Eating Disorders Therapists in Wayne, PA
![Photo of Lisa Mimmo Banister, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/729a5c21-62c8-4a35-9438-411ccc3d4d3b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Mimmo Banister
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
Waitlist for new clients
I treat adolescents and adults with mood and anxiety disorders, stress, self esteem, eating disorders, relationship/marital issues, infertility and other symptoms that disrupt one's quality of life.
Preparing to begin therapy often times takes motivation, courage and the desire to change and grow. My approach to therapy is one of mutual respect and collaboration. I want to help my clients face their struggles head on and to develop strategies to make life more manageable and satisfying. Over the years that I have been practicing, I have seen so many people work through challenges to achieve a life that they are proud to be living.
I treat adolescents and adults with mood and anxiety disorders, stress, self esteem, eating disorders, relationship/marital issues, infertility and other symptoms that disrupt one's quality of life.
Preparing to begin therapy often times takes motivation, courage and the desire to change and grow. My approach to therapy is one of mutual respect and collaboration. I want to help my clients face their struggles head on and to develop strategies to make life more manageable and satisfying. Over the years that I have been practicing, I have seen so many people work through challenges to achieve a life that they are proud to be living.
![Photo of Lucy Faulconbridge, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e6bb483-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a former faculty member in the Psychiatry Department at the University of Pennsylvania's Center for Weight and Eating Disorders I am well-versed in empirically-supported treatments for eating disorders and obesity.
I specialize in the treatment of weight and eating disorders, depression and anxiety. provide cognitive-behavioral therapy, which focuses on helping the client to identify thoughts and emotions associated with certain behaviors, and I infuse mindfulness techniques. Through this journey, I help clients understand how and why they are responding to situations in the way that they do, enabling them to find inner peace and lead fuller, more enriched lives. I typically meet with clients on a one-on-one basis, but I am happy to schedule sessions with concerned partners, parents or other family members together with the client.
As a former faculty member in the Psychiatry Department at the University of Pennsylvania's Center for Weight and Eating Disorders I am well-versed in empirically-supported treatments for eating disorders and obesity.
I specialize in the treatment of weight and eating disorders, depression and anxiety. provide cognitive-behavioral therapy, which focuses on helping the client to identify thoughts and emotions associated with certain behaviors, and I infuse mindfulness techniques. Through this journey, I help clients understand how and why they are responding to situations in the way that they do, enabling them to find inner peace and lead fuller, more enriched lives. I typically meet with clients on a one-on-one basis, but I am happy to schedule sessions with concerned partners, parents or other family members together with the client.
![Photo of Dr. Rachel Guides, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f1198e6-f690-4c11-8d32-2765929d946b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Guides has over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy and Psychoeducational/Psychological Evaluations. She provides a compassionate and supportive environment to develop a strong therapeutic relationship with her clients. Dr. Guides works with adolescents and adults in therapy using an integration of cognitive-behavioral and insight-oriented methods to provide treatment that is tailored to meet each client's unique needs. She has extensive experience working with clients to address a range of concerns, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
Rachel Guides has over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy and Psychoeducational/Psychological Evaluations. She provides a compassionate and supportive environment to develop a strong therapeutic relationship with her clients. Dr. Guides works with adolescents and adults in therapy using an integration of cognitive-behavioral and insight-oriented methods to provide treatment that is tailored to meet each client's unique needs. She has extensive experience working with clients to address a range of concerns, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
![Photo of Vicki Tornetta - Vicki Tornetta Counseling, LLC, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47f80405-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vicki Tornetta Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
If you are experiencing increased stress, anxiety, depression, or mood changes please contact me. I am an EMDRIA certified EMDR therapist and have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image issues. I am interested in helping the whole person, paying attention to the intersection of spiritual, physical, and emotional health-to encourage overall well-being. I believe that the counseling relationship is critical to the healing process, so I strive to create a warm, genuine, understanding, and safe environment, while using evidence-based treatments.
If you are experiencing increased stress, anxiety, depression, or mood changes please contact me. I am an EMDRIA certified EMDR therapist and have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image issues. I am interested in helping the whole person, paying attention to the intersection of spiritual, physical, and emotional health-to encourage overall well-being. I believe that the counseling relationship is critical to the healing process, so I strive to create a warm, genuine, understanding, and safe environment, while using evidence-based treatments.
![Photo of Christina Hopkins, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e479e24-859f-4e02-907d-fa84eddddac0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD and other trauma-related disorders, such as dissociative disorders, CPTSD, and chronic stress. I also use mindfulness- and exposure-based treatments for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, OCD, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, and management of chronic health conditions. Through collaboration with you, I use evidence-based treatments such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Exposure and Response Prevention. I tailor my treatment to each patient's unique needs, with a focus on building a valued & meaningful life.
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD and other trauma-related disorders, such as dissociative disorders, CPTSD, and chronic stress. I also use mindfulness- and exposure-based treatments for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, OCD, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, and management of chronic health conditions. Through collaboration with you, I use evidence-based treatments such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Exposure and Response Prevention. I tailor my treatment to each patient's unique needs, with a focus on building a valued & meaningful life.
![Photo of Becky Walter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04627432-ff53-4d00-b182-816e42ae0772/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients on a variety of topics including stress management, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and loss, eating disorders, body image, trauma, self-esteem, individuation, boundary-setting, assertiveness training, identity development, and support for caretakers.
People seek out therapy for a variety of reasons, such as to address an already identified concern, to develop a particular coping skill set, or to enhance self-confidence and quality of life. I work to establish a trusting therapeutic relationship within which a client can share their unique story with a felt sense of validation, empathy, and hope. I work collaboratively with clients as we bare witness to the client's lived experiences looking through a lens of compassionate curiosity and establishing empowered self-agency that leads to patterns of intentional action and overall well-being.
I work with clients on a variety of topics including stress management, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and loss, eating disorders, body image, trauma, self-esteem, individuation, boundary-setting, assertiveness training, identity development, and support for caretakers.
People seek out therapy for a variety of reasons, such as to address an already identified concern, to develop a particular coping skill set, or to enhance self-confidence and quality of life. I work to establish a trusting therapeutic relationship within which a client can share their unique story with a felt sense of validation, empathy, and hope. I work collaboratively with clients as we bare witness to the client's lived experiences looking through a lens of compassionate curiosity and establishing empowered self-agency that leads to patterns of intentional action and overall well-being.
![Photo of Ellen Cary Furman - Ellen C. Furman, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1f5105-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen C. Furman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087 (Online Only)
Neuroptimal Neurofeedback is a proven technique to increase SAT scores, improve althletic skills and facilitate healthier behaviors and mood regardless what you may be experiencing.
I offer both talk therapy and Neurofeedback to create an opportunity for you to face your difficulties constructively. To assist and develop new possibilities.
Board certified, state licensed & Insurance credentialed.
I have extensive experience with individuals experiencing: Anxiety, Depression, Drug & Alcohol Abuse, Addictions, Eating Disorders, Loss, Grief, Divorce, Marriage & Family Counseling, Adolescents, Hypnosis, Interpersonal Complexities and Personality Disorders.
Neuroptimal Neurofeedback is a proven technique to increase SAT scores, improve althletic skills and facilitate healthier behaviors and mood regardless what you may be experiencing.
I offer both talk therapy and Neurofeedback to create an opportunity for you to face your difficulties constructively. To assist and develop new possibilities.
Board certified, state licensed & Insurance credentialed.
I have extensive experience with individuals experiencing: Anxiety, Depression, Drug & Alcohol Abuse, Addictions, Eating Disorders, Loss, Grief, Divorce, Marriage & Family Counseling, Adolescents, Hypnosis, Interpersonal Complexities and Personality Disorders.
![Photo of Margaux Ketner, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e73c58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My primary area of specialty is eating disorders.
Some seek out therapy to help with a particular problem, and others to better understand themselves and their internal world. In any case, feeling heard and understood by a therapist with whom you share a meaningful connection, and working collaboratively to make sense of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, is almost always productive. Because therapy is an exercise in vulnerability, the fit between client and therapist is a powerful predictor of outcome. The right therapist will feel compatible in personality; challenge you in the context of warmth, safety, and respect; and meet you with responsiveness and empathy.
My primary area of specialty is eating disorders.
Some seek out therapy to help with a particular problem, and others to better understand themselves and their internal world. In any case, feeling heard and understood by a therapist with whom you share a meaningful connection, and working collaboratively to make sense of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, is almost always productive. Because therapy is an exercise in vulnerability, the fit between client and therapist is a powerful predictor of outcome. The right therapist will feel compatible in personality; challenge you in the context of warmth, safety, and respect; and meet you with responsiveness and empathy.
![Photo of Steven D Tsao, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc2bcee-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and the Co-Founder of the Center for Anxiety & Behavior Therapy which specializes in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders including OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic, and phobias. I also treat eating disorders, body-image issues, and hair-pulling/skin picking. My work is largely guided by cognitive behavioral therapy principles, but I often incorporate aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) when indicated. I seek to help clients meet their goals and return to the meaningful parts of their lives through a collaborative, goal-oriented, and practical approach.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and the Co-Founder of the Center for Anxiety & Behavior Therapy which specializes in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders including OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic, and phobias. I also treat eating disorders, body-image issues, and hair-pulling/skin picking. My work is largely guided by cognitive behavioral therapy principles, but I often incorporate aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) when indicated. I seek to help clients meet their goals and return to the meaningful parts of their lives through a collaborative, goal-oriented, and practical approach.
![Photo of Jeannine C Alvare', MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9c320e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
I believe that mental health reflects a balance between an individual's emotional functioning and his/her family, friends and community. I support patients in their personal awareness and integration of the mind, body and spirit. I have extensive clinical experience with individuals and families addressing concerns such as: Anxiety, Autistic Spectrum, Attention Deficit Disorders, Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Eating Disorders, Learning Differences, Oppositional/Defiant Behaviors, Personality Disorders, Postpartum Depression and Psychological responses to life changes. I offer additional expertise in bi-cultural/racial issues, chronic illness, co-parenting, LGBT community, interfaith marriage and sibling rivalry.
![Photo of Sherry Carroll Pomerantz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b818ec6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy offers the opportunity to work toward feeling better about yourself and your relationships. In session you have the opportunity to discuss your concerns in a safe, caring, and supportive setting. I use an active approach to help you identify patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are not working and help you develop new patterns that can lead to reduced distress and improve your relationships. Many people I work with come with depression, eating disorders, anxiety and relationship or marital issues. Others come to talk about parenting concerns, family issues or adjustment to life changes and stresses.
Psychotherapy offers the opportunity to work toward feeling better about yourself and your relationships. In session you have the opportunity to discuss your concerns in a safe, caring, and supportive setting. I use an active approach to help you identify patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are not working and help you develop new patterns that can lead to reduced distress and improve your relationships. Many people I work with come with depression, eating disorders, anxiety and relationship or marital issues. Others come to talk about parenting concerns, family issues or adjustment to life changes and stresses.
15 Second Videos
Vicki Tornetta Counseling, LLC
Meg Costa
Serenity Behavioral Health
![Photo of Jen Donovan, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edae3060-271c-41e5-ac41-94d03addb376/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I'm a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and provide counseling for individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, anxiety and body image concerns. I also have advanced training through the Postpartum Stress Center and Postpartum Support International. I provide maternal mental health support throughout the prenatal and postpartum periods. Lastly, I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD and utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Welcome! I'm a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and provide counseling for individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, anxiety and body image concerns. I also have advanced training through the Postpartum Stress Center and Postpartum Support International. I provide maternal mental health support throughout the prenatal and postpartum periods. Lastly, I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD and utilize Cognitive Processing Therapy.
![Photo of Erin Hipple, MA, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ab49964-7a68-4083-94c0-8f999fa42b5e/1/320x400.png)
Erin Hipple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087 (Online Only)
I am a white, queer, disabled, non-binary femme. I have worked as a therapist in a variety of settings, including inpatient mental health facilities, outpatient community mental health services, women's shelters, and university settings. These experiences have led me to pursue a liberation-based, anti-carceral, and non-pathologizing approach to mental health support. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of expressions of distress including: depression, anxiety, stress, struggles with intimacy and boundaries, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, complicated and disenfranchised grief, and trauma-related stress.
I am a white, queer, disabled, non-binary femme. I have worked as a therapist in a variety of settings, including inpatient mental health facilities, outpatient community mental health services, women's shelters, and university settings. These experiences have led me to pursue a liberation-based, anti-carceral, and non-pathologizing approach to mental health support. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of expressions of distress including: depression, anxiety, stress, struggles with intimacy and boundaries, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, complicated and disenfranchised grief, and trauma-related stress.
![Photo of Meredith Watkins, MA, LMFT, HHC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9336796c-9e2e-4e7c-907f-5aff10c70415/1/320x400.jpeg)
Having an eating disorder can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to control your life. I help you or your teenager understand the function their eating disorder has played in their life, and how to create a healthier way to move forward, free of the eating disorder’s rules and fears. When working with teens, I also help parents better understand their child’s experience and how best to support them. While I specialize in eating disorders, I also support clients through parenting, divorce, career transitions, and managing the stressors of everyday life, including break-ups and the often-tricky transition into adulthood.
Having an eating disorder can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to control your life. I help you or your teenager understand the function their eating disorder has played in their life, and how to create a healthier way to move forward, free of the eating disorder’s rules and fears. When working with teens, I also help parents better understand their child’s experience and how best to support them. While I specialize in eating disorders, I also support clients through parenting, divorce, career transitions, and managing the stressors of everyday life, including break-ups and the often-tricky transition into adulthood.
![Photo of Kaitlin Babyak, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6732480b-4d3c-45d9-89e6-3c17ae15bde2/1/320x400.png)
Kaitlin Babyak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, PA 19087
I specialize in treating eating disorders and underlying trauma.
You’re counting every calorie, overcompensating with exercise, and feeling guilt and shame after eating sweets alone. Social events are hard because menus don’t fit your strict meal plan. You feel overwhelmed from one cookie, hate looking in the mirror, and believe changing your body will bring happiness and love. I understand the struggle with food and body image is overwhelming. You deserve to find peace with food, enjoy eating without guilt, and achieve true self-acceptance. My approach focuses on helping you reconnect with your body and trust your inner wisdom.
I specialize in treating eating disorders and underlying trauma.
You’re counting every calorie, overcompensating with exercise, and feeling guilt and shame after eating sweets alone. Social events are hard because menus don’t fit your strict meal plan. You feel overwhelmed from one cookie, hate looking in the mirror, and believe changing your body will bring happiness and love. I understand the struggle with food and body image is overwhelming. You deserve to find peace with food, enjoy eating without guilt, and achieve true self-acceptance. My approach focuses on helping you reconnect with your body and trust your inner wisdom.
![Photo of Kristy Kingan, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcf0a9b1-09d5-4340-9dc4-df7d6b7d530c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a masters level clinician specializing in trauma, eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), addiction and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have extensive experience working with individuals with severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, often with various co-occurring disorders ranging from addictions to schizophrenia.
I am a masters level clinician specializing in trauma, eating disorders, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), addiction and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have extensive experience working with individuals with severe trauma, anxiety, and depression, often with various co-occurring disorders ranging from addictions to schizophrenia.
![Photo of Dr. Toni O'Planick, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d5a6baf-c263-4f51-bdae-e5e7f8aa253b/5/320x400.jpeg)
With a focus on Health Psychology, I specialize in working with people who have eating disorders, health anxiety, and chronic medical conditions.
Overwhelmed with anxiety? Frustrated with negative thinking or persistent depression? Maybe you are stuck with sleeping or eating habits that don’t seem to change despite your best attempts. Effective therapy should help you understand exactly why these symptoms exist (likely a very valid reason!) and help you identify a different course of action that is in alignment with the way you want to live. My goal for treatment is to meaningfully reduce the impact of symptoms rather than just learn better ways to “cope” with distress. Although results-oriented, I value being compassionate, encouraging, genuine and non-judgmental.
With a focus on Health Psychology, I specialize in working with people who have eating disorders, health anxiety, and chronic medical conditions.
Overwhelmed with anxiety? Frustrated with negative thinking or persistent depression? Maybe you are stuck with sleeping or eating habits that don’t seem to change despite your best attempts. Effective therapy should help you understand exactly why these symptoms exist (likely a very valid reason!) and help you identify a different course of action that is in alignment with the way you want to live. My goal for treatment is to meaningfully reduce the impact of symptoms rather than just learn better ways to “cope” with distress. Although results-oriented, I value being compassionate, encouraging, genuine and non-judgmental.
![Photo of MaryAnn A Groncki - Dr. MaryAnn A. Groncki, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db67f5f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Doctor of Social Work and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a practicing therapist in the mental health field for 25 years and have experience working in partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient settings. My training, clinical experience and clinical practice covers a wide range of psychological issues including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Issues, Women's Issues, Adjustment Disorders, Adoption Issues (Focus - Adult Adoptees and Adoptive Parents), Grief and Loss, Separation and Divorce, Trauma, and Eating Disorders.
I am a Clinical Doctor of Social Work and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a practicing therapist in the mental health field for 25 years and have experience working in partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient settings. My training, clinical experience and clinical practice covers a wide range of psychological issues including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Relationship Issues, Women's Issues, Adjustment Disorders, Adoption Issues (Focus - Adult Adoptees and Adoptive Parents), Grief and Loss, Separation and Divorce, Trauma, and Eating Disorders.
![Photo of Deborah Miller, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ccb33e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have a collaborative approach; where actively working together to deeply understand you and your issues is the first step. Working together to understand and not judge the thoughts, feelings, beliefs and experiences that are contributing to your patterns is essential. Decreasing shame, and increasing self esteem, acceptance, and compassion, are integral aspects to therapy I offer, and necessary to reducing the internal conflict which so often fuels the problems and patterns. For therapy to be effective, it calls for a very active effort on your part, as well as mine.
I have a collaborative approach; where actively working together to deeply understand you and your issues is the first step. Working together to understand and not judge the thoughts, feelings, beliefs and experiences that are contributing to your patterns is essential. Decreasing shame, and increasing self esteem, acceptance, and compassion, are integral aspects to therapy I offer, and necessary to reducing the internal conflict which so often fuels the problems and patterns. For therapy to be effective, it calls for a very active effort on your part, as well as mine.
![Photo of Bonnie Hallett Marshall, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcbd17c5-0352-49af-9699-5909632f40a5/1/320x400.png)
Bonnie Hallett Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Wayne, PA 19087
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families, providing a range of services including individual and group therapy sessions. As an art therapist, I utilize the power of art to facilitate exploration and develop effective coping strategies for a diverse range of challenges. In my practice, I strongly emphasize collaboration and work closely with school counselors, psychiatrists, and family physicians to ensure comprehensive and holistic care for my clients.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families, providing a range of services including individual and group therapy sessions. As an art therapist, I utilize the power of art to facilitate exploration and develop effective coping strategies for a diverse range of challenges. In my practice, I strongly emphasize collaboration and work closely with school counselors, psychiatrists, and family physicians to ensure comprehensive and holistic care for my clients.
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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.