Eating Disorders Psychologists and Therapists in Kogarah, NSW

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 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 Rachel Pollard, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Rachel Pollard
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, with a particular interest in eating disorders and perinatal mental health.
Hi, I’m Rachel. I’m a Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of Still Mind Studio Psychology. With a deep commitment to evidence-based practice and genuine human connection, I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. My approach blends warmth and professionalism with practical strategies tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their experiences, build resilience, and ultimately foster lasting positive change.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, with a particular interest in eating disorders and perinatal mental health.
Hi, I’m Rachel. I’m a Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of Still Mind Studio Psychology. With a deep commitment to evidence-based practice and genuine human connection, I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. My approach blends warmth and professionalism with practical strategies tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their experiences, build resilience, and ultimately foster lasting positive change.
(02) 7501 1448 View (02) 7501 1448
Photo of Anastasia Hronis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Anastasia Hronis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Dr Anastasia Hronis works primarily with clients with mood related concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, anger, stress), as well as clients who have trauma, PTSD, addiction concerns, personality disorders, OCD, relationship concerns and eating disorders.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
Dr Anastasia Hronis works primarily with clients with mood related concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, anger, stress), as well as clients who have trauma, PTSD, addiction concerns, personality disorders, OCD, relationship concerns and eating disorders.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
(02) 8105 5006 View (02) 8105 5006
Photo of Neha Kapoor - Neha Kapoor | Novo Empower Counselling, Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Neha Kapoor | Novo Empower Counselling
Counsellor, MPsych, PACFA
Kogarah, NSW 2217
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Psychotherapist and owner of Novo Empower Counselling. I have over a decade of experience empowering and guiding couples and individuals through the intricate pathways of life and relationships. I utilise a diverse array of proven approaches to create tailored programs that unlock insights, resolve conflicts, and nurture growth. I offer both in-person and online counselling options to accommodate different needs of my clients.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Psychotherapist and owner of Novo Empower Counselling. I have over a decade of experience empowering and guiding couples and individuals through the intricate pathways of life and relationships. I utilise a diverse array of proven approaches to create tailored programs that unlock insights, resolve conflicts, and nurture growth. I offer both in-person and online counselling options to accommodate different needs of my clients.
0410 637 225 View 0410 637 225
Photo of Chelsea Ho, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Chelsea Ho
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Kogarah, NSW 2217
Chelsea is trained in providing therapy for a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, psychosis, eating disorders, and trauma.
To assist clients in meeting their unique therapeutic goals, Chelsea draws upon the following evidence-based treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and Family-Based Therapy for eating disorders in her practice.
Chelsea is trained in providing therapy for a range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, psychosis, eating disorders, and trauma.
To assist clients in meeting their unique therapeutic goals, Chelsea draws upon the following evidence-based treatment modalities: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and Family-Based Therapy for eating disorders in her practice.
(02) 8105 5269 View (02) 8105 5269
Photo of Anthony Colantuono, Social Worker, AMHSW
Anthony Colantuono
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Anthony is a warm and person centred counsellor who offers evidence-based therapy grounded in empathy and respect. He draws on a range of well-researched, Medicare-approved approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) to support meaningful and lasting change.
Anthony is a warm and person centred counsellor who offers evidence-based therapy grounded in empathy and respect. He draws on a range of well-researched, Medicare-approved approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) to support meaningful and lasting change.
(02) 9538 7967 View (02) 9538 7967
Photo of Alena Piccolruaz, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Alena Piccolruaz
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
I have a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families in addition to supporting mums and dads through pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Issues treated (but not limited to) include; anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, school issues, suicidal thinking, personality disorder, anger management, gender transitioning, self-harm, grief and loss, work related issues (Workcover accredited psych), life coaching, relationship matters, family mediation, court and legal reports and the teaching of parenting skills. I also offer couples, family and marital therapy. I am also an accredited Supervisor to other psychologists.
(02) 9159 6930 View (02) 9159 6930

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nina Vucetic, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Nina Vucetic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011
Over 7 years of experience with addiction, trauma, eating disorders and relationships.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here. I am a PACFA Registered Psychotherapist specialising in Relationship Issues, Trauma, Addiction and Anxiety. If you’ve found yourself feeling stuck—maybe in a cycle of anxiety, relationship stress, or self-doubt—you’re not alone. Life gets messy sometimes, and it’s hard to figure things out on your own. Therapy can be a space to slow down, get curious, and gently make sense of what's going on beneath the surface.
Over 7 years of experience with addiction, trauma, eating disorders and relationships.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here. I am a PACFA Registered Psychotherapist specialising in Relationship Issues, Trauma, Addiction and Anxiety. If you’ve found yourself feeling stuck—maybe in a cycle of anxiety, relationship stress, or self-doubt—you’re not alone. Life gets messy sometimes, and it’s hard to figure things out on your own. Therapy can be a space to slow down, get curious, and gently make sense of what's going on beneath the surface.
(02) 9100 0689 View (02) 9100 0689
Photo of Megan Buys, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Megan Buys
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Clovelly, NSW 2031
Alongside my Master of Counselling and PhD, I have trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), CBT-E tailored for the support of eating disorders, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory for individuals and couples, Schema Therapy, and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Weekends and after hours sessions now available – Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through PACFA. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
Alongside my Master of Counselling and PhD, I have trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), CBT-E tailored for the support of eating disorders, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory for individuals and couples, Schema Therapy, and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Weekends and after hours sessions now available – Hey there! I’m so glad you found me here. My name is Megan Buys and I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist. I am the founder of Finding Space: a therapy practice which blends both creative and empowering modalities for those seeking guidance, excitement, and deep care, where I see adults, teenagers/adolescents, couples, and therapists seeking support. I have completed a Master of Counselling, with registration through PACFA. I am also a PhD candidate, a writer, an academic, a university teacher, a yogi, a tea-drinker, and an ocean-lover.
(02) 9100 0798 View (02) 9100 0798
Photo of Eleanor Crowther, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Eleanor Crowther
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
They may face challenges such as eating disorders, body dysmorphia, or body image concerns.
I create a relaxed, judgment-free space for clients to express themselves authentically. With a down-to-earth approach, I prioritise building a trusting therapeutic relationship and supporting change at their own pace. I work in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema, Animal Assisted Therapy, Gender-affirming therapy and non-directive perinatal counselling.
They may face challenges such as eating disorders, body dysmorphia, or body image concerns.
I create a relaxed, judgment-free space for clients to express themselves authentically. With a down-to-earth approach, I prioritise building a trusting therapeutic relationship and supporting change at their own pace. I work in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema, Animal Assisted Therapy, Gender-affirming therapy and non-directive perinatal counselling.
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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, Perth, 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, Perth, and via Telehealth.
(02) 9053 4580 View (02) 9053 4580
Photo of Joanna Hilary Ruth Penty - Time4Talk, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Time4Talk
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am an experienced mental health practitioner, with over 15 years in the UK’s National Health Service, supporting a diverse range of clients with evidence-based interventions for: anxiety disorders, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, low self-esteem, perfectionism, loneliness, and anger management
Life can be challenging, and reaching out for support isn't always easy. You may be feeling anxious, low in mood, or trying to resolve an issue that just doesn’t seem to go away. At Time4Talk, I offer a warm and non-judgemental therapeutic space for adults — where, with cognitive behavioural therapy we can explore unhelpful patterns, set meaningful goals, and work towards change. Working together, I'll help you identify thoughts and behaviours contributing to emotional distress. Each intervention is thoughtfully tailored to equip you with the skills and strategies needed to move forward and achieve your goals and build resilience.
I am an experienced mental health practitioner, with over 15 years in the UK’s National Health Service, supporting a diverse range of clients with evidence-based interventions for: anxiety disorders, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, low self-esteem, perfectionism, loneliness, and anger management
Life can be challenging, and reaching out for support isn't always easy. You may be feeling anxious, low in mood, or trying to resolve an issue that just doesn’t seem to go away. At Time4Talk, I offer a warm and non-judgemental therapeutic space for adults — where, with cognitive behavioural therapy we can explore unhelpful patterns, set meaningful goals, and work towards change. Working together, I'll help you identify thoughts and behaviours contributing to emotional distress. Each intervention is thoughtfully tailored to equip you with the skills and strategies needed to move forward and achieve your goals and build resilience.
(02) 8105 6913 View (02) 8105 6913
Photo of Yana Madorski, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Yana Madorski
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults who want support with eating behaviour, anxiety, self-criticism, emotional overwhelm, body image concerns, and the pressure of trying to hold everything together. Many clients come to me feeling stuck in cycles of control and collapse, or wanting a calmer and more peaceful relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves.
I work with adults who want support with eating behaviour, anxiety, self-criticism, emotional overwhelm, body image concerns, and the pressure of trying to hold everything together. Many clients come to me feeling stuck in cycles of control and collapse, or wanting a calmer and more peaceful relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves.
0431 969 626 View 0431 969 626
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 Maria Sharrock, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Maria Sharrock
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sutherland, NSW 2232
You might be finding it hard to switch off, feeling weighed down by your thoughts, or struggling with your relationship with food, your body, your health, or yourself. I work with adults and older adolescents (16+) who want to feel more understood, supported, and equipped to cope. Together, we can make sense of what’s been keeping you stuck and work toward meaningful, practical change. My approach is warm and collaborative, with a focus on helping you move forward at a pace that feels manageable.
You might be finding it hard to switch off, feeling weighed down by your thoughts, or struggling with your relationship with food, your body, your health, or yourself. I work with adults and older adolescents (16+) who want to feel more understood, supported, and equipped to cope. Together, we can make sense of what’s been keeping you stuck and work toward meaningful, practical change. My approach is warm and collaborative, with a focus on helping you move forward at a pace that feels manageable.
(02) 7501 0547 View (02) 7501 0547
Photo of Pikria Meladze, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Pikria Meladze
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Sydney, NSW 2000
I primarily work with older adolescents aged 16+ years and professional adults wanting help with adjustment to parenthood, ADHD, anxiety, body image/dysmorphia, depression, eating disorders, OCD, adult child-parent estrangement, stress and work-related burnout, childhood trauma and PTSD.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I believe in creating a therapeutic space, where people feel safe and supported to share their vulnerabilities. I use integrated style in my sessions drawing from various evidence-based treatment modalities. I offer both short-term and long-term therapy depending on my client’s needs.
I primarily work with older adolescents aged 16+ years and professional adults wanting help with adjustment to parenthood, ADHD, anxiety, body image/dysmorphia, depression, eating disorders, OCD, adult child-parent estrangement, stress and work-related burnout, childhood trauma and PTSD.
My approach is compassionate, collaborative and strength-based. I believe in creating a therapeutic space, where people feel safe and supported to share their vulnerabilities. I use integrated style in my sessions drawing from various evidence-based treatment modalities. I offer both short-term and long-term therapy depending on my client’s needs.
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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 Jodie Gale, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jodie Gale
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Manly, NSW 2095
I provide soul-centered psychotherapy for eating disorders, complex trauma (childhood emotional neglect) and not feeling good enough.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
I provide soul-centered psychotherapy for eating disorders, complex trauma (childhood emotional neglect) and not feeling good enough.
You may look like you’re coping, but inside you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or not good enough. You might turn to food for comfort, control, or relief, then feel shame, guilt, or self-criticism afterwards. Many of the women I work with carry the impact of early trauma, emotional neglect, or difficult mother–daughter relationships that continue to shape how they feel about themselves. Some feel stuck in patterns they don’t understand, while others are quietly asking, “who am I, really?” and longing for a deeper, more meaningful connection with themselves, their body, and their inner world.
(02) 8294 7627 View (02) 8294 7627
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
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.