Eating Disorders Therapists in Brenham, TX

Photo of Addie Beth Swimmer, Pre-Licensed Professional
Addie Beth Swimmer
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Brenham, TX 77833
I have a special place in her heart for teens and young adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). My desire is to foster a safe environment where individuals can comfortably and freely share their stories and explore different avenues toward healing and achieving personal goals. I understand the gravity of seeking counseling and how overwhelming it can be, so the therapeutic relationship and comfort of my clients is top priority. My goal is to empower and support clients throughout their journey and show them that they are loved, important, and not alone.
I have a special place in her heart for teens and young adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). My desire is to foster a safe environment where individuals can comfortably and freely share their stories and explore different avenues toward healing and achieving personal goals. I understand the gravity of seeking counseling and how overwhelming it can be, so the therapeutic relationship and comfort of my clients is top priority. My goal is to empower and support clients throughout their journey and show them that they are loved, important, and not alone.
(979) 364-5920 View (979) 364-5920
Photo of Kathy Pardue, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Pardue
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brenham, TX 77833
My clients express honest problems and appreciate respect, practical tools, and compassion in generating options. They are patient with the process but value a timely and efficient treatment plan outlining our goals. Trust is a must in every session as we move past crisis to changing areas over time.
My clients express honest problems and appreciate respect, practical tools, and compassion in generating options. They are patient with the process but value a timely and efficient treatment plan outlining our goals. Trust is a must in every session as we move past crisis to changing areas over time.
(979) 428-2086 View (979) 428-2086
Photo of Rebecca S. Wachsler, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca S. Wachsler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Brenham, TX 77833
Life can be challenging and at some point, those “challenges” can be a bit more than we know how to tackle on our own. Whether you are simply seeking a healthier lifestyle, focusing on managing relationships, or needing support to get through a life-altering crisis or traumatic event, therapy can help. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bi-polar disorder, grief or any other issue, there is hope. You may feel hesitant at first to seek assistance, but once you do, you will feel more confident knowing you are taking the beginning steps to a better life and more improved you.
Life can be challenging and at some point, those “challenges” can be a bit more than we know how to tackle on our own. Whether you are simply seeking a healthier lifestyle, focusing on managing relationships, or needing support to get through a life-altering crisis or traumatic event, therapy can help. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, bi-polar disorder, grief or any other issue, there is hope. You may feel hesitant at first to seek assistance, but once you do, you will feel more confident knowing you are taking the beginning steps to a better life and more improved you.
(979) 661-8307 View (979) 661-8307
Photo of Janet Mueller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Mueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
My goal is to help clients identify and more successfully manage challenges that interfere with their daily quality of life. Together we build new habits and thought processes that create balance, direction and hope. I partner with my clients as we assess issues, set goals and work together to achieve change. In addition, I have specialized training in trauma utilizing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.)
My goal is to help clients identify and more successfully manage challenges that interfere with their daily quality of life. Together we build new habits and thought processes that create balance, direction and hope. I partner with my clients as we assess issues, set goals and work together to achieve change. In addition, I have specialized training in trauma utilizing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.)
(281) 853-8198 View (281) 853-8198
Photo of Marjorie A Husbands, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marjorie A Husbands
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brenham, TX 77833  (Online Only)
My journey toward a counseling career began when my first-born entered kindergarten and we found that he needed help. As a result, we were introduced to many wonderful doctors, psychologists, and counselors who were there to help and guide us. Among these was a counselor with whom I developed a strong bond. I soon realized our bond was based on the trust we developed. It is a trusting relationship like this that directly impacts the outcome of counseling. To pursue counseling is a courageous move on your part. Congratulations! I am honored to work with you.
My journey toward a counseling career began when my first-born entered kindergarten and we found that he needed help. As a result, we were introduced to many wonderful doctors, psychologists, and counselors who were there to help and guide us. Among these was a counselor with whom I developed a strong bond. I soon realized our bond was based on the trust we developed. It is a trusting relationship like this that directly impacts the outcome of counseling. To pursue counseling is a courageous move on your part. Congratulations! I am honored to work with you.
(254) 212-4176 View (254) 212-4176
Photo of Shannon Johnson - Chayah Ministries, Inc, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chayah Ministries, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Brenham, TX 77833
Chayah therapists strive to help each client find their path to healing through acknowledging, respecting, embracing, and creating space for you to come to understand yourself and those in your immediate support system. Each treatment plan is unique to the client and sessions are developed based on individual needs and circumstances. We specialize in helping people affected by trauma, including Veterans and their families and victims of human trafficking.
Chayah therapists strive to help each client find their path to healing through acknowledging, respecting, embracing, and creating space for you to come to understand yourself and those in your immediate support system. Each treatment plan is unique to the client and sessions are developed based on individual needs and circumstances. We specialize in helping people affected by trauma, including Veterans and their families and victims of human trafficking.
(936) 937-2966 View (936) 937-2966
Photo of Denetria Brooks-James, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denetria Brooks-James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brenham, TX 77833
Hi there, I'm Denetria, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Who is passionate about assisting others to become as healthy mentally and emotionally as they can. I am based in San Antonio, TX. I am Trauma-Focused trained and in Prolonged Exposure. However, I use treatment modalities that fit the need of each client. I became a therapist after therapy changed my life. I have been a therapist since 2006, and I love every single interaction with each client. I enjoy helping others become the best person they can be.
Hi there, I'm Denetria, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Who is passionate about assisting others to become as healthy mentally and emotionally as they can. I am based in San Antonio, TX. I am Trauma-Focused trained and in Prolonged Exposure. However, I use treatment modalities that fit the need of each client. I became a therapist after therapy changed my life. I have been a therapist since 2006, and I love every single interaction with each client. I enjoy helping others become the best person they can be.
(713) 597-6782 View (713) 597-6782
Photo of Thomas Cavaness - Oakwood Roots
Oakwood Roots
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
Finding a therapist is often really difficult in the Brazos Valley. Oakwood Roots works to be responsive to new clients. With over 20 clinicians on staff, from students who offer low fee counseling to our associates and licensed clinicians with more experience and specializations, Roots wants to be here to help. We see kids, teens, college students, adults, couples, and families, and we regularly offer low-fee groups and workshops for folks that are looking to supplement their individual therapy or for folks who just want to grow a little with others from the community.
Finding a therapist is often really difficult in the Brazos Valley. Oakwood Roots works to be responsive to new clients. With over 20 clinicians on staff, from students who offer low fee counseling to our associates and licensed clinicians with more experience and specializations, Roots wants to be here to help. We see kids, teens, college students, adults, couples, and families, and we regularly offer low-fee groups and workshops for folks that are looking to supplement their individual therapy or for folks who just want to grow a little with others from the community.
(979) 428-8994 View (979) 428-8994
Photo of Susan C Duncan, M S, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan C Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, M S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
Accepting New Clients- I have a process-oriented approach to counseling, and consider myself an interpersonal counselor. I work toward understanding how family of origin (and other impactful relationships) has played a part in the current and present relationships that exists in the client's world. Within therapy, I like to focus on the process of the relationship the client is having inside the session, which usually mirrors the relationships outside the session.
Accepting New Clients- I have a process-oriented approach to counseling, and consider myself an interpersonal counselor. I work toward understanding how family of origin (and other impactful relationships) has played a part in the current and present relationships that exists in the client's world. Within therapy, I like to focus on the process of the relationship the client is having inside the session, which usually mirrors the relationships outside the session.
(844) 972-0851 View (844) 972-0851
Photo of Bryan T Duncan, PhD, Psychologist
Bryan T Duncan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brenham, TX 77833
Currently Accepting New Clients. I am an interpersonal process/person-centered therapist. I believe that many clients experience mental health concerns that are interpersonal in nature. This could include relationships with spouse/partner, family, siblings, co-workers, employers, God and/or SELF. Within relationships we experience our emotions and our therapeutic relationship becomes a tool for addressing these concerns. I tend to be a direct therapist and share my feelings, thoughts and reactions. I use a lot of metaphor and narrative in therapy and expect clients to come prepared to talk about things in therapy.
Currently Accepting New Clients. I am an interpersonal process/person-centered therapist. I believe that many clients experience mental health concerns that are interpersonal in nature. This could include relationships with spouse/partner, family, siblings, co-workers, employers, God and/or SELF. Within relationships we experience our emotions and our therapeutic relationship becomes a tool for addressing these concerns. I tend to be a direct therapist and share my feelings, thoughts and reactions. I use a lot of metaphor and narrative in therapy and expect clients to come prepared to talk about things in therapy.
(512) 643-8950 View (512) 643-8950

Online Therapists

Photo of Laura Elizabeth Forrester, M Ed, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Elizabeth Forrester
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I work with adult clients & have clinical experience in the following areas: Addiction/Substance Use, Eating Disorders, PTSD/Trauma, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Self-Esteem, Co-Occurring Disorders, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Codependency, Women’s Issues, LGBTQIA+ Issues, Sex-Work.
Hello! I believe in the value of connection and authenticity. My therapeutic approach comes from a deep-seeded belief that all humans are worthy of love and compassion. I believe that each person needs different things and it is my hope to be available to you to offer guidance, support, empathy, compassion, and acceptance without judgement. I deeply value diversity and inclusivity, and connecting with my clients is of the utmost importance to me. My goal is to be present for my clients and for them to feel safe in sharing their stories with me.
I work with adult clients & have clinical experience in the following areas: Addiction/Substance Use, Eating Disorders, PTSD/Trauma, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Self-Esteem, Co-Occurring Disorders, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Codependency, Women’s Issues, LGBTQIA+ Issues, Sex-Work.
Hello! I believe in the value of connection and authenticity. My therapeutic approach comes from a deep-seeded belief that all humans are worthy of love and compassion. I believe that each person needs different things and it is my hope to be available to you to offer guidance, support, empathy, compassion, and acceptance without judgement. I deeply value diversity and inclusivity, and connecting with my clients is of the utmost importance to me. My goal is to be present for my clients and for them to feel safe in sharing their stories with me.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Chelsea MacCaughelty, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea MacCaughelty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027
My areas of expertise include relationship problems, career/work stressors, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, complicated grief and loss, family dynamics, and eating disorders.
I offer in person and online therapy in Texas and Maine. Healing and recovery take place in the context of relationships, both with ourselves and others. I seek to help my clients understand how past experiences have shaped their approach to their life, values, and interpersonal relationships. I offer individual psychotherapy to adults including but not not limited to: business executives, medical and law professionals, work-from-home/stay-at-homecaregivers, and students. I provide therapy and EMDR Intensives in 3-hour formats; please inquire for more information. Maine clients please inquire for market-based pricing.
My areas of expertise include relationship problems, career/work stressors, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, complicated grief and loss, family dynamics, and eating disorders.
I offer in person and online therapy in Texas and Maine. Healing and recovery take place in the context of relationships, both with ourselves and others. I seek to help my clients understand how past experiences have shaped their approach to their life, values, and interpersonal relationships. I offer individual psychotherapy to adults including but not not limited to: business executives, medical and law professionals, work-from-home/stay-at-homecaregivers, and students. I provide therapy and EMDR Intensives in 3-hour formats; please inquire for more information. Maine clients please inquire for market-based pricing.
(832) 365-4634 View (832) 365-4634
Photo of Emily (Holden) Belcher, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily (Holden) Belcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I have a special passion for helping those suffering from trauma, chronic pain, and eating disorders.
It is my strong belief that my role as a therapist is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for each client where they can explore their inner selves, values, and life experiences in order to actualize their goals and hopes for their lives. I work in a collaborative way to assist clients in safely exploring and processing difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This process is specifically tailored to the unique needs of each individual and how they wish to show up in their lives. I am committed to creating an environment where people of all cultures and backgrounds are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.
I have a special passion for helping those suffering from trauma, chronic pain, and eating disorders.
It is my strong belief that my role as a therapist is to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for each client where they can explore their inner selves, values, and life experiences in order to actualize their goals and hopes for their lives. I work in a collaborative way to assist clients in safely exploring and processing difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This process is specifically tailored to the unique needs of each individual and how they wish to show up in their lives. I am committed to creating an environment where people of all cultures and backgrounds are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.
(512) 812-7817 View (512) 812-7817
Photo of Mia Roldan - Mia Roldan Austin Therapy PLLC, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mia Roldan Austin Therapy PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
My specialties are clients with ADHD and Executive Functioning, Anxiety, Depression, Disordered Eating Behaviors and Thoughts, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, Bereavement, Self-harm, Social Anxiety and Trauma.
I believe at the core of every individual are the potential building blocks for resiliency. Therapy is a unique opportunity to be listened to and heard in a non-judgmental and safe environment. It is a valuable experience where you will gain insights and learn strategies to better understand your feelings, your strengths, your triggers and your goals. I am an advocate for an individual's well-being, and I honor and value the whole family unit in the therapeutic process. I provide a safe and confidential space for youth (10-18), young adults and parents.
My specialties are clients with ADHD and Executive Functioning, Anxiety, Depression, Disordered Eating Behaviors and Thoughts, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, Bereavement, Self-harm, Social Anxiety and Trauma.
I believe at the core of every individual are the potential building blocks for resiliency. Therapy is a unique opportunity to be listened to and heard in a non-judgmental and safe environment. It is a valuable experience where you will gain insights and learn strategies to better understand your feelings, your strengths, your triggers and your goals. I am an advocate for an individual's well-being, and I honor and value the whole family unit in the therapeutic process. I provide a safe and confidential space for youth (10-18), young adults and parents.
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Photo of Kim Saltzman, MA, LPC, CSAT, CEDS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Saltzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CEDS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Along side of my professional credentials, I too have traveled down a road of recovery and healing that enables me to share valuable insight and perspective with my clients. I specialize in treating Eating Disorders, PTSD/Complex trauma, and Sex Addiction. I support a holistic counseling approach that addresses the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of a person. By integrating various counseling techniques and philosophies, I offer my clients the most current and effective methods of treatment.
Along side of my professional credentials, I too have traveled down a road of recovery and healing that enables me to share valuable insight and perspective with my clients. I specialize in treating Eating Disorders, PTSD/Complex trauma, and Sex Addiction. I support a holistic counseling approach that addresses the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of a person. By integrating various counseling techniques and philosophies, I offer my clients the most current and effective methods of treatment.
(281) 245-0785 View (281) 245-0785
Photo of Taylor Maureen Barstad, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Maureen Barstad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
My primary clinical focus has been centered around helping individuals cope with eating disorders, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma and family work.
I would describe my therapeutic style as personable, open, warm, accepting and thoughtful. I will always meet my clients where they’re at and include them while creating a personalized treatment plan.
My primary clinical focus has been centered around helping individuals cope with eating disorders, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma and family work.
I would describe my therapeutic style as personable, open, warm, accepting and thoughtful. I will always meet my clients where they’re at and include them while creating a personalized treatment plan.
(512) 882-0589 View (512) 882-0589
Photo of Riana Fletcher, LPC Intern
Riana Fletcher
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620  (Online Only)
Currently, I specialize in eating disorders, body image, self-esteem, parenthood struggles, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
Hi! I have current availability and I respond to clients within 24-48 hours. Deciding that therapy is right for you can be one of the most challenging questions we ask ourselves. I know that the idea of being vulnerable can be scary and at times something we don't want to do. My job is to provide you a space that feel safe, comforting, and free of judgment to allow you to explore your world. As your therapist, I'll be with you on your journey to support the difficult moments and cheer in your joyous ones. I really like to personalize my work with each person, to ensure that you're receiving what is right for you.
Currently, I specialize in eating disorders, body image, self-esteem, parenthood struggles, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
Hi! I have current availability and I respond to clients within 24-48 hours. Deciding that therapy is right for you can be one of the most challenging questions we ask ourselves. I know that the idea of being vulnerable can be scary and at times something we don't want to do. My job is to provide you a space that feel safe, comforting, and free of judgment to allow you to explore your world. As your therapist, I'll be with you on your journey to support the difficult moments and cheer in your joyous ones. I really like to personalize my work with each person, to ensure that you're receiving what is right for you.
(737) 286-8304 View (737) 286-8304
Photo of Patty Ramlet, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patty Ramlet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737  (Online Only)
I have worked in a variety of treatment settings for the past several decades, primarily working with those who struggle with eating disorders and/or disordered eating patterns; anxiety; OCD; depression; trauma/PTSD and relational conflict.
We are all on this journey called life, facing various challenges and struggles along the way. We are not meant to face these seasons of struggle alone; we need community and connection during these times. I feel honored and privileged to be alongside those who find their way to my counseling practice. I don't claim to have all the answers, however I do have almost 30 years of counseling experience and 62 + years of life experience. I will help YOU to make "life-informed" choices and decisions with guiding, educating, mentoring, supporting and encouraging.
I have worked in a variety of treatment settings for the past several decades, primarily working with those who struggle with eating disorders and/or disordered eating patterns; anxiety; OCD; depression; trauma/PTSD and relational conflict.
We are all on this journey called life, facing various challenges and struggles along the way. We are not meant to face these seasons of struggle alone; we need community and connection during these times. I feel honored and privileged to be alongside those who find their way to my counseling practice. I don't claim to have all the answers, however I do have almost 30 years of counseling experience and 62 + years of life experience. I will help YOU to make "life-informed" choices and decisions with guiding, educating, mentoring, supporting and encouraging.
(303) 732-8792 View (303) 732-8792
Photo of Alex Caron, MS, LPC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Caron
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
It takes an incredible amount of strength and vulnerability to reach out for help when you need support. I am passionate about supporting adolescents, teens and young adults in navigating life’s challenges with authenticity, connection, and hope. I have experience in residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient settings to support the treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. My priority is to provide a safe and compassionate space where you can feel supported, seen and understood.
It takes an incredible amount of strength and vulnerability to reach out for help when you need support. I am passionate about supporting adolescents, teens and young adults in navigating life’s challenges with authenticity, connection, and hope. I have experience in residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient settings to support the treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. My priority is to provide a safe and compassionate space where you can feel supported, seen and understood.
(737) 345-2610 View (737) 345-2610
Photo of Nicole M. Williams, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole M. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
I have extensive training in eating disorders and body image as well as severe and persistent mental illness.
Welcome! If you are sitting at your computer perusing therapy websites, I applaud you for taking the first step and having the courage to consider whether taking a therapeutic journey is the right decision for your life. While taking this journey is not easy, I fully believe that delegating time to work on ourselves allows us to grow in a mindful and self-accepting way. Psychotherapy is not a "one size fits all process." Instead, psychotherapy should be tailored to the client. Psychotherapy is about meeting you where you are at and working towards your goals in order for you to obtain the life you desire.
I have extensive training in eating disorders and body image as well as severe and persistent mental illness.
Welcome! If you are sitting at your computer perusing therapy websites, I applaud you for taking the first step and having the courage to consider whether taking a therapeutic journey is the right decision for your life. While taking this journey is not easy, I fully believe that delegating time to work on ourselves allows us to grow in a mindful and self-accepting way. Psychotherapy is not a "one size fits all process." Instead, psychotherapy should be tailored to the client. Psychotherapy is about meeting you where you are at and working towards your goals in order for you to obtain the life you desire.
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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.