Eating Disorders Therapists in Vashon, WA

Photo of Rebecca Gallagher, MA, LMHC, CHHC, Counselor
Rebecca Gallagher
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, dissociative disorders, disordered eating, eating disorders and body image & weight issues.
"I must be a mermaid; I have no fear of depths & a great fear of shallow living" (A. Nin). Are you wanting a deeper experience of life? I will explore those depths with you & help you craft a life that feels more balanced, that is rich and rewarding. I am an active & supportive listener & aim to help you feel held in your own journey yet challenged to be your best self. My deepest desire is to help you meet your own goals for balance, relationships, health & happiness so that you can truly feel the joy of living an enchanted life.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, dissociative disorders, disordered eating, eating disorders and body image & weight issues.
"I must be a mermaid; I have no fear of depths & a great fear of shallow living" (A. Nin). Are you wanting a deeper experience of life? I will explore those depths with you & help you craft a life that feels more balanced, that is rich and rewarding. I am an active & supportive listener & aim to help you feel held in your own journey yet challenged to be your best self. My deepest desire is to help you meet your own goals for balance, relationships, health & happiness so that you can truly feel the joy of living an enchanted life.
(425) 947-2838 View (425) 947-2838
Photo of Loren Cline, LMHC, Counselor
Loren Cline
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist based in the greater Seattle area. I’ve been in practice for over 25 years providing individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults ages 16 and up. My particular focus is on women ready to address unwanted patterns in their lives including but not limited to relationships with their bodies, partners, friendships, alcohol, marijuana, food, family, career and their inner navigation and intuition. With adolescents the focus often is on social anxiety, time management, and substance abuse including eating disorders, social media use and impact, and nervous system regulation skills.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist based in the greater Seattle area. I’ve been in practice for over 25 years providing individual psychotherapy for adolescents and adults ages 16 and up. My particular focus is on women ready to address unwanted patterns in their lives including but not limited to relationships with their bodies, partners, friendships, alcohol, marijuana, food, family, career and their inner navigation and intuition. With adolescents the focus often is on social anxiety, time management, and substance abuse including eating disorders, social media use and impact, and nervous system regulation skills.
(206) 785-3934 View (206) 785-3934
Photo of Holly Taylor, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Holly Taylor
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Integration of traumatic memories will elicit profound change, and enable us to feel and act from the love that is inherent in all people. I believe we are best able to become more aware of ourselves through studying our relationships. I will work with you to discover how you relate to others; we will study how your brain functions to bring past experiences into the present moment, distorting your sense of self and creating conflict. Clearing trauma can enable you to differentiate between then and now, so you are more free to make conscious choices about how you relate today.
Integration of traumatic memories will elicit profound change, and enable us to feel and act from the love that is inherent in all people. I believe we are best able to become more aware of ourselves through studying our relationships. I will work with you to discover how you relate to others; we will study how your brain functions to bring past experiences into the present moment, distorting your sense of self and creating conflict. Clearing trauma can enable you to differentiate between then and now, so you are more free to make conscious choices about how you relate today.
(206) 504-2246 View (206) 504-2246
Photo of Gretchen Burkholder - Gretchen Burkholder, MA, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Gretchen Burkholder
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
I believe everyone has the ability to transform and grow into their fullest potential. I bring compassion and intuitive wisdom to help you find the courage and healing to fully become your true authentic and thriving self. I create a compassionate and empathetic space in which you can feel safe to explore whatever brings you into therapy. I enjoy working with adults, with a special interest in individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and shame, or are adjusting to change.
I believe everyone has the ability to transform and grow into their fullest potential. I bring compassion and intuitive wisdom to help you find the courage and healing to fully become your true authentic and thriving self. I create a compassionate and empathetic space in which you can feel safe to explore whatever brings you into therapy. I enjoy working with adults, with a special interest in individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and shame, or are adjusting to change.
(206) 735-4867 View (206) 735-4867
Photo of Haley VandenHazel, LMHC, Counselor
Haley VandenHazel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
Do you feel anxious before socializing or do you find yourself avoiding social situations all together? I specialize in working with young adults who are struggling with Social Anxiety Disorder. I also work with related issues including generalized anxiety, depression, perfectionism, phobias, OCD, panic etc. Philosophy: I aim to create a relationship built on trust where you feel accepted and challenged to grow in new ways. Clients have described me as warm, insightful, compassionate, and practical. Theoretically I am grounded in Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, ERP, and Mindfulness.
Do you feel anxious before socializing or do you find yourself avoiding social situations all together? I specialize in working with young adults who are struggling with Social Anxiety Disorder. I also work with related issues including generalized anxiety, depression, perfectionism, phobias, OCD, panic etc. Philosophy: I aim to create a relationship built on trust where you feel accepted and challenged to grow in new ways. Clients have described me as warm, insightful, compassionate, and practical. Theoretically I am grounded in Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, ERP, and Mindfulness.
(360) 226-5197 View (360) 226-5197
Photo of Soleil Ann Brandenfels, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Soleil Ann Brandenfels
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vashon, WA 98070
Immediate openings for couples & families! Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
Immediate openings for couples & families! Each of us is navigating a unique journey and encountering barriers along the way. At times, we may find ourselves feeling lost or stuck. Much of our longing stems from three simple but profound needs: we want to be seen, chosen, and understood. Whether you're grappling with excessive self-criticism, physical symptoms of emotional dysregulation, or the aftermath of challenging life circumstances, transitions, or oppressive social systems, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can work on regulating your nervous system and fostering a fulfilling and healthy life.
(206) 800-7036 View (206) 800-7036

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Buchman, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Buchman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, interpersonal challenges, and suicidal thoughts.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services. I begin the therapeutic process with a discussion of your current symptoms and challenges, your strengths, goals, life experiences, and aspects of your identity that help us better understand your unique circumstances. We then collaboratively develop treatment goals and an individualized plan to help you meet your goals. Ultimately, I aim to help you feel confident in your ability to navigate stressors, regulate emotions, and feel strongly connected to your values.
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, OCD, insomnia, interpersonal challenges, and suicidal thoughts.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services. I begin the therapeutic process with a discussion of your current symptoms and challenges, your strengths, goals, life experiences, and aspects of your identity that help us better understand your unique circumstances. We then collaboratively develop treatment goals and an individualized plan to help you meet your goals. Ultimately, I aim to help you feel confident in your ability to navigate stressors, regulate emotions, and feel strongly connected to your values.
(206) 875-2456 View (206) 875-2456
Photo of Brittany Donahue, LICSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Donahue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tukwila, WA 98168
With a specialization in sex therapy, couples, and eating disorders. I'm dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space where my clients can openly discuss their concerns related to sexual health, intimacy, and relationship dynamics. With a deep understanding of the complexities of human sexuality and relationships, I strive to help my clients navigate through their challenges and towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you’re dealing with sexual dysfunction, desire discrepancy, communication issues, or relationship conflicts, I am here to provide guidance, support, and effective strategies.
With a specialization in sex therapy, couples, and eating disorders. I'm dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space where my clients can openly discuss their concerns related to sexual health, intimacy, and relationship dynamics. With a deep understanding of the complexities of human sexuality and relationships, I strive to help my clients navigate through their challenges and towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Whether you’re dealing with sexual dysfunction, desire discrepancy, communication issues, or relationship conflicts, I am here to provide guidance, support, and effective strategies.
(206) 451-2607 View (206) 451-2607
Photo of Kat Bonnington, LMHC, Counselor
Kat Bonnington
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98106
Not accepting new clients
I have focused the past years on working with those with eating disorders in higher levels of care and I now offer out patient treatment in eating disorders - I focus on getting to the root of the concern; not just the symptoms.
Maybe you have seen providers for eating in the past, maybe this is the first time you’re talking to someone about it. Maybe you tried to get things under control on your own - the diets, the meal plans, the apps, the self-help books. No two bodies are alike, and the same goes for our relationships to food and body. It’s helpful to have someone treat you for your unique presentation of concerns - not a cookie cutter treatment - so you can find the kind of peace that makes sense for your life.
I have focused the past years on working with those with eating disorders in higher levels of care and I now offer out patient treatment in eating disorders - I focus on getting to the root of the concern; not just the symptoms.
Maybe you have seen providers for eating in the past, maybe this is the first time you’re talking to someone about it. Maybe you tried to get things under control on your own - the diets, the meal plans, the apps, the self-help books. No two bodies are alike, and the same goes for our relationships to food and body. It’s helpful to have someone treat you for your unique presentation of concerns - not a cookie cutter treatment - so you can find the kind of peace that makes sense for your life.
(425) 406-4576 View (425) 406-4576
Photo of Hannah Julian, MS, LMHC
Hannah Julian
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98106  (Online Only)
I really enjoy working with those struggling with eating disorders, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Have your old ways of coping become less than helpful? Have you noticed that diet culture appears to be calling the shots in your life? Then you're in the right place. Life can get overwhelmingly heavy at times. Let's explore the inner workings of your mind in a safe place, with a safe person. It would be my pleasure to help you view uncomfortable emotions with curiosity and collaborate with you on how to best process your experience. By cultivating an open and honest therapeutic relationship, we can work together to help you overcome the barriers holding you back from living in line with your authentic values.
I really enjoy working with those struggling with eating disorders, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Have your old ways of coping become less than helpful? Have you noticed that diet culture appears to be calling the shots in your life? Then you're in the right place. Life can get overwhelmingly heavy at times. Let's explore the inner workings of your mind in a safe place, with a safe person. It would be my pleasure to help you view uncomfortable emotions with curiosity and collaborate with you on how to best process your experience. By cultivating an open and honest therapeutic relationship, we can work together to help you overcome the barriers holding you back from living in line with your authentic values.
(206) 558-8504 View (206) 558-8504
Photo of Stephanie A. Geiger, MA, CN, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Stephanie A. Geiger
Counselor, MA, CN, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I have a Masters in Clinical Health Psychology and a Masters in Nutrition/Dietetics, which helps lend to a holistic approach to my work with clients. I commonly work with health behavioral change, anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, ADHD, and relationship change. My treatment approach utilizes a biopsychosocial lense in long-term therapy based in psychodynamic, strengths-based, and integrative work in overall health. I utilize coping skills from CBT, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness. I incorporated life-skills such a assertiveness, boundaries, and career.
I work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages. I have a Masters in Clinical Health Psychology and a Masters in Nutrition/Dietetics, which helps lend to a holistic approach to my work with clients. I commonly work with health behavioral change, anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, ADHD, and relationship change. My treatment approach utilizes a biopsychosocial lense in long-term therapy based in psychodynamic, strengths-based, and integrative work in overall health. I utilize coping skills from CBT, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness. I incorporated life-skills such a assertiveness, boundaries, and career.
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Photo of Emily Ehrhart, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Emily Ehrhart
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98106  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have worked with diverse populations in various treatment settings. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship conflicts, and trauma. As a therapist, I strive to understand clients' unique needs and strengths. The therapeutic alliance I have with clients is foundational to our work together and in many ways guides the counseling process.
Throughout my career, I have worked with diverse populations in various treatment settings. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship conflicts, and trauma. As a therapist, I strive to understand clients' unique needs and strengths. The therapeutic alliance I have with clients is foundational to our work together and in many ways guides the counseling process.
(425) 385-0589 View (425) 385-0589
Photo of Whitney Lynn Erickson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Lynn Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98032
Waitlist for new clients
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
(253) 285-7786 View (253) 285-7786
Photo of Danielle Scarsella-Gonia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Scarsella-Gonia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023
Waitlist for new clients
I offer direct and attuned therapy. I support clients in rebuilding (or establishing for the first time) trust within themselves, identifying (or reaffirming) their guiding values, and translating their hopes into action. My work focuses on Perinatal Issues (including Postpartum Depression and Anxiety), the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, and Adult ADHD. I value your time, energy, and resources and therefore position therapy to be solution focused. Starting therapy isn't easy, and you are brave. Reach out when you're ready.
I offer direct and attuned therapy. I support clients in rebuilding (or establishing for the first time) trust within themselves, identifying (or reaffirming) their guiding values, and translating their hopes into action. My work focuses on Perinatal Issues (including Postpartum Depression and Anxiety), the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, and Adult ADHD. I value your time, energy, and resources and therefore position therapy to be solution focused. Starting therapy isn't easy, and you are brave. Reach out when you're ready.
(253) 400-3941 View (253) 400-3941
Photo of Jillian Nichols Correa, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jillian Nichols Correa
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in treating eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, as well as OCD and related anxiety disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals who are looking for a therapeutic setting to navigate a variety of life’s challenges. My therapeutic style is relational and person-centered. I am warm, authentic, collaborative and work to facilitate an environment that allows my clients to feel comfortable and receive the help they are seeking. I believe that my clients are the experts on their own lives and that all people are capable of resiliency, growth, and self-exploration. I work best with adult women who are navigating emerging adulthood and the many life transitions that this brings.
I also specialize in treating eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, as well as OCD and related anxiety disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals who are looking for a therapeutic setting to navigate a variety of life’s challenges. My therapeutic style is relational and person-centered. I am warm, authentic, collaborative and work to facilitate an environment that allows my clients to feel comfortable and receive the help they are seeking. I believe that my clients are the experts on their own lives and that all people are capable of resiliency, growth, and self-exploration. I work best with adult women who are navigating emerging adulthood and the many life transitions that this brings.
(206) 495-0256 View (206) 495-0256
Photo of Anca M Boudreaux, LMHC, ESA, NCC, CAS, Counselor
Anca M Boudreaux
Counselor, LMHC, ESA, NCC, CAS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tukwila, WA 98188
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in historical and transgenerational trauma, relationship and family of origin problems, emotion dysregulation, and eating disorders.
Life does not discriminate when it comes to stress, trauma, and pain. We should not bear life's burdens alone, as we all need to be heard, understood, and appreciated. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or simply looking for a change, know you are doing the right thing for yourself. I love to work with those in need of connection, nurture, and growth. I do so through a style that is direct, yet compassionate, firm, yet empathetic, practical, yet supportive. As your therapist, I work alongside you to provide individualized support based on your presenting problems, needs, and therapeutic goals.
I specialize in historical and transgenerational trauma, relationship and family of origin problems, emotion dysregulation, and eating disorders.
Life does not discriminate when it comes to stress, trauma, and pain. We should not bear life's burdens alone, as we all need to be heard, understood, and appreciated. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or simply looking for a change, know you are doing the right thing for yourself. I love to work with those in need of connection, nurture, and growth. I do so through a style that is direct, yet compassionate, firm, yet empathetic, practical, yet supportive. As your therapist, I work alongside you to provide individualized support based on your presenting problems, needs, and therapeutic goals.
(206) 578-5714 View (206) 578-5714
Photo of Nick Brown, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nick Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98146
I provide a supportive environment where you can begin to move towards healing. Together we create a space where your story is heard, respected, and valued. Therapy can help you find new tools, skills, and knowledge to deal with difficult circumstances in life. We will find ways to identify, understand, and work through these challenges in a supportive setting. My specialties are working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD. As your counselor, I will work with you as we identify the various areas of need and how to attain healing and fulfillment in your life.
I provide a supportive environment where you can begin to move towards healing. Together we create a space where your story is heard, respected, and valued. Therapy can help you find new tools, skills, and knowledge to deal with difficult circumstances in life. We will find ways to identify, understand, and work through these challenges in a supportive setting. My specialties are working with individuals who struggle with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD. As your counselor, I will work with you as we identify the various areas of need and how to attain healing and fulfillment in your life.
(425) 230-5907 View (425) 230-5907
Photo of Stephanie Stanton-Webb, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Stanton-Webb
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Normandy Park, WA 98148
My main focus of practice is with Eating Disorders.
My belief is that we are all human trying to learn and grow in an ever changing environment. Change for some can be difficult to cope with and result in maladaptive coping skills and other mental health concerns when emotions overwhelm us. I believe that the therapy relationship should always be collaborative and I approach every individual differently to meet their needs with where they are in life. In the therapy process we will assess your different environments and relationships to help understand your current barriers you are seeking help with.
My main focus of practice is with Eating Disorders.
My belief is that we are all human trying to learn and grow in an ever changing environment. Change for some can be difficult to cope with and result in maladaptive coping skills and other mental health concerns when emotions overwhelm us. I believe that the therapy relationship should always be collaborative and I approach every individual differently to meet their needs with where they are in life. In the therapy process we will assess your different environments and relationships to help understand your current barriers you are seeking help with.
(206) 558-0128 View (206) 558-0128
Photo of Kelsey I Anderson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsey I Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98106  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere in which we can work together to gain a greater understanding of your challenges and move toward healing and growth. I provide individual therapy for adults, and specialize in working with those that are impacted by anxiety, chronic illness, and eating disorders. I also commonly provide counseling services for grief and loss, life transitions, adjustment to parenthood, self-esteem, stress management, and family of origin issues.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere in which we can work together to gain a greater understanding of your challenges and move toward healing and growth. I provide individual therapy for adults, and specialize in working with those that are impacted by anxiety, chronic illness, and eating disorders. I also commonly provide counseling services for grief and loss, life transitions, adjustment to parenthood, self-esteem, stress management, and family of origin issues.
(425) 441-3074 View (425) 441-3074
Photo of Kelsey M O'Neill, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kelsey M O'Neill
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
My specialty lies in working with teens (13+) and adults struggling with body image, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, life adjustments, and healing from trauma and burnout.
Many people seek therapy when they feel disconnected from themselves, their story, their body, or their community. As a therapist, I understand that being human can be complex, challenging, and even messy. However, it can also be beautiful and delightful, especially when on a healing journey. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients connect with their innate ability to heal and grow. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and experiences, and my role is to support and empower them throughout the process.
My specialty lies in working with teens (13+) and adults struggling with body image, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, life adjustments, and healing from trauma and burnout.
Many people seek therapy when they feel disconnected from themselves, their story, their body, or their community. As a therapist, I understand that being human can be complex, challenging, and even messy. However, it can also be beautiful and delightful, especially when on a healing journey. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients connect with their innate ability to heal and grow. I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives and experiences, and my role is to support and empower them throughout the process.
(425) 448-8982 View (425) 448-8982

See more therapy options for Vashon

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.