Eating Disorders Therapists in Albuquerque, NM

Photo of Ann F Flosdorf - Ann Flosdorf Psychotherapy, LLC, LCSW, ACSW, MAEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Flosdorf Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MAEd
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Waitlist for new clients
I helped people suffering from Addictions/ Eating Disorders for over 35 years.
I enjoy helping people who want to change. I understand we all get "stuck". I believe that connection is a necessary part of treatment. Clients describe me as “warm, honest, direct, open, helpful and flexible.” I take a no-nonsense approach to therapy. I have been on both sides of the therapy “couch” and know what it is like to share your inner-most fears, secrets, and goals with a therapist. I do not expect your trust. I will earn it. I believe therapy is a two-way street, and I will work with you. There is no magic or mystery, I will let you know what I think and how I can help.
I helped people suffering from Addictions/ Eating Disorders for over 35 years.
I enjoy helping people who want to change. I understand we all get "stuck". I believe that connection is a necessary part of treatment. Clients describe me as “warm, honest, direct, open, helpful and flexible.” I take a no-nonsense approach to therapy. I have been on both sides of the therapy “couch” and know what it is like to share your inner-most fears, secrets, and goals with a therapist. I do not expect your trust. I will earn it. I believe therapy is a two-way street, and I will work with you. There is no magic or mystery, I will let you know what I think and how I can help.
(505) 390-8698 View (505) 390-8698
Photo of Holly A Finlay, MA, LPCC, CEDS, CSP, fiaedp, Counselor
Holly A Finlay
Counselor, MA, LPCC, CEDS, CSP, fiaedp
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87111
My practice is designed to help clients work through issues, current or historical, which are keeping them from a full and contented life . I have over 20 years counseling experience. My specialties are eating disorders of all types,trauma and OCD treatment. Because, eating disorders co-occur with many other psychological diagnoses including PTSD, OCD, and various anxiety and mood and personality disorders, I have learned to employ a variety of techniques to achieve results, and not stick to a "one-size-fits-all" treatment approach.
My practice is designed to help clients work through issues, current or historical, which are keeping them from a full and contented life . I have over 20 years counseling experience. My specialties are eating disorders of all types,trauma and OCD treatment. Because, eating disorders co-occur with many other psychological diagnoses including PTSD, OCD, and various anxiety and mood and personality disorders, I have learned to employ a variety of techniques to achieve results, and not stick to a "one-size-fits-all" treatment approach.
(505) 465-4901 x1 View (505) 465-4901 x1
Photo of Dr. Jamie Loor, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jamie Loor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87104  (Online Only)
I specialize in PTSD, eating disorders, chronic pain, & insomnia.
Now Accepting New Clients! Seeking therapy that is compassionate, supportive, and results-driven? Want the best practices in psychology & cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) proven to work and tailored to you? If so, what about gaining tools so that your improvement during therapy persists after you finish? As a licensed psychologist, I realized that too often best practices were not available to the public, and I started Leading Edge Therapy as a one-stop place to provide you with the most effective & latest treatments. I offer evidence-based psychological treatments to help you get unstuck & live the life you want.
I specialize in PTSD, eating disorders, chronic pain, & insomnia.
Now Accepting New Clients! Seeking therapy that is compassionate, supportive, and results-driven? Want the best practices in psychology & cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) proven to work and tailored to you? If so, what about gaining tools so that your improvement during therapy persists after you finish? As a licensed psychologist, I realized that too often best practices were not available to the public, and I started Leading Edge Therapy as a one-stop place to provide you with the most effective & latest treatments. I offer evidence-based psychological treatments to help you get unstuck & live the life you want.
(417) 815-0442 View (417) 815-0442
Photo of Kyri Elizabeth Azar, LCPC, RYT, ND, Counselor
Kyri Elizabeth Azar
Counselor, LCPC, RYT, ND
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Hello, I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor specializing in treating Trauma, Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Life Transition issues, and Stress. I am trained in IBSR, EMDR, DBT, EFT, and CBT and Yoga for Trauma. We can work together so you feel comfortable, using traditional talk therapy, Body/Mind approaches or a combination of the two. Most people come to counselilng when they are stuck, frustrated and feel they aren't able to move forward with their lives, hopes and dreams. Taking the first step isn't easy, but the beauty is that you've started your new journey already!
Hello, I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor specializing in treating Trauma, Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Life Transition issues, and Stress. I am trained in IBSR, EMDR, DBT, EFT, and CBT and Yoga for Trauma. We can work together so you feel comfortable, using traditional talk therapy, Body/Mind approaches or a combination of the two. Most people come to counselilng when they are stuck, frustrated and feel they aren't able to move forward with their lives, hopes and dreams. Taking the first step isn't easy, but the beauty is that you've started your new journey already!
(208) 505-9127 View (208) 505-9127
Photo of Michelle Carr, PsyD, Psychologist
Michelle Carr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87122  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults suffering from Anxiety, Trauma, Eating Disorders, and the affects of Narcissistic Abuse.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a deeper self awareness! I work with my clients to help them understand how personal challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction or trauma may be influencing their relationships, work, or daily life. My style is interactive, engaged, and non-judgmental while integrating the psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual well being of the whole person. I also feel that it is important to incorporate laughter into the healing process! Once we can find the humor in our human-ness it becomes easier to forgive ourselves and others as we move toward more authentic happiness.
I work with adolescents and adults suffering from Anxiety, Trauma, Eating Disorders, and the affects of Narcissistic Abuse.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a deeper self awareness! I work with my clients to help them understand how personal challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction or trauma may be influencing their relationships, work, or daily life. My style is interactive, engaged, and non-judgmental while integrating the psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual well being of the whole person. I also feel that it is important to incorporate laughter into the healing process! Once we can find the humor in our human-ness it becomes easier to forgive ourselves and others as we move toward more authentic happiness.
(831) 288-2302 View (831) 288-2302
Photo of Crystal Kirschman, MA, LCPC, NCC, CEDS-S, Counselor
Crystal Kirschman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87113
Emily Wish, LLC provides evidence-based and compassionate care for people struggling with eating disorders and body dissatisfaction. We treat children, adolescents, and adults, as well as provide support to those who love them. The courage and bravery that we witness on a daily basis inspires and fuels our passion. We live with the knowledge that our work is bigger than us and we absolutely love and honor that. We understand that the person we are treating is somebody's mother, father, daughter, son, wife, or husband and we vow to always know and acknowledge that.
Emily Wish, LLC provides evidence-based and compassionate care for people struggling with eating disorders and body dissatisfaction. We treat children, adolescents, and adults, as well as provide support to those who love them. The courage and bravery that we witness on a daily basis inspires and fuels our passion. We live with the knowledge that our work is bigger than us and we absolutely love and honor that. We understand that the person we are treating is somebody's mother, father, daughter, son, wife, or husband and we vow to always know and acknowledge that.
(406) 578-0492 View (406) 578-0492
Photo of Celina D Herrera, MSW, MPH, LMSW, CHES, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celina D Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPH, LMSW, CHES
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
I'm a Bilingual Therapist (LMSW) and Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) with 5+ years of clinical experience offering services in: coaching for maintenance of chronic health conditions such as Eating Disorders, HIV, and Chronic Pain and support for youth with neurodivergent traits (ie: ADHD, Autism).
Welcome to my services page! I offer a holistic approach to the management of chronic health conditions and mental health in the State of New Mexico, with an emphasis on serving communities in rural areas and reservations. All people, couples, and families I work with can expect to be treated with dignity, respect, and consideration. Together, we collaborate to discover what a satisfying life looks like for you. While the efforts we put into managing our health can be overwhelming, we can also make space for joy.
I'm a Bilingual Therapist (LMSW) and Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) with 5+ years of clinical experience offering services in: coaching for maintenance of chronic health conditions such as Eating Disorders, HIV, and Chronic Pain and support for youth with neurodivergent traits (ie: ADHD, Autism).
Welcome to my services page! I offer a holistic approach to the management of chronic health conditions and mental health in the State of New Mexico, with an emphasis on serving communities in rural areas and reservations. All people, couples, and families I work with can expect to be treated with dignity, respect, and consideration. Together, we collaborate to discover what a satisfying life looks like for you. While the efforts we put into managing our health can be overwhelming, we can also make space for joy.
(505) 588-7661 View (505) 588-7661
Photo of Lauren Gaunt, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Gaunt
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87113
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been stuck in a restrict-binge cycle, yo-yo dieting, or feel like your relationship with food and your body is driven by fear? If you are ready to break this cycle, I am committed to helping you make peace with food and move toward body acceptance. I am a queer-identified provider who is focused on supporting folks who struggle with disordered eating/ eating disorders, difficult body image, trauma, and/or sexual or gender identity. I am Intuitive Eating-certified, Health at Every Size (HAES)-aligned, and committed to fat liberation. I offer services on both an individual basis and in group therapy.
Have you been stuck in a restrict-binge cycle, yo-yo dieting, or feel like your relationship with food and your body is driven by fear? If you are ready to break this cycle, I am committed to helping you make peace with food and move toward body acceptance. I am a queer-identified provider who is focused on supporting folks who struggle with disordered eating/ eating disorders, difficult body image, trauma, and/or sexual or gender identity. I am Intuitive Eating-certified, Health at Every Size (HAES)-aligned, and committed to fat liberation. I offer services on both an individual basis and in group therapy.
(505) 588-7233 View (505) 588-7233
Photo of Vanessa Haye, LPCC, Counselor
Vanessa Haye
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
As a therapist for over 25 years, I have worked in a multitude of settings with a wide range of populations. I provide individual and couples counseling. Over the years I have worked extensively with folks struggling with: PTSD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, addictions, codependency, eating disorders, Body Dysmorphia, and those on the Autism Spectrum. With couples I draw upon Attachment Theory and the work of John Gottman. I am highly adapt at building connection and trust with communities of color. I am a member of the LGBQTI community. Validation, the need for justice, being seen and heard, attunement, and empathy are essential.
As a therapist for over 25 years, I have worked in a multitude of settings with a wide range of populations. I provide individual and couples counseling. Over the years I have worked extensively with folks struggling with: PTSD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar, addictions, codependency, eating disorders, Body Dysmorphia, and those on the Autism Spectrum. With couples I draw upon Attachment Theory and the work of John Gottman. I am highly adapt at building connection and trust with communities of color. I am a member of the LGBQTI community. Validation, the need for justice, being seen and heard, attunement, and empathy are essential.
(505) 657-8984 View (505) 657-8984
Photo of Karen McDonald, LPCC, Counselor
Karen McDonald
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107
Whether you are experiencing emotional distress or a conflicted relationship, connecting with a counselor will absolutely help! I work with adult doing individual counseling. Specialty areas include PTSD, depression, anxiety, emotional eating/ eating disorders, behavior management, relationship difficulties, improving communication, increasing self esteem/worth and parenting. Whatever issue you are facing, we can work together to increase your ability to make positive changes in your life and in your relationships.
Whether you are experiencing emotional distress or a conflicted relationship, connecting with a counselor will absolutely help! I work with adult doing individual counseling. Specialty areas include PTSD, depression, anxiety, emotional eating/ eating disorders, behavior management, relationship difficulties, improving communication, increasing self esteem/worth and parenting. Whatever issue you are facing, we can work together to increase your ability to make positive changes in your life and in your relationships.
(505) 814-5298 View (505) 814-5298
Photo of Dusty L Humes - Dusty L Humes, Ph.D., Clinical & Forensic Svcs, PhD, Psychologist
Dusty L Humes, Ph.D., Clinical & Forensic Svcs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87104  (Online Only)
I had a psychology practice in Austin for 20 years, relocating to Albuquerque in 2012. As an outgrowth of my continuing work with clients from Texas, I have developed a specialty in providing internet therapy. My specialties include eating disorders, complex mood disorders, personality disorders, recovery from narcissistic abuse, and helping families with "failure to launch" young adults. I also provide consultation to parents who are struggling with an oppositional adolescent or an adult child with ongoing difficulties. I provide both therapeutic and forensic psychological evaluations.
I had a psychology practice in Austin for 20 years, relocating to Albuquerque in 2012. As an outgrowth of my continuing work with clients from Texas, I have developed a specialty in providing internet therapy. My specialties include eating disorders, complex mood disorders, personality disorders, recovery from narcissistic abuse, and helping families with "failure to launch" young adults. I also provide consultation to parents who are struggling with an oppositional adolescent or an adult child with ongoing difficulties. I provide both therapeutic and forensic psychological evaluations.
(505) 806-1446 View (505) 806-1446
Photo of Ashley Cde Baca, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Cde Baca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87109  (Online Only)
With 15 years of mental health experience, I have had the honor of assisting clients of all age ranges and across a wide variety of concerns, most notably: anxiety, panic attacks, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, addiction, eating disorders, homelessness, and self-harm.
My passion for working with people to rise above the most difficult times in life began when I was a young child working with a counselor to treat my own anxiety and trauma. I understand what it feels like to struggle without knowing how to cope. I also know how it feels to find relief through working with a counselor to harness strength and develop life-long skills to recover and manage health. From that time on I dedicated myself to pursuing my masters degree in Clinical Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University. I am trained in motivational interviewing, therapeutic crisis intervention, and behavioral management.
With 15 years of mental health experience, I have had the honor of assisting clients of all age ranges and across a wide variety of concerns, most notably: anxiety, panic attacks, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, addiction, eating disorders, homelessness, and self-harm.
My passion for working with people to rise above the most difficult times in life began when I was a young child working with a counselor to treat my own anxiety and trauma. I understand what it feels like to struggle without knowing how to cope. I also know how it feels to find relief through working with a counselor to harness strength and develop life-long skills to recover and manage health. From that time on I dedicated myself to pursuing my masters degree in Clinical Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University. I am trained in motivational interviewing, therapeutic crisis intervention, and behavioral management.
(505) 551-3639 View (505) 551-3639
Photo of Chris Benitez, LMHC, Counselor
Chris Benitez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87108
I have years of experience working with substance use, addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges. I also love working with people from communities that have traditionally been underserved by the mental health profession, such as people of color and members of the LGBTIA+ community, as well as young adults and adolescents, and people navigating major life transitions.
I have years of experience working with substance use, addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health challenges. I also love working with people from communities that have traditionally been underserved by the mental health profession, such as people of color and members of the LGBTIA+ community, as well as young adults and adolescents, and people navigating major life transitions.
(505) 309-3794 View (505) 309-3794
Photo of Alayna Orozco, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Alayna Orozco
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Since 2012, I've worked with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, poor body image, and relationship issues.
Therapy is a space in which you have the opportunity to explore and challenge what is not working in your life, without judgment. As an interactive and compassionate counselor, I am passionate about helping you to learn about yourself, and find new ways to create change.
Since 2012, I've worked with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, poor body image, and relationship issues.
Therapy is a space in which you have the opportunity to explore and challenge what is not working in your life, without judgment. As an interactive and compassionate counselor, I am passionate about helping you to learn about yourself, and find new ways to create change.
(505) 576-7532 View (505) 576-7532
Photo of Stephanie Smith - Stephanie Smith Counseling and Consultation, LPC, LPCC, NCC, MS, Counselor
Stephanie Smith Counseling and Consultation
Counselor, LPC, LPCC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87102  (Online Only)
I look forward to supporting you through issues including anxiety, depression, codependency, and eating disorders.
Have you not been feeling like yourself? Maybe you don't know where to begin to get your groove back, meaningful routine and daily purpose? Maybe you've experienced loss & change that overwhelmed you? Are you no longer able to mask unaddressed depression, anxiety/phobias, impacts of past trauma, and unhelpful patterns? Sound familiar? It's time to reach out for help. I work from proven therapeutic models that combine emotional exploration, relaxation practices, Behavioral Therapy, and CBT to help you heal. My goal is that you gain confidence and trust in yourself to navigate life and move forward. What are your goals? Let me know
I look forward to supporting you through issues including anxiety, depression, codependency, and eating disorders.
Have you not been feeling like yourself? Maybe you don't know where to begin to get your groove back, meaningful routine and daily purpose? Maybe you've experienced loss & change that overwhelmed you? Are you no longer able to mask unaddressed depression, anxiety/phobias, impacts of past trauma, and unhelpful patterns? Sound familiar? It's time to reach out for help. I work from proven therapeutic models that combine emotional exploration, relaxation practices, Behavioral Therapy, and CBT to help you heal. My goal is that you gain confidence and trust in yourself to navigate life and move forward. What are your goals? Let me know
(804) 376-1280 View (804) 376-1280
Photo of Kelley Holladay, PhD, LMHC, LPCC, MAC, CCC, Counselor
Kelley Holladay
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC, MAC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87114
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical experience was gained working with those navigating eating disorders and substance abuse, and trauma survivors.
With more than 10 years of experience, I have learned severe emotional trauma occurs if trauma is long-standing, repeated, or targets an individual’s self-worth. Self-compassion is the ability to forgo self-blame in order to forgive oneself for imperfections, as well as natural and honest reactions to traumatic events. Self-compassion has been shown to decrease mental health symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, shame) related to trauma, and increase positive psychological traits (happiness, joy). I utilize this approach alongside existential questions related to substance use, career choice, family issues, self-worth, and trauma.
My clinical experience was gained working with those navigating eating disorders and substance abuse, and trauma survivors.
With more than 10 years of experience, I have learned severe emotional trauma occurs if trauma is long-standing, repeated, or targets an individual’s self-worth. Self-compassion is the ability to forgo self-blame in order to forgive oneself for imperfections, as well as natural and honest reactions to traumatic events. Self-compassion has been shown to decrease mental health symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, shame) related to trauma, and increase positive psychological traits (happiness, joy). I utilize this approach alongside existential questions related to substance use, career choice, family issues, self-worth, and trauma.
(904) 395-4577 View (904) 395-4577
Photo of Jane Acevedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Acevedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87102  (Online Only)
Ultimately, my purpose as your therapist is to help you find joy in life. I use a Feminist, Attachment-based, Trauma-informed approach to empower you to trust yourself, and tap into your inner resilience. I believe that you are the expert in your own life. Together we can work to process and heal past traumas, gain insight, and replace harmful behaviors with more positive ones. I work with women and non-binary folks who have experienced relational trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Disordered Eating. Many of my clients identify as Neurodivergent/Highly Sensitive.
Ultimately, my purpose as your therapist is to help you find joy in life. I use a Feminist, Attachment-based, Trauma-informed approach to empower you to trust yourself, and tap into your inner resilience. I believe that you are the expert in your own life. Together we can work to process and heal past traumas, gain insight, and replace harmful behaviors with more positive ones. I work with women and non-binary folks who have experienced relational trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, and Disordered Eating. Many of my clients identify as Neurodivergent/Highly Sensitive.
(505) 557-1429 View (505) 557-1429
Photo of Rochelle (Shelly) Young - Present Solutions, MA, LPC, LISAC, LPCC, LADAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Present Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC, LPCC, LADAC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
I see wonderful results with the unique Unified Mindfulness System that I incorporate into my work. I bring to my work my own personal healing of a serious binge eating disorder/sugar addiction and other issues of suffering. I am also a researcher and involved with neuroscientists at the University of Arizona SEMA Lab and the Medical University of South Carolina, researching my innovative addiction/negative behavior change protocol. I have worked with seemingly hopeless individuals who have transformed their lives with my therapeutic approach. I offer my services out of a great sense of passion and deepest gratitude.
I see wonderful results with the unique Unified Mindfulness System that I incorporate into my work. I bring to my work my own personal healing of a serious binge eating disorder/sugar addiction and other issues of suffering. I am also a researcher and involved with neuroscientists at the University of Arizona SEMA Lab and the Medical University of South Carolina, researching my innovative addiction/negative behavior change protocol. I have worked with seemingly hopeless individuals who have transformed their lives with my therapeutic approach. I offer my services out of a great sense of passion and deepest gratitude.
(520) 317-6752 View (520) 317-6752
Photo of Erica Westby, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Erica Westby
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87107
I am passionate about helping individuals (adults and teens) struggling with emotional/ compulsive/ binge overeating, self-esteem issues, weight loss and anxiety that is created from these issues. I enjoy working with clients who have a desire to work deeply and create lasting change. Through collaboration we create a safe and supportive environment that allows for insight and healing. Then as emotional traumas or wounds that keep you stuck in the past are healed, the ability to be more present in current life and able to deal with uncomfortable emotions and life circumstances is possible.
I am passionate about helping individuals (adults and teens) struggling with emotional/ compulsive/ binge overeating, self-esteem issues, weight loss and anxiety that is created from these issues. I enjoy working with clients who have a desire to work deeply and create lasting change. Through collaboration we create a safe and supportive environment that allows for insight and healing. Then as emotional traumas or wounds that keep you stuck in the past are healed, the ability to be more present in current life and able to deal with uncomfortable emotions and life circumstances is possible.
(505) 207-4982 View (505) 207-4982
Photo of Kirsten Rogoff, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirsten Rogoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87111  (Online Only)
Please email rather than call for a timely response. Sometimes we repeat negative patterns/emotions or deal with situations that cause pain. It may be frustrating to find that you do well in some areas of your life but not in others. We may be choosing to stay in toxic relationships and find it hard to move on, We may be having a hard time achieving or even knowing what our goals in life are.. Whether we struggle with adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, or just need a place to be open about our feelings, I can offer a no-nonsense approach (with some humor at times:) ) to therapy for you.
Please email rather than call for a timely response. Sometimes we repeat negative patterns/emotions or deal with situations that cause pain. It may be frustrating to find that you do well in some areas of your life but not in others. We may be choosing to stay in toxic relationships and find it hard to move on, We may be having a hard time achieving or even knowing what our goals in life are.. Whether we struggle with adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, or just need a place to be open about our feelings, I can offer a no-nonsense approach (with some humor at times:) ) to therapy for you.
(505) 557-2379 View (505) 557-2379
1

Eating Disorders Therapists

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviors, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behavior affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counseling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioral disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behavior, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognize they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behavior has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.