Eating Disorders Therapists in Vancouver, BC

Photo of Dominique Nicole Sorace, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Dominique Nicole Sorace
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I have worked with a diverse range of presenting issues within the school system and non-profit organizations, some include: anxiety, depression, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, eating disorders, perfectionism, burnout, and childhood trauma.
Hi! I'm Dominique. Life can get tricky and I understand that speaking to someone about it may be difficult. Finding the right words to describe how you feel or what you have experienced can be challenging, and it should not be something that one should have to experience on their own. With my understanding that each individual has their own unique story and experiences, I tend to take a person-centered in counselling in which I alter my clinical skills to fit the needs and preferences of my client. I am attentive to each client's biological, environmental, and social factors and consider them when applying therapeutic approaches.
I have worked with a diverse range of presenting issues within the school system and non-profit organizations, some include: anxiety, depression, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, eating disorders, perfectionism, burnout, and childhood trauma.
Hi! I'm Dominique. Life can get tricky and I understand that speaking to someone about it may be difficult. Finding the right words to describe how you feel or what you have experienced can be challenging, and it should not be something that one should have to experience on their own. With my understanding that each individual has their own unique story and experiences, I tend to take a person-centered in counselling in which I alter my clinical skills to fit the needs and preferences of my client. I am attentive to each client's biological, environmental, and social factors and consider them when applying therapeutic approaches.
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Photo of Eliane Nevares, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Eliane Nevares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients - book a free 15min phone consultation to ensure we're a good match! I support individuals facing various challenges including eating disorders and body image issues, trauma and PTSD, anxiety disorders including OCD, and depression.
With formal training in a number of different therapeutic modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I bring a variety of approaches to my work to best suit the needs and wants of each client.
Accepting new clients - book a free 15min phone consultation to ensure we're a good match! I support individuals facing various challenges including eating disorders and body image issues, trauma and PTSD, anxiety disorders including OCD, and depression.
With formal training in a number of different therapeutic modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I bring a variety of approaches to my work to best suit the needs and wants of each client.
(902) 201-3172 View (902) 201-3172
Photo of Jessica Begg, BSc, MC, RD, RCC, Counsellor
Jessica Begg
Counsellor, BSc, MC, RD, RCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked in eating disorders treatment programs for 10 years.
I am both a Clinical Counsellor and Dietitian. I work with people to help create peace with food and their body. My clients are tired of struggling with food and their body. Perhaps they have struggled with disordered eating, or are currently struggling. They know diets and rigid ways of eating don’t “work” and they see the trauma of this way of eating has on their mind and body. So they seek a way of eating and being in their body that is less confusing and carries less judgement. That they no longer want to feel out of control with their eating. And they want to start caring for their body.
I have worked in eating disorders treatment programs for 10 years.
I am both a Clinical Counsellor and Dietitian. I work with people to help create peace with food and their body. My clients are tired of struggling with food and their body. Perhaps they have struggled with disordered eating, or are currently struggling. They know diets and rigid ways of eating don’t “work” and they see the trauma of this way of eating has on their mind and body. So they seek a way of eating and being in their body that is less confusing and carries less judgement. That they no longer want to feel out of control with their eating. And they want to start caring for their body.
(548) 900-0171 View (548) 900-0171
Photo of Hazyl Jonas, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Hazyl Jonas
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you’re struggling with eating concerns—whether it’s anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, body image issues, or other disordered eating patterns—you’re not alone.
In my work with you, I will use tailored therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and more, to meet your unique needs. Together we’ll work on understanding your deeper emotional triggers, navigating societal pressures, and addressing day-to-day struggles.
If you’re struggling with eating concerns—whether it’s anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, body image issues, or other disordered eating patterns—you’re not alone.
In my work with you, I will use tailored therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and more, to meet your unique needs. Together we’ll work on understanding your deeper emotional triggers, navigating societal pressures, and addressing day-to-day struggles.
(506) 909-0382 View (506) 909-0382
Photo of Courtney Sedlak, MC , RCC, Counsellor
Courtney Sedlak
Counsellor, MC , RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! I am Registered Clinical Counsellor who is passionate about supporting clients in three main areas: disordered eating/ eating disorders, Neurodivergence (Autism & ADHD), and perinatal mental health.
I support clients in learning how to open their awareness to and liberate themselves from the negative impacts of deeply ingrained behavioural patterns, cultural ideas of beauty and worthiness, deep-rooted emotions, past traumas, and false beliefs about themselves, so that they can find their strengths and come to know and trust themselves.
Welcome! I am Registered Clinical Counsellor who is passionate about supporting clients in three main areas: disordered eating/ eating disorders, Neurodivergence (Autism & ADHD), and perinatal mental health.
I support clients in learning how to open their awareness to and liberate themselves from the negative impacts of deeply ingrained behavioural patterns, cultural ideas of beauty and worthiness, deep-rooted emotions, past traumas, and false beliefs about themselves, so that they can find their strengths and come to know and trust themselves.
(604) 373-8381 View (604) 373-8381
Photo of Alex Wong, HBSc, MACP, CCPA, IE Cert, Registered Psychotherapist
Alex Wong
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MACP, CCPA, IE Cert
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in body image, eating disorders, and anxiety.
Do you ever feel like you are fighting against your own thoughts? Do you feel lost in life and pressured to meet others' expectations? Well, you are not alone and I would like to help you on your journey to a better relationship with yourself. This is a safe space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and how your past has influenced your present behaviours. Together, we can help you achieve your personal goals and values so you may lead your life with more confidence in yourself. Book a free consultation now so you can begin to feel better.
I specialize in body image, eating disorders, and anxiety.
Do you ever feel like you are fighting against your own thoughts? Do you feel lost in life and pressured to meet others' expectations? Well, you are not alone and I would like to help you on your journey to a better relationship with yourself. This is a safe space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and how your past has influenced your present behaviours. Together, we can help you achieve your personal goals and values so you may lead your life with more confidence in yourself. Book a free consultation now so you can begin to feel better.
(289) 803-9890 View (289) 803-9890
Photo of Shelley E Ugyan, MA, BAEd, Counsellor
Shelley E Ugyan
Counsellor, MA, BAEd
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety and eating disorders for adults and children.
Shelley sits on the executive board at the BC Clinical Hypnosis Society, and specializes in anxiety and eating disorders (all ages).The Science based ground breaking approaches she integrates into your healing are based on proven mind- body science including: EMDR, Hypnosis, parts work and CBT to name a few. Shelley loves to work with those ready for change.
Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety and eating disorders for adults and children.
Shelley sits on the executive board at the BC Clinical Hypnosis Society, and specializes in anxiety and eating disorders (all ages).The Science based ground breaking approaches she integrates into your healing are based on proven mind- body science including: EMDR, Hypnosis, parts work and CBT to name a few. Shelley loves to work with those ready for change.
(844) 668-9133 View (844) 668-9133
Photo of Julia Selznick, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Julia Selznick
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
For the last 15 years, I've worked with eating disorders, anxiety, depression and family conflict.
Are you often hard on yourself or get stuck in an anxiety spiral? Does your relationship with food and self-image disrupt your life? Are you having trouble navigating a stressful life transition? I hear you and I get it. With unrealistic expectations and never ending life stressors, it can be easy to fall down the rabbit hole of unhappiness, anxiety and self-criticism. Feeling stuck in our relationships, careers, and day-to-days is frustrating and disruptive. But I believe that we deserve to enjoy our lives and to feel fulfilled. I believe you can find your light, grow your confidence, and take steps to live a better life.
For the last 15 years, I've worked with eating disorders, anxiety, depression and family conflict.
Are you often hard on yourself or get stuck in an anxiety spiral? Does your relationship with food and self-image disrupt your life? Are you having trouble navigating a stressful life transition? I hear you and I get it. With unrealistic expectations and never ending life stressors, it can be easy to fall down the rabbit hole of unhappiness, anxiety and self-criticism. Feeling stuck in our relationships, careers, and day-to-days is frustrating and disruptive. But I believe that we deserve to enjoy our lives and to feel fulfilled. I believe you can find your light, grow your confidence, and take steps to live a better life.
(581) 502-0099 View (581) 502-0099
Photo of Lien Dilewijns - Healing Waves Counselling, MC, RCC, ACCT, CCPA, CPTA, Counsellor
Healing Waves Counselling
Counsellor, MC, RCC, ACCT, CCPA, CPTA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5V
We also support individuals, couples and families who are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, parenting issues, eating disorders, self-esteem, and negative self talk.
Healing Waves Counselling was created to provide people with a different type of healing experience. We live in such a fast-paced society where we are constantly striving to compete, do better, and make more money that we forget to be present. We want people to be able to work through their trauma and have them feel comfortable in their own skin, to reconnect people with themselves, reconnect with nature and the earth. Reconnecting to the environment and our surroundings can be so healing and grounding. We are here to walk with the client side by side on their journey. They are the experts of their own
We also support individuals, couples and families who are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, parenting issues, eating disorders, self-esteem, and negative self talk.
Healing Waves Counselling was created to provide people with a different type of healing experience. We live in such a fast-paced society where we are constantly striving to compete, do better, and make more money that we forget to be present. We want people to be able to work through their trauma and have them feel comfortable in their own skin, to reconnect people with themselves, reconnect with nature and the earth. Reconnecting to the environment and our surroundings can be so healing and grounding. We are here to walk with the client side by side on their journey. They are the experts of their own
(672) 784-5869 View (672) 784-5869
Photo of Maeve Gale, MC, BFA, RCC, Counsellor
Maeve Gale
Counsellor, MC, BFA, RCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with a diverse range of people, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, burnout, eating disorders and disordered eating.
As an integrative therapist, I draw on various theories and approaches including narrative therapy, feminism, parts work, CBT, and somatic therapy. My intention is to help you move at the right pace for your system and learn to trust yourself.
I work with a diverse range of people, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, burnout, eating disorders and disordered eating.
As an integrative therapist, I draw on various theories and approaches including narrative therapy, feminism, parts work, CBT, and somatic therapy. My intention is to help you move at the right pace for your system and learn to trust yourself.
(587) 207-8959 View (587) 207-8959
Photo of Katy Vinson, MC, RCC, RCAT, Counsellor
Katy Vinson
Counsellor, MC, RCC, RCAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults who have anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, eating disorders, and inner critic issues.
Hello and welcome. Perhaps you are struggling with burnout, stress or anxiety. Maybe you are feeling disconnected from yourself or others. Or perhaps you want to make changes in your life and are feeling very stuck or overwhelmed. I believe people can experience greater wellness and healing when they have spaces where they feel understood and heard. It takes so much courage to reach out for support and I'm glad you are here. I work with adults virtually throughout BC.
I work with adults who have anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, eating disorders, and inner critic issues.
Hello and welcome. Perhaps you are struggling with burnout, stress or anxiety. Maybe you are feeling disconnected from yourself or others. Or perhaps you want to make changes in your life and are feeling very stuck or overwhelmed. I believe people can experience greater wellness and healing when they have spaces where they feel understood and heard. It takes so much courage to reach out for support and I'm glad you are here. I work with adults virtually throughout BC.
(236) 233-9839 View (236) 233-9839
Photo of Katrina Moore-Pettersson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Katrina Moore-Pettersson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My passion and experience lie in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, low self-worth, eating disorders/body image challenges, relational trauma & attachment concerns, PMS, trauma & PTSD, grief, loss and transition, relationship and dating struggles, chronic pain and high sensitivity (HSP's).
I believe we all possess an innate ability to heal and thrive. And, yet, sometimes we lose our way. I offer a human-to-human connection coupled with diverse knowledge and approaches to support you in finding your way again and healing from past and current challenges that prevent you from feeling at peace. I blend Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems/parts work, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, attachment-focused therapy, mindfulness, and nature-based practices to support you. I offer in-person, virtual, phone or nature-based sessions sessions for folks in British Columbia and virtual or phone sessions for folks in Ontario.
My passion and experience lie in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, low self-worth, eating disorders/body image challenges, relational trauma & attachment concerns, PMS, trauma & PTSD, grief, loss and transition, relationship and dating struggles, chronic pain and high sensitivity (HSP's).
I believe we all possess an innate ability to heal and thrive. And, yet, sometimes we lose our way. I offer a human-to-human connection coupled with diverse knowledge and approaches to support you in finding your way again and healing from past and current challenges that prevent you from feeling at peace. I blend Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems/parts work, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, attachment-focused therapy, mindfulness, and nature-based practices to support you. I offer in-person, virtual, phone or nature-based sessions sessions for folks in British Columbia and virtual or phone sessions for folks in Ontario.
(778) 654-1253 View (778) 654-1253
Photo of Sobia Noreen, MACP, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sobia Noreen
Registered Social Worker, MACP, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Throughout my work with individuals who have faced trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, eating disorders, mood disorders, and PTSD, .
I have learned the importance of a collaborative, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach. I am dedicated to addressing each person’s unique needs and understanding their individual circumstances. I work with both children (ages 10 and up) and adults, using a blend of approaches such as OEI, SFBT, EFT, IFS, CBT, mindfulness and trauma-informed care.
Throughout my work with individuals who have faced trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, eating disorders, mood disorders, and PTSD, .
I have learned the importance of a collaborative, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach. I am dedicated to addressing each person’s unique needs and understanding their individual circumstances. I work with both children (ages 10 and up) and adults, using a blend of approaches such as OEI, SFBT, EFT, IFS, CBT, mindfulness and trauma-informed care.
(647) 557-1986 View (647) 557-1986
Photo of Tamara Ukwu, MSW, RSW, RCC, PhD abd, Registered Social Worker
Tamara Ukwu
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC, PhD abd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5P
I am EMDR and DBT trained and specialize in ADHD work with kids and teenagers and eating disorders.
I help clients to optimize strengths, build resilience and cultivate growth. I am committed to providing safe and non-judgmental environment and developing a therapeutic and trusting relationship. I work collaboratively with clients to help facilitate learning and understanding of self, to create positive change despite the circumstances that led to crisis.
I am EMDR and DBT trained and specialize in ADHD work with kids and teenagers and eating disorders.
I help clients to optimize strengths, build resilience and cultivate growth. I am committed to providing safe and non-judgmental environment and developing a therapeutic and trusting relationship. I work collaboratively with clients to help facilitate learning and understanding of self, to create positive change despite the circumstances that led to crisis.
(587) 804-0560 View (587) 804-0560
Photo of Dr. Jelica Todosijevic Registered Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jelica Todosijevic Registered Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Paul's Hospital in Vancouver at the Eating Disorders Program.
I know that it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help at times when we feel distressed, overwhelmed, vulnerable, confused, wrought with sadness, shame, hurt, guilt, intense worry... Some of us have been told or made feel that we do not deserve better, or that we are not good enough, or smart enough, or thin enough, or strong enough, or funny enough... Sometimes we seek refuge in food, alcohol, drugs, sex, or self-harm to cope with the belief that we can never feel differently about ourselves or the world.
Paul's Hospital in Vancouver at the Eating Disorders Program.
I know that it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help at times when we feel distressed, overwhelmed, vulnerable, confused, wrought with sadness, shame, hurt, guilt, intense worry... Some of us have been told or made feel that we do not deserve better, or that we are not good enough, or smart enough, or thin enough, or strong enough, or funny enough... Sometimes we seek refuge in food, alcohol, drugs, sex, or self-harm to cope with the belief that we can never feel differently about ourselves or the world.
(778) 233-0972 View (778) 233-0972
Photo of Shelley Ugyan, MC, BCEd, Counsellor
Shelley Ugyan
Counsellor, MC, BCEd
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6G
Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety and eating disorders for adults and children.
Shelley sits on the executive board at the BC Clinical Hypnosis Society, and specializes in anxiety and eating disorders (all ages).The Science based ground breaking approaches she integrates into your healing are based on proven mind- body science including: EMDR, Hypnosis, parts work and CBT to name a few. Shelley loves to work with those ready for change.
Shelley is known for her groundbreaking therapeutic work in anxiety and eating disorders for adults and children.
Shelley sits on the executive board at the BC Clinical Hypnosis Society, and specializes in anxiety and eating disorders (all ages).The Science based ground breaking approaches she integrates into your healing are based on proven mind- body science including: EMDR, Hypnosis, parts work and CBT to name a few. Shelley loves to work with those ready for change.
(604) 330-1410 View (604) 330-1410
Photo of Lori Boland, BA CYC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Boland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA CYC, MSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6J
My expertise is in the areas of mental health challenges, stress management, trauma and eating disorders.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which is a goal oriented approach to feeling better. I have also trained in Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness Counselling, Somatic approaches to Trauma Recovery and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
My expertise is in the areas of mental health challenges, stress management, trauma and eating disorders.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which is a goal oriented approach to feeling better. I have also trained in Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness Counselling, Somatic approaches to Trauma Recovery and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
(709) 704-4233 View (709) 704-4233
Photo of Erin Dunn Wallden, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Erin Dunn Wallden
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Z
Paul's Hospital Eating Disorders Program.
I am a Registered Psychologist specializing in the treatment of disordered eating, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. If you are struggling with unhealthy behaviors (disordered eating, substance abuse), negative thoughts (hopelessness, worry), struggling with a major life transition (divorce, career change) or feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, I can help you to minimize the impact of these issues, so that you feel better, improve your relationships, and increase your overall quality of life.
Paul's Hospital Eating Disorders Program.
I am a Registered Psychologist specializing in the treatment of disordered eating, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. If you are struggling with unhealthy behaviors (disordered eating, substance abuse), negative thoughts (hopelessness, worry), struggling with a major life transition (divorce, career change) or feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, I can help you to minimize the impact of these issues, so that you feel better, improve your relationships, and increase your overall quality of life.
(855) 815-4387 View (855) 815-4387
Photo of Krista Blatchford - Carmanah Counselling & Integrated Health, BA, MA, RCC, ACS, Counsellor
Carmanah Counselling & Integrated Health
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5L
Krista specializes in depression and low mood; bipolar disorder; trauma & PTSD; anxiety (worries, phobias, panic, somatic/ somatization concerns); eating disorders & emotional dysregulation, including emotional over-control/rigidity, self-injurious behaviours, and suicidal ideation, autism, adhd,& learning disabilities.
We have a wonderful team! Please explore all of our bios on the website- www.Carmanahcounselling.com! Krista has a true passion for helping others and takes pride in providing solid assessments and efficient, evidence & relationship-based treatment. Krista’s clients have said that she is compassionate, non-judgemental , relatable, and inclusive. She has a wide range of experience in mental health. She is a supporter/ ally of the LGBTQ2S+ and BIPOC communities
Krista specializes in depression and low mood; bipolar disorder; trauma & PTSD; anxiety (worries, phobias, panic, somatic/ somatization concerns); eating disorders & emotional dysregulation, including emotional over-control/rigidity, self-injurious behaviours, and suicidal ideation, autism, adhd,& learning disabilities.
We have a wonderful team! Please explore all of our bios on the website- www.Carmanahcounselling.com! Krista has a true passion for helping others and takes pride in providing solid assessments and efficient, evidence & relationship-based treatment. Krista’s clients have said that she is compassionate, non-judgemental , relatable, and inclusive. She has a wide range of experience in mental health. She is a supporter/ ally of the LGBTQ2S+ and BIPOC communities
(365) 800-1895 View (365) 800-1895
Photo of Krystal Mark, RPC-C, Counsellor
Krystal Mark
Counsellor, RPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am thrilled to be pursuing my candidature as a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC-C) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) and continue to further my general knowledge and specialized education in sexual abuse and eating disorders.
I hope to offer you a warm, and open space where I am able to support you through your therapeutic journey, while you are in the drivers seat. I offer an emotionally focused and person-centred approach, meaning that the client is encouraged and guided to take hold of their life and become masters of their own destinies.
I am thrilled to be pursuing my candidature as a Registered Professional Counsellor (RPC-C) with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) and continue to further my general knowledge and specialized education in sexual abuse and eating disorders.
I hope to offer you a warm, and open space where I am able to support you through your therapeutic journey, while you are in the drivers seat. I offer an emotionally focused and person-centred approach, meaning that the client is encouraged and guided to take hold of their life and become masters of their own destinies.
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Eating Disorders Counsellors

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviors, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behavior affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counseling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioral disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behavior, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognize they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behavior has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.