Eating Disorders Therapists in Daniel Island, SC

Photo of Marcella Berman, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcella Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Daniel Island, SC 29492
The decision to start therapy is a courageous first step towards understanding, healing, and growth. Whether you are struggling with troubling thoughts or feelings, lack of confidence, excessive worry, depression, loss, or relationship issues therapy can help. Marcella utilizes a client-centered approach while working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families who struggles with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and relationship issues in a non-judgmental space. With mindfulness-based practices and cognitive behavioral techniques we can change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to overwhelming feelings.
The decision to start therapy is a courageous first step towards understanding, healing, and growth. Whether you are struggling with troubling thoughts or feelings, lack of confidence, excessive worry, depression, loss, or relationship issues therapy can help. Marcella utilizes a client-centered approach while working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families who struggles with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and relationship issues in a non-judgmental space. With mindfulness-based practices and cognitive behavioral techniques we can change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to overwhelming feelings.
(843) 396-5152 View (843) 396-5152
Photo of Dr. Brooke McGinnis, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Brooke McGinnis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492
Waitlist for new clients
She has specialties in working with trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, self-defeating behaviors, ADHD, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, and adjustment concerns.
Dr. McGinnis’ practice focuses on increasing connection with one’s inner self through exploring and processing difficult emotions, experiences, and beliefs. Her goal is to help individuals work through difficulties they face in order to reduce unnecessary suffering and create a life worth living. Dr. McGinnis believes therapy is a powerful, complex, interpersonal process and works with individuals on acceptance of the self and one’s life as it is in order to create change and move towards a life that provides meaning, fulfillment, and sense of purpose. She is passionate about her work and inspired by her clients' stories of healing.
She has specialties in working with trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, self-defeating behaviors, ADHD, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, and adjustment concerns.
Dr. McGinnis’ practice focuses on increasing connection with one’s inner self through exploring and processing difficult emotions, experiences, and beliefs. Her goal is to help individuals work through difficulties they face in order to reduce unnecessary suffering and create a life worth living. Dr. McGinnis believes therapy is a powerful, complex, interpersonal process and works with individuals on acceptance of the self and one’s life as it is in order to create change and move towards a life that provides meaning, fulfillment, and sense of purpose. She is passionate about her work and inspired by her clients' stories of healing.
(843) 749-8693 View (843) 749-8693
Photo of Dinah Heinrich, LISW, CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dinah Heinrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CP
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492
My areas of specialty include the treatment of anxiety, depression, personality disorders, body image / eating disorders, interpersonal and family relationships, life transitions, personal development, stress management and gender identity.
Seeking therapy for the first time may feel intimidating for some. My intention is to meet each individual where they are, to ensure a safe, compassionate environment. I believe in working collaboratively with clients in order to identify personal strengths and develop new coping skills, with the ultimate goal of improving your functioning and relationships within your personal, professional and/or academic environments. We will work to explore behaviors, beliefs, and relationship patterns that no longer serve you well and explore your current values systems in order to reach a to sense of fulfillment in your life.
My areas of specialty include the treatment of anxiety, depression, personality disorders, body image / eating disorders, interpersonal and family relationships, life transitions, personal development, stress management and gender identity.
Seeking therapy for the first time may feel intimidating for some. My intention is to meet each individual where they are, to ensure a safe, compassionate environment. I believe in working collaboratively with clients in order to identify personal strengths and develop new coping skills, with the ultimate goal of improving your functioning and relationships within your personal, professional and/or academic environments. We will work to explore behaviors, beliefs, and relationship patterns that no longer serve you well and explore your current values systems in order to reach a to sense of fulfillment in your life.
(843) 603-8207 View (843) 603-8207
Photo of Leslie Sorce, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Sorce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daniel Island, SC 29492
Leslie is part of Low Country Behavioral Health LLC. Seeking support can be a difficult and a courageous decision. Deepening your self-awareness and understanding your journey can be a very impactful process. She believes in focusing on your strengths by truly valuing and honoring the individuals’ experience. She is a dedicated and compassionate therapist, with a focus on evidence-based practices. Leslie specializes in anxiety disorders, trauma, life transitions, stress management, and eating disorders. Leslie brings a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues to her practice.
Leslie is part of Low Country Behavioral Health LLC. Seeking support can be a difficult and a courageous decision. Deepening your self-awareness and understanding your journey can be a very impactful process. She believes in focusing on your strengths by truly valuing and honoring the individuals’ experience. She is a dedicated and compassionate therapist, with a focus on evidence-based practices. Leslie specializes in anxiety disorders, trauma, life transitions, stress management, and eating disorders. Leslie brings a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues to her practice.
(843) 350-8368 View (843) 350-8368
Photo of Erin Scheibling, LPC-A
Erin Scheibling
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492  (Online Only)
I treat adolescents and adults using an integrative approach based in cognitive behavioral therapy. My areas of specialty include treating teachers/educators, students facing academic challenges, ADHD, anxiety, body image challenges, eating disorders, and interpersonal/relational challenges.
I treat adolescents and adults using an integrative approach based in cognitive behavioral therapy. My areas of specialty include treating teachers/educators, students facing academic challenges, ADHD, anxiety, body image challenges, eating disorders, and interpersonal/relational challenges.
(843) 517-7739 View (843) 517-7739
Photo of Maria Elizabeth Luisi, BSW, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Elizabeth Luisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daniel Island, SC 29492
I have always had a passion for helping people who are hurting, stuck, overwhelmed, or lost. I help children, adolescents, adults, and families better understand themselves, identify issues that aren’t working for them, and find ways toward self empowerment & confidence to create a life they love. Our work together will always be a collaborative effort, tailored to your individual needs and your own unique story.
I have always had a passion for helping people who are hurting, stuck, overwhelmed, or lost. I help children, adolescents, adults, and families better understand themselves, identify issues that aren’t working for them, and find ways toward self empowerment & confidence to create a life they love. Our work together will always be a collaborative effort, tailored to your individual needs and your own unique story.
(843) 428-2086 View (843) 428-2086
Photo of Samantha McKenzie, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492
I am currently accepting new clients! Ages 6 - Adult. I take a person-centered approach and meet each client right where they are. I believe each person is unique and worth listening to. I work with children, teens, and adults to gain healthy coping skills and strategies toward reaching their potential. Whether it is difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, or disordered eating, I have a passion for connecting with each client so that we can work together to increase self awareness and overall satisfaction for life. For more information about the groups I offer, click the "groups" tab next to the "about" tab.
I am currently accepting new clients! Ages 6 - Adult. I take a person-centered approach and meet each client right where they are. I believe each person is unique and worth listening to. I work with children, teens, and adults to gain healthy coping skills and strategies toward reaching their potential. Whether it is difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, or disordered eating, I have a passion for connecting with each client so that we can work together to increase self awareness and overall satisfaction for life. For more information about the groups I offer, click the "groups" tab next to the "about" tab.
(843) 258-5536 View (843) 258-5536
Photo of Kristen Groos - Connections Counseling Center, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Connections Counseling Center
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Daniel Island, SC 29492
You are unique and so is your story. Our counselors are trained in a unique approach to therapy that helps clients in ways specific to their personality and experiences, no matter their age. We help children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families find healing at the root cause of their stress, emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and/or depression. Many of our clients come to us in emotional pain, often stuck, lost, or hurting. Through our work together, our clients finish counseling with more fulfillment, increased energy, better direction, and more joy.
You are unique and so is your story. Our counselors are trained in a unique approach to therapy that helps clients in ways specific to their personality and experiences, no matter their age. We help children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families find healing at the root cause of their stress, emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and/or depression. Many of our clients come to us in emotional pain, often stuck, lost, or hurting. Through our work together, our clients finish counseling with more fulfillment, increased energy, better direction, and more joy.
(843) 242-0608 View (843) 242-0608
Photo of Lee Picciuto, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee Picciuto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-worth, etc., I believe there is almost always an underlying trauma that must be fully addressed before healing can occur. These traumas can be overt, such as abuse or neglect, or more insidious, such as a disparaging comment made by a parent or a peer. These traumas, whether “Big T” or “Little t,” are the reason we have the “voice in our head”—our inner critic who tells us that we aren’t good enough, worthy enough, etc. The work I do—which is a combination of Attachment Therapy, Ego State Therapy, and EMDR Therapy, helps to transform our negative inner critic once and for all.
Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-worth, etc., I believe there is almost always an underlying trauma that must be fully addressed before healing can occur. These traumas can be overt, such as abuse or neglect, or more insidious, such as a disparaging comment made by a parent or a peer. These traumas, whether “Big T” or “Little t,” are the reason we have the “voice in our head”—our inner critic who tells us that we aren’t good enough, worthy enough, etc. The work I do—which is a combination of Attachment Therapy, Ego State Therapy, and EMDR Therapy, helps to transform our negative inner critic once and for all.
(843) 970-1333 View (843) 970-1333
Photo of Brian K Sullivan, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian K Sullivan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Daniel Island, SC 29492
As a clinical psychologist, my job is to work myself out of a job - pure and simple. I work to help you get to the point where won't need my help anymore. This has been my philosophy for 29 years and counting. If you are, or think you are depressed, feeling lost or anxious, stressed or simply unhappy in life, and you wonder if counseling, psychotherapy, marriage counseling or stress management might help, I'm here to listen and help. I specialize in care for adults & adolescents, stress management, marriage/couples counseling, and pre-marital counseling.
As a clinical psychologist, my job is to work myself out of a job - pure and simple. I work to help you get to the point where won't need my help anymore. This has been my philosophy for 29 years and counting. If you are, or think you are depressed, feeling lost or anxious, stressed or simply unhappy in life, and you wonder if counseling, psychotherapy, marriage counseling or stress management might help, I'm here to listen and help. I specialize in care for adults & adolescents, stress management, marriage/couples counseling, and pre-marital counseling.
(843) 419-7767 View (843) 419-7767
Photo of Ashlin Blum, LISW-CP, BCBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashlin Blum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, BCBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Daniel Island, SC 29492
Struggling with your child's behavior? Is the behavior causing tension within the household? Behavioral issues are difficult and can cause tension within the entire family. If the behavior or family concerns are not managed, the relationships in the family can deteriorate. I leverage your family’s strengths to grow the bonds between all members. I help children, teens, and young adults understand and manage life concerns. I provide support to parents and couples dealing with difficulties within their lives and family.
Struggling with your child's behavior? Is the behavior causing tension within the household? Behavioral issues are difficult and can cause tension within the entire family. If the behavior or family concerns are not managed, the relationships in the family can deteriorate. I leverage your family’s strengths to grow the bonds between all members. I help children, teens, and young adults understand and manage life concerns. I provide support to parents and couples dealing with difficulties within their lives and family.
(843) 800-2780 View (843) 800-2780

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Samantha McKenzie, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Hanahan, SC 29410  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety disorders.
You’re tired and frustrated with living by anxiety’s rules. The constant intrusive thoughts, eating disorder thoughts, and anxious thoughts have you wondering if things will ever get better. You're tired of not feeling good enough and fear of disappointing others. You've lived this way for so long so it’s all you know. You're scared to change, but you know it's what you need to do. I want to help you take back control of your life and let go of these unhelpful thoughts. I use evidenced based techniques to help you face your fears, reframe negative thoughts, increase self-compassion, and move you closer to your values.
I specialize in treating OCD, eating disorders, and anxiety disorders.
You’re tired and frustrated with living by anxiety’s rules. The constant intrusive thoughts, eating disorder thoughts, and anxious thoughts have you wondering if things will ever get better. You're tired of not feeling good enough and fear of disappointing others. You've lived this way for so long so it’s all you know. You're scared to change, but you know it's what you need to do. I want to help you take back control of your life and let go of these unhelpful thoughts. I use evidenced based techniques to help you face your fears, reframe negative thoughts, increase self-compassion, and move you closer to your values.
(843) 493-4296 View (843) 493-4296
Photo of Adrienne Juarascio, PhD, Psychologist
Adrienne Juarascio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29492  (Online Only)
I have specialized training and expertise in the field of eating disorders and weight management (where I have published over 100 peer reviewed articles), but I also have extensive experience treating a wide range of behavioral and emotional problems.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with years of experience providing, supervising, and training others in how to provide evidence-based therapies for a diverse array of clients dealing with mental health and behavioral challenges. I completed my doctoral and post-doctoral training at Drexel University and completed an internship at the Medical University of South Carolina. My training focused on evidence-based treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy among others.
I have specialized training and expertise in the field of eating disorders and weight management (where I have published over 100 peer reviewed articles), but I also have extensive experience treating a wide range of behavioral and emotional problems.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with years of experience providing, supervising, and training others in how to provide evidence-based therapies for a diverse array of clients dealing with mental health and behavioral challenges. I completed my doctoral and post-doctoral training at Drexel University and completed an internship at the Medical University of South Carolina. My training focused on evidence-based treatment approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy among others.
(844) 287-4228 View (844) 287-4228
Photo of Michelle Chapman - Chapman Counseling and Consulting, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chapman Counseling and Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Charleston, SC 29405
Hello! My name is Michelle. I am a wife, outdoor enthusiast, mother (human and furbabies) and an imperfect human. Emberlynn (golden retriever) and Ella (black lab) can sometimes be found at the office for sessions. I have the best job in the world. It is an immense privilege to help people carry the heavy burden of being a human. I offer professional and lived experience with eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I utilize most of the skills that I teach my clients regularly. I attend as many trainings as I can. My goal is to be who I did not have when I was younger for my clients.
Hello! My name is Michelle. I am a wife, outdoor enthusiast, mother (human and furbabies) and an imperfect human. Emberlynn (golden retriever) and Ella (black lab) can sometimes be found at the office for sessions. I have the best job in the world. It is an immense privilege to help people carry the heavy burden of being a human. I offer professional and lived experience with eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders. I utilize most of the skills that I teach my clients regularly. I attend as many trainings as I can. My goal is to be who I did not have when I was younger for my clients.
(501) 420-2783 View (501) 420-2783
Photo of Kristin Shulman, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Shulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
Hello - I'm Kristin! Entering into therapy can be scary, but here's the deal - working through scary is where growth occurs! If you feel stuck, lost, struggling with change, afraid, or unsure of the next step, I hope you will give counseling a try. My role as a therapist is not to fix your feelings but to hold your discomfort, distress, and fears in safe, caring hands. We will work together to find new ways to conquer your problems, heal old wounds and move you into a safe place where you can grow. I have worked with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, codependence, eating disorders, and pre / post-bariatric clients.
Hello - I'm Kristin! Entering into therapy can be scary, but here's the deal - working through scary is where growth occurs! If you feel stuck, lost, struggling with change, afraid, or unsure of the next step, I hope you will give counseling a try. My role as a therapist is not to fix your feelings but to hold your discomfort, distress, and fears in safe, caring hands. We will work together to find new ways to conquer your problems, heal old wounds and move you into a safe place where you can grow. I have worked with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, codependence, eating disorders, and pre / post-bariatric clients.
(843) 438-6542 View (843) 438-6542
Photo of Valerie Zanghirella, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Zanghirella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I have a strong background in treating those suffering from eating disorders, substance use, body image issues, and all that can come along with these disorders, such as anxiety, PTSD, and depression.
Life can throw us some curve balls, and sometimes, when trying to deal with these curve balls, we struggle to find ways to cope. For some, coping through food and/or substance use is one of the ways that people try to cope through life challenges. For others it can be isolating, self-harming, or numbing yourself to feelings all around. These coping mechanisms only work for so long, until they don't work anymore, and end up hurting you. Sometimes these maladaptive coping skills only impact you, but often times, others close to you are hurting as well... your spouse, significant other, parents, siblings, and friends.
I have a strong background in treating those suffering from eating disorders, substance use, body image issues, and all that can come along with these disorders, such as anxiety, PTSD, and depression.
Life can throw us some curve balls, and sometimes, when trying to deal with these curve balls, we struggle to find ways to cope. For some, coping through food and/or substance use is one of the ways that people try to cope through life challenges. For others it can be isolating, self-harming, or numbing yourself to feelings all around. These coping mechanisms only work for so long, until they don't work anymore, and end up hurting you. Sometimes these maladaptive coping skills only impact you, but often times, others close to you are hurting as well... your spouse, significant other, parents, siblings, and friends.
(843) 800-4498 View (843) 800-4498
Photo of Lisa Mandelman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Mandelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
Some of my areas of specialty include eating disorders working at Silver Hill hospital and The Renfrew Center.
They say that life should have purpose, and for the past 25 years working as a Marriage and Family Therapist has been mine. My approach is eclectic because everyone is an individual so my work is tailored to you and your specific needs, though I do practice cognitive behavioral therapy (what you think is what you feel) solution focused therapy and a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit teaching proper nutrition (certified weight management specialist) and yoga (certified yoga instructor) as a form of spirituality helping you to get centered and find balance in this hectic world of responsibilities and stressors.
Some of my areas of specialty include eating disorders working at Silver Hill hospital and The Renfrew Center.
They say that life should have purpose, and for the past 25 years working as a Marriage and Family Therapist has been mine. My approach is eclectic because everyone is an individual so my work is tailored to you and your specific needs, though I do practice cognitive behavioral therapy (what you think is what you feel) solution focused therapy and a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit teaching proper nutrition (certified weight management specialist) and yoga (certified yoga instructor) as a form of spirituality helping you to get centered and find balance in this hectic world of responsibilities and stressors.
(203) 816-6664 View (203) 816-6664
Photo of Dara Brenner, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Dara Brenner
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
I specialize in sport psychology, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and life transitions.
As a former Division I athlete who has faced many setbacks, I strongly believe in the power of asking for help. My past experiences recovering from the mental and physical components of athletic injury motivate me to help individuals fight their own mental battles. I will work alongside you to better understand your struggles while using CBT, DBT, and strength-based approaches to allow you to make change at your own pace. In our work together, we will identify your personal values and motivators to help achieve your goals.
I specialize in sport psychology, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and life transitions.
As a former Division I athlete who has faced many setbacks, I strongly believe in the power of asking for help. My past experiences recovering from the mental and physical components of athletic injury motivate me to help individuals fight their own mental battles. I will work alongside you to better understand your struggles while using CBT, DBT, and strength-based approaches to allow you to make change at your own pace. In our work together, we will identify your personal values and motivators to help achieve your goals.
(857) 264-3711 View (857) 264-3711
Photo of David John Berndt - David John Berndt, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
David John Berndt, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Charleston, SC 29406
PTSD and trauma, eating disorders -- especially bulimia, depression and anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, and interpersonal problems are among the challenges brought to me by my individual clients.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, when I was on the faculty at the University of Chicago Department of Psychiatry, I published or presented over 80 papers on psychology-related topics. I am also an author of Overcoming Anxiety. In my psychotherapy practice, located in N. Charleston, SC, I draw on various techniques to help you find solutions that can work for you. I bring expertise and a fresh set of eyes; a therapist who can be there for you without any agenda. I have occasional evening and weekend appointments, and work with individuals, to help diagnose, understand and treat many problems. I see clients by appointment only.
PTSD and trauma, eating disorders -- especially bulimia, depression and anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, and interpersonal problems are among the challenges brought to me by my individual clients.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, when I was on the faculty at the University of Chicago Department of Psychiatry, I published or presented over 80 papers on psychology-related topics. I am also an author of Overcoming Anxiety. In my psychotherapy practice, located in N. Charleston, SC, I draw on various techniques to help you find solutions that can work for you. I bring expertise and a fresh set of eyes; a therapist who can be there for you without any agenda. I have occasional evening and weekend appointments, and work with individuals, to help diagnose, understand and treat many problems. I see clients by appointment only.
(843) 300-1915 View (843) 300-1915
Photo of Dana Mandel - Brite Side Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brite Side Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29492  (Online Only)
I have been working with adolescents and adults, treating substance abuse, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, eating disorders and relationship issues for 8 years.
Counseling is a unique journey, involving a collaboration between therapist and client. Each individual is different and I believe in individualizing therapy, versus a "one size fits all" method. I believe in supporting clients by guiding them through self-discovery and challenging/processing their internal dialogues.
I have been working with adolescents and adults, treating substance abuse, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, eating disorders and relationship issues for 8 years.
Counseling is a unique journey, involving a collaboration between therapist and client. Each individual is different and I believe in individualizing therapy, versus a "one size fits all" method. I believe in supporting clients by guiding them through self-discovery and challenging/processing their internal dialogues.
(843) 416-9334 View (843) 416-9334

See more therapy options for Daniel Island

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.