Eating Disorders Therapists in Elmira, ON

Photo of Dana Cressman - Dana Cressman Mental Health Therapy, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Dana Cressman Mental Health Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmira, ON N3B
Life can be hard and we all need companions on our journey. We are not meant to experience the tough parts of life alone. At various stages of our journey, we might need professional help and I would love to connect with you when you are looking for support. I have experience providing support for the following concerns: Relationship/Family Concerns, Life Transitions, Stress, Anxiety, Disordered Eating/ Eating Disorders, Trauma, Childhood Experiences, Depression, Overwhelming Emotions, Grief and Loss, and Spiritually Integrated Therapy.
Life can be hard and we all need companions on our journey. We are not meant to experience the tough parts of life alone. At various stages of our journey, we might need professional help and I would love to connect with you when you are looking for support. I have experience providing support for the following concerns: Relationship/Family Concerns, Life Transitions, Stress, Anxiety, Disordered Eating/ Eating Disorders, Trauma, Childhood Experiences, Depression, Overwhelming Emotions, Grief and Loss, and Spiritually Integrated Therapy.
(226) 400-3605 View (226) 400-3605
Photo of Woolwich Counselling - Woolwich Counselling Centre, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker
Woolwich Counselling Centre
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
Elmira, ON N3B
Woolwich Counselling Centre is dedicated to providing the highest quality of professional counselling services to individuals in Woolwich / Wellesley Townships and surrounding areas. All therapists have a minimum of a Masters degree in Social Work, Psychology or a related field and are registered with their respective professional colleges. Counselling fees are often covered by extended health benefits. Our fees are geared to income, based on a sliding fee scale and service is offered regardless of ability to pay.
Woolwich Counselling Centre is dedicated to providing the highest quality of professional counselling services to individuals in Woolwich / Wellesley Townships and surrounding areas. All therapists have a minimum of a Masters degree in Social Work, Psychology or a related field and are registered with their respective professional colleges. Counselling fees are often covered by extended health benefits. Our fees are geared to income, based on a sliding fee scale and service is offered regardless of ability to pay.
(226) 773-1646 View (226) 773-1646
Photo of Sandra Karlin, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sandra Karlin
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Elmira, ON N3B
You deserve to feel supported. You deserve to be heard. Whether you are coming to therapy in a moment of crisis, years of stress and pain, or just needing another person to share your more guarded thoughts with- therapy is for you. Whether it's anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or anything in between, it's all welcome in my office. Let's talk!
You deserve to feel supported. You deserve to be heard. Whether you are coming to therapy in a moment of crisis, years of stress and pain, or just needing another person to share your more guarded thoughts with- therapy is for you. Whether it's anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or anything in between, it's all welcome in my office. Let's talk!
(548) 800-1654 View (548) 800-1654

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sara Salehi-Rad, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sara Salehi-Rad
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
Sara has extensive experience working with clients 15 years of age and older, supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, and eating disorders/disordered eating. She also has vast experience working within the harm reduction sector as well as with folks part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. In addition, Sara has experience providing support to those newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS by guiding them through the healthcare system and liaising with community supports.
Sara has extensive experience working with clients 15 years of age and older, supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, phobias, low self-esteem, and eating disorders/disordered eating. She also has vast experience working within the harm reduction sector as well as with folks part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. In addition, Sara has experience providing support to those newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS by guiding them through the healthcare system and liaising with community supports.
(226) 907-1494 View (226) 907-1494
Photo of Devyn Eadie, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Devyn Eadie
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2K
Do you find yourself often thinking negatively about yourself? Do you struggle with confidence and feeling good about yourself? Do you feel like your life is out of your control? Do you just need someone to talk to? Do you need help reaching your goals? If any of these questions resonate with you, we could be a good fit. I have a special interest in working with those struggling with low self-esteem, poor body image or body dysmorphia, and disordered eating or eating disorders. I also enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals as I have ADHD myself and know what that struggle can be like.
Do you find yourself often thinking negatively about yourself? Do you struggle with confidence and feeling good about yourself? Do you feel like your life is out of your control? Do you just need someone to talk to? Do you need help reaching your goals? If any of these questions resonate with you, we could be a good fit. I have a special interest in working with those struggling with low self-esteem, poor body image or body dysmorphia, and disordered eating or eating disorders. I also enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals as I have ADHD myself and know what that struggle can be like.
(548) 490-0841 View (548) 490-0841
Photo of Lisa Meech, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisa Meech
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
It is a privilege to come alongside with clients on their journeys through a variety of eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. With 17 years experience as a psychotherapist, I can help you to process your emotions, enhance communication and stress management, increase self-compassion, and work towards your goals. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a client-centered philosophy. I believe in creating a compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic environment where individuals, couples, and families can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing.
It is a privilege to come alongside with clients on their journeys through a variety of eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. With 17 years experience as a psychotherapist, I can help you to process your emotions, enhance communication and stress management, increase self-compassion, and work towards your goals. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a client-centered philosophy. I believe in creating a compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic environment where individuals, couples, and families can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing.
(226) 457-6921 View (226) 457-6921
Photo of Bojena M. Kelmendi - VivelaVitaTherapies, BHSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
VivelaVitaTherapies
Registered Social Worker, BHSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
and I have expertise in mood, sleep and eating disorders, stress and emotion regulation and compassion fatigue.
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
and I have expertise in mood, sleep and eating disorders, stress and emotion regulation and compassion fatigue.
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
(226) 400-1912 View (226) 400-1912
Photo of Erin Graham, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Erin Graham
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J  (Online Only)
Erin has experience helping individuals and couples with an array of problems, some of which include; anxiety, depression, eating disorders and Acquired Brain Injury.
Erin has over 17 years of experience working in all areas of the health care system, where she has acquired the skills for helping people get through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Erin has extensive knowledge of and uses evidence based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. She guides her clients on their path to recovery, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives. Erin assists clients in developing coping strategies, personalized and unique to their situation, and walks along side them in their journey to recovery. Erin also offers Walk N Talk therapy.
Erin has experience helping individuals and couples with an array of problems, some of which include; anxiety, depression, eating disorders and Acquired Brain Injury.
Erin has over 17 years of experience working in all areas of the health care system, where she has acquired the skills for helping people get through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Erin has extensive knowledge of and uses evidence based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. She guides her clients on their path to recovery, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives. Erin assists clients in developing coping strategies, personalized and unique to their situation, and walks along side them in their journey to recovery. Erin also offers Walk N Talk therapy.
(226) 782-4338 View (226) 782-4338
Photo of Marc Blainey, PhD, Registered Psychotherapist
Marc Blainey
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
Marc is a cultural anthropologist, psychotherapist, and chaplain who provides professional counseling for people of all faiths and people of no faith. Marc is ready to work with you in-person or online on the challenges of being human. Having earned a Ph.D. based on anthropological fieldwork across Europe, North America, and Latin America, Marc maintains respect for different cultural ways of knowing. He compassionately helps clients identity, explore, and address some of the most difficult problems of human existence, including issues of Meaning, Grief/Loss, Mood (anxiety, depression), Addiction, Eating Disorders, and Trauma.
Marc is a cultural anthropologist, psychotherapist, and chaplain who provides professional counseling for people of all faiths and people of no faith. Marc is ready to work with you in-person or online on the challenges of being human. Having earned a Ph.D. based on anthropological fieldwork across Europe, North America, and Latin America, Marc maintains respect for different cultural ways of knowing. He compassionately helps clients identity, explore, and address some of the most difficult problems of human existence, including issues of Meaning, Grief/Loss, Mood (anxiety, depression), Addiction, Eating Disorders, and Trauma.
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Photo of Crina Fantanaru, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Crina Fantanaru
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2T
What do you need, and what stands in the way? We can figure it all out together. With 25+ years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals heal and discover effective therapy tools. My expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addictions, relationship issues, work-related stress, grief, negative body image, and eating disorders. Having worked extensively with military, law enforcement, and CAS, I offer therapy for uniformed personnel, first responders, CAS workers, and their families. I provide coaching to help clients achieve their life and career goals with regular check-ins to maintain motivativation.
What do you need, and what stands in the way? We can figure it all out together. With 25+ years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals heal and discover effective therapy tools. My expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addictions, relationship issues, work-related stress, grief, negative body image, and eating disorders. Having worked extensively with military, law enforcement, and CAS, I offer therapy for uniformed personnel, first responders, CAS workers, and their families. I provide coaching to help clients achieve their life and career goals with regular check-ins to maintain motivativation.
(226) 796-6703 View (226) 796-6703
Photo of Theresa Will, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Theresa Will
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I’ve supported clients extensively in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, substance issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, emotion regulation challenges, anger management, self-esteem, teen issues, stress management, and more.
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
I’ve supported clients extensively in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, substance issues, eating disorders, relationship issues, emotion regulation challenges, anger management, self-esteem, teen issues, stress management, and more.
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
(226) 400-8579 View (226) 400-8579
Photo of Carley Ross, RN, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Carley Ross
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2T  (Online Only)
I have experience in helping women embrace and accept their bodies, address eating disorders, and develop self-compassion.
Are you feeling alone in what you are going through right now? If you are like most women I support, you are looking for someone who understands and offers compassion and zero judgement. You might be a parent, or someone facing struggles associated with chronic stress, past trauma, or challenges with mood. You might be looking for support with new coping strategies, or just someone to talk to who can understand the challenges you are facing. Life can be hard, and I can offer a soft place to explore yourself, your challenges, and your pursuit to wellbeing.
I have experience in helping women embrace and accept their bodies, address eating disorders, and develop self-compassion.
Are you feeling alone in what you are going through right now? If you are like most women I support, you are looking for someone who understands and offers compassion and zero judgement. You might be a parent, or someone facing struggles associated with chronic stress, past trauma, or challenges with mood. You might be looking for support with new coping strategies, or just someone to talk to who can understand the challenges you are facing. Life can be hard, and I can offer a soft place to explore yourself, your challenges, and your pursuit to wellbeing.
(289) 723-1935 View (289) 723-1935
Photo of Leanne Sawchuk, DipTIRP, BA, RP, CTIC, Registered Psychotherapist
Leanne Sawchuk
Registered Psychotherapist, DipTIRP, BA, RP, CTIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2V
Life can be overwhelming at times and it often takes courage and bravery to open the door to something new and to something different. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected or maybe you need to better understand and work through what is happening in your life right now. I specialize in supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety and self-esteem, addictions, relationship issues, and trauma. Together we will explore what is happening for you interpersonally and relationally, while making sense of the feelings, thoughts, and behaviours that are holding you back or causing you emotional pain.
Life can be overwhelming at times and it often takes courage and bravery to open the door to something new and to something different. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected or maybe you need to better understand and work through what is happening in your life right now. I specialize in supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety and self-esteem, addictions, relationship issues, and trauma. Together we will explore what is happening for you interpersonally and relationally, while making sense of the feelings, thoughts, and behaviours that are holding you back or causing you emotional pain.
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Photo of Dana Rourke, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Dana Rourke
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2K
With a background in yoga, conflict resolution/mediation, restorative justice, anger management, eating disorders, and holistic modalities, I bring a unique and ecclectic array of experiences and knowledge to the therapeutic relationship.
I believe deeply in the transformative power of a non-judgemental space where all of you is welcome. In the past, you may have made the wise choice to separate from who you were to create safety. In the present, this fragmentation can give rise to anxiety, depression, disordered eating, aggression/anger, and an overall feeling of being lost and purposeless—all contributing to difficulty in everyday life. I see my role as a compassionate companion, walking along side clients on their journey back home to their authentic self, by supporting their innate capacity for growth and change.
With a background in yoga, conflict resolution/mediation, restorative justice, anger management, eating disorders, and holistic modalities, I bring a unique and ecclectic array of experiences and knowledge to the therapeutic relationship.
I believe deeply in the transformative power of a non-judgemental space where all of you is welcome. In the past, you may have made the wise choice to separate from who you were to create safety. In the present, this fragmentation can give rise to anxiety, depression, disordered eating, aggression/anger, and an overall feeling of being lost and purposeless—all contributing to difficulty in everyday life. I see my role as a compassionate companion, walking along side clients on their journey back home to their authentic self, by supporting their innate capacity for growth and change.
(548) 798-0093 View (548) 798-0093
Photo of Lisa Kellerman, MSW, RSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Kellerman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
I have over 20 years of experience working with children, youth & families and work with clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, suicidal ideation and self-harm, interpersonal relationship difficulties, eating disorders, addictions & mood disturbances.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). I hold Masters of Social Work Degree from Wilfred Laurier University, a Bachelors of Social Work degree from McMaster University, a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from the University of Waterloo as well as a diploma of Child and Youth Work from Niagara College. In addition, I have completed trainings and courses in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and is continuing education in Clinical Behavioural Sciences.
I have over 20 years of experience working with children, youth & families and work with clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, suicidal ideation and self-harm, interpersonal relationship difficulties, eating disorders, addictions & mood disturbances.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). I hold Masters of Social Work Degree from Wilfred Laurier University, a Bachelors of Social Work degree from McMaster University, a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from the University of Waterloo as well as a diploma of Child and Youth Work from Niagara College. In addition, I have completed trainings and courses in Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and is continuing education in Clinical Behavioural Sciences.
(548) 708-5412 View (548) 708-5412
Photo of Amanda Snyder, MSW, RSW, BSc, Registered Social Worker
Amanda Snyder
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSc
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
As a psychotherapist and RSW, I specialize in supporting people with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
Hey, I’m Amanda! :) I know life can feel overwhelming sometimes—whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or something from your past weighing you down. You might be feeling stuck or unsure of where to turn next. If that sounds familiar, I want you to know that I’m here to help. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood, so together, we can work through the challenges you’re facing. Healing is possible, and I’d be honored to walk that journey with you.
As a psychotherapist and RSW, I specialize in supporting people with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
Hey, I’m Amanda! :) I know life can feel overwhelming sometimes—whether it’s anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or something from your past weighing you down. You might be feeling stuck or unsure of where to turn next. If that sounds familiar, I want you to know that I’m here to help. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood, so together, we can work through the challenges you’re facing. Healing is possible, and I’d be honored to walk that journey with you.
(226) 271-5980 View (226) 271-5980
Photo of Sandra Tocitu, BSc, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sandra Tocitu
Registered Social Worker, BSc, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Hello and welcome to my page. Clients often seek me out for help with their anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety, panic, family and parenting difficulties, pre-natal and post-partum challenges, domestic violence, addictions, relationship issues and motor vehicle rehabilitation therapy. I have over 10 years experience supporting children and adults in complex mental health and challenging family circumstances. I am certified in Circle of Security Parenting, I provide EMDR Therapy to youth and adults, and i am a member of the Arizona Trauma Institute.
Hello and welcome to my page. Clients often seek me out for help with their anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety, panic, family and parenting difficulties, pre-natal and post-partum challenges, domestic violence, addictions, relationship issues and motor vehicle rehabilitation therapy. I have over 10 years experience supporting children and adults in complex mental health and challenging family circumstances. I am certified in Circle of Security Parenting, I provide EMDR Therapy to youth and adults, and i am a member of the Arizona Trauma Institute.
(548) 490-8665 View (548) 490-8665
Photo of Jun Qi, MEd, CPsych, RPsych, Psychologist
Jun Qi
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych, RPsych
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
I appreciate that seeking help can be intimidating. Many people feel that they suffer alone. People do not realize how common it is to suffer from mental health-related issues. In North America, one in five adults suffer from distress, such as depression, anxiety, and interpersonal problems. Psychotherapy is extremely effective at treating a wide variety of psychological issues. I provide evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative treatment to ensure the quality of care. My approach to psychotherapy incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and emotion-focused therapy (EFT).
I appreciate that seeking help can be intimidating. Many people feel that they suffer alone. People do not realize how common it is to suffer from mental health-related issues. In North America, one in five adults suffer from distress, such as depression, anxiety, and interpersonal problems. Psychotherapy is extremely effective at treating a wide variety of psychological issues. I provide evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative treatment to ensure the quality of care. My approach to psychotherapy incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and emotion-focused therapy (EFT).
(226) 350-7286 View (226) 350-7286
Photo of Shelley Restall, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shelley Restall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2T
I help anxious, perfectionistic, and highly sensitive people transform their relationship with their body to feel calm and confident as they navigate their life forward. You feel exhausted as your mind and body remind you each moment of every day of being consumed with anxiety. Not being understood by those closest to you, has you feeling alone. You may have ideas about what led to this, or maybe it came suddenly and you want to understand why. It’s here and feels fierce as it feels all consuming. You are trapped in your mind, ruminating about what has happened, while you wish it was different. You feel "stuck,” and want a change.
I help anxious, perfectionistic, and highly sensitive people transform their relationship with their body to feel calm and confident as they navigate their life forward. You feel exhausted as your mind and body remind you each moment of every day of being consumed with anxiety. Not being understood by those closest to you, has you feeling alone. You may have ideas about what led to this, or maybe it came suddenly and you want to understand why. It’s here and feels fierce as it feels all consuming. You are trapped in your mind, ruminating about what has happened, while you wish it was different. You feel "stuck,” and want a change.
(226) 778-5349 View (226) 778-5349
Photo of Oriana Evoy, RP, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Oriana Evoy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Many people experience overwhelming emotions, challenges with self-worth, self-compassion, and self-esteem. You are not alone in needing support to explore your emotions, untangle your past, and build coping strategies in support of your healing and growth. You deserve to live a fulfilling life of peace and joy. Therapy will focus on developing strategies, exploring emotions, accessing inner resources, and implementing tools in support of healing, growth, and health.
Many people experience overwhelming emotions, challenges with self-worth, self-compassion, and self-esteem. You are not alone in needing support to explore your emotions, untangle your past, and build coping strategies in support of your healing and growth. You deserve to live a fulfilling life of peace and joy. Therapy will focus on developing strategies, exploring emotions, accessing inner resources, and implementing tools in support of healing, growth, and health.
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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.