Eating Disorders Therapists in Montgomery, TX
![Photo of Joni Villemez Comeaux, MA, LPC, LCDC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f9d7b52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joni Villemez Comeaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, NBCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, TX 77356
Joni offers a holistic approach to wellness in treating mind, body, spirit. She loves to be of service to those who wrestle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, co-dependency, unprocessed emotions/experiences, church hurt, eating disorders/disordered eating, addictions, alcohol abuse, alcohol use disorder and PTSD. Joni offers coaching and expansion work. Joni’s career, personal healing journey and life experiences allow for truly connecting & allowing space for client’s authentic nature to shine through.
Joni offers a holistic approach to wellness in treating mind, body, spirit. She loves to be of service to those who wrestle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, co-dependency, unprocessed emotions/experiences, church hurt, eating disorders/disordered eating, addictions, alcohol abuse, alcohol use disorder and PTSD. Joni offers coaching and expansion work. Joni’s career, personal healing journey and life experiences allow for truly connecting & allowing space for client’s authentic nature to shine through.
![Photo of Erin L Hendricks Hughes, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd25dc1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I've been working in the field of psychology since 1981. Clients with many different problems have asked for my help and we have had great successes. Like most people, I'd like to help everyone. It begins with you. My expertise is working with people who have been abused, neglected, or in any way traumatized and survivors of sexual abuse. I also work with Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunction. Call me and let's see what we can do together.
Hi. I've been working in the field of psychology since 1981. Clients with many different problems have asked for my help and we have had great successes. Like most people, I'd like to help everyone. It begins with you. My expertise is working with people who have been abused, neglected, or in any way traumatized and survivors of sexual abuse. I also work with Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunction. Call me and let's see what we can do together.
![Photo of Stacey D Tays, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/decd82f3-33d2-4242-bff6-c8355d90f100/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey D Tays
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montgomery, TX 77356
Does your life sometimes feel like a docudrama? You know the kind where you're watching in disbelief, shaking your head wondering what crazy thing will happen next? Or maybe you feel like you're doing your best to "just keep swimming", but life seems to be coming at you in tidal waves; dragging you under faster than you can doggy paddle back to the surface. Relationships, work, finances, parenting, family, friends, health can feel exhausting and overwhelming. Even on the good days it's a lot to manage and bad days can leave you feeling like it's just too much. I get it and I'm here to help.
Does your life sometimes feel like a docudrama? You know the kind where you're watching in disbelief, shaking your head wondering what crazy thing will happen next? Or maybe you feel like you're doing your best to "just keep swimming", but life seems to be coming at you in tidal waves; dragging you under faster than you can doggy paddle back to the surface. Relationships, work, finances, parenting, family, friends, health can feel exhausting and overwhelming. Even on the good days it's a lot to manage and bad days can leave you feeling like it's just too much. I get it and I'm here to help.
![Photo of Jaye Kelly-Johnston - Kelly-Johnston Counseling, Jaye Kelly-Johnston, LPC-S, CMS-CHT, FIBH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8add54c7-34d4-45bb-8e45-507e14ecf6f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly-Johnston Counseling, Jaye Kelly-Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CMS-CHT, FIBH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, TX 77356
ARE YOU READY FOR THE NEXT GREAT CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE STORY? If you’re feeling stuck where you are in life, and frustrated by patterns and habits you can’t kick? Worried about your work, relationships, health, or future? Anxious, exhausted worrying your unloved, unable, or unworthy? Are you ready to move forward? I specialize in helping people on their healing journey. I help people resolve past hurts or traumas, so that they can begin living a life filled with meaning and purpose. I believe everyone has the ability to grow & change. It is an honor to help guide people on their healing journey.
ARE YOU READY FOR THE NEXT GREAT CHAPTER OF YOUR LIFE STORY? If you’re feeling stuck where you are in life, and frustrated by patterns and habits you can’t kick? Worried about your work, relationships, health, or future? Anxious, exhausted worrying your unloved, unable, or unworthy? Are you ready to move forward? I specialize in helping people on their healing journey. I help people resolve past hurts or traumas, so that they can begin living a life filled with meaning and purpose. I believe everyone has the ability to grow & change. It is an honor to help guide people on their healing journey.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jolie A Jennings, MA, LPC-S, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c03a802-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jolie A Jennings
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CEDS
Verified Verified
Magnolia, TX 77354
I specialize in anxiety, depression, addictive patterns, eating disorder treatment including Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia, Anorexia and both Borderline and Narcissistic Personality Disorders. I am certified in EMDR and well trained in working with trauma and PTSD. If you find yourself stuck in the same self defeating patterns or constantly overreact in anger, I can help. Poor sleep, drinking too much, raging, binge eating/excessive dieting, or over medicating can dull emotional pain but there are more effective ways to cope and reduce stress to find a life that offers more peace, joy, and healthier relationships.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, addictive patterns, eating disorder treatment including Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia, Anorexia and both Borderline and Narcissistic Personality Disorders. I am certified in EMDR and well trained in working with trauma and PTSD. If you find yourself stuck in the same self defeating patterns or constantly overreact in anger, I can help. Poor sleep, drinking too much, raging, binge eating/excessive dieting, or over medicating can dull emotional pain but there are more effective ways to cope and reduce stress to find a life that offers more peace, joy, and healthier relationships.
![Photo of Tarah Cambron, MA, LPC, CN, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee8f44d2-24b1-470e-9d19-2631bc88e0f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
In my life as a teenager, young adult, wife, mother, and therapist, I have many times been humbled through my circumstances and challenges. I can truly say that I have a peace and understanding for the trials and tribulations one may be challenged with. My experiences and educational background are essential for supporting and guiding others through their journey.
In my life as a teenager, young adult, wife, mother, and therapist, I have many times been humbled through my circumstances and challenges. I can truly say that I have a peace and understanding for the trials and tribulations one may be challenged with. My experiences and educational background are essential for supporting and guiding others through their journey.
![Photo of Susie D. Novak, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75b5963e-b893-4dc2-a6cf-92019a696790/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susie D. Novak
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304
Therapy is often sought when there is a discrepancy between where you see yourself currently in life and where you would like to be. I will work collaboratively with you to develop a unique treatment plan that will help close this gap and create balance and wellness in your life. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment in which clients can explore challenges and struggles and begin to make positive changes. A strong therapeutic relationship, I believe, helps individuals recognize the unique strengths they possess and take an active role in the transformation process.
Therapy is often sought when there is a discrepancy between where you see yourself currently in life and where you would like to be. I will work collaboratively with you to develop a unique treatment plan that will help close this gap and create balance and wellness in your life. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment in which clients can explore challenges and struggles and begin to make positive changes. A strong therapeutic relationship, I believe, helps individuals recognize the unique strengths they possess and take an active role in the transformation process.
![Photo of Jacqueline Louise Lewis - Shop.Solexnation.com/HealingGoddesses, LCDC , PSS EFT, Reiki, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ac904f7-4dd8-4efc-88fa-12b928b85f90/4/320x400.jpeg)
Shop.Solexnation.com/HealingGoddesses
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC , PSS EFT, Reiki
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
I work evenings and weekends for your convenience. I LOVE working with individuals that are interested in becoming *Healthy, Happy, Joyous and Free from Mind and Mood Altering Substances. *Healing DNA on all Genetic levels including, which may not be limited to: Physically, Psychologically, Socially, Mentally, Emotionally and Spiritually. *Persons Willing to work a 12 Step Program of Recovery. *Whom are inquisitively seeking Spirituality. * Whom may or may not want to learn a Powerful Theta Healing Meditation and or Trauma Release Yoga or any of the other Healing Modalities and Techniques I'm Proficient in.
I work evenings and weekends for your convenience. I LOVE working with individuals that are interested in becoming *Healthy, Happy, Joyous and Free from Mind and Mood Altering Substances. *Healing DNA on all Genetic levels including, which may not be limited to: Physically, Psychologically, Socially, Mentally, Emotionally and Spiritually. *Persons Willing to work a 12 Step Program of Recovery. *Whom are inquisitively seeking Spirituality. * Whom may or may not want to learn a Powerful Theta Healing Meditation and or Trauma Release Yoga or any of the other Healing Modalities and Techniques I'm Proficient in.
![Photo of Adrienne Neal, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40045b41-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adrienne Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Magnolia, TX 77354
Welcome to my practice! We all have unique challenges that warrant a warm, compassionate approach. I am prepared to walk beside clients as they work through trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transition issues. Additionally, as lifelong athlete, I also specialize in sport psychology consulting work for high school through professional athletes. Regardless of client background, I strive to form a unique relationship with each individual I work with and am passionate about helping others develop the tools to overcome their difficulties; life, health, and sport-related (when applicable); and become their best selves possible.
Welcome to my practice! We all have unique challenges that warrant a warm, compassionate approach. I am prepared to walk beside clients as they work through trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transition issues. Additionally, as lifelong athlete, I also specialize in sport psychology consulting work for high school through professional athletes. Regardless of client background, I strive to form a unique relationship with each individual I work with and am passionate about helping others develop the tools to overcome their difficulties; life, health, and sport-related (when applicable); and become their best selves possible.
![Photo of Mei Sims, MA, LPC, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ab1b5b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mei Sims
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77384 (Online Only)
Mei Sims is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has practiced Clinical Counseling/Psychotherapy in Seattle, Houston area and overseas for more than 15 years. She is also a certified clinical supervisor for her collaborative group. Her professional and life& work experiences enrich in relating to her clients' issues on work, family, and personal development. Mei also provides life &career coaching for professionals with diverse background, contracted by tech cooperation, such as Microsoft and Amazon. Mei strives to provide a safe place for hurting individuals to heal and to equip them to make life changes.
Mei Sims is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has practiced Clinical Counseling/Psychotherapy in Seattle, Houston area and overseas for more than 15 years. She is also a certified clinical supervisor for her collaborative group. Her professional and life& work experiences enrich in relating to her clients' issues on work, family, and personal development. Mei also provides life &career coaching for professionals with diverse background, contracted by tech cooperation, such as Microsoft and Amazon. Mei strives to provide a safe place for hurting individuals to heal and to equip them to make life changes.
![Photo of Sandy Carter, MA, LPC, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c331cba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
There are basic truths of human psychology that most people understand intuitively. We do not fully know ourselves; the things we do not know can cause suffering. There is a benefit to self-awareness. I will support you as you develop your innate capacity to be with your own life, just as it is, and assist as you develop more effective strategies for living joyfully and with compassion for yourself as well as others. As we bring together your sense of yourself in past, present and future states, feelings of organization and coherence develop. Choice is restored.
There are basic truths of human psychology that most people understand intuitively. We do not fully know ourselves; the things we do not know can cause suffering. There is a benefit to self-awareness. I will support you as you develop your innate capacity to be with your own life, just as it is, and assist as you develop more effective strategies for living joyfully and with compassion for yourself as well as others. As we bring together your sense of yourself in past, present and future states, feelings of organization and coherence develop. Choice is restored.
![Photo of Chantel Y Smith, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/640e2ab1-3604-465c-8654-c6c103efd6c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chantel Y Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Magnolia, TX 77354
I understand that life brings unexpected transitions. During these transitions people sometimes need someone to help facilitate change, someone to listen without judgment, or voice their thoughts in order to gain a fresh perspective. The goal in counseling is to help those in crisis, navigate through grief, anger, confusion, and those who feel out of control gain control. I have worked in several inpatient hospitals and private practice for six years and that has allowed me to counsel military families, clients with suicidal thoughts or attempts, addicts, and those who struggle with psychosis.
I understand that life brings unexpected transitions. During these transitions people sometimes need someone to help facilitate change, someone to listen without judgment, or voice their thoughts in order to gain a fresh perspective. The goal in counseling is to help those in crisis, navigate through grief, anger, confusion, and those who feel out of control gain control. I have worked in several inpatient hospitals and private practice for six years and that has allowed me to counsel military families, clients with suicidal thoughts or attempts, addicts, and those who struggle with psychosis.
![Photo of Lanita Laskoskie - Journeys of Change Counseling PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfcf102-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Journeys of Change Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77304
Journeys of Change Counseling PLLC offers Individual, Marriage and Family Counseling Services specializing in addiction, relationship and mental health issues. We offer services to children, adolescents, adults (including the geriatric population), couples and families.
Journeys of Change Counseling PLLC offers Individual, Marriage and Family Counseling Services specializing in addiction, relationship and mental health issues. We offer services to children, adolescents, adults (including the geriatric population), couples and families.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Allison Marek - Daylight Therapy Group, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93f1b38a-2223-49be-add9-0be7a794a020/1/320x400.png)
Daylight Therapy Group is a team of specialists serving teens, young adults, adults, and families facing post-traumatic stress, eating disorders, substance use, depression, and anxiety. We also support teens through friendship difficulties and high-pressure environments, young adults through big "firsts," adults through life transitions, and families seeking to strengthen communication and connection. For many of our clients slowing down and seeking help is sometimes the hardest work they do. We are here to tailor therapy to fit your unique needs
Daylight Therapy Group is a team of specialists serving teens, young adults, adults, and families facing post-traumatic stress, eating disorders, substance use, depression, and anxiety. We also support teens through friendship difficulties and high-pressure environments, young adults through big "firsts," adults through life transitions, and families seeking to strengthen communication and connection. For many of our clients slowing down and seeking help is sometimes the hardest work they do. We are here to tailor therapy to fit your unique needs
![Photo of Alyssa Hertz, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51eea51d-4d82-44ff-a98f-93c130224a2e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I’m Alyssa, and I’m so glad you’re here. Seeking support for your mental health struggles takes a lot of strength and bravery. I am so happy you are taking the first steps in taking care of yourself. You’re in the right place. I’m a Licensed Psychologist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, OCD, and anxiety-related disorders. Living with mental health struggles is hard and can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. My goal is to help you get the support you need so you can feel better as quickly as possible - and with tools you need to live your best life, even when we’re done working together!
Hi! I’m Alyssa, and I’m so glad you’re here. Seeking support for your mental health struggles takes a lot of strength and bravery. I am so happy you are taking the first steps in taking care of yourself. You’re in the right place. I’m a Licensed Psychologist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, OCD, and anxiety-related disorders. Living with mental health struggles is hard and can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. My goal is to help you get the support you need so you can feel better as quickly as possible - and with tools you need to live your best life, even when we’re done working together!
![Photo of Gabriella Mahan—Eating Disorders, MA, LPC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39b29ddb-fbd1-4706-8740-244235809226/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriella Mahan—Eating Disorders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77008
While my primary specialty is Eating Disorders, I also help individuals better cope with anxiety, manage life transitions, and develop a healthier sense of self.
Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try, you are unable to see yourself as more than a body? That diet culture is so deeply ingrained in our society that it feels impossible to escape? You are not alone. We live in a world that has convinced us that pursuing an unrealistic thin ideal is the key to happiness. That if we "work hard enough," that void we constantly feel, will eventually go away. That's why my goal is to help you reach a place of acceptance so that you can experience a more fulfilling life, free from diet culture and the toxicity that ensues.
While my primary specialty is Eating Disorders, I also help individuals better cope with anxiety, manage life transitions, and develop a healthier sense of self.
Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try, you are unable to see yourself as more than a body? That diet culture is so deeply ingrained in our society that it feels impossible to escape? You are not alone. We live in a world that has convinced us that pursuing an unrealistic thin ideal is the key to happiness. That if we "work hard enough," that void we constantly feel, will eventually go away. That's why my goal is to help you reach a place of acceptance so that you can experience a more fulfilling life, free from diet culture and the toxicity that ensues.
![Photo of Dr. Lauren Slatko, PsyD, MSSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a49d5200-0925-4ee9-949c-1ebc9b285194/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lauren Slatko
Psychologist, PsyD, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77025 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image, anxiety and perfectionism, relationship difficulties, trauma, and life transitions.
Are you ready to begin? Have you started and stopped your journey because of obstacles too hard to handle? I want to help you challenge yourself past these obstacles in order to live the life you want. When we face our challenges and unpack what is getting in the way, we gain a better and deeper understanding of ourselves.
I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image, anxiety and perfectionism, relationship difficulties, trauma, and life transitions.
Are you ready to begin? Have you started and stopped your journey because of obstacles too hard to handle? I want to help you challenge yourself past these obstacles in order to live the life you want. When we face our challenges and unpack what is getting in the way, we gain a better and deeper understanding of ourselves.
![Photo of Greta Bellinger Anxiety Grief Eating Disorders, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffbe4c6e-f5b6-489b-b1bc-010630dc1cff/1/320x400.png)
Greta Bellinger Anxiety Grief Eating Disorders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges? Do you need help with relationship issues, pregnancy or postpartum depression, mood disorders, body image concerns, eating disorders, or grief? You are not alone - I am here to offer my support. With empathy and understanding, I assist individuals, families, and couples in uncovering the root causes of distress and developing strategies for building healthier, happier lives. My goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your emotions and discover the tools you need to thrive.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or other challenges? Do you need help with relationship issues, pregnancy or postpartum depression, mood disorders, body image concerns, eating disorders, or grief? You are not alone - I am here to offer my support. With empathy and understanding, I assist individuals, families, and couples in uncovering the root causes of distress and developing strategies for building healthier, happier lives. My goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your emotions and discover the tools you need to thrive.
![Photo of Sarah Lea, MA, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b39a164b-289f-42c7-8850-1be95f7065ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Lea
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77384 (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.
![Photo of Alexa Shank, MS, LPC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4598a15-7c86-439c-b28e-bb4533244443/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Shank
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Are you tired of dealing with constant thoughts about food, your body, and exercise? I'm passionate about helping you to achieve a balanced relationship with food, find peace and acceptance in your body, and take steps towards a more fulfilling life. I will provide you with support, guidance and compassion as we navigate the growth and changes that come with eating disorder recovery. My approach to treatment is personalized to the unique needs of each of my clients and incorporates a number of evidence-based therapies. As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, I know that eating disorders are NEVER just about the food.
Are you tired of dealing with constant thoughts about food, your body, and exercise? I'm passionate about helping you to achieve a balanced relationship with food, find peace and acceptance in your body, and take steps towards a more fulfilling life. I will provide you with support, guidance and compassion as we navigate the growth and changes that come with eating disorder recovery. My approach to treatment is personalized to the unique needs of each of my clients and incorporates a number of evidence-based therapies. As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, I know that eating disorders are NEVER just about the food.
See more therapy options for Montgomery
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Montgomery
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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.