Photo of Tinaz Chinoy, PhD, Psychologist
Tinaz Chinoy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I am specialized in treating the Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia), as well as the difficulties associated with poor body image, weight gain/loss, emotional eating and dieting/overeating cycles.
As clinical psychologist trained at McGill, I have had the pleasure of helping individuals struggling with a host of emotional difficulties including the Eating Disorders, Depression, and Anxiety, for the past 26 years. In my capacity as part-time staff psychologist at the MUHC on the Mood Disorders Team, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals deal with the onset of depression, bipolar disorder and dysthymia in psychotherapy, and as such, can offer the same expertise in my private practice. I have enjoyed my work in both individual and couple therapy within the Montreal and West Island community.
I am specialized in treating the Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia), as well as the difficulties associated with poor body image, weight gain/loss, emotional eating and dieting/overeating cycles.
As clinical psychologist trained at McGill, I have had the pleasure of helping individuals struggling with a host of emotional difficulties including the Eating Disorders, Depression, and Anxiety, for the past 26 years. In my capacity as part-time staff psychologist at the MUHC on the Mood Disorders Team, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals deal with the onset of depression, bipolar disorder and dysthymia in psychotherapy, and as such, can offer the same expertise in my private practice. I have enjoyed my work in both individual and couple therapy within the Montreal and West Island community.
(855) 236-4138 View (855) 236-4138
Photo of Dr. Ken Bruce, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ken Bruce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H2J
Bonjour/Hello, and welcome to my PT Therapy Directory profile page. I am a PhD clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience - and a member of the Ordre des psychologues du Québec. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression (or loss of a loved one), eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder), and individuals or couples with relationship difficulties. I believe in building a collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients, and in using scientifically-proven therapy practices to get the best results. I can help if you would like to talk about the difficulties you or your loved ones are facing.
Bonjour/Hello, and welcome to my PT Therapy Directory profile page. I am a PhD clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience - and a member of the Ordre des psychologues du Québec. I help people with anxiety, stress, depression (or loss of a loved one), eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder), and individuals or couples with relationship difficulties. I believe in building a collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients, and in using scientifically-proven therapy practices to get the best results. I can help if you would like to talk about the difficulties you or your loved ones are facing.
(438) 500-8252 View (438) 500-8252
Photo of Tania Karine Lemoine, PsyD, MSSW, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tania Karine Lemoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, MSSW, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H3G  (Online Only)
For over 25 years I have had the priviledge of working with passion in the field of eating disorders.
Are you, or a loved one, suffering from disordered eating? Is your relationship with food and body image getting in the way of the life that you want? Are you feeling powerless, dicouraged or scared at the idea of breaking the vicious cycle that has been at the center of your life for too long? Are you feeling ambivalent about change, and would like a safe place to share your thoughts and emotions with an experienced therapist? You are not alone. Despite the challenging journey, full recovery is possible. Seeking professional help towards recovery and wellnes is well worth it.
For over 25 years I have had the priviledge of working with passion in the field of eating disorders.
Are you, or a loved one, suffering from disordered eating? Is your relationship with food and body image getting in the way of the life that you want? Are you feeling powerless, dicouraged or scared at the idea of breaking the vicious cycle that has been at the center of your life for too long? Are you feeling ambivalent about change, and would like a safe place to share your thoughts and emotions with an experienced therapist? You are not alone. Despite the challenging journey, full recovery is possible. Seeking professional help towards recovery and wellnes is well worth it.
(450) 600-6790 View (450) 600-6790
Photo of Dr. Lara Kalaf, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lara Kalaf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H2Y
I am dedicated to empowering individuals suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, grief, acculturation difficulties, or eating disorders by helping them look past their life stressors and regain vitality, self-esteem, and purpose in life.
I am trained to help adults, children, adolescents, men, women, families, and professionals better cope with a wide variety of emotional, relational and personal challenges. If you are feeling overwhelmed, out-of touch with yourself or generally unhappy and enjoy a genuine conversation with another person willing to reach out to help, than I believe we would be a good fit. I developed an eclectic and culturally sensitive approach to therapy, heavily influenced by humanistic/existential, positive psychology, CBT, and expressive art therapy.
I am dedicated to empowering individuals suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, grief, acculturation difficulties, or eating disorders by helping them look past their life stressors and regain vitality, self-esteem, and purpose in life.
I am trained to help adults, children, adolescents, men, women, families, and professionals better cope with a wide variety of emotional, relational and personal challenges. If you are feeling overwhelmed, out-of touch with yourself or generally unhappy and enjoy a genuine conversation with another person willing to reach out to help, than I believe we would be a good fit. I developed an eclectic and culturally sensitive approach to therapy, heavily influenced by humanistic/existential, positive psychology, CBT, and expressive art therapy.
(438) 600-1622 View (438) 600-1622
Photo of Eliane Nevares, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Eliane Nevares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Westmount, QC H3Z  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of populations including those suffering from eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, and the impacts of trauma. Additionally, I can support you as you navigate inter-personal relationships, life transitions, grief and loss, and the hurdles that might accompany these challenges. With formal training in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I bring a variety of approaches to my work.
I work with a variety of populations including those suffering from eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, and the impacts of trauma. Additionally, I can support you as you navigate inter-personal relationships, life transitions, grief and loss, and the hurdles that might accompany these challenges. With formal training in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing, I bring a variety of approaches to my work.
(902) 201-3172 View (902) 201-3172
Photo of Raphael.e Gagné, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Raphael.e Gagné
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3Z
I am queer, neurodivergent and a parent. I have 13 years of clinical experience in psychiatric, addictions, relational and childhood trauma and community work. My first language is English. I work to help people integrate their thoughts, emotions, somatic experiences and stories of empowerment so they can make sense of the world during these difficult times. I have worked with issues such as Depression, Stress Management, CPTSD, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Eating Disorders, Addictions, BPD and PTSD. I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Psychiatry must be deconstructed for us to find our true potential.
I am queer, neurodivergent and a parent. I have 13 years of clinical experience in psychiatric, addictions, relational and childhood trauma and community work. My first language is English. I work to help people integrate their thoughts, emotions, somatic experiences and stories of empowerment so they can make sense of the world during these difficult times. I have worked with issues such as Depression, Stress Management, CPTSD, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Eating Disorders, Addictions, BPD and PTSD. I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Psychiatry must be deconstructed for us to find our true potential.
(438) 794-9457 View (438) 794-9457
Photo of Dr. Tania Viviani, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tania Viviani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3S
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Psychologist working with youth who are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, self-injury, eating disorders, school-related issues, behavioural difficulties and overall stress management. I offer therapy to individuals in need of coping tools, support and guidance. As of June 2024, I will be conducting psychological assessments for youth exhibiting academic, behavioral and/or social-emotional difficulties.
I am a licensed Psychologist working with youth who are struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, self-injury, eating disorders, school-related issues, behavioural difficulties and overall stress management. I offer therapy to individuals in need of coping tools, support and guidance. As of June 2024, I will be conducting psychological assessments for youth exhibiting academic, behavioral and/or social-emotional difficulties.
(438) 834-6993 View (438) 834-6993
Photo of undefined - Montreal Center for Anxiety and Depression, MEd, Counsellor
Montreal Center for Anxiety and Depression
Counsellor, MEd
Verified Verified
Research has shown this type of therapy to be highly effective with · Anxiety · Fear of the Unknown · Depression · Panic Attacks · Relationship Issues · Stress Management · Eating Disorders · Social Anxiety/Shyness · Phobias · Insomnia · Codependency, Intimacy issues and more.
We all need support, particularly when depressed, anxious or confused about our situation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with an eclectic approach concentrates on what can be done about these problems TODAY. It is a directive treatment approach that teaches the skills necessary to cope. The Montreal Center for Anxiety and Depression's mission is to create a warm, supportive environment to explore your concerns and discover what blocks exist which limit your potential. We specialize in therapy for adults, children, couples, families, and are proud to maintain a 95 percent success rate. Watch our video to meet our team www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm9bgEt5VeA
Research has shown this type of therapy to be highly effective with · Anxiety · Fear of the Unknown · Depression · Panic Attacks · Relationship Issues · Stress Management · Eating Disorders · Social Anxiety/Shyness · Phobias · Insomnia · Codependency, Intimacy issues and more.
We all need support, particularly when depressed, anxious or confused about our situation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with an eclectic approach concentrates on what can be done about these problems TODAY. It is a directive treatment approach that teaches the skills necessary to cope. The Montreal Center for Anxiety and Depression's mission is to create a warm, supportive environment to explore your concerns and discover what blocks exist which limit your potential. We specialize in therapy for adults, children, couples, families, and are proud to maintain a 95 percent success rate. Watch our video to meet our team www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm9bgEt5VeA
(438) 600-3269 View (438) 600-3269
Photo of Matt LACOSTE, PhD, MA, IAEDP, Psychologist
Matt LACOSTE
Psychologist, PhD, MA, IAEDP
Verified Verified
Laval, QC H7T  (Online Only)
Specialized in eating disorders and Sport psychology, I treat depression, anxiety and stress, burnout, sexuality issue, couple and parenting issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sophrology, Mindfulness therapy, Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Rorschach Test. Licensed in Quebec (OPQ) and in Ontario (CPO).
Specialized in eating disorders and Sport psychology, I treat depression, anxiety and stress, burnout, sexuality issue, couple and parenting issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sophrology, Mindfulness therapy, Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Rorschach Test. Licensed in Quebec (OPQ) and in Ontario (CPO).
(438) 801-0066 View (438) 801-0066
Photo of Patricia Ivan, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Ivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4A
Patricia is an experienced individual and marital/family therapist. She is a sensitive and caring person with exceptional listening skills, depth of intellect and moral objectivity. Clients appreciate her ability to tap into their resources, and they frequently return at different stages of their lives. Patricia counsels people with a variety of psychological and interpersonal issues: work, life, relationship conflict or transitions, anxiety/depression, burnout, loss, separation, divorce, eating disorders, existential and spiritual crises. She is approachable and non-judgmental.
Patricia is an experienced individual and marital/family therapist. She is a sensitive and caring person with exceptional listening skills, depth of intellect and moral objectivity. Clients appreciate her ability to tap into their resources, and they frequently return at different stages of their lives. Patricia counsels people with a variety of psychological and interpersonal issues: work, life, relationship conflict or transitions, anxiety/depression, burnout, loss, separation, divorce, eating disorders, existential and spiritual crises. She is approachable and non-judgmental.
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Photo of Ali Kirstein, MA, MFT, RDT, Counsellor
Ali Kirstein
Counsellor, MA, MFT, RDT
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4A
I have been working to help my clients overcome difficulties and challenges in private practice as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Creative Arts Therapist since 2004. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in a supportive and strength based framework, helping my clients identify and work through whatever may be holding them back from manifesting their best self. I have treated clients with issues related to/stemming from: Depression, Anxiety, Self-mutilative behaviours, Bullying/social marginalization, Eating Disorders, Sexuality, Adjustment Disorders, Family Life Cycle Events, Divorce, Trauma, Illness / grief. Additionally I am trained in EMDR and employ this modality when applicable.
I have been working to help my clients overcome difficulties and challenges in private practice as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Creative Arts Therapist since 2004. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families in a supportive and strength based framework, helping my clients identify and work through whatever may be holding them back from manifesting their best self. I have treated clients with issues related to/stemming from: Depression, Anxiety, Self-mutilative behaviours, Bullying/social marginalization, Eating Disorders, Sexuality, Adjustment Disorders, Family Life Cycle Events, Divorce, Trauma, Illness / grief. Additionally I am trained in EMDR and employ this modality when applicable.
(514) 613-7315 View (514) 613-7315
Photo of Stephane Bensoussan, MA, BSc, Psychologist
Stephane Bensoussan
Psychologist, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
I have received extensive training in helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, eating disorders, obesity, cancer and parenting.
I offer integrative psychotherapy to adults, children-teens, couples and athletes. I have 26 years of experience as a clinical psychologist. I take the time to really get to know you well, via our comprehensive assessment process. Already after your first visit, you will understand the issues that you need to heal and you will be given specific proven tools that will help you feel better quickly. I work with a team of mental health professionals at our clinic. It would be a pleasure to speak to you and support you on your healing process. Call today for a risk-free, no-charge phone or in person consultation!
I have received extensive training in helping people with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, eating disorders, obesity, cancer and parenting.
I offer integrative psychotherapy to adults, children-teens, couples and athletes. I have 26 years of experience as a clinical psychologist. I take the time to really get to know you well, via our comprehensive assessment process. Already after your first visit, you will understand the issues that you need to heal and you will be given specific proven tools that will help you feel better quickly. I work with a team of mental health professionals at our clinic. It would be a pleasure to speak to you and support you on your healing process. Call today for a risk-free, no-charge phone or in person consultation!
(438) 834-7601 View (438) 834-7601
Photo of Laura A Schleifer, PhD, Psychologist
Laura A Schleifer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4A
While I am well versed in treating general concerns such as depression and anxiety, my particular areas of expertise include infertility, reproduction-related mood changes (including post-partum, premenstrual and menopausal mood changes), substance abuse, eating disorders/weight loss, sex therapy (including dyspareunia, or painful intercourse), and interpersonal difficulties/self-esteem.
We, as human beings, all face difficult times during our lives. These phases can leave us feeling out of control and isolated. The simple act of choosing change in your life can help you to feel empowered and on a path to a greater sense of well-being. As an integrative therapist (using cognitive behavioral, supportive, interpersonal and existential techniques), I will first help you to define your goals and then support you as you work towards achieving them. Using those techniques that best suit your particular needs and styles, we will effectively create a New Therapy tailored specifically for you.
While I am well versed in treating general concerns such as depression and anxiety, my particular areas of expertise include infertility, reproduction-related mood changes (including post-partum, premenstrual and menopausal mood changes), substance abuse, eating disorders/weight loss, sex therapy (including dyspareunia, or painful intercourse), and interpersonal difficulties/self-esteem.
We, as human beings, all face difficult times during our lives. These phases can leave us feeling out of control and isolated. The simple act of choosing change in your life can help you to feel empowered and on a path to a greater sense of well-being. As an integrative therapist (using cognitive behavioral, supportive, interpersonal and existential techniques), I will first help you to define your goals and then support you as you work towards achieving them. Using those techniques that best suit your particular needs and styles, we will effectively create a New Therapy tailored specifically for you.
(855) 719-0099 View (855) 719-0099
Photo of Dr. Krista Pratte, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Krista Pratte
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3Z
I specialize in anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), mood disorders, binge eating disorders, bariatric surgery and related body image issues.
Best reached by Email. For more info please visit: www.avenuepsy.com. Feeling anxious, depressed, lost? Feeling a sense of loss of control and having difficulty understanding the factors responsible for these feelings? I am a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist, member of the Ordre des Psychologues du Québec(OPQ). I offer an open inviting and non-judgmental space that aims to unpack and make sense of each individuals pain and suffering in order to foster significant lasting change.
I specialize in anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), mood disorders, binge eating disorders, bariatric surgery and related body image issues.
Best reached by Email. For more info please visit: www.avenuepsy.com. Feeling anxious, depressed, lost? Feeling a sense of loss of control and having difficulty understanding the factors responsible for these feelings? I am a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist, member of the Ordre des Psychologues du Québec(OPQ). I offer an open inviting and non-judgmental space that aims to unpack and make sense of each individuals pain and suffering in order to foster significant lasting change.
(438) 806-0495 View (438) 806-0495
Photo of Jennifer Persmann, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Persmann
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Westmount, QC H3Z  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents (16+) struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships, addictions, sexuality and chronic illness. My clients tell me that therapy works best for them when we take the time to develop a trusting professional relationship in which it becomes possible for us to understand and explore more deeply the inner conflicts, feelings, patterns and obstacles that are causing pain and holding them back. I offer a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space. My clinical approach draws primarily from psychoanalytic psychotherapy, but I also integrate research and training in CBT, mindfulness and family systems theory.
I specialize in treating adults and adolescents (16+) struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationships, addictions, sexuality and chronic illness. My clients tell me that therapy works best for them when we take the time to develop a trusting professional relationship in which it becomes possible for us to understand and explore more deeply the inner conflicts, feelings, patterns and obstacles that are causing pain and holding them back. I offer a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space. My clinical approach draws primarily from psychoanalytic psychotherapy, but I also integrate research and training in CBT, mindfulness and family systems theory.
(514) 613-3750 View (514) 613-3750
Photo of undefined - Dr Malak Psychology Group, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr Malak Psychology Group
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmount, QC H3Y  (Online Only)
We're here to help. We are a small team of highly specialized and skilled Ph.D./Psyc.D. level psychologists. We offer support to adolescents, adults (including seniors), couples and families. We have extensive experience and expertise dealing with various mental health concerns including: anxiety, depression, anger, alcohol and substance misuse, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, relationship problems, low self-esteem and feeling lost or lacking in life meaning.
We're here to help. We are a small team of highly specialized and skilled Ph.D./Psyc.D. level psychologists. We offer support to adolescents, adults (including seniors), couples and families. We have extensive experience and expertise dealing with various mental health concerns including: anxiety, depression, anger, alcohol and substance misuse, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, relationship problems, low self-esteem and feeling lost or lacking in life meaning.
(289) 302-6967 View (289) 302-6967
Photo of undefined - Healing Tree Psychology and Wellness Centre, OPQ, Psychologist
Healing Tree Psychology and Wellness Centre
Psychologist, OPQ
Verified Verified
Kirkland, QC H9H
Many of our clients are struggling with multiple issues - depression, anxiety, relationship problems, overeating - and often feel like everything is wrong and don't know why. Some have tried therapy before, but either didn't feel understood, or the work didn't lead to lasting change. If you see yourself in any of the following, we can help: have trouble forming or keeping relationships; stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns; feel burned out, running on empty, and can never quite seem to catch up; feel as though everyone else comes first; worry constantly about the stresses of life; can't seem to slow down and relax; constant feelings of panic or anxiety; self-sabotaging or self-destructive behaviour; feel disconnected from yourself or others; feelings of being numb; struggle with emotional eating and poor body image; low self-esteem or lack of confidence; victim of abuse or neglect, in childhood or adulthood. Our clients may struggle with any of these issues, among others, but all have one thing in common: they are ready to do the real work of healing the source of their suffering.
Many of our clients are struggling with multiple issues - depression, anxiety, relationship problems, overeating - and often feel like everything is wrong and don't know why. Some have tried therapy before, but either didn't feel understood, or the work didn't lead to lasting change. If you see yourself in any of the following, we can help: have trouble forming or keeping relationships; stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns; feel burned out, running on empty, and can never quite seem to catch up; feel as though everyone else comes first; worry constantly about the stresses of life; can't seem to slow down and relax; constant feelings of panic or anxiety; self-sabotaging or self-destructive behaviour; feel disconnected from yourself or others; feelings of being numb; struggle with emotional eating and poor body image; low self-esteem or lack of confidence; victim of abuse or neglect, in childhood or adulthood. Our clients may struggle with any of these issues, among others, but all have one thing in common: they are ready to do the real work of healing the source of their suffering.
(514) 700-2781 View (514) 700-2781
Photo of Mariateresa Volpe, PhD, Psychologist
Mariateresa Volpe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3S
Sometimes we only need to be listened by a third objective party, other times we need to brainstorm and problem solve. In any case, I am here without prejudice to guide you through your journey.
Sometimes we only need to be listened by a third objective party, other times we need to brainstorm and problem solve. In any case, I am here without prejudice to guide you through your journey.
(450) 809-5839 View (450) 809-5839
Photo of Stephanie Curti - Accepting New Clients, BA, BSW, TS, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Curti - Accepting New Clients
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, TS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Do you struggle with feeling like you are constantly in survival mode? Do you feel like you somehow manage to get through your day to day but are constantly feeling exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Do you sometimes feel that you do not know who you are outside of your daily responsibilities? Do you feel like you are unable to cope or use unhealthy coping skills to get by? Do you wish that you can go from surviving to actually living? If you have answered yes to one or more of these questions, you are one of the many people whom, in today’s society, struggle to find healthy balance.
Do you struggle with feeling like you are constantly in survival mode? Do you feel like you somehow manage to get through your day to day but are constantly feeling exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Do you sometimes feel that you do not know who you are outside of your daily responsibilities? Do you feel like you are unable to cope or use unhealthy coping skills to get by? Do you wish that you can go from surviving to actually living? If you have answered yes to one or more of these questions, you are one of the many people whom, in today’s society, struggle to find healthy balance.
(438) 500-1763 View (438) 500-1763
Photo of Christie Noua-Tiemani, MSc, MA, BScH, RHN, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Christie Noua-Tiemani
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, MA, BScH, RHN, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H1A  (Online Only)
I believe mental health care is not a one-size fits all. Everyone experiences mental health concerns at some point in life. That experience is different for everybody and care must be personalized with considerations of the wholeness of the person and their circumstances.
I believe mental health care is not a one-size fits all. Everyone experiences mental health concerns at some point in life. That experience is different for everybody and care must be personalized with considerations of the wholeness of the person and their circumstances.
(289) 271-1739 View (289) 271-1739

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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.