Eating Disorders Therapists in Vaughan, ON

Photo of Krishe Kugan - Krishe Kugan | Eating Disorder & Body Image, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Krishe Kugan | Eating Disorder & Body Image
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Online Only
Krishe supports individuals struggling with eating disorders, weight and body image, using evidence-based modalities to help clients build balanced relationships with food, body, and emotions.
Krishe holds a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Windsor and an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from York University. Krishe is committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. Her approach is not about quick fixes but rather about working together to understand what is being carried, uncover patterns, and build a life that feels more in line with your values and sustainable over time.
Krishe supports individuals struggling with eating disorders, weight and body image, using evidence-based modalities to help clients build balanced relationships with food, body, and emotions.
Krishe holds a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Windsor and an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from York University. Krishe is committed to creating a compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapeutic space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. Her approach is not about quick fixes but rather about working together to understand what is being carried, uncover patterns, and build a life that feels more in line with your values and sustainable over time.
(365) 825-4592 View (365) 825-4592
Photo of Flora Svinarenko, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Flora Svinarenko
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience treating people struggling with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, anger management, relationship issues and addictions.
I am a clinical therapist with more than 15 years of experience, working with individuals, couples, families and groups.During my professional career I received advanced training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), Narrative Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Mindfullness and Harm Reduction.
I have extensive experience treating people struggling with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, anger management, relationship issues and addictions.
I am a clinical therapist with more than 15 years of experience, working with individuals, couples, families and groups.During my professional career I received advanced training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), Narrative Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Mindfullness and Harm Reduction.
(855) 274-1840 View (855) 274-1840
Photo of Stephanie DeVries - Eating Disorders, Binge Eating & Bulimia - Steph, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Eating Disorders, Binge Eating & Bulimia - Steph
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Online Only
I work with teens and adults navigating the full range of eating and body-image struggles, from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID to disordered eating, body dissatisfaction, and body dysmorphia, along with the anxiety, perfectionism, and low self-worth that so often sit underneath.
Food and your body can start to feel like a full-time job. Maybe your days are shaped by rules and rituals around eating, by the pull to restrict, or by binge-and-shame cycles that leave you exhausted and alone. Maybe the mirror has become an enemy, or the number on a scale can set the tone for your whole day. Whatever it looks like, the constant noise around food and body takes up space that should belong to your actual life.
I work with teens and adults navigating the full range of eating and body-image struggles, from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID to disordered eating, body dissatisfaction, and body dysmorphia, along with the anxiety, perfectionism, and low self-worth that so often sit underneath.
Food and your body can start to feel like a full-time job. Maybe your days are shaped by rules and rituals around eating, by the pull to restrict, or by binge-and-shame cycles that leave you exhausted and alone. Maybe the mirror has become an enemy, or the number on a scale can set the tone for your whole day. Whatever it looks like, the constant noise around food and body takes up space that should belong to your actual life.
(289) 513-6743 View (289) 513-6743
Photo of Frances D'Amato, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Frances D'Amato
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Online Only
I offer services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families for a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, sexual abuse, poor body image, eating disorders, addictions, low self-esteem, loss and grief and other mental health concerns.
It is my responsibility to attentively listen to you in a non-judgmental way and provide time and a safe space for them as they share their thoughts, perceptions, feelings and experiences with me. I believe that each person has strengths and the capacity to make changes in order to improve their overall well-being.
I offer services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families for a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, sexual abuse, poor body image, eating disorders, addictions, low self-esteem, loss and grief and other mental health concerns.
It is my responsibility to attentively listen to you in a non-judgmental way and provide time and a safe space for them as they share their thoughts, perceptions, feelings and experiences with me. I believe that each person has strengths and the capacity to make changes in order to improve their overall well-being.
(905) 936-4747 View (905) 936-4747
Photo of Hannah De Boer - Eating Disorder & Body Image Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Eating Disorder & Body Image Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support teens and adults who feel stuck in patterns of disordered eating, self-criticism, or emotional overwhelm and are seeking a more compassionate and balanced relationship with themselves.
I provide eating disorder and body image therapy virtually across Ontario, offering a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore the underlying factors contributing to these challenges. Many clients I work with experience cycles of restriction, bingeing, body dissatisfaction, perfectionism, or difficulty managing emotions.
I support teens and adults who feel stuck in patterns of disordered eating, self-criticism, or emotional overwhelm and are seeking a more compassionate and balanced relationship with themselves.
I provide eating disorder and body image therapy virtually across Ontario, offering a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore the underlying factors contributing to these challenges. Many clients I work with experience cycles of restriction, bingeing, body dissatisfaction, perfectionism, or difficulty managing emotions.
(289) 536-8987 View (289) 536-8987
Photo of Lindsy Berman - Soulstice Health Inc., Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT
Soulstice Health Inc.
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT
Online Only
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
(647) 564-5872 View (647) 564-5872
Photo of Fatmah Jahim, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MEd
Fatmah Jahim
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MEd
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
My areas of focus: Depression, Anxiety & Stress, Trauma/PTSD, Relationship issues, Disordered Eating, Health Anxiety
I believe that therapy is the space where healing begins. When we feel genuinely heard, seen, and safe, we can start to unravel our emotions and experiences. I approach therapy with the belief that change comes from the trust we create together. As an Arab-Canadian parent, I understand how to balance cultural roots with personal growth, while also navigating the stigma that comes with diverse identities. My goal is to help you uncover and recognize the strengths within you, even when they might feel hidden or hard to see. Together, we’ll realize those strengths, guiding you toward growth and resilience.
My areas of focus: Depression, Anxiety & Stress, Trauma/PTSD, Relationship issues, Disordered Eating, Health Anxiety
I believe that therapy is the space where healing begins. When we feel genuinely heard, seen, and safe, we can start to unravel our emotions and experiences. I approach therapy with the belief that change comes from the trust we create together. As an Arab-Canadian parent, I understand how to balance cultural roots with personal growth, while also navigating the stigma that comes with diverse identities. My goal is to help you uncover and recognize the strengths within you, even when they might feel hidden or hard to see. Together, we’ll realize those strengths, guiding you toward growth and resilience.
(437) 291-6294 View (437) 291-6294
Photo of Chantal Fournier - Atlas Therapy - Windsor, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, OAMHP
Atlas Therapy - Windsor
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, OAMHP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving us feeling lost and unsure of how to move forward. But you don't have to face them alone. Our compassionate team of experienced therapists is here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-worth or any other life obstacle, we offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. Our experienced therapists are trained in a range of approaches including CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, IFS, Emotion-Focused Therapy and Brainspotting.
Life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving us feeling lost and unsure of how to move forward. But you don't have to face them alone. Our compassionate team of experienced therapists is here to support you on your journey toward healing and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-worth or any other life obstacle, we offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. Our experienced therapists are trained in a range of approaches including CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, IFS, Emotion-Focused Therapy and Brainspotting.
(548) 490-0695 View (548) 490-0695
Photo of Angela Lombardi, Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MACP
Angela Lombardi
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MACP
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
My clients are typically adults struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing tendencies, body image issues, and disordered eating.
Accepting New Clients! - Are you a perfectionist and lowkey afraid to admit it? Are you frustrated with your people pleasing tendencies? I hear you, and I would love to help you work through it all! Taking the first step in seeking therapy is always the hardest and at Karkiu Psychotherapy, we are feeling proud! As your therapist, I strive to create an environment where you feel seen and heard – comfortable to explore your roots through a collaborative and supportive environment. I strive to see the person beyond the problem by recognizing our inherent strengths, talents, and passions as humans to facilitate meaningful change.
My clients are typically adults struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing tendencies, body image issues, and disordered eating.
Accepting New Clients! - Are you a perfectionist and lowkey afraid to admit it? Are you frustrated with your people pleasing tendencies? I hear you, and I would love to help you work through it all! Taking the first step in seeking therapy is always the hardest and at Karkiu Psychotherapy, we are feeling proud! As your therapist, I strive to create an environment where you feel seen and heard – comfortable to explore your roots through a collaborative and supportive environment. I strive to see the person beyond the problem by recognizing our inherent strengths, talents, and passions as humans to facilitate meaningful change.
(289) 536-4252 View (289) 536-4252
Photo of Serena Muraca, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Serena Muraca
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Online Only
I help individuals who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained, even when they appear to be functioning well on the outside. Many are navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, and feel unsure how to move forward or make sense of what they're experiencing. They often seek a supportive, non-judgemental space to slow down, feel heard, and better understand their emotions and patterns. Their goal is not just to cope, but to build clarity, self-compassion, and a steadier relationship with themselves so they can move through life with confidence and balance.
I help individuals who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained, even when they appear to be functioning well on the outside. Many are navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, or major life transitions, and feel unsure how to move forward or make sense of what they're experiencing. They often seek a supportive, non-judgemental space to slow down, feel heard, and better understand their emotions and patterns. Their goal is not just to cope, but to build clarity, self-compassion, and a steadier relationship with themselves so they can move through life with confidence and balance.
(365) 464-5780 View (365) 464-5780
Photo of Andie Toderovitz, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, CCTP
Andie Toderovitz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, CCTP
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Hi, I'm Andie, and I specialize in anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and relationship patterns that keep you feeling stuck.
Do you feel like you're constantly fighting against yourself, managing the weight of anxiety, carrying wounds from the past, or watching the same painful patterns repeat in your relationships? Maybe you're exhausted from overthinking, people-pleasing, and the constant feeling that you're not enough. You don't have to carry this alone. You deserve a safe space that honours your unique story, moving you away from feeling stuck and toward meaningful, lasting change.
Hi, I'm Andie, and I specialize in anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and relationship patterns that keep you feeling stuck.
Do you feel like you're constantly fighting against yourself, managing the weight of anxiety, carrying wounds from the past, or watching the same painful patterns repeat in your relationships? Maybe you're exhausted from overthinking, people-pleasing, and the constant feeling that you're not enough. You don't have to carry this alone. You deserve a safe space that honours your unique story, moving you away from feeling stuck and toward meaningful, lasting change.
(365) 363-0033 x744 View (365) 363-0033 x744
Photo of Anastasiia Puzyrina, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Anastasiia Puzyrina
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Vaughan, ON L4K
Accepting New Clients. You don’t need to be fixed — you need to be met. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are navigating emotional disconnection, relationship complexity, or life transitions. Whether you’re feeling stuck in repeating patterns, quietly overwhelmed, or unsure what’s next, I offer a space to reflect, explore, and reconnect with yourself and with those around you.
Accepting New Clients. You don’t need to be fixed — you need to be met. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are navigating emotional disconnection, relationship complexity, or life transitions. Whether you’re feeling stuck in repeating patterns, quietly overwhelmed, or unsure what’s next, I offer a space to reflect, explore, and reconnect with yourself and with those around you.
(647) 724-2082 View (647) 724-2082
Photo of Amanda Vigna - STAR Holistic Services , Registered Social Worker, MSW
STAR Holistic Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW
5 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
At STAR, our approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand your unique story. We believe healing happens in a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable exploring your emotions, challenges, and hopes for the future. Our team walks alongside you with compassionate listening and practical tools to help navigate life’s ups and downs. We know reaching out can feel vulnerable, so we create a space where you feel welcomed and supported. Our goal is to help you feel more grounded, build insight, heal, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
At STAR, our approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand your unique story. We believe healing happens in a safe, supportive space where you feel comfortable exploring your emotions, challenges, and hopes for the future. Our team walks alongside you with compassionate listening and practical tools to help navigate life’s ups and downs. We know reaching out can feel vulnerable, so we create a space where you feel welcomed and supported. Our goal is to help you feel more grounded, build insight, heal, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
(289) 272-8786 View (289) 272-8786
Photo of Sara Saniee, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Sara Saniee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L6A
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
Are you tired of living in "survival mode"? Either feeling chronically unsettled or inexpressibly low and numb! Perhaps, something feels missing; an emptiness you can’t quite put your finger on! There comes a time when just getting by is not enough and we can no longer hide behind a smile. Change begins when we decide that "waiting for the pain to dissipate" is no longer an option. So what if you could take back control of your life and live unchained by your history? How far would you thrive if you could tailor a life of your own design, uninterrupted by stress, anxiety or pain stories?
(289) 217-0906 View (289) 217-0906
Photo of Michelle Sher, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Michelle Sher
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Vaughan, ON L4K
At times, your way of being is inconsistent with your goals & desires. You may need help understanding your current thoughts & behaviour patterns. Relationships can be tough, Life can be challenging. Your relationships with others, & with yourself effect everything in your life; including the choices you make & how you interact with others. We can all use the support and guidance of someone who will not judge, & will help you find insight, gain clarity, &work with you to discover the perspective and tools you need to move forward &take charge of your life.
At times, your way of being is inconsistent with your goals & desires. You may need help understanding your current thoughts & behaviour patterns. Relationships can be tough, Life can be challenging. Your relationships with others, & with yourself effect everything in your life; including the choices you make & how you interact with others. We can all use the support and guidance of someone who will not judge, & will help you find insight, gain clarity, &work with you to discover the perspective and tools you need to move forward &take charge of your life.
View
Photo of Alessia Ciampa, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA
Alessia Ciampa
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
You’ve been carrying a lot: anxiety, self-doubt, people-pleasing, past hurts, and it’s exhausting. Life can feel overwhelming, like you’re spinning in the same patterns no matter how hard you try. Maybe you want to feel lighter, calmer, and more like yourself. Maybe you’re ready to finally stop overthinking, stop shrinking to make others comfortable, and start understanding what’s been holding you back. Therapy can be a space to pause, explore, and begin creating real, lasting change. "When things change inside you, things change around you."
You’ve been carrying a lot: anxiety, self-doubt, people-pleasing, past hurts, and it’s exhausting. Life can feel overwhelming, like you’re spinning in the same patterns no matter how hard you try. Maybe you want to feel lighter, calmer, and more like yourself. Maybe you’re ready to finally stop overthinking, stop shrinking to make others comfortable, and start understanding what’s been holding you back. Therapy can be a space to pause, explore, and begin creating real, lasting change. "When things change inside you, things change around you."
(289) 216-6954 View (289) 216-6954
Photo of Edna Bonsu - Edna Bonsu - Registered Nurse Psychotherapist, RN, BScN, MN, CPMHNc
Edna Bonsu - Registered Nurse Psychotherapist
RN, BScN, MN, CPMHNc
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
You heal most in therapy when you feel seen, safe and understood. When the relationship feels real, not just with techniques and worksheets. That’s why the relationship between you and your therapist matters so much. I’m not just here with credentials... I get what it’s like to look strong on the outside while feeling like you’re falling apart inside.
You heal most in therapy when you feel seen, safe and understood. When the relationship feels real, not just with techniques and worksheets. That’s why the relationship between you and your therapist matters so much. I’m not just here with credentials... I get what it’s like to look strong on the outside while feeling like you’re falling apart inside.
(647) 717-3415 View (647) 717-3415
Photo of Shannon Robinson, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Shannon Robinson
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Vaughan, ON L4K
We specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shyness/self-esteem issues, perfectionism, prenatal/ postpartum disorders, eating disorders/body image concerns, self-harming behavior, interpersonal difficulties, parenting issues, and personality disorders.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
We specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shyness/self-esteem issues, perfectionism, prenatal/ postpartum disorders, eating disorders/body image concerns, self-harming behavior, interpersonal difficulties, parenting issues, and personality disorders.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
(647) 931-5010 View (647) 931-5010
Photo of Dr. Eyal Bodenstein, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Eyal Bodenstein
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Vaughan, ON L4K
You may be feeling overwhelmed, distressed, or stuck—emotionally, cognitively, or functionally. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, sleep difficulties, or the psychological effects of a motor vehicle or work-related accident. Some individuals seek clarity through assessment, while others are looking for practical, evidence-based treatment to help them regain stability, confidence, and functioning in daily life, work, or relationships.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, distressed, or stuck—emotionally, cognitively, or functionally. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, sleep difficulties, or the psychological effects of a motor vehicle or work-related accident. Some individuals seek clarity through assessment, while others are looking for practical, evidence-based treatment to help them regain stability, confidence, and functioning in daily life, work, or relationships.
(844) 402-1302 View (844) 402-1302
Photo of Jamie Alexandra Tjeng, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jamie Alexandra Tjeng
Pre-Licensed Professional
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Sometimes life feels heavy, messy, or confusing and reaching out for support can be the hardest step. You don’t have to go through it alone. I work with teens, young adults, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, relationship challenges, low self-worth, addictions, or feeling stuck in old patterns. I also support clients exploring neurodiversity, grief, career transitions, and identity or cultural questions. Connection is central to growth. Therapy is a space where you can be seen, heard, and understood.
Sometimes life feels heavy, messy, or confusing and reaching out for support can be the hardest step. You don’t have to go through it alone. I work with teens, young adults, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, stress, relationship challenges, low self-worth, addictions, or feeling stuck in old patterns. I also support clients exploring neurodiversity, grief, career transitions, and identity or cultural questions. Connection is central to growth. Therapy is a space where you can be seen, heard, and understood.
(365) 363-0823 x731 View (365) 363-0823 x731

See more therapy options for Vaughan

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.