Therapists in Warren, OR
There are no results for therapists in Warren
Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Oregon below.Online Therapists
![Photo of Lexi Marquardt Hill, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4c2332d-4ffa-4bfc-a7b6-ab8eb8b9796d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lexi Marquardt Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204 (Online Only)
I specialize in eating disorders, seeing clients with all types of diagnoses.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
I specialize in eating disorders, seeing clients with all types of diagnoses.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
![Photo of Florence Trentacosti, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b662c39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I can help with all kinds of addictions, existential crises, grief, abuse, eating disorders.
The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the healing process, whether the problem is with external relationships, traumatic experience, or one's relationship with the self. I use psychoanalytic principles and relational dynamics to explore the internal conflicts and patterns that are at the root of emotional, psychological and relational problems. I am also sensitive to spirituality and the existential problems inherent in being human, and how these affect us all. I have a special interest in the psychology of twins and intersubjective relating in general.
I can help with all kinds of addictions, existential crises, grief, abuse, eating disorders.
The therapeutic relationship is crucial to the healing process, whether the problem is with external relationships, traumatic experience, or one's relationship with the self. I use psychoanalytic principles and relational dynamics to explore the internal conflicts and patterns that are at the root of emotional, psychological and relational problems. I am also sensitive to spirituality and the existential problems inherent in being human, and how these affect us all. I have a special interest in the psychology of twins and intersubjective relating in general.
![Photo of Arin Wallington - Willamette Wellness Center, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7841a158-17a0-42ab-a925-2602600120c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of OR and WA. We have a wide range of specialties including eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, pregnancy/post partum work, anxiety/depression, Neurodivergency, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of OR and WA. We have a wide range of specialties including eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, pregnancy/post partum work, anxiety/depression, Neurodivergency, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
![Photo of Elizabeth A. Hadley, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eadaa37f-5898-445b-a2ec-46438a424b2c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A. Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132 (Online Only)
I work with teens - adults on social and behavioral issues as well as extensive trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
Hi there and welcome! Sometimes it can be difficult to begin therapy. My desire is to be a resource and safe place for you to explore your needs. I am humbled on a daily basis by the bravery and strength of my clients. Your health and mental well-being are my highest priority as you begin this journey towards help and healing. To help this process, I offer free, 30 minute consultations. This is an opportunity for you to get to know me and decide how you would like to continue. . It is an honor to be a part of this process with you.
I work with teens - adults on social and behavioral issues as well as extensive trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
Hi there and welcome! Sometimes it can be difficult to begin therapy. My desire is to be a resource and safe place for you to explore your needs. I am humbled on a daily basis by the bravery and strength of my clients. Your health and mental well-being are my highest priority as you begin this journey towards help and healing. To help this process, I offer free, 30 minute consultations. This is an opportunity for you to get to know me and decide how you would like to continue. . It is an honor to be a part of this process with you.
![Photo of Gwen Welch-Slaff - The Healing Haven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e4d7d64-89c4-49a9-8655-bf3ffa7f3167/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
![Photo of Donald Marks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8124f0c-f21c-4ffc-996f-e4480c9d2c90/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donald Marks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97216 (Online Only)
Having experience in multiple levels of care for eating disorders, I use a variety of interventions including person centered, strengths based, collaborative approach, with techniques from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior therapies, motivational interviewing, and other modalities to fit what each individual is needing.
If you are thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I strive to help you grow into your best self, to collaborate on holistic goal setting, to feel validated and heard, and have increased self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with eating disorders/disordered eating, compulsive exercise, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relational stress, and life transitions. It is my belief that having an accepting, respectful, and collaborative relationship is necessary for the healing and change process to occur.
Having experience in multiple levels of care for eating disorders, I use a variety of interventions including person centered, strengths based, collaborative approach, with techniques from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior therapies, motivational interviewing, and other modalities to fit what each individual is needing.
If you are thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I strive to help you grow into your best self, to collaborate on holistic goal setting, to feel validated and heard, and have increased self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with eating disorders/disordered eating, compulsive exercise, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relational stress, and life transitions. It is my belief that having an accepting, respectful, and collaborative relationship is necessary for the healing and change process to occur.
![Photo of Jessica Dougherty, LPCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73eeb9e9-c96e-43ab-b043-62f59242dc62/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you or your child deal with anxiety? Facing challenges with school, activities, or friends? Are you a young adult dealing with doubts, a lack of self-esteem, or lowered confidence? Are you moving from adolescence into college, adulthood, or the professional world? Do you feel alone and stressed out? I am accepting daytime individual clients located in Oregon right now, however, our practice has providers seeing clients in WA and OR who have availability for individuals and couples with various concerns (depression, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, etc.).
Do you or your child deal with anxiety? Facing challenges with school, activities, or friends? Are you a young adult dealing with doubts, a lack of self-esteem, or lowered confidence? Are you moving from adolescence into college, adulthood, or the professional world? Do you feel alone and stressed out? I am accepting daytime individual clients located in Oregon right now, however, our practice has providers seeing clients in WA and OR who have availability for individuals and couples with various concerns (depression, eating disorders, ADHD, substance use, etc.).
![Photo of Xander Hayden, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62f7f0a3-7b79-40b8-a8cc-a08ee4f5fa04/2/320x400.jpeg)
Xander Hayden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005 (Online Only)
Hello! I am currently transitioning into part-time private practice and in the process of credentialing with multiple insurance providers with availability primarily on evenings and weekends. I have extensive experience writing letters and coordinating care for gender diverse individuals undergoing medical transition. I enjoy working with all ages, the LGBT+ population, and am especially experienced in working with individuals experiencing autism spectrum disorder, gender dysphoria, eating disorders, chronic pain, and/or have a history of trauma.
Hello! I am currently transitioning into part-time private practice and in the process of credentialing with multiple insurance providers with availability primarily on evenings and weekends. I have extensive experience writing letters and coordinating care for gender diverse individuals undergoing medical transition. I enjoy working with all ages, the LGBT+ population, and am especially experienced in working with individuals experiencing autism spectrum disorder, gender dysphoria, eating disorders, chronic pain, and/or have a history of trauma.
![Photo of Lori Platt, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a7c8b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The road of life isn't always smooth and easy... and it's a road you don't have to navigate alone. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? I enjoy working with clients who are ready to seek the road to recovery - from trauma, abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and the stress of life.
The road of life isn't always smooth and easy... and it's a road you don't have to navigate alone. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? I enjoy working with clients who are ready to seek the road to recovery - from trauma, abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and the stress of life.
![Photo of Rebecca Oyer, MSW, LCSW, SEP, ISPP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/518be206-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Oyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP, ISPP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
I work with the areas listed below, including isolation, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, verbal, physical, sexual and other types of abuse, eating disorders, child and parenting problems.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years and I very much enjoy my work. My goal is to help people with healing, and in so doing help them to live a more joyful and meaningful life. I have years of experience helping clients address and recover from many different issues. I work with emotional wounds that are often at the core of issues that clients bring to me, and with healing trauma including religious trauma. I have found that when these wounds can be addressed in a safe environment, healing can take place. I work with adults of all life stages, with adolescents, children, with individuals, families and groups.
I work with the areas listed below, including isolation, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, verbal, physical, sexual and other types of abuse, eating disorders, child and parenting problems.
I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for 30 years and I very much enjoy my work. My goal is to help people with healing, and in so doing help them to live a more joyful and meaningful life. I have years of experience helping clients address and recover from many different issues. I work with emotional wounds that are often at the core of issues that clients bring to me, and with healing trauma including religious trauma. I have found that when these wounds can be addressed in a safe environment, healing can take place. I work with adults of all life stages, with adolescents, children, with individuals, families and groups.
![Photo of Mamta Bhargava, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49155fbe-25e7-4cc4-97be-9f77a6e82377/1/320x400.png)
Mamta Bhargava
Counselor, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97003 (Online Only)
I believe in the innate power in us to evolve and resolve. Sometimes when we are faced with challenging situations, our perspectives become hazy and we are unable to connect with our selves. I use eclectic and holistic modes of therapy to help people connect with their inner selves to move on in their lives and reach their full potential. I am trained in DBT, CBT, ACT and am also a Certified EMDR provider. I also completed an externship in Emotionally focussed Therapy for Couples as positive relationships are imperative for our emotional, mental health.
I believe in the innate power in us to evolve and resolve. Sometimes when we are faced with challenging situations, our perspectives become hazy and we are unable to connect with our selves. I use eclectic and holistic modes of therapy to help people connect with their inner selves to move on in their lives and reach their full potential. I am trained in DBT, CBT, ACT and am also a Certified EMDR provider. I also completed an externship in Emotionally focussed Therapy for Couples as positive relationships are imperative for our emotional, mental health.
![Photo of Marley Small - Renewal Counseling Services, LLC, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5466a6a-2f66-4a91-9e78-2cbd48b1bd2f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Renewal Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124 (Online Only)
Accepts Kaiser, OR. At Renewal Counseling Services, we aim to provide client-centered and client-lead services to improve quality of life inside and outside the counseling room by offering supportive guidance, multicultural humility, and the encouragement of personal growth for individuals. It is our mission to be there with you every step of the way on your journey of self-reflection. With a holistic philosophy and a collaborative approach, we make it our mission to hear everything you have to say, especially when you think no one else will. It’s our job to help you on your journey to wellness, happiness, and personal fulfillment.
Accepts Kaiser, OR. At Renewal Counseling Services, we aim to provide client-centered and client-lead services to improve quality of life inside and outside the counseling room by offering supportive guidance, multicultural humility, and the encouragement of personal growth for individuals. It is our mission to be there with you every step of the way on your journey of self-reflection. With a holistic philosophy and a collaborative approach, we make it our mission to hear everything you have to say, especially when you think no one else will. It’s our job to help you on your journey to wellness, happiness, and personal fulfillment.
![Photo of Nicole Mayeda, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86862249-792d-42d8-b8a4-f648ec68284c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I tend to see individuals who achieve success in school and in their careers, but retain a chronic and deep-seated feeling that something is missing. Often, these individuals have gotten by on exceptional logic with little sense that there can be more to their existence. They may be more comfortable doing as opposed to being, thinking as opposed to feeling, and helping as opposed to being helped. High standards commonly include high pressure to self-contain, which can cause immense, private suffering. I aim to provide these individuals with a fuller and more compassionate experience of themselves.
I tend to see individuals who achieve success in school and in their careers, but retain a chronic and deep-seated feeling that something is missing. Often, these individuals have gotten by on exceptional logic with little sense that there can be more to their existence. They may be more comfortable doing as opposed to being, thinking as opposed to feeling, and helping as opposed to being helped. High standards commonly include high pressure to self-contain, which can cause immense, private suffering. I aim to provide these individuals with a fuller and more compassionate experience of themselves.
![Photo of Roxanna Glang, MS, MFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc10a93f-2672-470e-8b63-20020661f2e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life, talking to someone in a safe space is a brave, first-step toward a deeper understanding of yourself. Perhaps you’re struggling with feelings from trauma, grief, depression and anxiety, or having difficulty communicating effectively in your relationships; or you’ve lost sight of your life’s meaning. Whatever the source of emotional pain, I can help you approach old problems in new ways.
Now accepting new clients! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life, talking to someone in a safe space is a brave, first-step toward a deeper understanding of yourself. Perhaps you’re struggling with feelings from trauma, grief, depression and anxiety, or having difficulty communicating effectively in your relationships; or you’ve lost sight of your life’s meaning. Whatever the source of emotional pain, I can help you approach old problems in new ways.
![Photo of Brianne Crane, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69bbbd2f-5d0d-42b2-86e5-0a6b2a934812/5/320x400.jpeg)
Brianne Crane
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Cannon Beach, OR 97110 (Online Only)
Currently accepting NEW clients! Receiving teletherapy without leaving the comfort of your home is convenient for multiple obvious reasons; being in your own environment also offers several benefits that allow a natural process, greatly enhancing the therapeutic relationship. I enjoy working with adolescents, families, and adult individuals; ranging from a variety of metal health issues, to the daily highs and lows of life. My counseling style is to empathically meet my clients where they are throughout the therapeutic process, work alongside them while they navigate life, and offer insight for moving forward successfully.
Currently accepting NEW clients! Receiving teletherapy without leaving the comfort of your home is convenient for multiple obvious reasons; being in your own environment also offers several benefits that allow a natural process, greatly enhancing the therapeutic relationship. I enjoy working with adolescents, families, and adult individuals; ranging from a variety of metal health issues, to the daily highs and lows of life. My counseling style is to empathically meet my clients where they are throughout the therapeutic process, work alongside them while they navigate life, and offer insight for moving forward successfully.
![Photo of Robert Lydon - Stronger Oregon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebecbe4b-7bb4-44ac-a40b-aa2c82c9595b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stronger Oregon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
We have a robust team of approximately 180+ providers, and growing, so that you can place a call, likely have someone answer and hopefully find access to treatment within the week or next. We treat all ages and most ailments. We have offices throughout Oregon and we do telehealth. Our providers cover almost all modalities, insurances and demographics so that you have a high probably of getting the right provider and the right time. Search through our list of providers on our website to see how many fit your needs. We'll do our best to be your solution and join you in a journey of healing.
We have a robust team of approximately 180+ providers, and growing, so that you can place a call, likely have someone answer and hopefully find access to treatment within the week or next. We treat all ages and most ailments. We have offices throughout Oregon and we do telehealth. Our providers cover almost all modalities, insurances and demographics so that you have a high probably of getting the right provider and the right time. Search through our list of providers on our website to see how many fit your needs. We'll do our best to be your solution and join you in a journey of healing.
![Photo of Carol L Dugan, MA, CADC II, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3717d6b3-7845-4530-964f-bc0973f253f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Note: I am accepting new patients. Have you been wanting to make changes in your life? Have you experienced challenging setbacks that you want to overcome? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship issues? I am humbled by the resiliency of my clients who take the the steps to heal. When the light comes on in their eyes, I have seen the amazing miracles that walking through pain creates. Through vulnerability and courage, I can help you find hope and healing. By developing a deeper self- awareness and self-compassion miracles can happen as you walk your journey.
Note: I am accepting new patients. Have you been wanting to make changes in your life? Have you experienced challenging setbacks that you want to overcome? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship issues? I am humbled by the resiliency of my clients who take the the steps to heal. When the light comes on in their eyes, I have seen the amazing miracles that walking through pain creates. Through vulnerability and courage, I can help you find hope and healing. By developing a deeper self- awareness and self-compassion miracles can happen as you walk your journey.
![Photo of Jenn Dell, CSWA, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3098a0-6c3e-46b1-959c-510245c3aae0/2/320x400.jpeg)
About Me: I am a compassionate and dedicated CSWA with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their full potential. I will be working through Mindful therapy services. With a Master's degree in Social work and 6 years of experience in both clinical and private practice settings, I provide a safe and supportive environment where clients of all ages, race, gender, and sexual orientation can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe space.
About Me: I am a compassionate and dedicated CSWA with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve their full potential. I will be working through Mindful therapy services. With a Master's degree in Social work and 6 years of experience in both clinical and private practice settings, I provide a safe and supportive environment where clients of all ages, race, gender, and sexual orientation can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe space.
![Photo of Vera Alcorn - Amenda Clinic, ND, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30320a0a-4777-45b4-acf4-ac56b6ccf216/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are an integrative mental health clinic that offers a broad range of therapies with both Counselors and Naturopaths. This holistic approach allows patients to experience healing at a biological and emotional level with a team of collaborative caregivers that surpasses the use of just a therapist or just medication or just any one thing. You can have your whole story heard, the big picture of your mental and physical health supported all in one, for healing unlike you've experienced yet.
We are an integrative mental health clinic that offers a broad range of therapies with both Counselors and Naturopaths. This holistic approach allows patients to experience healing at a biological and emotional level with a team of collaborative caregivers that surpasses the use of just a therapist or just medication or just any one thing. You can have your whole story heard, the big picture of your mental and physical health supported all in one, for healing unlike you've experienced yet.
![Photo of Caroline Sabi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53a87cf9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Sabi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the privilege of witnessing people undergo the slow, extremely subtle and remarkable journey of healing and self-transformation. This process of psychological growth is astoundingly complex, multilayered, circular and even mysteriously numinous in its unfolding. My philosophy as a therapist is primarily on core transformation rather than merely symptom management and needless to say, I strongly believe in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship as a significant healing agent. Moving towards our wholeness necessitates the courage to first move into the wounded parts that we all have as members of the human species.
I have had the privilege of witnessing people undergo the slow, extremely subtle and remarkable journey of healing and self-transformation. This process of psychological growth is astoundingly complex, multilayered, circular and even mysteriously numinous in its unfolding. My philosophy as a therapist is primarily on core transformation rather than merely symptom management and needless to say, I strongly believe in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship as a significant healing agent. Moving towards our wholeness necessitates the courage to first move into the wounded parts that we all have as members of the human species.
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.