Photo of Olga Anderson, Counsellor in South Australia
Olga Anderson
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Gillman, SA 5013
I can help people with disabilities cope with overwealming emotions, anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and autism.
As a disability mental health counsellor, I support NDIS clients and their carers who have diverse disabilities. I understand the challenges they face every day, and how they can impact their health and well-being. I can help them cope with these issues and find solutions that suit their needs. I can offer them a safe and supportive space to share their feelings, thoughts, and concerns, and to discover strategies to reach their goals. I can also do home visits if needed.
I can help people with disabilities cope with overwealming emotions, anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and autism.
As a disability mental health counsellor, I support NDIS clients and their carers who have diverse disabilities. I understand the challenges they face every day, and how they can impact their health and well-being. I can help them cope with these issues and find solutions that suit their needs. I can offer them a safe and supportive space to share their feelings, thoughts, and concerns, and to discover strategies to reach their goals. I can also do home visits if needed.
(08) 7078 8192 View (08) 7078 8192
Photo of Joanna Pandelidis Living Free Psychology, Psychologist in South Australia
Joanna Pandelidis Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families (adults & children over 8yrs), Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Compensable injuries: workers compensation; TAC; VOCAT and DVA, Pain/Stress management, Eating Disorders, BPD, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Intercountry Adoption.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "Hi, hi. I am a looking forward to meeting you. After more than 50,000 hours of face-to-face counselling, I still love being a Psychologist" My work has allowed me to meet people from many walks of life as they journey through various stages in their life span. Having worked in areas as diverse as community and ethnic-based services to rehabilitation services to public psychiatry and eventual, private practice, I am humbled and inspired by people’s courage and resourcefulness as they navigate the ebb and flow of life.
I work with individuals, couples and families (adults & children over 8yrs), Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Compensable injuries: workers compensation; TAC; VOCAT and DVA, Pain/Stress management, Eating Disorders, BPD, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Intercountry Adoption.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "Hi, hi. I am a looking forward to meeting you. After more than 50,000 hours of face-to-face counselling, I still love being a Psychologist" My work has allowed me to meet people from many walks of life as they journey through various stages in their life span. Having worked in areas as diverse as community and ethnic-based services to rehabilitation services to public psychiatry and eventual, private practice, I am humbled and inspired by people’s courage and resourcefulness as they navigate the ebb and flow of life.
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Alexandra Mannarino, Psychologist in South Australia
Alexandra Mannarino
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stepney, SA 5069
I work with individuals struggling with a range of issues (see below), whether that comes from a desire to understand more about changes to your mental health or general wellbeing, or accessing therapy to assist with a specific diagnosis. I believe our connection to nature is an important component of health that is sometimes overlooked, and make efforts to include this in therapy. It takes courage to reach out for help. Having the space to express yourself without judgement, and having access to ideas or tools can make a big difference. To read more about my experience or areas of interest, visit: wildtherapie.au
I work with individuals struggling with a range of issues (see below), whether that comes from a desire to understand more about changes to your mental health or general wellbeing, or accessing therapy to assist with a specific diagnosis. I believe our connection to nature is an important component of health that is sometimes overlooked, and make efforts to include this in therapy. It takes courage to reach out for help. Having the space to express yourself without judgement, and having access to ideas or tools can make a big difference. To read more about my experience or areas of interest, visit: wildtherapie.au
(08) 7008 9204 View (08) 7008 9204
Photo of Marguerita Vandermeer, Counsellor in South Australia
Marguerita Vandermeer
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Saint Marys, SA 5042
An adaptable style with notable experience across many fields of human interest that appeals to the complex health client. These fields include social/cultural minority groups; psychological problems including anxiety and depression; childhood and development; family systems and relationships; grief, loss and trauma; and spiritual/life style dilemmas. Quote: “Ever desireless, one can see the great mystery.. and the mystery itself is the doorway to all understanding” (Tao teh Ching verse 1;10)
An adaptable style with notable experience across many fields of human interest that appeals to the complex health client. These fields include social/cultural minority groups; psychological problems including anxiety and depression; childhood and development; family systems and relationships; grief, loss and trauma; and spiritual/life style dilemmas. Quote: “Ever desireless, one can see the great mystery.. and the mystery itself is the doorway to all understanding” (Tao teh Ching verse 1;10)
(08) 7008 9836 View (08) 7008 9836
Photo of Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing, Psychologist in South Australia
Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Felixstow, SA 5070
Welcome to Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing. Our Clinical Psychologists, Registered Psychologists, and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers at Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing are based in the East of Adelaide at Felixstow, where we see children, adolescents, adults, older persons, families and new parents with infants. We are also able to see individuals on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA).
Welcome to Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing. Our Clinical Psychologists, Registered Psychologists, and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers at Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing are based in the East of Adelaide at Felixstow, where we see children, adolescents, adults, older persons, families and new parents with infants. We are also able to see individuals on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA).
(08) 7228 0376 View (08) 7228 0376
Photo of Talking Heads Counselling - Joanna, Counsellor in South Australia
Talking Heads Counselling - Joanna
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Stirling, SA 5152
Hello, I'm Joanna and I own and operate Talking Heads Counselling - an Adelaide Hills counselling service offering sessions in a cosy private cottage, in-school, via tele-health or outside in the fresh air. I aim to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxed space for children, adolescents and young adults (aged 5-25) to work through life's challenges. Enquiries for individuals outside of this age range will be considered on a case by case basis. Sometimes Collin and Phil the friendly dachshunds come to sessions too! If you would like to meet with me, bookings to be made via my website: www.talkingheadscounselling.com.au
Hello, I'm Joanna and I own and operate Talking Heads Counselling - an Adelaide Hills counselling service offering sessions in a cosy private cottage, in-school, via tele-health or outside in the fresh air. I aim to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxed space for children, adolescents and young adults (aged 5-25) to work through life's challenges. Enquiries for individuals outside of this age range will be considered on a case by case basis. Sometimes Collin and Phil the friendly dachshunds come to sessions too! If you would like to meet with me, bookings to be made via my website: www.talkingheadscounselling.com.au
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Photo of Integrative Psychology Associates, Psychologist in South Australia
Integrative Psychology Associates
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Integrative Psychology Associates it is a Telehealth private practice that offers online mental health support through video conferencing. Our psychologists are highly qualified and experienced and provide individualised and tailored treatment using evidence-based practice for presenting issues including ASD, ADHD, trauma, social skills, parent support, pain management, OCD, emotional & behavioural difficulties, work stress, post post-natal depression, sleep difficulties, self-esteem, and school refusal. Telehealth therapy is convenient and private and can reduce the stress of balancing work and family demands with appointments. IPA
Integrative Psychology Associates it is a Telehealth private practice that offers online mental health support through video conferencing. Our psychologists are highly qualified and experienced and provide individualised and tailored treatment using evidence-based practice for presenting issues including ASD, ADHD, trauma, social skills, parent support, pain management, OCD, emotional & behavioural difficulties, work stress, post post-natal depression, sleep difficulties, self-esteem, and school refusal. Telehealth therapy is convenient and private and can reduce the stress of balancing work and family demands with appointments. IPA
(08) 7008 7922 View (08) 7008 7922
Photo of Rocco Luppino, Psychologist in South Australia
Rocco Luppino
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Felixstow, SA 5070
Welcome to Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing. Our Clinical Psychologists, Registered Psychologists, and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers at Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing are based in the East of Adelaide across two locations at Felixstow, where we see children, adolescents, adults, older persons, families and new parents with infants. We are also able to see individuals on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA). www.willowtreepsychology.com.au
Welcome to Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing. Our Clinical Psychologists, Registered Psychologists, and Accredited Mental Health Social Workers at Willow Tree Psychology and Wellbeing are based in the East of Adelaide across two locations at Felixstow, where we see children, adolescents, adults, older persons, families and new parents with infants. We are also able to see individuals on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and the Department of Veteran's Affairs (DVA). www.willowtreepsychology.com.au
(08) 8646 5601 View (08) 8646 5601
Photo of Alicia Jade Wilcock, Psychologist in South Australia
Alicia Jade Wilcock
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Magill, SA 5072  (Online Only)
Integrative Psychology Associates- I have experience in working with individuals across the lifespan including children, adolescents, adults and families to assist them to overcome a range of presenting issues. I highly value individualised and tailored treatment approaches using best evidence-based practice for difficulties relating but not limited to: depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, OCD, ADHD, trauma, emotional and behavioural difficulties, sleep - infant, toddler, child & adult, social skills and friendships. I conduct comprehensive psycho-educational assessments and am a registered autism diagnostician.
Integrative Psychology Associates- I have experience in working with individuals across the lifespan including children, adolescents, adults and families to assist them to overcome a range of presenting issues. I highly value individualised and tailored treatment approaches using best evidence-based practice for difficulties relating but not limited to: depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, OCD, ADHD, trauma, emotional and behavioural difficulties, sleep - infant, toddler, child & adult, social skills and friendships. I conduct comprehensive psycho-educational assessments and am a registered autism diagnostician.
(08) 7078 7005 View (08) 7078 7005
Photo of Stephanie Hirst, Psychologist in South Australia
Stephanie Hirst
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
My passion as a Psychologist is helping individuals with various concerns, such as Anxiety, Depression, anger management, self-esteem/confidence issues, or individuals who are going through large life changes, be able to overcome their difficulties and achieve their therapeutic outcomes. I support people aged 8 years to 60 years of age. I have a warm and empathetic approach, with a focus on creating an environment where a person can learn about themselves, develop their skills to manage their mental health and wellbeing, and be empowered to create change in their lives.
My passion as a Psychologist is helping individuals with various concerns, such as Anxiety, Depression, anger management, self-esteem/confidence issues, or individuals who are going through large life changes, be able to overcome their difficulties and achieve their therapeutic outcomes. I support people aged 8 years to 60 years of age. I have a warm and empathetic approach, with a focus on creating an environment where a person can learn about themselves, develop their skills to manage their mental health and wellbeing, and be empowered to create change in their lives.
(08) 7008 9936 View (08) 7008 9936
Photo of Melissa Bailey, Psychologist in South Australia
Melissa Bailey
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Magill, SA 5072  (Online Only)
Mel has experience working with individuals across the lifespan including children, adolescents, adults and families to assist them to overcome a range of presenting issues. Mel recently worked in child and adolescent education settings supporting individuals through mental health struggles such as: Depression and anxiety, stress, self-esteem, ADHD, ASD, body image concerns, procrastination, bullying and bereavement. Mel has also worked in a private practice setting working with individuals of all ages helping people with personal difficulties, family issues, workplace conflict and bullying, sleep issues, stress and mood disorders.
Mel has experience working with individuals across the lifespan including children, adolescents, adults and families to assist them to overcome a range of presenting issues. Mel recently worked in child and adolescent education settings supporting individuals through mental health struggles such as: Depression and anxiety, stress, self-esteem, ADHD, ASD, body image concerns, procrastination, bullying and bereavement. Mel has also worked in a private practice setting working with individuals of all ages helping people with personal difficulties, family issues, workplace conflict and bullying, sleep issues, stress and mood disorders.
(02) 5850 4005 View (02) 5850 4005
Photo of Goodsky Mental Health Retreat - Holistic, Natural in South Australia
Goodsky Mental Health Retreat - Holistic, Natural
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Goodsky provides case-managed depression treatment and recovery programmes that work using a shared care model. Our depression treatment framework facilitates private access to a vetted and integrated collective of allied health professionals, specialists, therapists and service providers delivering a personalised lifestyle medicine approach. Our integrated lifestyle medicine teams will: Find and confirm the causes of your depression and anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and chronic disease Provide you new and relevant information based on the most current science and testing. Advise you and correctly treat your depression with a managed natural, conventional and integrated medicine approach. All of this and more with in-depth case management, support and resources to regain and maintain your health long term.
Goodsky provides case-managed depression treatment and recovery programmes that work using a shared care model. Our depression treatment framework facilitates private access to a vetted and integrated collective of allied health professionals, specialists, therapists and service providers delivering a personalised lifestyle medicine approach. Our integrated lifestyle medicine teams will: Find and confirm the causes of your depression and anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and chronic disease Provide you new and relevant information based on the most current science and testing. Advise you and correctly treat your depression with a managed natural, conventional and integrated medicine approach. All of this and more with in-depth case management, support and resources to regain and maintain your health long term.
(07) 4243 4810 View (07) 4243 4810
Photo of Andrea Middling: Living Free Psychology, Psychologist in South Australia
Andrea Middling: Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
(07) 3214 3678 View (07) 3214 3678
Photo of Ayna Hennessy, Counsellor in South Australia
Ayna Hennessy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & its many comorbidities which helps you. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Processing, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective and understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It finally paid off, & I hope it can help you. I am treated/mentored/supervised and trained by the MVPs in ADHD & its many comorbidities which helps you. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
(03) 7003 2926 View (03) 7003 2926
Photo of Sally Walsh, Psychotherapist in South Australia
Sally Walsh
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including narcissism tendencies or sex issues (emotional, physical or sexual).
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including narcissism tendencies or sex issues (emotional, physical or sexual).
(02) 9100 0123 View (02) 9100 0123
Photo of Denis Leo McCarthy, Psychologist in South Australia
Denis Leo McCarthy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Senior Clinical Psychologist & Neurofeedback Certified (BCIA) in Fremantle Private-Practice, servicing Perth-metro & online clients AU-worldwide. Also specializing in Occupational & Sports Psych, online coaching. Specialties: workers comp (rehabilitation psych), abuse, trauma, pain management, job stress, wellness, peak performance assessment, coaching & consulting. Therapy offers an opportunity to be more self aware, to learn new skills or tool(s), to be better problem solvers, communicators, to heal relationships & old wounds, let go of old baggage, and move on to a richer, fuller life. I assist in all these dimensions, and more.
Senior Clinical Psychologist & Neurofeedback Certified (BCIA) in Fremantle Private-Practice, servicing Perth-metro & online clients AU-worldwide. Also specializing in Occupational & Sports Psych, online coaching. Specialties: workers comp (rehabilitation psych), abuse, trauma, pain management, job stress, wellness, peak performance assessment, coaching & consulting. Therapy offers an opportunity to be more self aware, to learn new skills or tool(s), to be better problem solvers, communicators, to heal relationships & old wounds, let go of old baggage, and move on to a richer, fuller life. I assist in all these dimensions, and more.
(08) 6219 3849 View (08) 6219 3849
Photo of Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Australia
Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
(07) 5241 2997 View (07) 5241 2997
Photo of Positive Mind Works, Psychologist in South Australia
Positive Mind Works
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Positive Mind Works is a Telehealth Counselling, Psychology, and Psychiatry clinic. We provide support in the comfort and privacy of your own home for couples, adults, and young people. Positive Mind Works has been developed to provide convenient access to expert and confidential support. Clients are offered individualised support based on their goals and chosen focus. We specialise in treating depression, anxiety, panic, stress, relationship difficulties, grief, phobias, OCD, ADHD and PTSD/trauma. A coaching and positive psychology service are also offered for clients wishing to improve motivation toward their goals.
Positive Mind Works is a Telehealth Counselling, Psychology, and Psychiatry clinic. We provide support in the comfort and privacy of your own home for couples, adults, and young people. Positive Mind Works has been developed to provide convenient access to expert and confidential support. Clients are offered individualised support based on their goals and chosen focus. We specialise in treating depression, anxiety, panic, stress, relationship difficulties, grief, phobias, OCD, ADHD and PTSD/trauma. A coaching and positive psychology service are also offered for clients wishing to improve motivation toward their goals.
1800 327 477 View 1800 327 477
Photo of Jackie Holmes, Counsellor in South Australia
Jackie Holmes
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Many people I work with suffer from various forms of anxiety, including obsessive thoughts, social anxiety, as well as issues with body image, relationships, and life transitions. Generally, those I work with are feeling “stuck” and are at a point where they long for or are desperate for relief. I help people regain a deeper connection with themselves and others and support them in moving forward to experience more peace and contentment in their life. I welcome neuro-diversity, and individuals who feel they navigate life a bit differently than others!
Many people I work with suffer from various forms of anxiety, including obsessive thoughts, social anxiety, as well as issues with body image, relationships, and life transitions. Generally, those I work with are feeling “stuck” and are at a point where they long for or are desperate for relief. I help people regain a deeper connection with themselves and others and support them in moving forward to experience more peace and contentment in their life. I welcome neuro-diversity, and individuals who feel they navigate life a bit differently than others!
(08) 7079 4603 View (08) 7079 4603
Photo of Jess Hodges, Psychotherapist in South Australia
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
0408 486 282 View 0408 486 282

See more therapy options for South Australia

Eating Disorders Counsellors

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviours, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behaviour 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 counselling 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 behavioural 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 behaviour, 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 recognise 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 behaviour has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.