Eating Disorders Therapists in Glenside, PA
![Photo of Jessica Gola, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e943d383-ddc3-46ad-93d0-e17097dfc95a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Gola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038 (Online Only)
As a therapist, it is always my goal to make the client feel safe, comfortable, and supported. I like to validate that starting the process of therapy and opening up to a stranger can be challenging but is the first step towards change. I have worked with many clients struggling with a wide range of issues, but mostly work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. In working with clients, I utilize evidence based treatments such as CBT and DBT. I am here to help the client reach their goals by aiding them in learning tools and techniques that help them to cope and make changes.
As a therapist, it is always my goal to make the client feel safe, comfortable, and supported. I like to validate that starting the process of therapy and opening up to a stranger can be challenging but is the first step towards change. I have worked with many clients struggling with a wide range of issues, but mostly work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. In working with clients, I utilize evidence based treatments such as CBT and DBT. I am here to help the client reach their goals by aiding them in learning tools and techniques that help them to cope and make changes.
![Photo of Jane K Shure, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4277a646-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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/
![Photo of Elyse Williams, MS, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/540eeaaa-d0a5-486f-8718-18c8188d29ba/4/320x400.jpeg)
Elyse Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
Hi and welcome! My name is Elyse and I am an eating disorder and body image specialist in the Philadelphia area. I also work extensively with anxiety disorders, self-esteem, and trauma co-occurring with an eating disorder or as stand-alone issues. I believe that with some courage, commitment, and hope, we can do great things and I am passionate about helping my clients realize their worth and how strong and resilient they really are. I understand that what is hurting you may also be protecting you, and that letting go is no easy feat. I'm here though, to hold your hand, cheer you on, and remind you that you can do this.
Hi and welcome! My name is Elyse and I am an eating disorder and body image specialist in the Philadelphia area. I also work extensively with anxiety disorders, self-esteem, and trauma co-occurring with an eating disorder or as stand-alone issues. I believe that with some courage, commitment, and hope, we can do great things and I am passionate about helping my clients realize their worth and how strong and resilient they really are. I understand that what is hurting you may also be protecting you, and that letting go is no easy feat. I'm here though, to hold your hand, cheer you on, and remind you that you can do this.
![Photo of Rachel Breskman, MEd, CAC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b8f6287-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Katie Schoen, MS, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36fc1c2c-195d-481e-abcc-9d446ff947ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe the most powerful tool we can offer others is our ability to authentically, genuinely and completely listen. I have been privileged to work with many children, teens and adults and bear witness to their stories. It has been the most profound gift and I am grateful to have been trusted with the opportunity to hear them. My work as a clinician is grounded in listening. In establishing a safe, supportive and nurturing co-created environment. It is rooted in helping people find their voice and trust their own ability to change their lives. The power of being present and fully in the moment can transform lives.
I believe the most powerful tool we can offer others is our ability to authentically, genuinely and completely listen. I have been privileged to work with many children, teens and adults and bear witness to their stories. It has been the most profound gift and I am grateful to have been trusted with the opportunity to hear them. My work as a clinician is grounded in listening. In establishing a safe, supportive and nurturing co-created environment. It is rooted in helping people find their voice and trust their own ability to change their lives. The power of being present and fully in the moment can transform lives.
![Photo of Karen L. Smith, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/100da904-8a90-4715-9076-73cd0f3ac843/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen L. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
My clients describe me as warm, engaging, thoughtful and funny, but also as direct, challenging, and focused; seeking out the hard and stuck places in their approach to living and loving. I don't try to convince my clients that life is easy or carefree, but I do believe a lot of contentment with life and acceptance of the self can be found when we face and come to terms with our truths. Unlike many folks offering therapy services, I have engaged in extensive education and training, in analytically informed psychotherapy, which I belief enriches and deepens the work.
My clients describe me as warm, engaging, thoughtful and funny, but also as direct, challenging, and focused; seeking out the hard and stuck places in their approach to living and loving. I don't try to convince my clients that life is easy or carefree, but I do believe a lot of contentment with life and acceptance of the self can be found when we face and come to terms with our truths. Unlike many folks offering therapy services, I have engaged in extensive education and training, in analytically informed psychotherapy, which I belief enriches and deepens the work.
![Photo of Marina James, MA, CBC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9ba13eb-8fb4-40a1-9238-a09714588ade/3/320x400.jpeg)
Your anxiety is always present, and depression is a constant visitor, yet, energy and motivation rarely exist. You instinctively understand that society's rules are not always relevant; at the same time, it is hard to decide what is important and how to find your life's purpose, especially with unrealistic media expectations. You worry about money, the future, and the carbon footprint. You have difficulty with challenging conversations and making meaningful relationships. It is hard for you to keep up with the demands of life, keep things organized and workable, and find a healthy balance in life.
Your anxiety is always present, and depression is a constant visitor, yet, energy and motivation rarely exist. You instinctively understand that society's rules are not always relevant; at the same time, it is hard to decide what is important and how to find your life's purpose, especially with unrealistic media expectations. You worry about money, the future, and the carbon footprint. You have difficulty with challenging conversations and making meaningful relationships. It is hard for you to keep up with the demands of life, keep things organized and workable, and find a healthy balance in life.
![Photo of Maria Papacostaki, MA, MFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3555a4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have personally experienced grief or what is sometimes called "the dark night of the soul." This seemingly dark experience could provides a great opportunity for transformation if the appropriate work is done. I know how to lead you from darkness into the light.
I am also very experienced with life transitions. I will guide you to gracefully move from one life state to another.
I am trained to work with couples and families and I lead groups as well.
I have personally experienced grief or what is sometimes called "the dark night of the soul." This seemingly dark experience could provides a great opportunity for transformation if the appropriate work is done. I know how to lead you from darkness into the light.
I am also very experienced with life transitions. I will guide you to gracefully move from one life state to another.
I am trained to work with couples and families and I lead groups as well.
![Photo of Jodi Schwartz-Levy, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66e10336-a8d8-4954-adf4-e0b694aab2bb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jodi Schwartz-Levy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
Now offering virtual and in person therapy. As one of a handful of psychologists worldwide with a doctorate in Somatic (body-oriented) Psychology, I am able to work with the cognitive, emotional, somatic, spiritual, and energetic aspects of a person. I am an ideal therapist for people that have tried traditional therapy and feel that "something was missing".
Now offering virtual and in person therapy. As one of a handful of psychologists worldwide with a doctorate in Somatic (body-oriented) Psychology, I am able to work with the cognitive, emotional, somatic, spiritual, and energetic aspects of a person. I am an ideal therapist for people that have tried traditional therapy and feel that "something was missing".
![Photo of Mandy Schaller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/127f72fe-b40e-4450-b236-45a8cf61c0ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you’re looking for support in shedding limiting beliefs & old patterns that may be blocking your success in work, school, finances, or relationships— I’ve had 20 years experience, working in human behavior, health and healing to create lasting, positive changes. I equally enjoy the art & science of being a therapist; I integrate brain health, nutrition, family system history as well as art & music into the treatment process. My professional history includes individual, family & group therapy in anxiety, depression & trauma. I allow clients to set goals and a pace that feels useful and individualized.
If you’re looking for support in shedding limiting beliefs & old patterns that may be blocking your success in work, school, finances, or relationships— I’ve had 20 years experience, working in human behavior, health and healing to create lasting, positive changes. I equally enjoy the art & science of being a therapist; I integrate brain health, nutrition, family system history as well as art & music into the treatment process. My professional history includes individual, family & group therapy in anxiety, depression & trauma. I allow clients to set goals and a pace that feels useful and individualized.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Gail Post, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4abbee77-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Acacia Masso, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/deea57e6-d67f-46e6-b583-4785043975b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Acacia Masso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001 (Online Only)
I view clients as the experts in their own lives, and my goal is to create a warm, empathetic, and supportive partnership. I support people experiencing trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As someone raised in Uganda, South Sudan, and Kenya, moving to the United States as a young adult, I am interested in supporting people processing cross-cultural transition and bicultural identity, as well as intergenerational, communal trauma and survivor’s guilt. As a queer therapist, I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ clients as well.
I view clients as the experts in their own lives, and my goal is to create a warm, empathetic, and supportive partnership. I support people experiencing trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As someone raised in Uganda, South Sudan, and Kenya, moving to the United States as a young adult, I am interested in supporting people processing cross-cultural transition and bicultural identity, as well as intergenerational, communal trauma and survivor’s guilt. As a queer therapist, I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ clients as well.
![Photo of Rhoda Fuchs-Morton, MA, CAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c084352-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rhoda Fuchs-Morton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Oreland, PA 19075
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.
![Photo of Carly Ellman, LCSW, CSTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8599823b-c2bb-45de-8be7-eadb2cc937b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carly Ellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSTS
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046 (Online Only)
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience providing assistance to clients with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma issues, eating disorders and postpartum depression. I work with children(5 and up), adolescents(ages 11 and up), young adults, couples, families and women. As a licensed clinical social worker I believe in focusing on all aspects of a person's well being; mental, physical, financial and social. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist, and pursuing PhD in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience providing assistance to clients with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma issues, eating disorders and postpartum depression. I work with children(5 and up), adolescents(ages 11 and up), young adults, couples, families and women. As a licensed clinical social worker I believe in focusing on all aspects of a person's well being; mental, physical, financial and social. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist, and pursuing PhD in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies.
![Photo of Elaine Alexander, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca7e44c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Patricia J Duffy, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3baf7099-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia J Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wyndmoor, PA 19038
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in object relations theory, family systems theory, EMDR and the treatment of eating disorders.
Psychotherapy can be a powerful and transformative experience. I believe that psychological healing occurs within the relationship between patient and therapist. Together we will seek to explore and understand your life experiences, thoughts, and emotions, with the goal of helping you experience your world in a new way.
I have extensive training in object relations theory, family systems theory, EMDR and the treatment of eating disorders.
Psychotherapy can be a powerful and transformative experience. I believe that psychological healing occurs within the relationship between patient and therapist. Together we will seek to explore and understand your life experiences, thoughts, and emotions, with the goal of helping you experience your world in a new way.
![Photo of Robin Axelrod Sabag, LCSW, MFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d849193-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Cassandra (Casey) Koch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df7d3cec-f9a2-4d74-8656-4e183de675e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra (Casey) Koch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, PA 19001 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can come at you with full force leaving you feeling lost and alone. Living in a world with such high expectations can leave you questioning your thoughts, mind, and body. I want you to know that I hear you, I see you, and you are not alone. The pain of trauma(s), grief, and loss have made you question the meaning of your life and how you can move forward. Years of body-shame and disordered eating have left you feeling disconnected with yourself and the world. You feel defeated with the heavy burdens you have carried throughout your life.
Life can come at you with full force leaving you feeling lost and alone. Living in a world with such high expectations can leave you questioning your thoughts, mind, and body. I want you to know that I hear you, I see you, and you are not alone. The pain of trauma(s), grief, and loss have made you question the meaning of your life and how you can move forward. Years of body-shame and disordered eating have left you feeling disconnected with yourself and the world. You feel defeated with the heavy burdens you have carried throughout your life.
![Photo of Julie Sponsler - Julie Sponsler, MA, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ee4ac9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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).
![Photo of Hailey Carroll, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53d57075-06de-469b-be24-0d860038be52/2/320x400.png)
Hailey Carroll is a Licensed Social Worker with nearly a decade of experience and a passion for mental health counseling. She provides talk therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups experiencing a wide range of symptoms, struggles, and disorders. Hailey specializes in depression, stress management, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and autism. As a queer-affirmative therapist and member of the LGBT community, Hailey embraces diversity and is dedicated to providing quality, affirming care and a safe space to clients of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities.
Hailey Carroll is a Licensed Social Worker with nearly a decade of experience and a passion for mental health counseling. She provides talk therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups experiencing a wide range of symptoms, struggles, and disorders. Hailey specializes in depression, stress management, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and autism. As a queer-affirmative therapist and member of the LGBT community, Hailey embraces diversity and is dedicated to providing quality, affirming care and a safe space to clients of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities.
See more therapy options for Glenside
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Glenside
- Abington
- Ambler
- Cheltenham
- Dresher
- Elkins Park
- Flourtown
- Horsham
- Huntingdon Valley
- Jenkintown
- Willow Grove
- Wyncote
- Wyndmoor
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.