Eating Disorders Counselling in Glossop

Photo of Dr Emma Salazar, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Emma Salazar
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glossop SK13  (Online Only)
No topic is ever off-limits and you can swear as much as you like - it's your space! I decided to work in the field of eating disorders because I have recovered from an ED myself, and am passionate about helping others navigate the road towards recovery.
Are you struggling with your relationship with your body, your identity, or your eating? I'm here to work with you in a personalised way, focusing on your personal relationship with food, your body, your identity, your culture, your life experiences, and your circumstances. I support people age 15+ who are struggling with body image distress and disordered eating, amongst other difficulties. I work with all types of EDs including bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and difficult experiences with food that might not fit into one particular box or label.
No topic is ever off-limits and you can swear as much as you like - it's your space! I decided to work in the field of eating disorders because I have recovered from an ED myself, and am passionate about helping others navigate the road towards recovery.
Are you struggling with your relationship with your body, your identity, or your eating? I'm here to work with you in a personalised way, focusing on your personal relationship with food, your body, your identity, your culture, your life experiences, and your circumstances. I support people age 15+ who are struggling with body image distress and disordered eating, amongst other difficulties. I work with all types of EDs including bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and difficult experiences with food that might not fit into one particular box or label.
01457 600803 View 01457 600803
Photo of Dawn Cooper - Hope Therapy Hub, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Hope Therapy Hub
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Glossop SK13
Hi, my name is Dawn. My background is as a registered mental health nurse and I have worked with children, young people, and families for over 25 years. I am also a dual-qualified psychotherapist and I work privately helping people from all age groups to overcome a wide range of mental health challenges which include: eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma work including PTSD, relationship difficulties, autism, and attention deficit disorders to mention a few. I love my job and I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and getting their lives back on track.
Hi, my name is Dawn. My background is as a registered mental health nurse and I have worked with children, young people, and families for over 25 years. I am also a dual-qualified psychotherapist and I work privately helping people from all age groups to overcome a wide range of mental health challenges which include: eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma work including PTSD, relationship difficulties, autism, and attention deficit disorders to mention a few. I love my job and I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and getting their lives back on track.
01433 447544 View 01433 447544
Photo of Stu Roberts, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Stu Roberts
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glossop SK13
I'm Stu, the counsellor and founder SJR Therapy. I am passionate about mental health and firmly believe that counselling can change a persons life. I have a wealth of experience in lots of different areas - I worked in education for a number of years, as a counsellor and mentor to teaching staff and students and worked in the financial service industry before changing careers to counselling and psychotherapy. Having struggled with poor mental health myself and receiving therapy as a result, I can totally understand the nerves and anxiety that you may have before you embark on your therapeutic journey but you have nothing to fear.
I'm Stu, the counsellor and founder SJR Therapy. I am passionate about mental health and firmly believe that counselling can change a persons life. I have a wealth of experience in lots of different areas - I worked in education for a number of years, as a counsellor and mentor to teaching staff and students and worked in the financial service industry before changing careers to counselling and psychotherapy. Having struggled with poor mental health myself and receiving therapy as a result, I can totally understand the nerves and anxiety that you may have before you embark on your therapeutic journey but you have nothing to fear.
01457 600890 View 01457 600890
Photo of Terri Rothwell, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Terri Rothwell
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glossop SK13
Hello, do you feel sad, anxious overwhelmed? Do you feel lost, alone unsure? Have you suffered trauma, or are you not sure how you feel or why? Do you sometimes wonder who you are? Or are you struggling in your relationships at home or at work? Maybe you need to talk but you are not sure where to start. If any of these statements resonate then you are not alone. Many of us experience these difficulties, at various points in our lives. The good thing is, you are here now, wanting to seek help. To get started, I offer an initial free-of-charge consultation whereby I will invite you to discuss your needs and expectations with me.
Hello, do you feel sad, anxious overwhelmed? Do you feel lost, alone unsure? Have you suffered trauma, or are you not sure how you feel or why? Do you sometimes wonder who you are? Or are you struggling in your relationships at home or at work? Maybe you need to talk but you are not sure where to start. If any of these statements resonate then you are not alone. Many of us experience these difficulties, at various points in our lives. The good thing is, you are here now, wanting to seek help. To get started, I offer an initial free-of-charge consultation whereby I will invite you to discuss your needs and expectations with me.
01457 600883 View 01457 600883
Photo of Lindsay Cox-Prior - Via Vitae Counselling Services, BACP, Counsellor
Via Vitae Counselling Services
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Glossop SK13
Experiencing major changes can be daunting, frustrating and generate fear alongside self-doubt. If you are looking to make changes, face up to change, explore identity and self-esteem or have reached your limits in one or more life areas then you don't have to face this alone. You will have control over your therapy and gain a voice as well as perspective. If you are willing to make the most of what you learn in therapy then you are more likely to make progress that lasts and changes your life for the better. I offer Clinical Supervision and outdoor therapy too. I have worked for GPs, IAPT, hospitals and EAPs.
Experiencing major changes can be daunting, frustrating and generate fear alongside self-doubt. If you are looking to make changes, face up to change, explore identity and self-esteem or have reached your limits in one or more life areas then you don't have to face this alone. You will have control over your therapy and gain a voice as well as perspective. If you are willing to make the most of what you learn in therapy then you are more likely to make progress that lasts and changes your life for the better. I offer Clinical Supervision and outdoor therapy too. I have worked for GPs, IAPT, hospitals and EAPs.
01457 607256 View 01457 607256

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachel Burgon - Dr Rachel Burgon Therapies , PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Rachel Burgon Therapies
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Stockport SK1  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Manchester (North West) offering remote therapy to anywhere! My NHS work includes delivering therapy to children/young people, and I also offer private therapy for children and adults (aged 18+) that is tailored to you. Difficulties I've supported include anxiety, depression, phobias, traumas & OCD. Having completed a Masters in Eating Disorders and Nutrition, I also specialise in supporting those with eating difficulties/disorders. Finally, I work privately with athletes to support their mental health. I'll always focus on your goals and what you would like to achieve from attending therapy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Manchester (North West) offering remote therapy to anywhere! My NHS work includes delivering therapy to children/young people, and I also offer private therapy for children and adults (aged 18+) that is tailored to you. Difficulties I've supported include anxiety, depression, phobias, traumas & OCD. Having completed a Masters in Eating Disorders and Nutrition, I also specialise in supporting those with eating difficulties/disorders. Finally, I work privately with athletes to support their mental health. I'll always focus on your goals and what you would like to achieve from attending therapy.
View
Photo of Bonnie Wallace, COSRT General, Psychotherapist
Bonnie Wallace
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Stockport SK6
Are you suffering from food avoidance, obesity, anorexia, bulimia or compulsive overeating, binge eating, night eating, emotional eating, body image issues? Additional training Advanced Certificate in Eating Disorders and Diploma in Emotional Eating.
A highly qualified therapist who specialises in the areas of sex and porn addiction,sex therapy, couple therapy and eating disorders, and highly qualified in these areas as my training suggests. Vast experience ensures that I help my clients towards resolving their issues. I work with a broad spectrum of clients on a wide range of these issues. I offer a highly discreet, confidential and personalized approach delivered with compassion and understanding. Working with a sympathetic and non-judgemental attitude, I help achieve solutions to the issues you bring in a practical, down to earth way.
Are you suffering from food avoidance, obesity, anorexia, bulimia or compulsive overeating, binge eating, night eating, emotional eating, body image issues? Additional training Advanced Certificate in Eating Disorders and Diploma in Emotional Eating.
A highly qualified therapist who specialises in the areas of sex and porn addiction,sex therapy, couple therapy and eating disorders, and highly qualified in these areas as my training suggests. Vast experience ensures that I help my clients towards resolving their issues. I work with a broad spectrum of clients on a wide range of these issues. I offer a highly discreet, confidential and personalized approach delivered with compassion and understanding. Working with a sympathetic and non-judgemental attitude, I help achieve solutions to the issues you bring in a practical, down to earth way.
07480 736061 View 07480 736061
Photo of Gehad Mursi, MSc, Counsellor
Gehad Mursi
Counsellor, MSc
Verified Verified
Manchester M11
I offer online counselling to support adults and young people with their difficulties of life. Some of the areas I cover include: stress, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, self-esteem and confidence, relationships, anger, trauma, and many more. Feel free to book your FREE consultation with me to discuss further.
I offer online counselling to support adults and young people with their difficulties of life. Some of the areas I cover include: stress, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, self-esteem and confidence, relationships, anger, trauma, and many more. Feel free to book your FREE consultation with me to discuss further.
01582 377950 View 01582 377950
Photo of Lesley Whittaker, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Lesley Whittaker
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockport SK2
Within this I have experience of helping people with anxiety, depression, self-image, bereavement, sexuality, autism, ADHD, health anxiety, disability, eating disorders, trauma and low mood.
I'm Lesley, I am a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist with almost 20 years experience in Tinnitus counselling. I believe that everyone deserves a safe space to be cared for and listened to with empathy and without judgement in a respectful and genuine way. If we decide that I am the right therapist for you I will endeavour to offer my genuine self with confidentiality, empathy, care and respect to aid your personal growth.
Within this I have experience of helping people with anxiety, depression, self-image, bereavement, sexuality, autism, ADHD, health anxiety, disability, eating disorders, trauma and low mood.
I'm Lesley, I am a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist with almost 20 years experience in Tinnitus counselling. I believe that everyone deserves a safe space to be cared for and listened to with empathy and without judgement in a respectful and genuine way. If we decide that I am the right therapist for you I will endeavour to offer my genuine self with confidentiality, empathy, care and respect to aid your personal growth.
0161 524 2377 View 0161 524 2377
Photo of Bronwyn Cooper, MBACP, Counsellor
Bronwyn Cooper
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stockport SK3
I have experience of working with adults and young people who have experienced a range of different issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Attachment disorders, Eating Disorders, Anger issues, grief, Family issues, Domestic Violence, self - harm & suicide.
My name is Bronwyn, I am a trained Integrative counsellor. I work with both adults and young people and I am based in Edgeley, Stockport. I have a passion for working with people as I hold the view that everyone deserves to be happy. I offer a safe, supportive & non-judgemental environment to enable you to explore your current issues and support you in managing your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I am a down to earth, warm, approachable person and can offer a deep level of empathy as you explore your current issues.
I have experience of working with adults and young people who have experienced a range of different issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Attachment disorders, Eating Disorders, Anger issues, grief, Family issues, Domestic Violence, self - harm & suicide.
My name is Bronwyn, I am a trained Integrative counsellor. I work with both adults and young people and I am based in Edgeley, Stockport. I have a passion for working with people as I hold the view that everyone deserves to be happy. I offer a safe, supportive & non-judgemental environment to enable you to explore your current issues and support you in managing your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I am a down to earth, warm, approachable person and can offer a deep level of empathy as you explore your current issues.
07380 328585 View 07380 328585
Photo of Leanne Elizabeth Connelly, DCounsPsych, MBABCP, Counsellor
Leanne Elizabeth Connelly
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockport SK4
Hi, My name is Leanne , thank you for clicking on my profile. I am a counsellor and Supervisor. I offer a friendly, non judgemental, confidential space for you to be heard. I worked with leading abuse supporting people who have experienced trauma, domestic abuse and loss. In addition to this , I have extensive experience utilising therapies to help anxiety, trauma, OCD , eating disorders and I am qualified to work with young people ages 8-18 . I am passionate about supporting clients with honesty, warmth and openess bringing both expertise and empathy to your sessions. Together , we can make a happier you.
Hi, My name is Leanne , thank you for clicking on my profile. I am a counsellor and Supervisor. I offer a friendly, non judgemental, confidential space for you to be heard. I worked with leading abuse supporting people who have experienced trauma, domestic abuse and loss. In addition to this , I have extensive experience utilising therapies to help anxiety, trauma, OCD , eating disorders and I am qualified to work with young people ages 8-18 . I am passionate about supporting clients with honesty, warmth and openess bringing both expertise and empathy to your sessions. Together , we can make a happier you.
0161 694 6235 View 0161 694 6235
Photo of Adeela Irfan - Diverse Wellbeing Services Ltd, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
Diverse Wellbeing Services Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oldham OL1
My area of expertise in Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic disorders, Narcissistic Personality disorder, Sexual abuse, Domestic violence, Eating disorders couples and relationship issues, Sexual addiction and Psycho-sexual disorders.
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
My area of expertise in Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic disorders, Narcissistic Personality disorder, Sexual abuse, Domestic violence, Eating disorders couples and relationship issues, Sexual addiction and Psycho-sexual disorders.
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
01706 300329 View 01706 300329
Photo of Sarah Homersham - Counselling in Gatley, Cheadle, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Counselling in Gatley, Cheadle
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Stockport SK7
I have over 15 years experience working as a counsellor and have experience of working with clients with eating disorders, couples/relationships,OCD, anxiety, grief, abuse, loss, post-traumatic stress, trauma, depression, stress, addictions, gambling, aspergers, sexuality, self-esteem, sexual identity, parenting issues, self-harm, anger issues, co-dependency.
Hi, I'm Sarah. We all have times when we find it hard to cope. Counselling can help you understand why you think, feel and act like you do. It can help you develop positive strategies to get what you want out of life. How we think, feel and behave is part of being human. Problems can arise when we get 'stuck' in negative thought patterns; when our feelings become overwhelming; when our behaviour is self-destructive and doesn't result in us getting what we need; when we worry about the future, dwell on the past and find it hard to live in the present. I believe the most important relationship we have is the relationship with ourself.
I have over 15 years experience working as a counsellor and have experience of working with clients with eating disorders, couples/relationships,OCD, anxiety, grief, abuse, loss, post-traumatic stress, trauma, depression, stress, addictions, gambling, aspergers, sexuality, self-esteem, sexual identity, parenting issues, self-harm, anger issues, co-dependency.
Hi, I'm Sarah. We all have times when we find it hard to cope. Counselling can help you understand why you think, feel and act like you do. It can help you develop positive strategies to get what you want out of life. How we think, feel and behave is part of being human. Problems can arise when we get 'stuck' in negative thought patterns; when our feelings become overwhelming; when our behaviour is self-destructive and doesn't result in us getting what we need; when we worry about the future, dwell on the past and find it hard to live in the present. I believe the most important relationship we have is the relationship with ourself.
0161 524 2126 View 0161 524 2126
Photo of Samantha J Phillis - The Counsellor Midwife, MBACP, Counsellor
The Counsellor Midwife
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stockport SK2
Waitlist for new clients
I am a BACP registered Counsellor and a NMC registered Midwife. I use my unique set of skills to support individuals & couples through birth trauma, baby & pregnancy loss including compassionate termination, grief, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and relationship therapy. I am passionate about ensuring people are aware of choices available to them during the pregnancy journey and offer support via either a therapeutic route or individualised, trauma informed, antenatal education. As an experienced midwife & counsellor I have a unique insight into the maternity system and will use that insight to support & nurture clients.
I am a BACP registered Counsellor and a NMC registered Midwife. I use my unique set of skills to support individuals & couples through birth trauma, baby & pregnancy loss including compassionate termination, grief, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and relationship therapy. I am passionate about ensuring people are aware of choices available to them during the pregnancy journey and offer support via either a therapeutic route or individualised, trauma informed, antenatal education. As an experienced midwife & counsellor I have a unique insight into the maternity system and will use that insight to support & nurture clients.
0161 524 7663 View 0161 524 7663
Photo of Danielle Clarkson Psychotherapy Counselling, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Danielle Clarkson Psychotherapy Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockport SK4
Isn’t it strange how we talk the least about the things we think about the most?! Talking about your feelings, your emotions, your behaviours and your thoughts can feel overwhelming and conflicted, not knowing where to begin, this can seem scary and uncomfortable. My role is to support you to acknowledge, explore, accept, and understand them in order to achieve growth & positive change. My philosophy is that you hold your own answers internally but you are unable to access them, working collaboratively we will unlock them using your strengths and gaining empowerment.
Isn’t it strange how we talk the least about the things we think about the most?! Talking about your feelings, your emotions, your behaviours and your thoughts can feel overwhelming and conflicted, not knowing where to begin, this can seem scary and uncomfortable. My role is to support you to acknowledge, explore, accept, and understand them in order to achieve growth & positive change. My philosophy is that you hold your own answers internally but you are unable to access them, working collaboratively we will unlock them using your strengths and gaining empowerment.
0161 524 2032 View 0161 524 2032
Photo of Becky Sarah List - Becky List. - Psychotherapeutic Counsellor, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Becky List. - Psychotherapeutic Counsellor
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
King's Lynn PE32
"I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become" Carl Jung"
"I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become" Carl Jung"
07427 530178 View 07427 530178
Photo of Lucy Smith, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Lucy Smith
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester M19  (Online Only)
There are many difficulties in life that can feel overwhelming at times. Life circumstances or internal struggles can leave us feeling as if we are not getting what we should out of life and we want to be able to move forward. In all circumstances I believe passionately in the power of therapy to help enact positive change. The tools and skills you could learn with me can enable you to feel that you can live the rest of your life free from what has been holding you back. We would do this together working at your pace and always being in partnership.
There are many difficulties in life that can feel overwhelming at times. Life circumstances or internal struggles can leave us feeling as if we are not getting what we should out of life and we want to be able to move forward. In all circumstances I believe passionately in the power of therapy to help enact positive change. The tools and skills you could learn with me can enable you to feel that you can live the rest of your life free from what has been holding you back. We would do this together working at your pace and always being in partnership.
0161 519 0839 View 0161 519 0839
Photo of Eilish Gallagher, MBACP, Counsellor
Eilish Gallagher
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M19
I help my clients to be ready for change I am there to help them reach their potential. Focusing on what they would like to achieve moving forward and what things from the past seem to be holding them back . Making realistic goals together and looking at how to remove the barriers to achieving those goals is key to the best Counselling experience. Taking things gently to explore what would help in the clients best interest and to build confidence to overcome challenges that are holding people back .
I help my clients to be ready for change I am there to help them reach their potential. Focusing on what they would like to achieve moving forward and what things from the past seem to be holding them back . Making realistic goals together and looking at how to remove the barriers to achieving those goals is key to the best Counselling experience. Taking things gently to explore what would help in the clients best interest and to build confidence to overcome challenges that are holding people back .
0161 524 1934 View 0161 524 1934
Photo of Eileen Fisher, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Eileen Fisher
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stockport SK1
Having negative beliefs about yourself can lower your ability to cope with stress. That might mean you feel overwhelmed and anxious because how you view and feel about yourself can profoundly affect all aspects of your life. Let's talk about what's getting in the way of you being happy and work together on how to move you forward. If you know what you should be eating but just can't seem to do it, I can help. Food can be your best friend and your worst enemy, or even both at the same time! You may not feel okay in your body; we can address that, too.
Having negative beliefs about yourself can lower your ability to cope with stress. That might mean you feel overwhelmed and anxious because how you view and feel about yourself can profoundly affect all aspects of your life. Let's talk about what's getting in the way of you being happy and work together on how to move you forward. If you know what you should be eating but just can't seem to do it, I can help. Food can be your best friend and your worst enemy, or even both at the same time! You may not feel okay in your body; we can address that, too.
0161 696 8250 View 0161 696 8250
Photo of Amanda Robinson, MA, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Amanda Robinson
Psychologist, MA, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Stockport SK1
Greetings, I am a psychologist with 26 years of counselling experience. I am passionate to support you if you are finding life difficult and experiencing inner pain that goes round and round. Life can be tough and asking for help when you are feeling down, desperate and discouraged even tougher. Well done for having the courage to reach out, you are worth it, even if it does not feel that way right now. I love working with individuals who are hurting, but want to heal and make a difference in the world. I am a believer in the healing power of nature to physically, emotionally and spiritually inspire and balance our lives.
Greetings, I am a psychologist with 26 years of counselling experience. I am passionate to support you if you are finding life difficult and experiencing inner pain that goes round and round. Life can be tough and asking for help when you are feeling down, desperate and discouraged even tougher. Well done for having the courage to reach out, you are worth it, even if it does not feel that way right now. I love working with individuals who are hurting, but want to heal and make a difference in the world. I am a believer in the healing power of nature to physically, emotionally and spiritually inspire and balance our lives.
01298 608430 View 01298 608430

See more therapy options for Glossop

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.