Eating Disorders Psychologists and Therapists in Camperdown, NSW

Photo of Patrick McGrath, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick McGrath
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
I am a clinical psychologist who works across a variety of presentations including anxiety and mood disorders. I hope to bring a warm, empathic and authentic approach to the issues that people bring to therapy. I recognise the investment that people make when they share their difficulties with someone and commit to therapy, and work to honour that commitment by delivering evidence based treatments, that are tailored to a persons needs. I’ve benefitted greatly from the experience of working across a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
(02) 8074 5482 View (02) 8074 5482
Photo of Andrea Michelle Schilder, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Andrea Michelle Schilder
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Camperdown, NSW 2050
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 25 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 25 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
(02) 9159 6581 View (02) 9159 6581
Photo of Kate Mackie, Social Worker, AMHSW
Kate Mackie
Social Worker, AMHSW
Camperdown, NSW 2050
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions and life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
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Photo of Bronwyn Davies Glover - Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Bronwyn Davies Glover - As You Are Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
Hi, I'm Bronwyn. I am an integrative, empathic, person-centred therapist bringing holistic, somatic, creative and dynamic approaches to the intersections of anti-oppressive, trauma informed practice. I offer inclusive, accessible therapy that values every aspect of the client. This means that I view each client as a whole person with a unique worldview informed by the stories of their mind-body experiences. Each unique individual requires a uniquely individual approach and this approach is grounded in the principles of trauma care; safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment and choice.
(02) 8074 1609 View (02) 8074 1609
Photo of Sherry Li Xue, Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Sherry Li Xue
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Online Only
Sometimes life doesn’t unfold the way you imagined—you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what comes next. If you’re carrying that quietly, perhaps in a language that isn’t your first, you don’t have to face it alone. I understand this firsthand. I came to Australia as a migrant, studied in my second language, and built a life here—so the homesickness, the pressure, and the in-between feeling of living across two cultures aren’t just things I’ve read about. I’m a PACFA Registered Counsellor with a Master of Counselling, offering counselling in Mandarin and English for adults, migrants and international students.
Sometimes life doesn’t unfold the way you imagined—you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what comes next. If you’re carrying that quietly, perhaps in a language that isn’t your first, you don’t have to face it alone. I understand this firsthand. I came to Australia as a migrant, studied in my second language, and built a life here—so the homesickness, the pressure, and the in-between feeling of living across two cultures aren’t just things I’ve read about. I’m a PACFA Registered Counsellor with a Master of Counselling, offering counselling in Mandarin and English for adults, migrants and international students.
(02) 7804 4005 View (02) 7804 4005
Photo of Leon Ari, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Leon Ari
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Arc Counselling is grounded in Awareness, Responsibility & Compassion. Arc Counselling is a small private practice founded by Leon Ari. It's a place where therapeutic outcomes emerge through an attuned relationship that honours the inherent dignity, humanity and wholeness of every person. At Arc Counselling, you are met with dignity, acceptance and respect. Leon works inclusively with: Individuals (12+) Couples Families LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent people Commonly seeking support for: Grief and loss Identity & life transitions Attachment and relationship Anxiety and emotional distress Trauma and adaptive responses.
Arc Counselling is grounded in Awareness, Responsibility & Compassion. Arc Counselling is a small private practice founded by Leon Ari. It's a place where therapeutic outcomes emerge through an attuned relationship that honours the inherent dignity, humanity and wholeness of every person. At Arc Counselling, you are met with dignity, acceptance and respect. Leon works inclusively with: Individuals (12+) Couples Families LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent people Commonly seeking support for: Grief and loss Identity & life transitions Attachment and relationship Anxiety and emotional distress Trauma and adaptive responses.
0410 398 282 View 0410 398 282
Photo of Liela Vergara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Liela Vergara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I aim to assist clients in navigating psychological challenges within a supportive therapeutic environment. I prioritise building therapeutic relationships through a collaborative approach, aiming to create a safe, understanding, and validating space. Within this environment, I work with each client to help identify their goals and develop practical evidence-informed strategies, while providing attentive listening grounded in ethical practice. I emphasise the importance of acknowledging progress throughout therapy, which may support a sense of confidence, self-belief, and hope.
I aim to assist clients in navigating psychological challenges within a supportive therapeutic environment. I prioritise building therapeutic relationships through a collaborative approach, aiming to create a safe, understanding, and validating space. Within this environment, I work with each client to help identify their goals and develop practical evidence-informed strategies, while providing attentive listening grounded in ethical practice. I emphasise the importance of acknowledging progress throughout therapy, which may support a sense of confidence, self-belief, and hope.
0427 498 242 View 0427 498 242

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachel Pollard, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel Pollard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Rachel has experience supporting individuals with both acute and chronic mental health conditions, including developmental disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, trauma, and bereavement.
Rachel is a Psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Rachel has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) at the Australian Catholic University, and both a Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science and Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Bond University. Rachel’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, warm, and non-judgemental. She ensures compassionate, empathetic care, regardless of presentation or concern. Rachel enjoys working with clients across the life span, delivering both individual and group-based therapy. She has previous experience working in both education and private practice settings.
Rachel has experience supporting individuals with both acute and chronic mental health conditions, including developmental disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, trauma, and bereavement.
Rachel is a Psychologist at the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Rachel has completed a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) at the Australian Catholic University, and both a Graduate Diploma of Psychological Science and Master of Psychology (Clinical) at Bond University. Rachel’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, warm, and non-judgemental. She ensures compassionate, empathetic care, regardless of presentation or concern. Rachel enjoys working with clients across the life span, delivering both individual and group-based therapy. She has previous experience working in both education and private practice settings.
(02) 8105 5795 View (02) 8105 5795
Photo of Caitlin Amanda Gaffney, Social Worker, AASW
Caitlin Amanda Gaffney
Social Worker, AASW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED.
I am most passionate about supporting individuals who would like to work on increasing self-esteem, self-confidence and setting boundaries with self and others. I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
I am a Credentialed Eating Disorder Clinician and member of ANZAED.
I am most passionate about supporting individuals who would like to work on increasing self-esteem, self-confidence and setting boundaries with self and others. I am experienced working with neuro-diversity, addiction/ substance use and behaviour change.
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Photo of Lillian Joyce - Lillian Joyce Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Lillian Joyce Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Online Only
I am passionate about supporting individuals experiencing eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns.
I offer a warm, grounded and compassionate space where you can feel safe to explore what’s going on without fear of judgment. My approach is client-centred, collaborative, HAES aligned, and tailored to your individual needs, with a focus on the therapeutic relationship, building insight, emotional awareness, and practical strategies for meaningful change.
I am passionate about supporting individuals experiencing eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns.
I offer a warm, grounded and compassionate space where you can feel safe to explore what’s going on without fear of judgment. My approach is client-centred, collaborative, HAES aligned, and tailored to your individual needs, with a focus on the therapeutic relationship, building insight, emotional awareness, and practical strategies for meaningful change.
0414 709 964 View 0414 709 964
Photo of Tanya Franic - Treat Yourself Well Psychology Sydney, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Treat Yourself Well Psychology Sydney
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
We offer particular expertise in supporting individuals with eating disorders, trauma, and neurodivergence.
The heart of what we do is to support you to be and do you. We value a strengths focus and we are relational in our approach. Our overarching goal is to cultivate compassion for self and we do this by working with to understand the impact of trauma and your unique brain style to and develop a pathway to recovery from eating disorders, shame and/ or guilt.
We offer particular expertise in supporting individuals with eating disorders, trauma, and neurodivergence.
The heart of what we do is to support you to be and do you. We value a strengths focus and we are relational in our approach. Our overarching goal is to cultivate compassion for self and we do this by working with to understand the impact of trauma and your unique brain style to and develop a pathway to recovery from eating disorders, shame and/ or guilt.
(02) 9158 6591 View (02) 9158 6591
Photo of Olivia Patrick, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Olivia Patrick
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sydney, NSW 2000
Olivia is a Board-Approved Supervisor and is an Eating Disorder Credentialed psychologist.
Olivia is a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in treating adults with Eating Disorders, body image concerns and related issues such as depression, anxiety and trauma. She strongly believes that everybody deserves to be treated with respect and all bodies deserve respect. Olivia creates a safe environment for clients of all sizes, sexualities, cultural backgrounds and other intersecting identities.
Olivia is a Board-Approved Supervisor and is an Eating Disorder Credentialed psychologist.
Olivia is a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist with a special interest in treating adults with Eating Disorders, body image concerns and related issues such as depression, anxiety and trauma. She strongly believes that everybody deserves to be treated with respect and all bodies deserve respect. Olivia creates a safe environment for clients of all sizes, sexualities, cultural backgrounds and other intersecting identities.
(02) 9100 0278 View (02) 9100 0278
Photo of Natalie Bishara, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Natalie Bishara
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Glenmore Park, NSW 2745
I am a registered psychologist with a deep interest in working with adolescents and adults seeking support and treatment for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, and trauma.
Within my therapeutic approach, I utilise evidence-based therapies including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Family Based Therapy for Eating Disorders (FBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I am a registered psychologist with a deep interest in working with adolescents and adults seeking support and treatment for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, and trauma.
Within my therapeutic approach, I utilise evidence-based therapies including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Family Based Therapy for Eating Disorders (FBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(02) 8105 6942 View (02) 8105 6942
Photo of Mona Mattar - Lighthouse Therapeutic, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Lighthouse Therapeutic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Kogarah, NSW 2217
I am an experienced clinical counsellor and psychotherapist working in private hospital settings and private practice with a special interest in eating disorders, addictions, OCD and couples counselling with a focus on distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and assertive communication as well body positivity, self compassion and acceptance.
Are you finding it hard to cope with day-to-day stressors? Are you struggling with food and body image, such as restricting, bingeing, purging, or yo-yo dieting? Do intrusive thoughts, images, or compulsions feel like they are taking over your life? Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back. Maybe you are wanting to foster stronger relationships and find more effective ways to deal with conflict, regulate emotions, or assert boundaries.
I am an experienced clinical counsellor and psychotherapist working in private hospital settings and private practice with a special interest in eating disorders, addictions, OCD and couples counselling with a focus on distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and assertive communication as well body positivity, self compassion and acceptance.
Are you finding it hard to cope with day-to-day stressors? Are you struggling with food and body image, such as restricting, bingeing, purging, or yo-yo dieting? Do intrusive thoughts, images, or compulsions feel like they are taking over your life? Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back. Maybe you are wanting to foster stronger relationships and find more effective ways to deal with conflict, regulate emotions, or assert boundaries.
0460 832 082 View 0460 832 082
Photo of Ellie Maroun, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ellie Maroun
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
2 Endorsed
Campbelltown, NSW 2560
Waitlist for new clients
Her specific areas of interest include anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, eating disorders and trauma.
Alongside her clinical work, Ellie is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at Charles Darwin University, where she enjoys supervising Clinical Psychology trainees. She is passionate about mentoring emerging psychologists and is currently accepting new supervision clients.
Her specific areas of interest include anxiety, depression, interpersonal issues, eating disorders and trauma.
Alongside her clinical work, Ellie is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at Charles Darwin University, where she enjoys supervising Clinical Psychology trainees. She is passionate about mentoring emerging psychologists and is currently accepting new supervision clients.
(02) 4210 5038 View (02) 4210 5038
Photo of Anson Wang, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Anson Wang
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Rockdale, NSW 2216
Hello, I’m a therapist (AMHSW) with decades of clinical experience to support child/teens, their parents and adults, primary specialty includes: 1 Trauma and complex trauma 2 Eating disorders 3 Intense emotion and interpersonal/family difficulties/conflicts 4 Depression, anxiety and OCD 5 Emotional and behavioural difficulties in children and adolescents 6 Parenting a child or teenager with mental health or behavioural challenges 7 Parenting while managing your own mental health 8 Ongoing parent–child or parent–teen conflict, disconnection or breakdown in communication
Medicare rebates available. Extensive clinical experience in mental health, human development, and effective parenting. I balance strong relational attunement with practical strategies that create real change. Trained and experienced in CBT, DBT, ACT, FBT, SFT, EFT, ABFT, PMT, and Circle of Security.
Hello, I’m a therapist (AMHSW) with decades of clinical experience to support child/teens, their parents and adults, primary specialty includes: 1 Trauma and complex trauma 2 Eating disorders 3 Intense emotion and interpersonal/family difficulties/conflicts 4 Depression, anxiety and OCD 5 Emotional and behavioural difficulties in children and adolescents 6 Parenting a child or teenager with mental health or behavioural challenges 7 Parenting while managing your own mental health 8 Ongoing parent–child or parent–teen conflict, disconnection or breakdown in communication
Medicare rebates available. Extensive clinical experience in mental health, human development, and effective parenting. I balance strong relational attunement with practical strategies that create real change. Trained and experienced in CBT, DBT, ACT, FBT, SFT, EFT, ABFT, PMT, and Circle of Security.
(02) 9090 4723 View (02) 9090 4723
Photo of Ewa Nowinska - Neuoraffirming EMDR and EMDR intensives , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Neuoraffirming EMDR and EMDR intensives
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ewa’s areas of interest include: Adult ADHD and Autism (assessment and skills building), Anxiety, Depression, Binge Eating Disorder, Body acceptance, Weight loss, Health, Work bullying, Stress management, Pain, Relationship difficulties, weight loss (bariatric) surgeries: sleeve and/or bypass, EMDR for trauma, Panic attacks, Complex PTSD, immigration
Ewa Nowińska is a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s Degree from University of Gdansk, Poland. She also completed one year university exchange at the University of Barcelona, which led her to move to this beautiful country. During her 6 years in Spain/Catalonia, she continued developing her skills as a psychologist by working with clients struggling with work related issues,body image or relationship issues. After moving to Australia / Sydney in 2013, she commenced working with clients on Workers Compensation. Moreover, she has been supporting clients undergoing bariatric surgery. Medicare rebates available.
Ewa’s areas of interest include: Adult ADHD and Autism (assessment and skills building), Anxiety, Depression, Binge Eating Disorder, Body acceptance, Weight loss, Health, Work bullying, Stress management, Pain, Relationship difficulties, weight loss (bariatric) surgeries: sleeve and/or bypass, EMDR for trauma, Panic attacks, Complex PTSD, immigration
Ewa Nowińska is a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s Degree from University of Gdansk, Poland. She also completed one year university exchange at the University of Barcelona, which led her to move to this beautiful country. During her 6 years in Spain/Catalonia, she continued developing her skills as a psychologist by working with clients struggling with work related issues,body image or relationship issues. After moving to Australia / Sydney in 2013, she commenced working with clients on Workers Compensation. Moreover, she has been supporting clients undergoing bariatric surgery. Medicare rebates available.
0432 920 100 View 0432 920 100
Photo of Alyssa Sterry, Counsellor, PACFA
Alyssa Sterry
Counsellor, PACFA
Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
I specialise in eating disorders, grief and trauma however support clients dealing with a range of concerns.
Hi, I'm Alyssa a therapist with a strong desire to work with people dealing with trauma, grief and pain that others often do not understand. I enjoy sitting with people who have rarely had someone understand what they have gone through and I love integrating my own life experiences and clinical knowledge to able to reach people and support their healing process. I have supported people looking for recovery from many types of difficult life events all while providing an evidence based and trauma informed approach.
I specialise in eating disorders, grief and trauma however support clients dealing with a range of concerns.
Hi, I'm Alyssa a therapist with a strong desire to work with people dealing with trauma, grief and pain that others often do not understand. I enjoy sitting with people who have rarely had someone understand what they have gone through and I love integrating my own life experiences and clinical knowledge to able to reach people and support their healing process. I have supported people looking for recovery from many types of difficult life events all while providing an evidence based and trauma informed approach.
(02) 8403 0915 View (02) 8403 0915
Photo of Sarah McMahon - BodyMatters Australasia, Psychologist, PsyBA General
BodyMatters Australasia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mosman, NSW 2088
BodyMatters Australasia provides treatment for eating disorders, body image issues and problematic exercise.
Our experienced team delivers evidence-based treatment for disordered eating, food and exercise concerns, or support for loved ones. We offer customised services in Psychology, Dietetics, and Paediatrics, with care face-to-face in Sydney, Maitland, Canberra, Adelaide, and via Telehealth.
BodyMatters Australasia provides treatment for eating disorders, body image issues and problematic exercise.
Our experienced team delivers evidence-based treatment for disordered eating, food and exercise concerns, or support for loved ones. We offer customised services in Psychology, Dietetics, and Paediatrics, with care face-to-face in Sydney, Maitland, Canberra, Adelaide, and via Telehealth.
(02) 9053 4580 View (02) 9053 4580
Photo of Klaudia Gebert - Self Reflections, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Self Reflections
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Serves Area
We work with anxiety and mood disorders, eating disorders, all types of trauma, neurodivergence, relationships issues, general life issues, among so much more.
Self Reflections is a psychology and wellbeing clinic based in Wollongong, for children, adolescents and adults, created as a place where people can slow down, feel met, and begin to make sense of their inner world. Our clinic offers evidence-based psychological therapy, nutrition and dietetic support, assessments, and supervision, alongside a growing body of educational resources, programs, and media designed to support reflection beyond the therapy room. While our work may extend across different formats, it all begins here, within the clinic, grounded in clinical integrity, ethical practice, and deep respect for the human exper
We work with anxiety and mood disorders, eating disorders, all types of trauma, neurodivergence, relationships issues, general life issues, among so much more.
Self Reflections is a psychology and wellbeing clinic based in Wollongong, for children, adolescents and adults, created as a place where people can slow down, feel met, and begin to make sense of their inner world. Our clinic offers evidence-based psychological therapy, nutrition and dietetic support, assessments, and supervision, alongside a growing body of educational resources, programs, and media designed to support reflection beyond the therapy room. While our work may extend across different formats, it all begins here, within the clinic, grounded in clinical integrity, ethical practice, and deep respect for the human exper
(02) 4210 5182 View (02) 4210 5182
Eating Disorders Therapists
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.