Eating Disorders Counselling in Alton

Photo of Colin Chapman, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Colin Chapman
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
I offer individual therapy to anyone that may be experiencing challenges in their life that may include depression, anxiety, abuse, loss, trauma, stress, anger, addictions, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
There may be occasions in our lives when we struggle to make sense of what is happening to us and the world we experience. I provide an opportunity to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences within a relationship that is free of the fears we may hold about disclosing to people we know. I offer a relationship of trust, honesty and openness that allows you to explore your story, thoughts, hopes and fears, in a safe, supportive, confidential place, free of external influences and judgement, providing an opportunity for personal insight and change.
I offer individual therapy to anyone that may be experiencing challenges in their life that may include depression, anxiety, abuse, loss, trauma, stress, anger, addictions, eating disorders and relationship difficulties.
There may be occasions in our lives when we struggle to make sense of what is happening to us and the world we experience. I provide an opportunity to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences within a relationship that is free of the fears we may hold about disclosing to people we know. I offer a relationship of trust, honesty and openness that allows you to explore your story, thoughts, hopes and fears, in a safe, supportive, confidential place, free of external influences and judgement, providing an opportunity for personal insight and change.
0330 058 1998 View 0330 058 1998
Photo of Lisa Jayne Maltby - Lisa Maltby Counselling & Therapy, MA, BACP, Counsellor
Lisa Maltby Counselling & Therapy
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
I work in a very individually tailored way, I believe in the healing potential within each person and my focus is upon building a strong therapy relationship to facilitate support, awareness, insight and personal growth towards changes. I have over 17 years experience working with adolescents, parents and professionals . I work with a number of clients dealing with trauma, anxiety , depression and bereavement and loss . Other issues I work with include relationships, self-esteem, post-natal depression , transition and changes , divorce, separation . Adolescent and young adult issues include body image, eating disorders, depression.
I work in a very individually tailored way, I believe in the healing potential within each person and my focus is upon building a strong therapy relationship to facilitate support, awareness, insight and personal growth towards changes. I have over 17 years experience working with adolescents, parents and professionals . I work with a number of clients dealing with trauma, anxiety , depression and bereavement and loss . Other issues I work with include relationships, self-esteem, post-natal depression , transition and changes , divorce, separation . Adolescent and young adult issues include body image, eating disorders, depression.
07480 535812 View 07480 535812
Photo of Rachel Ilett, MBACP, Counsellor
Rachel Ilett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
I understand that sometimes life can leave us finding it difficult to cope or to make sense of things at a challenging time. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed by emotions such as anger, frustration, anxiety, loneliness, or sadness. Or perhaps you are having difficulty in your day-to-day relationships either at work, with friends, partner or child? Or you may be having difficulty dealing with mental health problems. Maybe you feel stuck or unable to control your negative feelings or there may be something from the past which is bothering you and you feel you would like to explore this further to make sense of where you are now.
I understand that sometimes life can leave us finding it difficult to cope or to make sense of things at a challenging time. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed by emotions such as anger, frustration, anxiety, loneliness, or sadness. Or perhaps you are having difficulty in your day-to-day relationships either at work, with friends, partner or child? Or you may be having difficulty dealing with mental health problems. Maybe you feel stuck or unable to control your negative feelings or there may be something from the past which is bothering you and you feel you would like to explore this further to make sense of where you are now.
01483 967561 View 01483 967561
Photo of Maria Casey, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Maria Casey
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
There are many levels of suffering and life struggles, and I’m fully aware that not everyone has had the comfort of a secure foundation in their earlier years – which is why I’ll always strive to provide a supportive, caring and friendly environment to help you feel at ease. One thing that’s true about therapy are the healing benefits of being able to offload with someone who isn’t involved in the rest of your life. A safe space to talk can relieve the heavy burden of whatever is weighing you down. Your uniqueness will always be valued, and I’ll never underestimate the privilege to hear your life story.
There are many levels of suffering and life struggles, and I’m fully aware that not everyone has had the comfort of a secure foundation in their earlier years – which is why I’ll always strive to provide a supportive, caring and friendly environment to help you feel at ease. One thing that’s true about therapy are the healing benefits of being able to offload with someone who isn’t involved in the rest of your life. A safe space to talk can relieve the heavy burden of whatever is weighing you down. Your uniqueness will always be valued, and I’ll never underestimate the privilege to hear your life story.
01252 414934 View 01252 414934
Photo of Dave Davidson, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Dave Davidson
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
Many people come to therapy needing support but not being sure how therapy can help. Life may have become difficult to cope with or feel unhappily limited. You may be seeking to understand why things are the way they are; you may be uncertain about what changes are needed, or your capacity to make them; perhaps you just need to talk to someone not directly involved in your situation. My approach is designed to meet all of these concerns, beginning with supportive listening, facilitating insight into your situation, and ultimately supporting you to grow and nurture your inner resources to meet the challenges you face.
Many people come to therapy needing support but not being sure how therapy can help. Life may have become difficult to cope with or feel unhappily limited. You may be seeking to understand why things are the way they are; you may be uncertain about what changes are needed, or your capacity to make them; perhaps you just need to talk to someone not directly involved in your situation. My approach is designed to meet all of these concerns, beginning with supportive listening, facilitating insight into your situation, and ultimately supporting you to grow and nurture your inner resources to meet the challenges you face.
07480 802514 View 07480 802514
Photo of Sara Speakes - Sara Speakes SLS Counselling, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Sara Speakes SLS Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
I believe that strength comes from within, and that we all have the ability to change given the right conditions and motivation. Reflection and a better understanding of ourselves in relation to others, are essential tools in making changes however small or large. Everyone is unique and I work on the principle that "you are the expert on you " but at times of distress or difficulty, you may lose sight of this. This is where counselling can help you to achieve a more positive outlook and a greater understanding.
I believe that strength comes from within, and that we all have the ability to change given the right conditions and motivation. Reflection and a better understanding of ourselves in relation to others, are essential tools in making changes however small or large. Everyone is unique and I work on the principle that "you are the expert on you " but at times of distress or difficulty, you may lose sight of this. This is where counselling can help you to achieve a more positive outlook and a greater understanding.
01252 979125 View 01252 979125
Photo of Selene Maher - Selene Maher Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Selene Maher Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Alton GU34
In my experience, people make the decision to come to counselling for many reasons, and I understand that it can feel very daunting to embark on a journey of this kind. I have a number of years experience of working with individuals with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, anger, loss and bereavement, addictive behaviours, as well as family/work/relationship issues. I believe that just being able to talk about your thoughts and feelings can often bring great relief, and this experience can be life changing.
In my experience, people make the decision to come to counselling for many reasons, and I understand that it can feel very daunting to embark on a journey of this kind. I have a number of years experience of working with individuals with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, anger, loss and bereavement, addictive behaviours, as well as family/work/relationship issues. I believe that just being able to talk about your thoughts and feelings can often bring great relief, and this experience can be life changing.
07380 336737 View 07380 336737

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Grant Roberts, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Grant Roberts
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Liphook GU30
My expertise as a psychotherapist caters to clients dealing with body image insecurities, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic and terminal illnesses, OCD & IBS.
Hello, I am an integrative psychotherapist & counsellor specialising in body image insecurities, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief, and chronic and terminal illness. Alongside this I also offer psychology led life coaching to encourage personal and professional growth. Through a safe, empathic and accepting relationship, I hope to help enable you to greater self-acceptance, self awareness and self worth.
My expertise as a psychotherapist caters to clients dealing with body image insecurities, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, chronic and terminal illnesses, OCD & IBS.
Hello, I am an integrative psychotherapist & counsellor specialising in body image insecurities, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief, and chronic and terminal illness. Alongside this I also offer psychology led life coaching to encourage personal and professional growth. Through a safe, empathic and accepting relationship, I hope to help enable you to greater self-acceptance, self awareness and self worth.
01428 770618 View 01428 770618
Photo of Charlotte Ord, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Charlotte Ord
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Farnham GU9
Having spent over a decade working in the health and fitness industry prior to training as a psychologist, I have a particular interest in issues relating to the body, including weight, eating disorders, and body dissatisfaction. I have extensive experience working with people in larger bodies and am an advocate of health at every size and body diversity. I also have a strong interest in LGBTQ+ issues and am experienced in working with clients who struggle with a range of other difficulties including anxiety, depression, loneliness, bereavement and life transitions. I am able to support adults and young people aged sixteen +.
Having spent over a decade working in the health and fitness industry prior to training as a psychologist, I have a particular interest in issues relating to the body, including weight, eating disorders, and body dissatisfaction. I have extensive experience working with people in larger bodies and am an advocate of health at every size and body diversity. I also have a strong interest in LGBTQ+ issues and am experienced in working with clients who struggle with a range of other difficulties including anxiety, depression, loneliness, bereavement and life transitions. I am able to support adults and young people aged sixteen +.
01483 930169 View 01483 930169
Photo of Sarah Wilson - Umid , MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Umid
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Alresford SO24
We also offer specialist therapies such as CBT-E and MANTRA for the treatment of eating disorders.
Umid is a multi-disciplinary mental health practice in Alresford, Hampshire. Our team includes a Consultant Adult Psychiatrist, various accredited Psychological Therapists and Occupational Therapists. Umid specialises in providing person-centred, holistic, and compassionate care to children, adolescents, and adults; in person and via secure video link. Our team offer specialist adult psychiatric assessment and treatment, multidisplinary autism assessment (across the lifespan), ADHD assessment and medication titration (18 plus), psychological and occupational therapy (across the lifespan)
We also offer specialist therapies such as CBT-E and MANTRA for the treatment of eating disorders.
Umid is a multi-disciplinary mental health practice in Alresford, Hampshire. Our team includes a Consultant Adult Psychiatrist, various accredited Psychological Therapists and Occupational Therapists. Umid specialises in providing person-centred, holistic, and compassionate care to children, adolescents, and adults; in person and via secure video link. Our team offer specialist adult psychiatric assessment and treatment, multidisplinary autism assessment (across the lifespan), ADHD assessment and medication titration (18 plus), psychological and occupational therapy (across the lifespan)
01962 589163 View 01962 589163
Photo of Elena Abad, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Elena Abad
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Basingstoke RG21
I provide a welcoming, safe space to explore personal difficulties, break old habits and navigate life’s transitions, online and outdoors, frequently with animals and nature as co-therapists. I work with a wide range of issues. However, there are some areas in which I have additional experience: relationships - p.e couples, parent-child (adult) -, PTSD, complex trauma, attachment, shame, resentment, grief, anxiety, depression, emotional difficulties, challenging behaviour, neurodiversity, eating disorders, chronic distress, burnout, cultural and social class issues; and intergenerational, transgenerational and moral injury trauma.
I provide a welcoming, safe space to explore personal difficulties, break old habits and navigate life’s transitions, online and outdoors, frequently with animals and nature as co-therapists. I work with a wide range of issues. However, there are some areas in which I have additional experience: relationships - p.e couples, parent-child (adult) -, PTSD, complex trauma, attachment, shame, resentment, grief, anxiety, depression, emotional difficulties, challenging behaviour, neurodiversity, eating disorders, chronic distress, burnout, cultural and social class issues; and intergenerational, transgenerational and moral injury trauma.
0118 338 3950 View 0118 338 3950
Photo of Olivia Thrift - The Psychology Company, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
The Psychology Company
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petersfield GU31
We work with people with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self esteem, chronic health difficulties, eating disorders, emotional instability and self destructive coping patterns. In your initial consultation we will explore what brings you to therapy and make a plan for how we will work together. We offer evidenced based structured therapy to help you move forwards in your life. Most of is have doctorates in Clinical or Counselling Psychology and we have all undertaken many years of training and have a wealth of experience working in the NHS and the private sector.
We work with people with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self esteem, chronic health difficulties, eating disorders, emotional instability and self destructive coping patterns. In your initial consultation we will explore what brings you to therapy and make a plan for how we will work together. We offer evidenced based structured therapy to help you move forwards in your life. Most of is have doctorates in Clinical or Counselling Psychology and we have all undertaken many years of training and have a wealth of experience working in the NHS and the private sector.
01483 363058 View 01483 363058
Photo of Emmanuel Ampofo, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Emmanuel Ampofo
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hook RG27
I offer specialist Cognitive Behavioural therapy that is suited to your individual needs to deal with different types of Anxiety and Depressive disorders including PTSD, OCD, Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Low self-esteem, eating disorders, and internet porn addiction.
I am an Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with the BABCP with 10 years experience of using CBT to treat various psychological disorders. Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts of horrific nature that makes you feel like a bad person? Or do you engage in excessive checks or intense fear of contamination hence the need to engage in certain rituals to feel safe and to keep others safe? If you struggle with any of the above as well as constantly re-living past trauma events and struggle with depression leading to isolation, then get in touch!
I offer specialist Cognitive Behavioural therapy that is suited to your individual needs to deal with different types of Anxiety and Depressive disorders including PTSD, OCD, Social Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Low self-esteem, eating disorders, and internet porn addiction.
I am an Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with the BABCP with 10 years experience of using CBT to treat various psychological disorders. Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts of horrific nature that makes you feel like a bad person? Or do you engage in excessive checks or intense fear of contamination hence the need to engage in certain rituals to feel safe and to keep others safe? If you struggle with any of the above as well as constantly re-living past trauma events and struggle with depression leading to isolation, then get in touch!
01256 595299 View 01256 595299
Photo of Judith Jacobs, MBACP, Counsellor
Judith Jacobs
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Farnham GU10
I see clients with a wide range of mental health issues, for example; Depression, anxiety and stress, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, body image, eating disorders, self-esteem and confidence, relationship issues, addictions, panic attacks and more.
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor with experience working with adults and 11-18 year olds. My approach is non-clinical as I want to provide a space where you can be yourself, feel relaxed, and explore you're issues with me in ways you find the most helpful. My approach is very much 'one size does NOT fit all' so you will lead our sessions in ways you find beneficial and I will offer you a variety of techniques and tools which we can work with together towards your goal(s).
I see clients with a wide range of mental health issues, for example; Depression, anxiety and stress, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, body image, eating disorders, self-esteem and confidence, relationship issues, addictions, panic attacks and more.
I am a qualified psychotherapeutic counsellor with experience working with adults and 11-18 year olds. My approach is non-clinical as I want to provide a space where you can be yourself, feel relaxed, and explore you're issues with me in ways you find the most helpful. My approach is very much 'one size does NOT fit all' so you will lead our sessions in ways you find beneficial and I will offer you a variety of techniques and tools which we can work with together towards your goal(s).
01428 774962 View 01428 774962
Photo of Dr Karen Halford, PsychD, AFBPSsS, Psychologist
Dr Karen Halford
Psychologist, PsychD, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Basingstoke RG21
Hello! I'm Karen. I'm a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Oxford. I have many years of experience in both the NHS and private practice. I work with people who are struggling with a variety of complex psychological difficulties such as depression, eating disorders ( bulimia, binge eating and others), anxiety (including panic, phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma/PTSD, BDD, low self-esteem and many others. I also offer assessment and diagnosis of ADHD.
Hello! I'm Karen. I'm a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society. I hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Oxford. I have many years of experience in both the NHS and private practice. I work with people who are struggling with a variety of complex psychological difficulties such as depression, eating disorders ( bulimia, binge eating and others), anxiety (including panic, phobias, social anxiety, health anxiety), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), trauma/PTSD, BDD, low self-esteem and many others. I also offer assessment and diagnosis of ADHD.
01635 887982 View 01635 887982
Photo of Katharine Duchesne, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Katharine Duchesne
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Basingstoke RG21
As an experienced and qualified Integrative Humanistic MBACP (Accred) Therapist, I offer a non judgemental, confidential and compassionate space for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Winchester. I work with individuals and couples offering a choice of face to face or on line counselling. I accept BUPA, Aviva, Vitality Health and AXA clients. I have many years of experience as a Counsellor and Supervisor at several Counselling organisations offering support to those experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationship, bereavement, trauma, eating disorders, OCD, addiction and sexual abuse.
As an experienced and qualified Integrative Humanistic MBACP (Accred) Therapist, I offer a non judgemental, confidential and compassionate space for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Winchester. I work with individuals and couples offering a choice of face to face or on line counselling. I accept BUPA, Aviva, Vitality Health and AXA clients. I have many years of experience as a Counsellor and Supervisor at several Counselling organisations offering support to those experiencing anxiety, depression, difficulties in relationship, bereavement, trauma, eating disorders, OCD, addiction and sexual abuse.
01962 587881 View 01962 587881
Photo of Dr Michelle Ruger, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Michelle Ruger
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Farnham GU9
I am a Chartered Psychologist (BPS) offering therapy to individuals, couples and groups. I have experience working with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, bereavement, addiction, eating disorders, relationship problems, stress, burnout, PTSD, postnatal depression, existential crisis and many more mental health issues which are detailed below. I am also a senior lecturer on the subject of contemporary psychotherapeutic practice and clinical research for a highly regarded clinical doctoral programme in London.
I am a Chartered Psychologist (BPS) offering therapy to individuals, couples and groups. I have experience working with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, bereavement, addiction, eating disorders, relationship problems, stress, burnout, PTSD, postnatal depression, existential crisis and many more mental health issues which are detailed below. I am also a senior lecturer on the subject of contemporary psychotherapeutic practice and clinical research for a highly regarded clinical doctoral programme in London.
01252 986441 View 01252 986441
Photo of Nigel Newman, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Nigel Newman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Liphook GU30
I have become aware after 30 years, that with the right approach it is possible to bring healing, freedom and peace of mind to anyone -  whatever the problem. The uniqueness of each and every one of us should always be reflected in the chosen therapy. That's why, here at Solutions, I draw on a wide range of therapies to enable me to tailor my approach to your individual needs. My desire is to enable you to find greater freedom in your life, and an understanding of who you are and the best you can be.
I have become aware after 30 years, that with the right approach it is possible to bring healing, freedom and peace of mind to anyone -  whatever the problem. The uniqueness of each and every one of us should always be reflected in the chosen therapy. That's why, here at Solutions, I draw on a wide range of therapies to enable me to tailor my approach to your individual needs. My desire is to enable you to find greater freedom in your life, and an understanding of who you are and the best you can be.
01730 777564 View 01730 777564
Photo of Clive Terence Henderson, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Clive Terence Henderson
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Bramshott GU30
I have been providing Counselling, Psychotherapy, Supervision and Life Coaching for over 25 years, working with all ages and every issue imaginable. Nothing surprises me or is too strange or difficult. I have worked in Psychiatric Hospitals, Day Programs, Residential Treatment Centres and Out-Patient Therapy Agencies. I work with children and adults, couples, families, and groups. I work within organisations, as well as privately.
I have been providing Counselling, Psychotherapy, Supervision and Life Coaching for over 25 years, working with all ages and every issue imaginable. Nothing surprises me or is too strange or difficult. I have worked in Psychiatric Hospitals, Day Programs, Residential Treatment Centres and Out-Patient Therapy Agencies. I work with children and adults, couples, families, and groups. I work within organisations, as well as privately.
01428 774954 View 01428 774954
Photo of Sandra Jane Buckley, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Sandra Jane Buckley
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Basingstoke RG21
"There is a crack in everything - that's how the light gets in" (Leonard Cohen). I love this. We all have problems, things we don't like about ourselves, things we struggle with over and over. It's part of being human, none of us are completely 'sorted'. But sometimes we feel overwhelmed, desperate, alone.... the cracks are too big, the light isn't getting in. Or we feel stuck, frustrated, exhausted, going round in circles, nothing will ever change. Perhaps you feel you can't be the real you. Maybe you feel like this a lot, or maybe it's new for you and your usual coping/support isn't working. Maybe you don't know what's wrong.
"There is a crack in everything - that's how the light gets in" (Leonard Cohen). I love this. We all have problems, things we don't like about ourselves, things we struggle with over and over. It's part of being human, none of us are completely 'sorted'. But sometimes we feel overwhelmed, desperate, alone.... the cracks are too big, the light isn't getting in. Or we feel stuck, frustrated, exhausted, going round in circles, nothing will ever change. Perhaps you feel you can't be the real you. Maybe you feel like this a lot, or maybe it's new for you and your usual coping/support isn't working. Maybe you don't know what's wrong.
07723 506159 View 07723 506159

See more therapy options for Alton

Eating Disorders Counsellors

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

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

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

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

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

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

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

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

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

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