Eating Disorders Therapists in Ottawa County, OH
![Photo of Emily Gibson, MS, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13a6c31a-8fdb-481f-84d9-567498334f0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Gibson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Port Clinton, OH 43452
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, mood/anxiety issues, grief, eating disorders, adult children of emotionally immature parents, and narcissistic abuse recovery.
Such a major step you’re taking right now, seeking out therapeutic support to work towards healing when much of life is uncertain, stressful, and just hard sometimes. It can be helpful to have someone to talk to who will listen, guide, and support you. We’ll collaborate to help you recognize, understand, and learn to manage your emotions, motivations, experiences, relationships, and behaviors - you too can have a happier, healthier life! Together we'll build a toolkit of resources you can use in your daily life to bring about increased peace, decreased stress, and a wider "Window of Tolerance." It's okay to ask for help sometimes!
My focus is trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, mood/anxiety issues, grief, eating disorders, adult children of emotionally immature parents, and narcissistic abuse recovery.
Such a major step you’re taking right now, seeking out therapeutic support to work towards healing when much of life is uncertain, stressful, and just hard sometimes. It can be helpful to have someone to talk to who will listen, guide, and support you. We’ll collaborate to help you recognize, understand, and learn to manage your emotions, motivations, experiences, relationships, and behaviors - you too can have a happier, healthier life! Together we'll build a toolkit of resources you can use in your daily life to bring about increased peace, decreased stress, and a wider "Window of Tolerance." It's okay to ask for help sometimes!
![Photo of Mylo Jennings - Mylo Jennings & Associates, LLC, PhD, LISWS, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/842d7eef-4322-4055-be6d-a658c48b930a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mylo Jennings & Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISWS, LICDC
Verified Verified
Oak Harbor, OH 43449
I provide psychotherapy/counseling and clinical interventions for individuals, adults, adolescents children, families and groups. With more than 35 years of experience in providing assessment, and interventions for mental (behavioral) health and substance use related issues. I have also invested many years developing, applying, and perfecting psychotherapy techniques including but not limited to Existential Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, family systems Therapy.
I provide psychotherapy/counseling and clinical interventions for individuals, adults, adolescents children, families and groups. With more than 35 years of experience in providing assessment, and interventions for mental (behavioral) health and substance use related issues. I have also invested many years developing, applying, and perfecting psychotherapy techniques including but not limited to Existential Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, family systems Therapy.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Nancy J Pelphrey, LPCC, RN, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04135624-fe56-4266-ab48-a43de3c10e4b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I also have a significant history of treating eating disorders particularly binge/chronic overeating.
“People may be complicated, but therapy doesn’t have to be.” This is a motto I developed after recognizing that people respond best when the message and the skill set are straightforward and commonsensical. What I bring to the therapeutic table is a wealth of experience caring for the body and the mind with all it’s complexities and frailties. A tired body reflects a tired mind and vice versa. I work to help you achieve balance, regulation and increased strength to manage all areas of your life. The results for you are healthier relationships, increased endurance to navigate present difficulties and sustaining resilience.
I also have a significant history of treating eating disorders particularly binge/chronic overeating.
“People may be complicated, but therapy doesn’t have to be.” This is a motto I developed after recognizing that people respond best when the message and the skill set are straightforward and commonsensical. What I bring to the therapeutic table is a wealth of experience caring for the body and the mind with all it’s complexities and frailties. A tired body reflects a tired mind and vice versa. I work to help you achieve balance, regulation and increased strength to manage all areas of your life. The results for you are healthier relationships, increased endurance to navigate present difficulties and sustaining resilience.
![Photo of Dwonna Thompson Lenoir](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a7e9010-dc8a-4203-8f0e-e831b7c2d447/1/320x400.png)
Dwonna Thompson Lenoir
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Powell, OH 43065 (Online Only)
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside themselves to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and other specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
I am committed to helping people find the strength inside themselves to triumph in relationships, overall functioning and living a balanced life. I have worked with young children, adolescents, adults, family and other specialized groups. Clients have presented with issues such as anxiety, depression, communication problems, marital concerns, parenting, ADHD, eating disorders, grief/loss, self-injury and social skills development. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
![Photo of Richard Scott Brown, MA, LPC-S, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/512f80e7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Scott Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marysville, OH 43040 (Online Only)
My practice focuses on trauma, eating disorders and life transitions; while also working with more general presentations of anxiety, depression, mood swings, impulsivity, grief and loss, emotional regulation, and self-view.
As we navigate our lives, we develop beliefs about ourself through our experiences. These beliefs have powerful effects on our sense of belonging, our attempts to receive love and affection, and our desires for intimacy. Feeling accepted and valued can result in a sense of self that approaches life with trust, confidence and flexibility. When difficult events arise, or we feel rejected and mistreated, the way we view ourself and our efficacy can be impacted. While we cannot change the experiences of our life, we can rewrite the meaning we assign to those experiences and free ourself from the associated distress.
My practice focuses on trauma, eating disorders and life transitions; while also working with more general presentations of anxiety, depression, mood swings, impulsivity, grief and loss, emotional regulation, and self-view.
As we navigate our lives, we develop beliefs about ourself through our experiences. These beliefs have powerful effects on our sense of belonging, our attempts to receive love and affection, and our desires for intimacy. Feeling accepted and valued can result in a sense of self that approaches life with trust, confidence and flexibility. When difficult events arise, or we feel rejected and mistreated, the way we view ourself and our efficacy can be impacted. While we cannot change the experiences of our life, we can rewrite the meaning we assign to those experiences and free ourself from the associated distress.
![Photo of Stephanie MacDonald, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4588a1e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie MacDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Twinsburg, OH 44087
I have specific training in Maudsley Family Based Therapy(FBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Behavioral Activation as well as basic behavior modification.
I am a behaviorist at heart but that does not mean that my compassion, my irreverent style, or my humor are lost in my sessions. My goal is to join with my clients and pair an evidence based treatment with empathy and compassion for the most successful outcomes. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in feeding and food issues, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and parent coaching.
I have specific training in Maudsley Family Based Therapy(FBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Behavioral Activation as well as basic behavior modification.
I am a behaviorist at heart but that does not mean that my compassion, my irreverent style, or my humor are lost in my sessions. My goal is to join with my clients and pair an evidence based treatment with empathy and compassion for the most successful outcomes. I work with adolescents and adults specializing in feeding and food issues, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and parent coaching.
![Photo of Kate Burrows, LPCC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c781a8e-1dc8-4c99-89b5-55eff72582d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and adults with issues in the areas of eating disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, body image disturbance, and self esteem.
I aim to provide supportive, compassionate and evidence-based treatment to help client's improve their quality of life and reach their goals.
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and adults with issues in the areas of eating disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, body image disturbance, and self esteem.
I aim to provide supportive, compassionate and evidence-based treatment to help client's improve their quality of life and reach their goals.
![Photo of Olivia Manna - Simply Amazing Family Environment, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/122f9c9e-d3b7-4c26-811d-463a4b54c1b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Simply Amazing Family Environment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streetsboro, OH 44241
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who specializes in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 3 years of experience working in behavioral health, providing individual therapy to teens and adults, families, & couples, group therapy, crisis stabilization, and residential mental health. I have a passion for working with depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I take a person-centered approach to create a welcoming environment. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to effective counseling. I incorporate evidenced based modalities when providing family, couples, & individual therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who specializes in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 3 years of experience working in behavioral health, providing individual therapy to teens and adults, families, & couples, group therapy, crisis stabilization, and residential mental health. I have a passion for working with depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I take a person-centered approach to create a welcoming environment. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to effective counseling. I incorporate evidenced based modalities when providing family, couples, & individual therapy.
![Photo of Caitlyn Brown, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32ad83d2-bb1e-4d95-a21b-87d309770553/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlyn Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Galena, OH 43021
We all have moments where we feel lost in our past and like we can't get a grip on our current daily life. It can be extremely challenging to know if your thoughts are 'normal' or if something is 'wrong' with you and even more so when you feel you do not have people in life that you can connect with on a deep level. Feeling like a crispy (burnt out) mama that isn't doing her best? Wanting some connection? I got you. This shit is hard, but I believe it may be worth it for you. I do have additional training in trauma and eating disorders.
We all have moments where we feel lost in our past and like we can't get a grip on our current daily life. It can be extremely challenging to know if your thoughts are 'normal' or if something is 'wrong' with you and even more so when you feel you do not have people in life that you can connect with on a deep level. Feeling like a crispy (burnt out) mama that isn't doing her best? Wanting some connection? I got you. This shit is hard, but I believe it may be worth it for you. I do have additional training in trauma and eating disorders.
![Photo of Jason Decker, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce72f4d7-3e63-485d-8631-5755f57cbe22/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe we all have the innate capacity for growth and change, and sometimes we need help to do so. Entering therapy is a significant step, and I am honored to work with people who have decided to begin their path toward healing. I work with adults, teenagers, and couples who are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, and developmental crises. Using a strengths-based approach, together we will explore difficult thoughts, emotions, and behaviors from a non-judgmental perspective and chart new fulfilling paths.
I believe we all have the innate capacity for growth and change, and sometimes we need help to do so. Entering therapy is a significant step, and I am honored to work with people who have decided to begin their path toward healing. I work with adults, teenagers, and couples who are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, and developmental crises. Using a strengths-based approach, together we will explore difficult thoughts, emotions, and behaviors from a non-judgmental perspective and chart new fulfilling paths.
First of all, Thank you State of Ohio and all online communities for the professional opportunity to guide and serve you all! Dr. Nicole (Nikki) is a Therapist both Professionally and Individually Licensed in Mental Health & Dual Diagnosis (LPC,LICDC, LISAC, QMHC) in OH & AZ who offers individual/family therapeutic counseling, life skills/coaching, and psycho educational training of all topics. This Therapist also specializes in all types of Addictions, Traumas, Hoarding, Eating Disorders, Grief, Mood/Mental Disorders, Veterans/Military, Learning/Developmental Disorders of all age groups.
First of all, Thank you State of Ohio and all online communities for the professional opportunity to guide and serve you all! Dr. Nicole (Nikki) is a Therapist both Professionally and Individually Licensed in Mental Health & Dual Diagnosis (LPC,LICDC, LISAC, QMHC) in OH & AZ who offers individual/family therapeutic counseling, life skills/coaching, and psycho educational training of all topics. This Therapist also specializes in all types of Addictions, Traumas, Hoarding, Eating Disorders, Grief, Mood/Mental Disorders, Veterans/Military, Learning/Developmental Disorders of all age groups.
![Photo of Tara Woltz, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4051f036-f8e3-4534-99a0-7fa031b1788e/1/320x400.jpeg)
These techniques can assist in treating a variety of mental health disorders including substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders, and PTSD.
Mental health is integral to living a healthy balanced life. Although the general perception of mental health has improved in recent times, people can still be fearful of the negative stigma that is attached to mental health illnesses. This can add to the anxiety and fear of seeking mental health treatment. I provide treatment and coping skills to manage life stressor while showing clients respect, empathy, and acceptance. Through utilizing appropriate therapeutic techniques I can help clients to identify and change destructive thought patterns that have a negative influence on behaviors and emotions.
These techniques can assist in treating a variety of mental health disorders including substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders, and PTSD.
Mental health is integral to living a healthy balanced life. Although the general perception of mental health has improved in recent times, people can still be fearful of the negative stigma that is attached to mental health illnesses. This can add to the anxiety and fear of seeking mental health treatment. I provide treatment and coping skills to manage life stressor while showing clients respect, empathy, and acceptance. Through utilizing appropriate therapeutic techniques I can help clients to identify and change destructive thought patterns that have a negative influence on behaviors and emotions.
![Photo of Amanda Lehner, LISW-S, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b7392b4-38b9-44b0-a95a-0c45668c07be/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in supporting teens and adults experiencing eating disorders, body image struggles, self-esteem and anxiety to heal their relationship with food and their body using personalized, collaborative and evidence-based treatments.
Is your relationship with food or your body making it seem as if you are out of control? Maybe you’re caught in a spiral of worry that you can’t seem to stop. You might also feel frustrated and exhausted by the constant thoughts about eating the “right thing” and getting enough time in at the gym. You might even wish that life could be easier and you could enjoy events without trying on 5 different outfits before heading out the door or worrying about what food would be served. Perhaps you have been hit with feelings of guilt, anxiety, and depression.
I specialize in supporting teens and adults experiencing eating disorders, body image struggles, self-esteem and anxiety to heal their relationship with food and their body using personalized, collaborative and evidence-based treatments.
Is your relationship with food or your body making it seem as if you are out of control? Maybe you’re caught in a spiral of worry that you can’t seem to stop. You might also feel frustrated and exhausted by the constant thoughts about eating the “right thing” and getting enough time in at the gym. You might even wish that life could be easier and you could enjoy events without trying on 5 different outfits before heading out the door or worrying about what food would be served. Perhaps you have been hit with feelings of guilt, anxiety, and depression.
![Photo of Erika Taddie-Osborn, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e262b63d-287b-47b9-86a0-a2fb102597ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Taddie-Osborn has 15 years of experience in individual and group counseling and treatment of substance use disorders, most recently at Glenbeigh Hospital, where she served as counseling director. She has served as a therapist and chemical dependency counselor in outpatient and inpatient settings, working with both individuals and groups. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and her master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University. In addition to treatment of substance use disorders and other addictions, she also specializes in eating disorders and women's issues.
Erika Taddie-Osborn has 15 years of experience in individual and group counseling and treatment of substance use disorders, most recently at Glenbeigh Hospital, where she served as counseling director. She has served as a therapist and chemical dependency counselor in outpatient and inpatient settings, working with both individuals and groups. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and her master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University. In addition to treatment of substance use disorders and other addictions, she also specializes in eating disorders and women's issues.
![Photo of Alexandria Carlson, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65835486-42e5-4d93-8988-dfcaee79bd70/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandria Carlson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43604 (Online Only)
I have dedicated myself to assisting those who experience depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and many other mental health challenges.
Hello, my name is Alexandria Carlson and I’m an LPCC living in Toledo Ohio. I love what I do and am passionate in my mission to help my clients discover themselves, find hope & eventually thrive. While there are commonalities to any mental health diagnosis, I also believe each person has their own individual experience and honor that in treatment. I have been working with those diagnosed with depression, anxiety, eating disorders & many other mental health problems for 7 + years. I utilize evidence-based practices & consistently monitor progress over the course of treatment.
I have dedicated myself to assisting those who experience depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and many other mental health challenges.
Hello, my name is Alexandria Carlson and I’m an LPCC living in Toledo Ohio. I love what I do and am passionate in my mission to help my clients discover themselves, find hope & eventually thrive. While there are commonalities to any mental health diagnosis, I also believe each person has their own individual experience and honor that in treatment. I have been working with those diagnosed with depression, anxiety, eating disorders & many other mental health problems for 7 + years. I utilize evidence-based practices & consistently monitor progress over the course of treatment.
![Photo of Susan Zacharias, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd20e229-e7a7-4ca4-b37f-af9bf505feed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Zacharias received her master's degree in clinical pastoral counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. She also holds a bachelor's degree from Kent State University. She has more than 15 years of counseling experience including work in community and private practice settings. She currently provides individual, couples and family therapy to children, adolescents and adults ages 6 to 65+. Her treatment areas of specialty include trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders and substance use disorders. She is also trained in the use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Susan Zacharias received her master's degree in clinical pastoral counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. She also holds a bachelor's degree from Kent State University. She has more than 15 years of counseling experience including work in community and private practice settings. She currently provides individual, couples and family therapy to children, adolescents and adults ages 6 to 65+. Her treatment areas of specialty include trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders and substance use disorders. She is also trained in the use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
![Photo of Jamie Leigh Smith, MA, LPCC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/079fa46e-d9bf-4879-aae9-8ac5cf9af3ba/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie Leigh Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43623
Hello! My name is Jamie Smith (She/her/hers), an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist with more than ten years’ therapeutic experience. I enjoy assisting clients, creating a safe space, and developing opportunities for them to be unapologetically themselves. I am enthusiastic about exploring and addressing individuals’ concerns and issues related to trauma, coping with cultural-related concerns, disordered eating habits, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and issues associated with self-exploration/self-discovery. I enjoy counseling college students, adults, adolescents, and children 12 and older.
Hello! My name is Jamie Smith (She/her/hers), an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist with more than ten years’ therapeutic experience. I enjoy assisting clients, creating a safe space, and developing opportunities for them to be unapologetically themselves. I am enthusiastic about exploring and addressing individuals’ concerns and issues related to trauma, coping with cultural-related concerns, disordered eating habits, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and issues associated with self-exploration/self-discovery. I enjoy counseling college students, adults, adolescents, and children 12 and older.
![Photo of Benita K. Chernyk, PhD, CEAP, LICDCCS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e724be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Benita K. Chernyk
Psychologist, PhD, CEAP, LICDCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
I have special interests in women's issues, eating disorders, trauma recovery, addictions and medical problems with psychological components.
As a seasoned clinical psychologist, I treat adults with depression, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, ADHD, sexuality/gender issues, substance use and other problems. I have trained in multiple evidence-based treatment methods and am practical and direct. I enjoy working with couples and appreciate diversity. I was born and raised in Los Angeles but have lived and worked in Ohio for over thirty years. I am collaborative, prefer to avoid psycho-babble and have a reputation for being able to ask tough questions and confront difficult issues.
I have special interests in women's issues, eating disorders, trauma recovery, addictions and medical problems with psychological components.
As a seasoned clinical psychologist, I treat adults with depression, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, ADHD, sexuality/gender issues, substance use and other problems. I have trained in multiple evidence-based treatment methods and am practical and direct. I enjoy working with couples and appreciate diversity. I was born and raised in Los Angeles but have lived and worked in Ohio for over thirty years. I am collaborative, prefer to avoid psycho-babble and have a reputation for being able to ask tough questions and confront difficult issues.
![Photo of Yael Farkas (Vineburg), MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b44c94-d97e-468e-8427-82ef38b0096a/1/320x400.png)
Yael Farkas (Vineburg)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Heights, OH 44118
I have extensive clinical experience with survivors of abuse & trauma, individuals with Eating Disorders, Chronic Pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety related disorders.
I believe anyone brave enough to seek out therapy is motivated to make a change in how they cope, experience, and take charge of all that life throws at them. As a mental health counselor, I am here to walk with and encourage you as you empower yourself to continue to live a life of meaning and purpose. I will help you identify and work with your strengths, values, and goals, no matter what baggage and background seems to weigh you down.
I have extensive clinical experience with survivors of abuse & trauma, individuals with Eating Disorders, Chronic Pain, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, and Anxiety related disorders.
I believe anyone brave enough to seek out therapy is motivated to make a change in how they cope, experience, and take charge of all that life throws at them. As a mental health counselor, I am here to walk with and encourage you as you empower yourself to continue to live a life of meaning and purpose. I will help you identify and work with your strengths, values, and goals, no matter what baggage and background seems to weigh you down.
![Photo of Cianna Dorando, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da41359b-99cf-471c-a281-f44d96fc934e/1/320x400.jpeg)
She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Human Development in 2020 where she took specialized course work in eating disorders and trauma.
Cianna Dorando (pronouns: she/they) is an experienced licensed professional clinical counselor who works with teenagers, adults, and couples. Her specialty interests include: gender and sexuality issues, trauma-informed care, recovery from substance use issues, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based, affirming, and uniquely tailored to each client.
She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Human Development in 2020 where she took specialized course work in eating disorders and trauma.
Cianna Dorando (pronouns: she/they) is an experienced licensed professional clinical counselor who works with teenagers, adults, and couples. Her specialty interests include: gender and sexuality issues, trauma-informed care, recovery from substance use issues, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based, affirming, and uniquely tailored to each client.
See more therapy options for Ottawa County
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.