Eating Disorders Therapists in Mount Pleasant, SC

Photo of Marcella Berman, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcella Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
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 Donna Marie Friedman, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Marie Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I understand the complexity of Eating Disorders from both the patient and the carer position.
Having been in recovery myself, I feel that I offer a unique therapeutic experience. Eating disorders such as; Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder and other unspecified eating disorders, are complicated. They effect not only the patient, but the entire family. I work closely with client and family to offer hope and support. Eating Disorders are not a choice. Recovery is individualized to meet the needs of the client. I am here not to tell one how to recover but to be the support to put the Eating Disorder behind and life's experiences first.
I understand the complexity of Eating Disorders from both the patient and the carer position.
Having been in recovery myself, I feel that I offer a unique therapeutic experience. Eating disorders such as; Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder and other unspecified eating disorders, are complicated. They effect not only the patient, but the entire family. I work closely with client and family to offer hope and support. Eating Disorders are not a choice. Recovery is individualized to meet the needs of the client. I am here not to tell one how to recover but to be the support to put the Eating Disorder behind and life's experiences first.
(843) 806-0506 View (843) 806-0506
Photo of Dr. Brooke McGinnis, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Brooke McGinnis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
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 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 Kristin Shulman, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Shulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464  (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 Angela Pitts, MS, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Pitts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464  (Online Only)
I have 10+ years of experience working with eating disorders, sexual trauma & human trafficking survivors.
I am a virtual telehealth therapy provider in SC and FL. I aim to offer hope and help others taste the land of milk and honey. My foundational treatment is practicing authenticity, in harmony with vulnerability. I refuse to let clients settle for comfort or anything less than living in freedom. I have a heart for those who struggle to know their worth and value outside of diet culture or their trauma narrative Above all, I encourage you in that you are never too much and always enough. No one needs to remain stuck in their story. There is hope in learning to take up the space you were created for.
I have 10+ years of experience working with eating disorders, sexual trauma & human trafficking survivors.
I am a virtual telehealth therapy provider in SC and FL. I aim to offer hope and help others taste the land of milk and honey. My foundational treatment is practicing authenticity, in harmony with vulnerability. I refuse to let clients settle for comfort or anything less than living in freedom. I have a heart for those who struggle to know their worth and value outside of diet culture or their trauma narrative Above all, I encourage you in that you are never too much and always enough. No one needs to remain stuck in their story. There is hope in learning to take up the space you were created for.
(803) 692-8263 View (803) 692-8263
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 David John Berndt - David John Berndt, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
David John Berndt, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
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 Dr. Catherine Byrne, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Catherine Byrne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
I have training in Family-Based Treatment for child and adolescent eating disorders, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Finding the right therapist fit is incredibly important and I strive to offer a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space. I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in the psychology field. I work with children, adolescents and adults with a specialization in evidence-based treatment for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and OCD and related disorders. Depending on the unique needs of each patient, we will work together to discuss what therapy approach will be most beneficial. For example, I often work with families when treating children and adolescents, while adults may benefit from individual psychotherapy.
I have training in Family-Based Treatment for child and adolescent eating disorders, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Finding the right therapist fit is incredibly important and I strive to offer a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space. I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in the psychology field. I work with children, adolescents and adults with a specialization in evidence-based treatment for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and OCD and related disorders. Depending on the unique needs of each patient, we will work together to discuss what therapy approach will be most beneficial. For example, I often work with families when treating children and adolescents, while adults may benefit from individual psychotherapy.
(843) 351-8318 View (843) 351-8318
Photo of Erin Scheibling, LPC-A, MA, MEd, NCC
Erin Scheibling
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include grief, life transitions, students facing academic challenges, ADHD, anxiety, body image challenges, eating disorders, disordered eating and interpersonal/relational challenges. I particularly enjoy working with teachers/educators and understand the unique stressors that those populations face.
My areas of specialty include grief, life transitions, students facing academic challenges, ADHD, anxiety, body image challenges, eating disorders, disordered eating and interpersonal/relational challenges. I particularly enjoy working with teachers/educators and understand the unique stressors that those populations face.
(843) 517-7739 View (843) 517-7739
Photo of Leslie Sorce, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Sorce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
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 Jill Bias, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Bias
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Whether it's improving communication, resolving conflicts, or strengthening relationships, we will do it all together! I’ve worked extensively with relational complexities, eating disorders, addiction, trauma, mood disorders, and the impact these have on relationships.
With over 14 years of experience, I have spent my career helping individuals, couples, and families work through life’s ups and downs. I believe the most important part of therapy is the connection between the therapist and client. As a team, we will work together to explore areas of your life and relationships that aren’t bringing you the fulfillment you deserve.
Whether it's improving communication, resolving conflicts, or strengthening relationships, we will do it all together! I’ve worked extensively with relational complexities, eating disorders, addiction, trauma, mood disorders, and the impact these have on relationships.
With over 14 years of experience, I have spent my career helping individuals, couples, and families work through life’s ups and downs. I believe the most important part of therapy is the connection between the therapist and client. As a team, we will work together to explore areas of your life and relationships that aren’t bringing you the fulfillment you deserve.
(843) 920-6721 View (843) 920-6721
Photo of Dinah Heinrich, LISW, CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dinah Heinrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
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 Alicia Lesniak - MiMo Psychotherapy Group, LMHC, DBT-LBC, Counselor
MiMo Psychotherapy Group
Counselor, LMHC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
21 peer-reviewed randomized clinical trials have shown that DBT reduces problem behavior, increases emotional stability, reduces self-harming, reduces suicidal urges (and hospitalizations), improves functioning and communication in relationships, reduces substance abuse, and reduces binge eating and bulimia among other compulsions.
Effective treatment inspires measurable positive change. My approach to therapy is to provide empirically-based interventions in a warm, collaborative and transparent manner. As Miami's first DBT certified therapist, I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their emotions, relationships and behaviors. I also teach mindfulness and behavior change strategies to promote psychological flexibility and therefore overall well-being. Our practice offers a fully adherent DBT program for adolescents, parents and adults wanting to improve interpersonal skills as well as distress tolerance skills and emotion regulation skills.
21 peer-reviewed randomized clinical trials have shown that DBT reduces problem behavior, increases emotional stability, reduces self-harming, reduces suicidal urges (and hospitalizations), improves functioning and communication in relationships, reduces substance abuse, and reduces binge eating and bulimia among other compulsions.
Effective treatment inspires measurable positive change. My approach to therapy is to provide empirically-based interventions in a warm, collaborative and transparent manner. As Miami's first DBT certified therapist, I work with individuals who have difficulty managing their emotions, relationships and behaviors. I also teach mindfulness and behavior change strategies to promote psychological flexibility and therefore overall well-being. Our practice offers a fully adherent DBT program for adolescents, parents and adults wanting to improve interpersonal skills as well as distress tolerance skills and emotion regulation skills.
(305) 676-2323 View (305) 676-2323
Photo of Jennifer A Bennice, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer A Bennice
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Research indicates that women suffer from depression, anxiety, and eating disorders at disproportionate rates. Many women endure perhaps the most intense form of stress--interpersonal trauma ( e.g., rape, domestic violence, child abuse). An even larger proportion of women experience chronic high levels of stress, as they attempt to balance their responsibilities as professionals and their roles as mothers, wives, and daughters.
Research indicates that women suffer from depression, anxiety, and eating disorders at disproportionate rates. Many women endure perhaps the most intense form of stress--interpersonal trauma ( e.g., rape, domestic violence, child abuse). An even larger proportion of women experience chronic high levels of stress, as they attempt to balance their responsibilities as professionals and their roles as mothers, wives, and daughters.
(843) 419-7169 View (843) 419-7169
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
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464  (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 9 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 9 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
Photo of Patti Moynihan, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patti Moynihan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Do you feel negatively affected by depression or anxiety? Do you struggle within your relationships? Do you feel stuck making important life decisions regarding marriage, family, career, friendships, or more? Do you find yourself wishing you could be happier? Has an important event happened in your life and you're having trouble integrating change into your life? You may feel alone and lost. You may believe that you have to feel this way forever. Personalized therapy can help.
Do you feel negatively affected by depression or anxiety? Do you struggle within your relationships? Do you feel stuck making important life decisions regarding marriage, family, career, friendships, or more? Do you find yourself wishing you could be happier? Has an important event happened in your life and you're having trouble integrating change into your life? You may feel alone and lost. You may believe that you have to feel this way forever. Personalized therapy can help.
(843) 920-4854 View (843) 920-4854
Photo of Samantha McKenzie, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
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 Hillary Evans, CHT
Hillary Evans
CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Hillary offers a calming, confidential environment built on trust and personalized solutions. She uses hypnosis to help her clients unlock the inner power of their minds to accomplish amazing things - transform emotions, overcome blocks, learn new things, manage pain, and improve wellbeing. Hillary's training enables her to help her clients cope with today's ever-changing, high-pressure world... from transforming anxious feelings, coping with sadness, developing greater self-confidence, to succeed in business, kicking habits and weight loss, to improved personal relationships, and enhanced performance in sports.
Hillary offers a calming, confidential environment built on trust and personalized solutions. She uses hypnosis to help her clients unlock the inner power of their minds to accomplish amazing things - transform emotions, overcome blocks, learn new things, manage pain, and improve wellbeing. Hillary's training enables her to help her clients cope with today's ever-changing, high-pressure world... from transforming anxious feelings, coping with sadness, developing greater self-confidence, to succeed in business, kicking habits and weight loss, to improved personal relationships, and enhanced performance in sports.
(843) 558-8079 View (843) 558-8079
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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.