Eating Disorders Therapists in Old Westbury, NY

Photo of Randi Zimmerman - Randi Zimmerman @ Randi Z. Therapy Consulting , LCSW-R, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randi Zimmerman @ Randi Z. Therapy Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Westbury, NY 11568
Not limited to but specializing in the treatment and recovery of eating disorders.
At The Time is Always Now Therapy Group, Randi Zimmerman, LCSW-R, CEDS-S and her team are ready for you! "What lies before you and what lies behind you are tiny matters compared to what lies within you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. For those who wish to be the best they can be, to heal and strive and connect, therapy can help you achieve the highest quality of your life. Your unique strengths will be uncovered and cultivated to help you meet the challenges before you. You will be guided and nurtured to achieve and exceed your goals, to take the risks necessary to fulfill your dreams. The time to start is now!
Not limited to but specializing in the treatment and recovery of eating disorders.
At The Time is Always Now Therapy Group, Randi Zimmerman, LCSW-R, CEDS-S and her team are ready for you! "What lies before you and what lies behind you are tiny matters compared to what lies within you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson. For those who wish to be the best they can be, to heal and strive and connect, therapy can help you achieve the highest quality of your life. Your unique strengths will be uncovered and cultivated to help you meet the challenges before you. You will be guided and nurtured to achieve and exceed your goals, to take the risks necessary to fulfill your dreams. The time to start is now!
(516) 986-4345 View (516) 986-4345
Photo of Lori Bellan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lori Bellan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Old Westbury, NY 11568
I provide a safe, caring environment for my clients where we work together to build a mutually respectful and trusting relationship. My job is to help remove the obstacles in your way so self-realization can take place.
I provide a safe, caring environment for my clients where we work together to build a mutually respectful and trusting relationship. My job is to help remove the obstacles in your way so self-realization can take place.
(516) 628-7364 View (516) 628-7364
Photo of Audrey Feiner, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Feiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Old Westbury, NY 11568
This bickering, this fighting. It's becoming constant. You feel distant and disengaged. Why can’t you communicate the way you used to? You are often misunderstood. Impatience and frustration have taken over. Where's the compromise? Sleeping is getting increasingly difficult. You keep remembering those harsh words: your mind keeps repeating them over and over. With so much desire and unmet needs, you and your partner are drifting further and further apart.
This bickering, this fighting. It's becoming constant. You feel distant and disengaged. Why can’t you communicate the way you used to? You are often misunderstood. Impatience and frustration have taken over. Where's the compromise? Sleeping is getting increasingly difficult. You keep remembering those harsh words: your mind keeps repeating them over and over. With so much desire and unmet needs, you and your partner are drifting further and further apart.
(516) 714-5920 View (516) 714-5920
Photo of Easton Gaines, MSEd, PsyD, Psychologist
Easton Gaines
Psychologist, MSEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
Old Westbury, NY 11568
I practice Holistic Psychology and am passionate about making evidence-based therapeutic practices accessible. Therapy with me is collaborative, flexible, and strengths-based. My approach is grounded in scientifically-backed methods with specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). I see clients of all ages ranging from young childhood through adulthood, including families and couples.
I practice Holistic Psychology and am passionate about making evidence-based therapeutic practices accessible. Therapy with me is collaborative, flexible, and strengths-based. My approach is grounded in scientifically-backed methods with specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT). I see clients of all ages ranging from young childhood through adulthood, including families and couples.
(646) 736-4452 View (646) 736-4452

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hilary Brodsky, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hilary Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Glen Head, NY 11545
I received my Masters from Columbia University and trained at the Center for the Study of Anorexia and Bulimia. I am certified in the treatment of Eating Disorders as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I help people understand and become curious about themselves. I challenge the negative thinking that plays endlessly in our brains. I work to help people develop their strengths, their voice and to regain agency in their lives.
I received my Masters from Columbia University and trained at the Center for the Study of Anorexia and Bulimia. I am certified in the treatment of Eating Disorders as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I help people understand and become curious about themselves. I challenge the negative thinking that plays endlessly in our brains. I work to help people develop their strengths, their voice and to regain agency in their lives.
(516) 774-4210 View (516) 774-4210
Photo of Christine M Newman, PhD, Psychologist
Christine M Newman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jericho, NY 11753
Some of the conditions I treat include but are not limited to: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, School Refusal, ADHD and more.
I understand that reaching out to a therapist for the first time can be very scary. I do my best to create an environment where my clients are met with compassion and understanding, without fear of judgment. I provide individuals with evidence-based treatment to help them overcome their difficulties. I believe that it is important to custom tailor therapy to each individual, as no two people are exactly the same. I believe one of the most important aspects of treatment is meeting each client where they are in readiness, while also encouraging movement towards their goals.
Some of the conditions I treat include but are not limited to: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, School Refusal, ADHD and more.
I understand that reaching out to a therapist for the first time can be very scary. I do my best to create an environment where my clients are met with compassion and understanding, without fear of judgment. I provide individuals with evidence-based treatment to help them overcome their difficulties. I believe that it is important to custom tailor therapy to each individual, as no two people are exactly the same. I believe one of the most important aspects of treatment is meeting each client where they are in readiness, while also encouraging movement towards their goals.
(516) 719-6383 x1 View (516) 719-6383 x1
Photo of Gabriella Albina Vezza, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Gabriella Albina Vezza
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Glen Head, NY 11545
Life brings a number of challenges that can interfere with one's optimal functioning and quality of life. Whether you are seeking to increase your self-esteem, heal from past trauma, decrease anxiety, break negative thinking patterns, improve relationships, or cope with a loss, you have taken the first step by putting yourself first and I am here to help. I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, and depression. I would like to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental setting to promote your emotional wellbeing and help you achieve the change and balance you desire.
Life brings a number of challenges that can interfere with one's optimal functioning and quality of life. Whether you are seeking to increase your self-esteem, heal from past trauma, decrease anxiety, break negative thinking patterns, improve relationships, or cope with a loss, you have taken the first step by putting yourself first and I am here to help. I work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, and depression. I would like to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental setting to promote your emotional wellbeing and help you achieve the change and balance you desire.
(516) 588-7607 View (516) 588-7607
Photo of Jane L Ades, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane L Ades
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
I have advanced training in eating disorders and have many years of experience helping men and women through times of transition: college, marriage, child-rearing, divorce, empty-nesting and retirement.
I see therapy as an endeavor in which you and I work to explore obstacles in the way of your happiness. Painful relationships or critical self-judgments can impair your resiliency and motivation to effect the changes you'd like to see in your life. I can offer you a way to think about yourself, in an environment of trust, which will help you to fully inhabit and direct your life. Depression and anxiety, stress at work and at home can challenge the core of our lives. I will work with you to resolve these issues and achieve your goals.
I have advanced training in eating disorders and have many years of experience helping men and women through times of transition: college, marriage, child-rearing, divorce, empty-nesting and retirement.
I see therapy as an endeavor in which you and I work to explore obstacles in the way of your happiness. Painful relationships or critical self-judgments can impair your resiliency and motivation to effect the changes you'd like to see in your life. I can offer you a way to think about yourself, in an environment of trust, which will help you to fully inhabit and direct your life. Depression and anxiety, stress at work and at home can challenge the core of our lives. I will work with you to resolve these issues and achieve your goals.
(516) 864-4039 View (516) 864-4039
Photo of Robert M Cristal, PhD, Psychologist
Robert M Cristal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577  (Online Only)
Although my practice is general in its scope, I primarily focus on treating the following problems: Panic Disorder - Anxiety - PTSD - Depression - Problematic Anger/Rage - ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorders) in Children & Adults - Oppositional Defiant Disorder - Marital & Family Problems - Eating Disorders - Sleep Disorders - Bereavement - Stress Component of Physical Ailments, and Problems Adjusting to Chronic Illness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Roslyn Heights, NY, specializing in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), Relaxation Therapy & Marriage Counseling. CBT is an effective psychotherapeutic approach to the treatment of a wide variety of emotional and behavioral problems. My therapeutic objective is to help relieve emotional distress and improve over-all quality of life. I have maintained my Roslyn Heights office for more than 30 years. Close to the LIE and Northern State Parkway, it is convenient to bus and rail transportation and is wheelchair accessible. Office Hours: Monday - Friday, daytime and evenings.
Although my practice is general in its scope, I primarily focus on treating the following problems: Panic Disorder - Anxiety - PTSD - Depression - Problematic Anger/Rage - ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorders) in Children & Adults - Oppositional Defiant Disorder - Marital & Family Problems - Eating Disorders - Sleep Disorders - Bereavement - Stress Component of Physical Ailments, and Problems Adjusting to Chronic Illness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Roslyn Heights, NY, specializing in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), Relaxation Therapy & Marriage Counseling. CBT is an effective psychotherapeutic approach to the treatment of a wide variety of emotional and behavioral problems. My therapeutic objective is to help relieve emotional distress and improve over-all quality of life. I have maintained my Roslyn Heights office for more than 30 years. Close to the LIE and Northern State Parkway, it is convenient to bus and rail transportation and is wheelchair accessible. Office Hours: Monday - Friday, daytime and evenings.
(516) 621-3339 View (516) 621-3339
Photo of Grace Polanco, LMHC, NCC, CASAC-t
Grace Polanco
LMHC, NCC, CASAC-t
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westbury, NY 11590  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, emotion/mood dysregulation, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions, eating disorders, and addictions.
As your therapist, I create a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere to bring comfort in expressing your thoughts and feelings. Gaining a deeper understanding of oneself in a positive environment promotes growth, change and emotional well being. My aim is to hold space for all the parts of your inner world, and to collaboratively reflect on the thoughts, behaviors and beliefs that no longer serve you. As a trauma informed clinician, our sessions will explore how past experiences have shaped the way you view life, including the habits and behaviors that you feel are holding you back. Together we can explore ways to heal.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, emotion/mood dysregulation, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions, eating disorders, and addictions.
As your therapist, I create a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere to bring comfort in expressing your thoughts and feelings. Gaining a deeper understanding of oneself in a positive environment promotes growth, change and emotional well being. My aim is to hold space for all the parts of your inner world, and to collaboratively reflect on the thoughts, behaviors and beliefs that no longer serve you. As a trauma informed clinician, our sessions will explore how past experiences have shaped the way you view life, including the habits and behaviors that you feel are holding you back. Together we can explore ways to heal.
(516) 271-1433 View (516) 271-1433
Photo of Patricia Pitta, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Patricia Pitta
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
I have specific programs for the treatment of anxiety, depression, parenting, eating disorders, marital and couple conflict, child and adolescent behavior issues and parenting elderly parents.
The journey of life is one filled with joy, happiness, sadness, disappointments, loss and renewal. I feel my goal as a psychologist is to enable a child, adolescent, young adult, and adult find the strength to review life's troubling issues and form new perceptions which enables different outlooks on problems. I feel the only problems in life are situations that can not be resolved. Many times the resolutions are not what we thought life would offer us, but that is what we have. Books written by Dr. Pitta: "Solving Modern Family Dilemmas: An Assimilative Therapy Approach" and " Integrative Couples Therapy".
I have specific programs for the treatment of anxiety, depression, parenting, eating disorders, marital and couple conflict, child and adolescent behavior issues and parenting elderly parents.
The journey of life is one filled with joy, happiness, sadness, disappointments, loss and renewal. I feel my goal as a psychologist is to enable a child, adolescent, young adult, and adult find the strength to review life's troubling issues and form new perceptions which enables different outlooks on problems. I feel the only problems in life are situations that can not be resolved. Many times the resolutions are not what we thought life would offer us, but that is what we have. Books written by Dr. Pitta: "Solving Modern Family Dilemmas: An Assimilative Therapy Approach" and " Integrative Couples Therapy".
(516) 360-2485 View (516) 360-2485
Photo of Amy Lynn Holman, LCSW, JD, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Lynn Holman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD, MA
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577  (Online Only)
I believe that asking for help, and taking the first step with a new therapist is often the hardest part of the therapeutic process. I feel that there is not a one size fits all approach to therapy. We are all very different, we have varying life experiences and most of all we do not all process or feel things in the same way. I will help you identify your goals and objectives, and we will work towards them together. Life can become overwhelming at times and I will help you unload what can often feel like a huge the pile of dishes in the sink, but one plate at a time.
I believe that asking for help, and taking the first step with a new therapist is often the hardest part of the therapeutic process. I feel that there is not a one size fits all approach to therapy. We are all very different, we have varying life experiences and most of all we do not all process or feel things in the same way. I will help you identify your goals and objectives, and we will work towards them together. Life can become overwhelming at times and I will help you unload what can often feel like a huge the pile of dishes in the sink, but one plate at a time.
(347) 282-2744 View (347) 282-2744
Photo of Lydia Seggev, PhD, Psychologist
Lydia Seggev
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577  (Online Only)
I have dreamed of being a Psychologist since I was 16 years old. It took me a while to be good at my work and it paid off. Remembering the people whom I have helped have a better, happier and more prosperous life is my reward. The children I have come to visit me as adults, and thanked me for my help; couples came with their newborns, and so on. My method of practice is interractional/psychodynamic and child play therapy.
I have dreamed of being a Psychologist since I was 16 years old. It took me a while to be good at my work and it paid off. Remembering the people whom I have helped have a better, happier and more prosperous life is my reward. The children I have come to visit me as adults, and thanked me for my help; couples came with their newborns, and so on. My method of practice is interractional/psychodynamic and child play therapy.
(516) 324-4250 View (516) 324-4250
Photo of Stacy Leigh Pellettieri - Right Path Counseling, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Right Path Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Jericho, NY 11753
Sometimes all that stands in the way of your happiness and peace of mind is the way you think about things. It's remarkable how our own thoughts can work against us creating anxiety, depression and an overall feeling of being trapped or stuck. There is great relief in the realization that the happiness you truly want and deserve is actually within your control! Whether your goal is diminishing your fears, gaining a better understanding of why you feel so sad, finally having the healthy relationship you have been yearning for, reducing stress, finding balance, or finally being able to answer that question, "What will make me happy?"
Sometimes all that stands in the way of your happiness and peace of mind is the way you think about things. It's remarkable how our own thoughts can work against us creating anxiety, depression and an overall feeling of being trapped or stuck. There is great relief in the realization that the happiness you truly want and deserve is actually within your control! Whether your goal is diminishing your fears, gaining a better understanding of why you feel so sad, finally having the healthy relationship you have been yearning for, reducing stress, finding balance, or finally being able to answer that question, "What will make me happy?"
(516) 218-8720 View (516) 218-8720
Photo of Erin Melara
Erin Melara
Licensed Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glen Head, NY 11545
Are you feeling trapped in repetitive habits or thought patterns that seem impossible to break? Do you often experience feelings of inadequacy or never being 'enough'? Perhaps you're struggling to find fulfillment in your career or relationships, unsure of how to move forward? I specialize in helping adults like you untangle the cycle of self-criticism, shame, and judgment, and discover your inherent strengths and resilience.If you're seeking support to navigate these challenges, I'm here to help. My approach is rooted in social justice and trauma-informed care, acknowledging how external systems impact our lives and well-being.
Are you feeling trapped in repetitive habits or thought patterns that seem impossible to break? Do you often experience feelings of inadequacy or never being 'enough'? Perhaps you're struggling to find fulfillment in your career or relationships, unsure of how to move forward? I specialize in helping adults like you untangle the cycle of self-criticism, shame, and judgment, and discover your inherent strengths and resilience.If you're seeking support to navigate these challenges, I'm here to help. My approach is rooted in social justice and trauma-informed care, acknowledging how external systems impact our lives and well-being.
(718) 524-3229 View (718) 524-3229
Photo of Kathi Kassover, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathi Kassover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenvale, NY 11548
Are there people in your life that you love but are draining you? Is it difficult to get your needs met if your needs are in conflict with others? Do you sometimes feel anxious or depressed because you feel so unappreciated and alone? Do you value the approval of others more than you value yourself? You are not alone. I will be there every step of the way to help you to feel that you and your feelings are just as important as everyone else. I have successfully helped so many people like you over the last 35 years.
Are there people in your life that you love but are draining you? Is it difficult to get your needs met if your needs are in conflict with others? Do you sometimes feel anxious or depressed because you feel so unappreciated and alone? Do you value the approval of others more than you value yourself? You are not alone. I will be there every step of the way to help you to feel that you and your feelings are just as important as everyone else. I have successfully helped so many people like you over the last 35 years.
(516) 597-6913 View (516) 597-6913
Photo of Debby Stromberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debby Stromberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glen Head, NY 11545
I believe that talking about your thoughts and feelings with me, in my safe and welcoming office, will help you feel better. My style is friendly and interactive, and I offer feedback. Together, we can explore the history of your life and learn about the patterns that exist. You will soon be able to make the changes that will help you live the life you desire. I specialize in issues related to relationships, family, career, self-esteem, fear, stress/nervousness/anxiety, loneliness/isolation, sadness/depression, body image, food/dieting/weight, parenting, pre-natal/post-natal, and feeling overwhelmed and confused.
I believe that talking about your thoughts and feelings with me, in my safe and welcoming office, will help you feel better. My style is friendly and interactive, and I offer feedback. Together, we can explore the history of your life and learn about the patterns that exist. You will soon be able to make the changes that will help you live the life you desire. I specialize in issues related to relationships, family, career, self-esteem, fear, stress/nervousness/anxiety, loneliness/isolation, sadness/depression, body image, food/dieting/weight, parenting, pre-natal/post-natal, and feeling overwhelmed and confused.
(516) 693-8072 View (516) 693-8072
Photo of Manisha Sandhu - Eunoia Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eunoia Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westbury, NY 11590
I am passionate about uniting with women through painful and difficult seasons of their life. Many of us live each day with a lack of contentment, a nagging sense that we are not enough, but this does not have to become the norm. Challenges may arise that are difficult to overcome. Counseling is a way to develop better ways to cope with life in the present, heal wounds from the past, let go of worries for the future and help you overcome these barriers that stand in your way. I help clients gain insight by providing a supportive and caring environment, while also challenging my clients as my counsel is to always move forward.
I am passionate about uniting with women through painful and difficult seasons of their life. Many of us live each day with a lack of contentment, a nagging sense that we are not enough, but this does not have to become the norm. Challenges may arise that are difficult to overcome. Counseling is a way to develop better ways to cope with life in the present, heal wounds from the past, let go of worries for the future and help you overcome these barriers that stand in your way. I help clients gain insight by providing a supportive and caring environment, while also challenging my clients as my counsel is to always move forward.
(516) 874-3666 View (516) 874-3666
Despina Konstas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jericho, NY 11753
I provide individual treatment to children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing a wide range of challenges including anxiety and mood disorders. More specifically, I can help provide effective treatment for obsessive compulsive spectrum disorders, panic disorder, personality disorders, self-injurious behaviors, as well as provide parent training. I also have special interests in treating bereavement, perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, including postpartum depression.
I provide individual treatment to children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing a wide range of challenges including anxiety and mood disorders. More specifically, I can help provide effective treatment for obsessive compulsive spectrum disorders, panic disorder, personality disorders, self-injurious behaviors, as well as provide parent training. I also have special interests in treating bereavement, perinatal anxiety and mood disorders, including postpartum depression.
(516) 243-8239 View (516) 243-8239
Photo of Sean Tendler - North Star Mental Health Counseling Services, LMHC, Counselor
North Star Mental Health Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westbury, NY 11590
At North Star, we help and empower adults, adolescents, and children facing stressful life challenges. Our expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, and difficulties with ADHD, procrastination, and motivation. Our diverse and experienced team of over 30 therapists provides personalized in-person care in Commack and Jericho. We also offer comprehensive telehealth services throughout New York State. This ensures the perfect therapeutic match to light your path to wellness. We tailor our approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you achieve personal breakthroughs and lasting wellbeing.
At North Star, we help and empower adults, adolescents, and children facing stressful life challenges. Our expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, and difficulties with ADHD, procrastination, and motivation. Our diverse and experienced team of over 30 therapists provides personalized in-person care in Commack and Jericho. We also offer comprehensive telehealth services throughout New York State. This ensures the perfect therapeutic match to light your path to wellness. We tailor our approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you achieve personal breakthroughs and lasting wellbeing.
(631) 557-0675 View (631) 557-0675

See more therapy options for Old Westbury

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.