Photo of Miro Gudelsky, DHS, Counselor
Miro Gudelsky
Counselor, DHS
Verified Verified
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
We are all driven by our sexuality. If this is off center, the rest of our lives will be too. Yes, I am an expert in Human Sexuality but YOU are your own expert. Through honest, realistic guidance, we will address your sexual issues at their base and core with empathy. Together, we will assist in your greater acceptance and acknowledgement towards that which is driving you and how to harness this massive energy in a safe and sane manner. Congratulations for making this important first step!
We are all driven by our sexuality. If this is off center, the rest of our lives will be too. Yes, I am an expert in Human Sexuality but YOU are your own expert. Through honest, realistic guidance, we will address your sexual issues at their base and core with empathy. Together, we will assist in your greater acceptance and acknowledgement towards that which is driving you and how to harness this massive energy in a safe and sane manner. Congratulations for making this important first step!
(512) 543-4371 View (512) 543-4371
Photo of Linda Mikesic - Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Liberty Hill, TX 78642
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
(512) 675-1823 View (512) 675-1823

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jan Lea Anderson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jan Lea Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Leander, TX 78641
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
I understand how important it is for a client to be able to feel safe and confident when talking to someone about their deepest feelings. I feel honored that I am trusted with that confidence and my clients find that within the first few minutes of session they can relax and know they won't be judged and that I'm there to help. We work together to promote change and its easier to do when you're not alone in the process.
(512) 271-5413 View (512) 271-5413
Photo of Jan Anderson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jan Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
People sometimes struggle with the idea of going to see a counselor. Often it's difficult to know where to begin. Sometimes finding the right counselor can mean finding new hope, new choices--a new life. My task is to create a protected space so that you'll feel comfortable and safe. I listen carefully, objectively, with kindness and humor and without judgment. I respond with training, intuition, insight, honesty, and engage a variety of techniques to meet your presenting issue. I consider it a privilege that clients are willing to share their lives with me and I honor that trust.
People sometimes struggle with the idea of going to see a counselor. Often it's difficult to know where to begin. Sometimes finding the right counselor can mean finding new hope, new choices--a new life. My task is to create a protected space so that you'll feel comfortable and safe. I listen carefully, objectively, with kindness and humor and without judgment. I respond with training, intuition, insight, honesty, and engage a variety of techniques to meet your presenting issue. I consider it a privilege that clients are willing to share their lives with me and I honor that trust.
(361) 444-1906 View (361) 444-1906

Online Therapists

Photo of Samantha Gordon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78238
Hi, my name is Samantha Gordon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In my practice, I focus on helping others to manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this. I help individuals, couples, and their families manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this.
Hi, my name is Samantha Gordon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In my practice, I focus on helping others to manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this. I help individuals, couples, and their families manage issues related to relationships with themselves and others, family dynamics, body image, disordered eating, eating disorders, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and all that goes along with this.
(346) 485-3884 View (346) 485-3884
Photo of Pam Greenstone Deep Roots Counseling Pllc, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pam Greenstone Deep Roots Counseling Pllc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
There I discovered my love for helping people recover from eating disorders so I began a Masters Counseling program and started my journey to become a therapist.
Have you been thinking about therapy for a while but concerned you might not find the right fit in a therapist? Do you want to understand more about how your past is getting in the way of enjoying your life? Do you want a non-judgmental person to talk to and help you find new ways to approach your life challenges?
There I discovered my love for helping people recover from eating disorders so I began a Masters Counseling program and started my journey to become a therapist.
Have you been thinking about therapy for a while but concerned you might not find the right fit in a therapist? Do you want to understand more about how your past is getting in the way of enjoying your life? Do you want a non-judgmental person to talk to and help you find new ways to approach your life challenges?
(512) 641-3397 View (512) 641-3397
Photo of Mina O'Connell - Mina O'Connell, MS, LMFT, PLLC, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mina O'Connell, MS, LMFT, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Boerne, TX 78006  (Online Only)
Anxiety, relationship conflict, and eating disorders are pervasive within our culture.
Are you looking for direction and support at a difficult time? You are most likely on a path to healthy growth and development, but are just hurting along the way. I recognize and value the courage and trust it takes to seek insight, and believe you can achieve your best functioning through focused goals. We can work to help you identify your goals and develop strategies to reach them within the context of your most important relationships. You don't have to give up on improving your health and the important relationships in your life!
Anxiety, relationship conflict, and eating disorders are pervasive within our culture.
Are you looking for direction and support at a difficult time? You are most likely on a path to healthy growth and development, but are just hurting along the way. I recognize and value the courage and trust it takes to seek insight, and believe you can achieve your best functioning through focused goals. We can work to help you identify your goals and develop strategies to reach them within the context of your most important relationships. You don't have to give up on improving your health and the important relationships in your life!
(210) 791-7434 View (210) 791-7434
Photo of Lisa Thaler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Thaler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78751
She has dedicated the majority of her career to the treatment of eating disorders and has worked collaboratively with psychiatrists, nutritionists and MDs, when clinically indicated.
Lisa Thaler, LCSW moved to Austin in October, 2019 after maintaining a private practice in New York City for the past 28 years. She received her BA from Amherst College and her MSW from New York University. She completed her psychoanalytic training at The Women’s Therapy Centre Institute, which is specifically known for its attention to feminism, gender and social justice, as well as contemporary psychoanalytic thinking.
She has dedicated the majority of her career to the treatment of eating disorders and has worked collaboratively with psychiatrists, nutritionists and MDs, when clinically indicated.
Lisa Thaler, LCSW moved to Austin in October, 2019 after maintaining a private practice in New York City for the past 28 years. She received her BA from Amherst College and her MSW from New York University. She completed her psychoanalytic training at The Women’s Therapy Centre Institute, which is specifically known for its attention to feminism, gender and social justice, as well as contemporary psychoanalytic thinking.
(737) 204-2109 View (737) 204-2109
Photo of Brooke Butler Evolution Austin Therapy, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brooke Butler Evolution Austin Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I help my clients learn to cope with adversity related to anxiety, depression, grief, bullying, eating disorders, relational issues and trauma, to name a few.
As a relational therapist, I believe subconscious beliefs and programming are responsible for many of our self-sabotaging behaviors. These impact our relationships and are typically inherited during our upbringing. I choose to work with clients who are struggling with the same patterns that have plagued them for far too long, and who are looking to make a serious change in their lives. I also work with clients who are simply feeling lost and looking for guidance in finding themselves. My ideal client is anyone looking to empower themselves and care for themselves, or their relationship mind, body, and soul.
I help my clients learn to cope with adversity related to anxiety, depression, grief, bullying, eating disorders, relational issues and trauma, to name a few.
As a relational therapist, I believe subconscious beliefs and programming are responsible for many of our self-sabotaging behaviors. These impact our relationships and are typically inherited during our upbringing. I choose to work with clients who are struggling with the same patterns that have plagued them for far too long, and who are looking to make a serious change in their lives. I also work with clients who are simply feeling lost and looking for guidance in finding themselves. My ideal client is anyone looking to empower themselves and care for themselves, or their relationship mind, body, and soul.
(512) 543-2790 View (512) 543-2790
Photo of Stephen Morris - Stephen Inspiring Minds (MPS), MA, MS, LPC-S, Counselor
Stephen Inspiring Minds (MPS)
Counselor, MA, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
My specialties are as follows: couples and relationship counseling, depression management, stress management, anxiety management, weight management and eating disorders, addictions, anger management and trauma management.
Hello, I am an experienced licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience. I can work with you to develop a plan that will address your current issues in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, infidelity, relationships, weight loss, and lack of motivation. I offer weekend availability because these are usually the most stressful times. I am a University of Texas alumni (1990) with over 200 (5star) reviews on my website from other satisfied clients. Contact my office for a free consult or $30 session if affected by recent hurricane. Financing also available if needed. Call for details.
My specialties are as follows: couples and relationship counseling, depression management, stress management, anxiety management, weight management and eating disorders, addictions, anger management and trauma management.
Hello, I am an experienced licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience. I can work with you to develop a plan that will address your current issues in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, infidelity, relationships, weight loss, and lack of motivation. I offer weekend availability because these are usually the most stressful times. I am a University of Texas alumni (1990) with over 200 (5star) reviews on my website from other satisfied clients. Contact my office for a free consult or $30 session if affected by recent hurricane. Financing also available if needed. Call for details.
(713) 597-4616 View (713) 597-4616
Photo of Lauren Garza, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren Garza
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hutto, TX 78634
I have advanced training in couples therapy (Gottman), eating disorders, and trauma (EMDR/somatic).
Are you feeling the impulse to explore who you are behind the masks? Do you yearn for freedom from unhealthy relationship dynamics and behavior patterns holding you back from the life you know you’re meant to have? Do you seek real, lasting change, progress, and happiness? Do you feel like you’ve tried it all, but nothing sticks? Do you believe you need help identifying your limiting beliefs, overcoming your hardships, and getting the life you’ve always wanted? I aim to guide those who are ready to slow down and do the inner healing required to leave their unhealthy cycles and reconnect with the highest versions of themselves.
I have advanced training in couples therapy (Gottman), eating disorders, and trauma (EMDR/somatic).
Are you feeling the impulse to explore who you are behind the masks? Do you yearn for freedom from unhealthy relationship dynamics and behavior patterns holding you back from the life you know you’re meant to have? Do you seek real, lasting change, progress, and happiness? Do you feel like you’ve tried it all, but nothing sticks? Do you believe you need help identifying your limiting beliefs, overcoming your hardships, and getting the life you’ve always wanted? I aim to guide those who are ready to slow down and do the inner healing required to leave their unhealthy cycles and reconnect with the highest versions of themselves.
(512) 598-4699 View (512) 598-4699
Photo of Liz Cohen, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
My areas of experience include depression, anxiety, stress, health, relationships, eating disorders, trauma recovery, sexuality and gender issues.
Therapy is collaborative. As a therapist, I am a partner in my clients' self-explorations and a witness to their accomplishments. I provide a serene place where clients can rediscover or develop authentic selves, deepen emotional connections with self and others, recognize how thoughts, beliefs and values affect relationships, consider new ways of being in the world, develop healthier adaptive strategies when facing problems, and work through past and present past trauma, grief, and losses. You have the strengths you need to meet your full potential and achieve a satisfying life. I can help.
My areas of experience include depression, anxiety, stress, health, relationships, eating disorders, trauma recovery, sexuality and gender issues.
Therapy is collaborative. As a therapist, I am a partner in my clients' self-explorations and a witness to their accomplishments. I provide a serene place where clients can rediscover or develop authentic selves, deepen emotional connections with self and others, recognize how thoughts, beliefs and values affect relationships, consider new ways of being in the world, develop healthier adaptive strategies when facing problems, and work through past and present past trauma, grief, and losses. You have the strengths you need to meet your full potential and achieve a satisfying life. I can help.
(512) 607-7987 View (512) 607-7987
Photo of Nathan Jee, LPC-A
Nathan Jee
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78722
I work with teens, adults, and couples, helping them navigate a range of issues such as recovering from eating disorders, managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, grief, and improving interpersonal relationships. Together, we can create positive changes and work through these challenges. My therapeutic approach primarily incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic principles, and Internal Family Systems techniques. I understand that starting therapy can be daunting, so I strive to provide a nonjudgmental space where you can feel confident in your journey toward healing and change.
I work with teens, adults, and couples, helping them navigate a range of issues such as recovering from eating disorders, managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, grief, and improving interpersonal relationships. Together, we can create positive changes and work through these challenges. My therapeutic approach primarily incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic principles, and Internal Family Systems techniques. I understand that starting therapy can be daunting, so I strive to provide a nonjudgmental space where you can feel confident in your journey toward healing and change.
(737) 201-1419 View (737) 201-1419
Photo of Sarah Lea, MA, LPC
Sarah Lea
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I am a graduate of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary with a Master’s degree in Counseling. My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, athletes, eating disorders, and family dynamics. I have experience working in a residential treatment center for eating disorders. I am trained to integrate psychology and Christianity for those clients who are interested. I am married, and we have two beautiful girls ages 7, 9. In my spare time I enjoy talking, drinking tea, reading, spending time with friends, running, and spending time with family. I love nature and enjoy being outside as much as possible.
I am a graduate of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary with a Master’s degree in Counseling. My clinical interests include depression, anxiety, athletes, eating disorders, and family dynamics. I have experience working in a residential treatment center for eating disorders. I am trained to integrate psychology and Christianity for those clients who are interested. I am married, and we have two beautiful girls ages 7, 9. In my spare time I enjoy talking, drinking tea, reading, spending time with friends, running, and spending time with family. I love nature and enjoy being outside as much as possible.
(832) 979-5418 View (832) 979-5418
Photo of Kasi Howard, PsyD, Psychologist
Kasi Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I have been extensive trained in treating eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression and marital issues.
I believe in working with you to best meet your goals and needs based on where you are. I work with adolescents, age 16 and up and adults. Please check out our website at www.innovarecoverycenter.com to learn more. We are eager to partner with you on your journey to healing! We also offer speciality programs in the following areas: abuse/trauma/PTSD; sexual addiction.
I have been extensive trained in treating eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression and marital issues.
I believe in working with you to best meet your goals and needs based on where you are. I work with adolescents, age 16 and up and adults. Please check out our website at www.innovarecoverycenter.com to learn more. We are eager to partner with you on your journey to healing! We also offer speciality programs in the following areas: abuse/trauma/PTSD; sexual addiction.
(210) 361-4239 View (210) 361-4239
Photo of Grace Gould - Moonstone Counseling PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moonstone Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Our therapists also specialize in treating addiction, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
Moonstone Counseling serves people across the lifespan. Clinicians specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults and older adults. We also offer couples and family therapy. Clients come to Moonstone because they are seeking a therapist who is compassionate, reliable and understands the impact of living in a complex world. In additional to traditional psychotherapy, Moonstone also offers Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which is grounded in relationship and integration. We believe therapy should be accessible and we proudly accept insurance.
Our therapists also specialize in treating addiction, eating disorders, and chronic illness.
Moonstone Counseling serves people across the lifespan. Clinicians specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults and older adults. We also offer couples and family therapy. Clients come to Moonstone because they are seeking a therapist who is compassionate, reliable and understands the impact of living in a complex world. In additional to traditional psychotherapy, Moonstone also offers Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which is grounded in relationship and integration. We believe therapy should be accessible and we proudly accept insurance.
(512) 580-8377 View (512) 580-8377
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 Kim Fry - Autonomy Therapy, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Autonomy Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78753
We specialize in helping clients struggling with - but not limited to - eating disorders, compulsive exercise, mood disorders, grief, trauma, neurodivergence, low self-esteem and self-confidence, poor body image, and anxiety.
Are you struggling with recent life transitions? Not sure how to break the cycle of yo-yo dieting or how to manage frequent, anxious thoughts? At Autonomy Therapy, we provide high quality, evidence-based care to support our clients in learning how to strengthen their mind-body connection and become the most authentic, resilient versions of themselves. The therapy that our clinicians provide empowers our clients to develop increased trust with their own thoughts, emotions, and decisions, and supports them in identifying what an intentional, autonomous, and values-based life truly looks and feels like.
We specialize in helping clients struggling with - but not limited to - eating disorders, compulsive exercise, mood disorders, grief, trauma, neurodivergence, low self-esteem and self-confidence, poor body image, and anxiety.
Are you struggling with recent life transitions? Not sure how to break the cycle of yo-yo dieting or how to manage frequent, anxious thoughts? At Autonomy Therapy, we provide high quality, evidence-based care to support our clients in learning how to strengthen their mind-body connection and become the most authentic, resilient versions of themselves. The therapy that our clinicians provide empowers our clients to develop increased trust with their own thoughts, emotions, and decisions, and supports them in identifying what an intentional, autonomous, and values-based life truly looks and feels like.
(512) 982-0228 View (512) 982-0228
Photo of Migdalia Sosa Pierce, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Migdalia Sosa Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228
However, I also see clients with more specialized issues such as infertility, postpartum depression, high-risk pregnancies, and eating disorders.
For as long as I can remember, I always wanted to be a therapist. I truly enjoy working with my clients and am passionate about helping others through tough times in their lives. The therapeutic relationship is a unique relationship in itself that alone can be healing. I have worked with a great variety of problems and would be honored to work with you.
However, I also see clients with more specialized issues such as infertility, postpartum depression, high-risk pregnancies, and eating disorders.
For as long as I can remember, I always wanted to be a therapist. I truly enjoy working with my clients and am passionate about helping others through tough times in their lives. The therapeutic relationship is a unique relationship in itself that alone can be healing. I have worked with a great variety of problems and would be honored to work with you.
(210) 348-3850 View (210) 348-3850
Photo of Salley Schmid - Enrichment Counseling Solutions, P.C., MS, LMFT, CDWF, CPDT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Enrichment Counseling Solutions, P.C.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CDWF, CPDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76710
The majority of my work involves helping people with complex, remote trauma and abuse exposure, surviving narcissistic abuse, eating disorders, grief, & women's sexuality.
I value the role faith & spirituality plays in self-evaluation, change, growth, healing, relationships & success. I practice from a family systems perspective, helping people discover hindrances holding them back from living a life they love. Counseling is a powerful support resource, especially when wresting with the challenges & the unexpected that life has a way of throwing at you from past to present. I hope you'll consider letting me support you in healing, designing & creating a life you can love living. Ask me about incorporating yoga & art into counseling. Additionally, I offer an empowering Women's Sexuality service.
The majority of my work involves helping people with complex, remote trauma and abuse exposure, surviving narcissistic abuse, eating disorders, grief, & women's sexuality.
I value the role faith & spirituality plays in self-evaluation, change, growth, healing, relationships & success. I practice from a family systems perspective, helping people discover hindrances holding them back from living a life they love. Counseling is a powerful support resource, especially when wresting with the challenges & the unexpected that life has a way of throwing at you from past to present. I hope you'll consider letting me support you in healing, designing & creating a life you can love living. Ask me about incorporating yoga & art into counseling. Additionally, I offer an empowering Women's Sexuality service.
(254) 870-1094 View (254) 870-1094

See more therapy options for Liberty Hill

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.