Eating Disorders Therapists in Cheltenham, PA

Photo of Rhoda Fuchs-Morton, MA, CAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhoda Fuchs-Morton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I have been providing mental health care since 1989 in both inpatient and outpatient settings, treating individuals, couples and families for a variety of mental health problems. My professional training and background is as a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Addictions Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have a strong background in Alternative Holistic Healing Therapies from mind/body practices,energy psychology, body-based therapies, holistic health and spiritual practices. As a therapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and am able to integrate psychotherapy with alternative healing modalities to support psychological growth in the best way possible for each individual's particular needs (see fuchsmortonholistic.com). I believe it's important to find the "right/best" fit between client and therapist. The following are some of my specializations: individual therapy integrating holistic therapies, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions recovery, couples counseling, adolescence and families, compulsive eating and obesity, spiritual development, children of narcissistic parents, menopausal change, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.
I have been providing mental health care since 1989 in both inpatient and outpatient settings, treating individuals, couples and families for a variety of mental health problems. My professional training and background is as a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Addictions Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have a strong background in Alternative Holistic Healing Therapies from mind/body practices,energy psychology, body-based therapies, holistic health and spiritual practices. As a therapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and am able to integrate psychotherapy with alternative healing modalities to support psychological growth in the best way possible for each individual's particular needs (see fuchsmortonholistic.com). I believe it's important to find the "right/best" fit between client and therapist. The following are some of my specializations: individual therapy integrating holistic therapies, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions recovery, couples counseling, adolescence and families, compulsive eating and obesity, spiritual development, children of narcissistic parents, menopausal change, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.
(609) 849-3184 View (609) 849-3184
Photo of Julie Sponsler - Julie Sponsler, MA, LMFT
Julie Sponsler
MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Are you feeling stuck or unhappy at home, work or school? Using food to manage stress? Struggling with a relationship? Using experiential techniques beyond basic "talk therapy," I create a safe space helping clients remove the blocks that are keeping them from living a joy-filled life. Many of the approaches I use with clients supported me in my own process of healing from depression and an eating disorder. I now happily share these techniques with my clients. Specializations: Relationship issues, Food issues, Depression, Parenting, Anxiety. Couples therapy (all couples including LGBTQ and polyamorous couples welcome).
Are you feeling stuck or unhappy at home, work or school? Using food to manage stress? Struggling with a relationship? Using experiential techniques beyond basic "talk therapy," I create a safe space helping clients remove the blocks that are keeping them from living a joy-filled life. Many of the approaches I use with clients supported me in my own process of healing from depression and an eating disorder. I now happily share these techniques with my clients. Specializations: Relationship issues, Food issues, Depression, Parenting, Anxiety. Couples therapy (all couples including LGBTQ and polyamorous couples welcome).
(267) 329-0459 View (267) 329-0459
Photo of Danna Bodenheimer, LCSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danna Bodenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I believe in the healing power of psychotherapy. I understand that the process might be a long one. If I take on a client, I am in it for the entire journey. Whether you facing questions about your relationship or your life path, psychotherapy can lead you towards authentic answers. I am able to use myself, along with the therapeutic relationship to allow you to find ways to live more fully. I am comfortable working to help you access the parts of yourself that feel both scary and powerful. I find that I am particularly skilled at working at the intersection of neurodivergence and queerness.
I believe in the healing power of psychotherapy. I understand that the process might be a long one. If I take on a client, I am in it for the entire journey. Whether you facing questions about your relationship or your life path, psychotherapy can lead you towards authentic answers. I am able to use myself, along with the therapeutic relationship to allow you to find ways to live more fully. I am comfortable working to help you access the parts of yourself that feel both scary and powerful. I find that I am particularly skilled at working at the intersection of neurodivergence and queerness.
(215) 839-1137 View (215) 839-1137
Photo of Craig Cohen, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Craig Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, a life transition, or problems in your relationships? Are you feeling sad, angry, or in need of help right now with complicated issues? I work to create a safe, enriching environment as we collaborate together to develop a clearer understanding of these concerns. We explore your goals in life and what gets in the way of experiencing a sense of fulfillment and purpose. I strive to listen and support the needs of my clients and explore with them meaningful changes they can make in their lives and in their personal and professional relationships.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, a life transition, or problems in your relationships? Are you feeling sad, angry, or in need of help right now with complicated issues? I work to create a safe, enriching environment as we collaborate together to develop a clearer understanding of these concerns. We explore your goals in life and what gets in the way of experiencing a sense of fulfillment and purpose. I strive to listen and support the needs of my clients and explore with them meaningful changes they can make in their lives and in their personal and professional relationships.
(215) 559-9558 View (215) 559-9558
Photo of Gabriella Serruya-Green, PsyD, Psychologist
Gabriella Serruya-Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
For all the conveniences and genuine marvels of the modern world, rates of stress, disease and mental illness continue to escalate, particularly in the wake of the collective trauma of Covid-19. Children, teens, and young adults have been especially hard hit. I work with individuals of all ages in diminishing feelings of alienation, fear, and hyper-reactivity and cultivating a sense of inner ease and well-being. Using play, talk and family therapy, we work together to understand the unmet needs underlying symptoms and figure out ways to address these needs via channeling the natural human instincts for growth and discovery.
For all the conveniences and genuine marvels of the modern world, rates of stress, disease and mental illness continue to escalate, particularly in the wake of the collective trauma of Covid-19. Children, teens, and young adults have been especially hard hit. I work with individuals of all ages in diminishing feelings of alienation, fear, and hyper-reactivity and cultivating a sense of inner ease and well-being. Using play, talk and family therapy, we work together to understand the unmet needs underlying symptoms and figure out ways to address these needs via channeling the natural human instincts for growth and discovery.
(267) 613-7057 View (267) 613-7057
Photo of Eleonora Bartoli, PhD, Psychologist
Eleonora Bartoli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I specialize in working with young adults and adults who experience anxiety or depression and who want to find balance through the challenges that come with life transitions (e.g., surrounding relationships, work, parenthood, school). Given my own international upbringing and my experience in multicultural counseling, I also enjoy working with clients of diverse or international backgrounds, and people who seek to better integrate or explore different aspects of their socio-cultural identities.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults who experience anxiety or depression and who want to find balance through the challenges that come with life transitions (e.g., surrounding relationships, work, parenthood, school). Given my own international upbringing and my experience in multicultural counseling, I also enjoy working with clients of diverse or international backgrounds, and people who seek to better integrate or explore different aspects of their socio-cultural identities.
(215) 917-2289 View (215) 917-2289
Photo of Jessica Paist - The Center for Family Empowerment, MA, LMFT
The Center for Family Empowerment
MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Do you have a child or teen struggling with big emotions or fitting in with peers? Anxiety, depression, or self-harm? Self-esteem, confidence, or body image? Maybe something at home feels off, communication is lacking, frustrations are running high, and you're feeling lost as to the next best steps. As a team of highly specialized and skilled clinicians with extensive experience working with tweens, teens, and families in a variety of settings, we are equipped to support you as an individual, or your child, your teen, and your family.
Do you have a child or teen struggling with big emotions or fitting in with peers? Anxiety, depression, or self-harm? Self-esteem, confidence, or body image? Maybe something at home feels off, communication is lacking, frustrations are running high, and you're feeling lost as to the next best steps. As a team of highly specialized and skilled clinicians with extensive experience working with tweens, teens, and families in a variety of settings, we are equipped to support you as an individual, or your child, your teen, and your family.
(215) 613-4758 View (215) 613-4758
Photo of Craig M Aaron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Craig M Aaron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges that include anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, procrastination, avoidance, marital/couple/family relations and more. My approach though highly individualized and eclectic is primarily a cognitive behavioral one in which we delve into the emotional, behavioral and cognitive roots in order to identify, challenge and ultimately replace those unhelpful aspects with health promoting aspects. This along with a commitment to hard work on the part of the client often results in improved functioning and an enriched and more satisfying quality of life.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges that include anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, procrastination, avoidance, marital/couple/family relations and more. My approach though highly individualized and eclectic is primarily a cognitive behavioral one in which we delve into the emotional, behavioral and cognitive roots in order to identify, challenge and ultimately replace those unhelpful aspects with health promoting aspects. This along with a commitment to hard work on the part of the client often results in improved functioning and an enriched and more satisfying quality of life.
(610) 898-3192 View (610) 898-3192

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gail Post, PhD, Psychologist
Gail Post
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I work with a range of issues, but also have specialties in the areas of eating disorders, anxiety, and the needs of gifted adolescents and adults.
I am a clinical psychologist, parenting coach, author, and workshop leader, in practice for over 35 years. I am also a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Therapy works best as a collaborative relationship between therapist and client - a process that encourages personal growth, behavioral changes, and self-awareness. While offering my experience and perspective, I encourage an interactive, respectful, and engaged therapy process. I am currently offering individual, couples, and family therapy through teletherapy throughout PA and in PSYPACT authorized states.
I work with a range of issues, but also have specialties in the areas of eating disorders, anxiety, and the needs of gifted adolescents and adults.
I am a clinical psychologist, parenting coach, author, and workshop leader, in practice for over 35 years. I am also a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Therapy works best as a collaborative relationship between therapist and client - a process that encourages personal growth, behavioral changes, and self-awareness. While offering my experience and perspective, I encourage an interactive, respectful, and engaged therapy process. I am currently offering individual, couples, and family therapy through teletherapy throughout PA and in PSYPACT authorized states.
(267) 338-4181 View (267) 338-4181
Photo of Robin Axelrod Sabag, LCSW, MFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Axelrod Sabag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
(215) 995-1199 View (215) 995-1199
Photo of Elaine Alexander, EdD, Psychologist
Elaine Alexander
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
You are invited to experience a relationship which is caring, collaborative and respectful. People often experience relief from knowing they are heard and understood.I help you to address the obstacles that have kept you stuck, anxious, depressed and feeling bad about yourself. I also help people with histories of trauma, abuse, and eating disorders. We unearth long-standing behavior or thought patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing the present in a more fulfilling and meaningful way. We identify and build upon your strengths and skills in an indivualized and supportive relationship
You are invited to experience a relationship which is caring, collaborative and respectful. People often experience relief from knowing they are heard and understood.I help you to address the obstacles that have kept you stuck, anxious, depressed and feeling bad about yourself. I also help people with histories of trauma, abuse, and eating disorders. We unearth long-standing behavior or thought patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing the present in a more fulfilling and meaningful way. We identify and build upon your strengths and skills in an indivualized and supportive relationship
(215) 583-3288 View (215) 583-3288
Photo of Jane K Shure, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane K Shure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I'm cofounder of The Resilience Group, nationally recognized for my expertise in bolstering resilience & self-confidence & in helping people break negative patterns to achieve positive change. My TEDx Talk, BOLSTER RESILIENCE, addresses fear-based thinking & offers strategies for building emotional courage & confidence. Named a “Top Doc for Women” by Philadelphia Magazine, I'm a published author on issues of shame, trauma, body-image, eating disorders & lead workshops on Strengthen an Inner Coach more Powerful than Your Inner Critic. For more see: http://theresiliencegroup.com/ http://huffingtonpost.com/jane-shure/
I'm cofounder of The Resilience Group, nationally recognized for my expertise in bolstering resilience & self-confidence & in helping people break negative patterns to achieve positive change. My TEDx Talk, BOLSTER RESILIENCE, addresses fear-based thinking & offers strategies for building emotional courage & confidence. Named a “Top Doc for Women” by Philadelphia Magazine, I'm a published author on issues of shame, trauma, body-image, eating disorders & lead workshops on Strengthen an Inner Coach more Powerful than Your Inner Critic. For more see: http://theresiliencegroup.com/ http://huffingtonpost.com/jane-shure/
(215) 995-1198 View (215) 995-1198
Photo of Melissa Koway-Montana Lpc, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Koway-Montana Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19149  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I work with clients with eating disorders, chronic illness, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, women's issues and life transitions. Many times, we may not be aware of how certain situations have impacted us. We may even feel that we have dealt with things cognitively; however, our actions and emotions may not align. I work from a trauma-focused lens which means that I believe that we have all had our fair share of difficulties that are impacting our present-day thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with clients to address past, present and future struggles to have a more adaptive perspective.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and I work with clients with eating disorders, chronic illness, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, women's issues and life transitions. Many times, we may not be aware of how certain situations have impacted us. We may even feel that we have dealt with things cognitively; however, our actions and emotions may not align. I work from a trauma-focused lens which means that I believe that we have all had our fair share of difficulties that are impacting our present-day thoughts, emotions and behaviors. I work with clients to address past, present and future struggles to have a more adaptive perspective.
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Photo of Mallory Pambianchi, LPC, Counselor
Mallory Pambianchi
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19149  (Online Only)
Some of my specialty areas of treatment are anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social anxiety, somatic conditions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias, depression, bi-polar depression, sleep disorders, sexual disorders, relationship/family issues, divorce/infidelity,career counseling,life transitions, eating disorders, domestic violence and abuse.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Mallory and I have over 16 years of experience as a therapist working with a variety of individuals; adults, children and families. I am a culturally sensitive therapist who believes each person has an entirely unique experience and story. I received my Master's in Clinical Psychology in 2007 and am a licensed professional counselor and licensed behavior specialist.
Some of my specialty areas of treatment are anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social anxiety, somatic conditions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias, depression, bi-polar depression, sleep disorders, sexual disorders, relationship/family issues, divorce/infidelity,career counseling,life transitions, eating disorders, domestic violence and abuse.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Mallory and I have over 16 years of experience as a therapist working with a variety of individuals; adults, children and families. I am a culturally sensitive therapist who believes each person has an entirely unique experience and story. I received my Master's in Clinical Psychology in 2007 and am a licensed professional counselor and licensed behavior specialist.
(484) 435-7608 View (484) 435-7608
Photo of Arquisha Moreno, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arquisha Moreno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19120  (Online Only)
I provide emotional support to individuals of the ages twelve and up, in areas of combating negative self-talk, eating disorders, anxiety and depression.
Hi, I’m Quay, and I hope to create a supportive and empowering environment to help your presenting issues. I am committed to helping clients thrive in their wellness journey, a journey that I not only teach but regularly live. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), clients are introduced to new techniques to redirect their preconceived narratives about themselves.
I provide emotional support to individuals of the ages twelve and up, in areas of combating negative self-talk, eating disorders, anxiety and depression.
Hi, I’m Quay, and I hope to create a supportive and empowering environment to help your presenting issues. I am committed to helping clients thrive in their wellness journey, a journey that I not only teach but regularly live. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), clients are introduced to new techniques to redirect their preconceived narratives about themselves.
(551) 243-7089 View (551) 243-7089
Photo of Kristin Levandoski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Levandoski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19149  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania. I have nearly twenty-three years of experience as a therapist. My areas of expertise are addictions and couple's counseling. However, over the years I have treated clients who have struggled with anxiety, depression, mood swings, ADD, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, sexual abuse/assault, and eating disorders. I have also worked with a few veterans over the years.
I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania. I have nearly twenty-three years of experience as a therapist. My areas of expertise are addictions and couple's counseling. However, over the years I have treated clients who have struggled with anxiety, depression, mood swings, ADD, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, sexual abuse/assault, and eating disorders. I have also worked with a few veterans over the years.
(814) 859-2242 View (814) 859-2242
Photo of Rachel Breskman, MEd, CAC, Psychologist
Rachel Breskman
Psychologist, MEd, CAC
Verified Verified
Wyncote, PA 19095
My approach to therapy is relational. I create a safe environment of collaboration with clients to work toward eliminating unhealthy obstacles to achieving their goals. These behaviors and beliefs are aftereffects of traumas in their pasts. I promote healing by witnessing the client's story and providing feedback including strengths, progress and the causes of clients' pain. I see therapy as an opportunity to experience new ways of relating and coping while developing and appreciation of who they are. Additional techniques I use as indicated are: cognitive exercises, hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and sand tray therapy.
My approach to therapy is relational. I create a safe environment of collaboration with clients to work toward eliminating unhealthy obstacles to achieving their goals. These behaviors and beliefs are aftereffects of traumas in their pasts. I promote healing by witnessing the client's story and providing feedback including strengths, progress and the causes of clients' pain. I see therapy as an opportunity to experience new ways of relating and coping while developing and appreciation of who they are. Additional techniques I use as indicated are: cognitive exercises, hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and sand tray therapy.
(215) 886-5611 View (215) 886-5611
Photo of Zara Khan, LPC, Counselor
Zara Khan
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124  (Online Only)
Throughout my therapeutic training, I've engaged with diverse communities, including college students, first-generation college attendees, BIPOC individuals, and Asian Americans, within community mental health settings. Proficient in English, Urdu, and Pashto, I conduct therapy sessions in these languages. My approach emphasizes collaboration, focusing on nurturing healthy coping mechanisms and amplifying strengths to construct a personalized toolkit for use beyond therapy sessions.
Throughout my therapeutic training, I've engaged with diverse communities, including college students, first-generation college attendees, BIPOC individuals, and Asian Americans, within community mental health settings. Proficient in English, Urdu, and Pashto, I conduct therapy sessions in these languages. My approach emphasizes collaboration, focusing on nurturing healthy coping mechanisms and amplifying strengths to construct a personalized toolkit for use beyond therapy sessions.
(267) 729-8183 View (267) 729-8183
Photo of Joy N Rosenthal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy N Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19111  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and the spectrum of mood disorders including bipolar disorder and borderline disorder. I have respect for each client in terms of where they are comfortable in the therapeutic relationship. we will access and employ numerous useful tools to incorporate for each need and appropriateness
With over 30 years of experience I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and the spectrum of mood disorders including bipolar disorder and borderline disorder. I have respect for each client in terms of where they are comfortable in the therapeutic relationship. we will access and employ numerous useful tools to incorporate for each need and appropriateness
(610) 634-8484 View (610) 634-8484
Photo of Kristin Szostak, LPC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Szostak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with individuals seeking treatment for mood disorders, codependency, substance use disorders, and other life challenges. I have also had success in working with the supporters and caregivers of those in treatment or recovery.
I am experienced in working with individuals seeking treatment for mood disorders, codependency, substance use disorders, and other life challenges. I have also had success in working with the supporters and caregivers of those in treatment or recovery.
(484) 312-5309 View (484) 312-5309
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.