do you struggle with self-judgement, self-doubt, or self-sabotage? Do you find yourself confused in personal/professional relationships? If so, you may believe your difficulties are your own fault, and that if only you could be better or stronger, things would be easier. In truth, you may be dealing with unhealed trauma. Unsteady attachment to one or both parents can be the unrecognized source of a lot of adult suffering, Understanding its impact and learning to care for yourself instead of judging yourself is the path to freedom.
(201) 597-0022 View (201) 597-0022
Photo of Nicole Gali-Strope - Mental Wellness Montclair, PsyD, LPC, LSW, LAC
Mental Wellness Montclair
PsyD, LPC, LSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
We are a therapy office providing support to individuals, couples and families in our community. At Mental Wellness Montclair we believe in looking at the whole person, as we help you meet your goals. We provide our clients with a safe space for expression and growth. We look forward to hearing from you!
We are a therapy office providing support to individuals, couples and families in our community. At Mental Wellness Montclair we believe in looking at the whole person, as we help you meet your goals. We provide our clients with a safe space for expression and growth. We look forward to hearing from you!
(973) 382-9196 View (973) 382-9196

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cassandra Winnie, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Winnie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Are you thinking about making a change? Are you fighting anxiety or racing thoughts? Do you want a healthier relationship with food and your body? Are you thinking about setting a new goal? If so, I can help you take your struggles and turn them into strengths. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults facing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, social and performance stressors, and school avoidance. I am particularly passionate about helping young people and their families navigating eating disorders, substance use disorders, and addictive behaviors.
Are you thinking about making a change? Are you fighting anxiety or racing thoughts? Do you want a healthier relationship with food and your body? Are you thinking about setting a new goal? If so, I can help you take your struggles and turn them into strengths. I work with children, adolescents, and young adults facing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, social and performance stressors, and school avoidance. I am particularly passionate about helping young people and their families navigating eating disorders, substance use disorders, and addictive behaviors.
(973) 846-1706 View (973) 846-1706
Photo of Jessica Ribeiro, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Ribeiro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Hi there! I’m a clinical psychologist and university professor with over 15 years of clinical, research, and teaching experience licensed in NJ, NC, and FL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In my practice, I use leading evidence-based therapies, which are treatments that are backed by decades of scientific research and shown to work. Primarily, these are cognitive-behavioral approaches (e.g., CBT) that are highly collaborative, active, and goal-oriented treatments that help people achieve desired symptom changes quickly and build more fulfilling lives.
Hi there! I’m a clinical psychologist and university professor with over 15 years of clinical, research, and teaching experience licensed in NJ, NC, and FL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. In my practice, I use leading evidence-based therapies, which are treatments that are backed by decades of scientific research and shown to work. Primarily, these are cognitive-behavioral approaches (e.g., CBT) that are highly collaborative, active, and goal-oriented treatments that help people achieve desired symptom changes quickly and build more fulfilling lives.
(973) 750-9851 View (973) 750-9851
Photo of Barbara G. Reese - Resilience DBT & Eating Recovery, LCSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Resilience DBT & Eating Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Welcome to our practice. We are trained and experienced Eating Disorder and DBT Specialists - Pediatric, Adolescent, and Adult. We have been in Montclair for over 25 years and have seen two generations of families find their wholeness when their loved one is well again. Empowering families to support one another is our specialty. As Eating Disorder Specialists, we treat the full range of Eating Disorders - Anorexia, ARFID, Atypical Anorexia, Bulimia, Body Dysmorphia, and Binge Eating Disorder. We offer evidenced-based treatment - Family Based Treatement (FBT) CBT-E, and DBT-ED. We know full recovery is possible. You got this!
Welcome to our practice. We are trained and experienced Eating Disorder and DBT Specialists - Pediatric, Adolescent, and Adult. We have been in Montclair for over 25 years and have seen two generations of families find their wholeness when their loved one is well again. Empowering families to support one another is our specialty. As Eating Disorder Specialists, we treat the full range of Eating Disorders - Anorexia, ARFID, Atypical Anorexia, Bulimia, Body Dysmorphia, and Binge Eating Disorder. We offer evidenced-based treatment - Family Based Treatement (FBT) CBT-E, and DBT-ED. We know full recovery is possible. You got this!
(973) 783-2292 x1 View (973) 783-2292 x1
Photo of Joyce M. Mermini - Joyce M. Mermini, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce M. Mermini, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Upper Montclair, NJ 07043
HELLO AND WELCOME! I provide psychotherapy to tweens, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Through an empowering based perspective, I focus on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger management and relationship problems. My expertise is in the area of eating disorders, specializing in improving body image, enhancing self-esteem, and addressing psychological aspects of bariatric weight loss surgery. Using a non-dieting approach leads to a healthier relationship with food. I facilitate a group for adults, identifying triggers as well as developing coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques.
HELLO AND WELCOME! I provide psychotherapy to tweens, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Through an empowering based perspective, I focus on a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger management and relationship problems. My expertise is in the area of eating disorders, specializing in improving body image, enhancing self-esteem, and addressing psychological aspects of bariatric weight loss surgery. Using a non-dieting approach leads to a healthier relationship with food. I facilitate a group for adults, identifying triggers as well as developing coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques.
(973) 261-6253 View (973) 261-6253
Photo of Jennifer L Smith, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer L Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
You deserve to live a life you feel excited to wake up for each morning. If you're feeling stuck and ready to move forward, I can provide support as you navigate life's transitions. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, disordered eating, trauma, and parents who have children struggling with their own mental health or eating disorder. I am currently enrolled in a three year training in Somatic Experiencing, which offers healing from trauma through the nervous system. In our work together you can expect a supportive environment, without judgement or agenda, as you explore your own story.
You deserve to live a life you feel excited to wake up for each morning. If you're feeling stuck and ready to move forward, I can provide support as you navigate life's transitions. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, disordered eating, trauma, and parents who have children struggling with their own mental health or eating disorder. I am currently enrolled in a three year training in Somatic Experiencing, which offers healing from trauma through the nervous system. In our work together you can expect a supportive environment, without judgement or agenda, as you explore your own story.
(973) 791-4960 View (973) 791-4960
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.