Eating Disorders Counselling in Leeds

Photo of Dr Netalie Shloim Netalieshloim, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Dr Netalie Shloim Netalieshloim
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS17
I specialise in supporting people who suffer with Eating Disorders, Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Trauma, , Addictions, Learning Disabilities, Sexual Assault and Personality disorders.
Therapy is a key to life-changing habits that can help us cope with what life throws our way. We don’t have to do it all on our own, and there are times where we need to have an objective viewpoint to get us through the woods. If you are here, you are one step further in your journey. I am here to help you gain back abilities within you that give you the strength to overcome life’s lows and struggles with a wide range of psychological services.
I specialise in supporting people who suffer with Eating Disorders, Depression and Anxiety, Childhood Trauma, , Addictions, Learning Disabilities, Sexual Assault and Personality disorders.
Therapy is a key to life-changing habits that can help us cope with what life throws our way. We don’t have to do it all on our own, and there are times where we need to have an objective viewpoint to get us through the woods. If you are here, you are one step further in your journey. I am here to help you gain back abilities within you that give you the strength to overcome life’s lows and struggles with a wide range of psychological services.
0113 487 2909 View 0113 487 2909
Photo of Kat Hurst - Kat Hurst Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, Counsellor, MBACP
Kat Hurst Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
In addition, I have comprehensive experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, offering tailored support to address the emotional and psychological aspects of their challenges.
Hello, my name is Kat and I am an anxiety and trauma focused therapist and clinical supervisor. I support clients who have experienced any kind of anxiety such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, depression and/or any kind of trauma or abuse, such as physical, sexual, psychological, neglect, etc. I work from a gendered perspective with women and girls and those who identify as female only from the age of 14 and above. I work in an integrative way with clients using a phased approach to recovery. I will offer you the space to talk and be truly heard about matters that are causing you distress.
In addition, I have comprehensive experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, offering tailored support to address the emotional and psychological aspects of their challenges.
Hello, my name is Kat and I am an anxiety and trauma focused therapist and clinical supervisor. I support clients who have experienced any kind of anxiety such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem, depression and/or any kind of trauma or abuse, such as physical, sexual, psychological, neglect, etc. I work from a gendered perspective with women and girls and those who identify as female only from the age of 14 and above. I work in an integrative way with clients using a phased approach to recovery. I will offer you the space to talk and be truly heard about matters that are causing you distress.
01924 975598 View 01924 975598
Photo of Craig Lee - Craig Lee - Eating Disorder Specialist , Counsellor, MSc
Craig Lee - Eating Disorder Specialist
Counsellor, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer online therapy specialising in eating disorders, body image difficulties, and related issues.
As a counsellor/psychotherapist with 20 years' experience in behaviour change and mental health services as well as specialised eating disorder training, I can support you to recover. I can help with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, OSFED, or food issues without a diagnosis.
I offer online therapy specialising in eating disorders, body image difficulties, and related issues.
As a counsellor/psychotherapist with 20 years' experience in behaviour change and mental health services as well as specialised eating disorder training, I can support you to recover. I can help with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, OSFED, or food issues without a diagnosis.
01325 523238 View 01325 523238
Photo of Hannah Gardner - Yorkshire Rose Therapy
Yorkshire Rose Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
Areas of treatment include but are not limited to: Anxiety Depression Eating Disorders ( Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder) Panic, OCD, social anxiety
Hi! I'm Hannah. Are you someone who finds yourself thinking or saying "I really do need to talk to someone about this" but you're not sure what you need or how you want things to be different? My passion is helping others to explore their aspirations and goals for life, gain a deeper understanding of the patterns keeping them stuck and encourage them to create new, more helpful ways of being that allows them to live a full life. I offer a safe and supportive environment for personal growth and healing. If you feel this meets your needs, or if you're not sure what your needs are but want to find out more, I'd love to connect with you
Areas of treatment include but are not limited to: Anxiety Depression Eating Disorders ( Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder) Panic, OCD, social anxiety
Hi! I'm Hannah. Are you someone who finds yourself thinking or saying "I really do need to talk to someone about this" but you're not sure what you need or how you want things to be different? My passion is helping others to explore their aspirations and goals for life, gain a deeper understanding of the patterns keeping them stuck and encourage them to create new, more helpful ways of being that allows them to live a full life. I offer a safe and supportive environment for personal growth and healing. If you feel this meets your needs, or if you're not sure what your needs are but want to find out more, I'd love to connect with you
01422 411587 View 01422 411587
Photo of Dr Emma Sweeney, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Dr Emma Sweeney
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS7
DID) and comorbid eating disorders.
I am a practitioner psychologist with nearly 10 years of experience working in the independent sector. I offer psychological interventions for individuals with complex mental health needs, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches. My specialist area of interest and skill set is working with people who have experienced trauma, which is the centre of my day to day work. In addition to offering private therapy, I am also the lead psychologist for an independent hospital which offers assessment and treatment for women and gender diverse individuals with complex mental health needs.
DID) and comorbid eating disorders.
I am a practitioner psychologist with nearly 10 years of experience working in the independent sector. I offer psychological interventions for individuals with complex mental health needs, drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches. My specialist area of interest and skill set is working with people who have experienced trauma, which is the centre of my day to day work. In addition to offering private therapy, I am also the lead psychologist for an independent hospital which offers assessment and treatment for women and gender diverse individuals with complex mental health needs.
0113 467 8195 View 0113 467 8195
Photo of Victoria Philpin, Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Victoria Philpin
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS7
I bring extensive experience and qualifications to my work, holding an MA, and NCPS registered counselling qualification with specialties in eating disorders, grief, and couples therapy.
Welcome to a space where you are seen, heard, and supported. My practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a non-judgmental environment to explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges. Using a gentle and compassionate approach, I address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, loss, disordered eating, family and developmental challenges, and neurodiversity, including ADHD. My practice also extends to couples counselling and specialized groups for those seeking to transform their relationship with food and exercise.
I bring extensive experience and qualifications to my work, holding an MA, and NCPS registered counselling qualification with specialties in eating disorders, grief, and couples therapy.
Welcome to a space where you are seen, heard, and supported. My practice is built on the belief that everyone deserves a non-judgmental environment to explore their emotions, experiences, and challenges. Using a gentle and compassionate approach, I address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, loss, disordered eating, family and developmental challenges, and neurodiversity, including ADHD. My practice also extends to couples counselling and specialized groups for those seeking to transform their relationship with food and exercise.
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Photo of Joanne Sankey, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Joanne Sankey
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS16
As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I specialise in supporting children and young people, particularly those navigating neurodivergence, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, low self-esteem, anger, and anxiety.
Every young person is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit their needs. I integrate creative methods like art and play therapy alongside traditional talking therapy. As a neurodivergent therapist, I adapt my work to support neurodivergent clients effectively. I also have specialist training in eating disorders and self-harm.
As a compassionate and experienced therapist, I specialise in supporting children and young people, particularly those navigating neurodivergence, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, low self-esteem, anger, and anxiety.
Every young person is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit their needs. I integrate creative methods like art and play therapy alongside traditional talking therapy. As a neurodivergent therapist, I adapt my work to support neurodivergent clients effectively. I also have specialist training in eating disorders and self-harm.
0113 519 5465 View 0113 519 5465
Photo of Natasha Menoni - Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise acknowledges challenges neurodivergent individuals may encounter including: anxiety, social anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, addiction, anger management, autistic burnout, OCD, low self esteem, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, trauma.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
My expertise acknowledges challenges neurodivergent individuals may encounter including: anxiety, social anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, addiction, anger management, autistic burnout, OCD, low self esteem, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, trauma.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
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Photo of Dan Crawford - Dan Crawford - CBT Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Dan Crawford - CBT Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a specialist in Depression and Anxiety, including Phobias (high-spec VR is available), Insomnia, Trauma, Traumatic Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Panic.
I am a specialist in Depression & Anxiety. Treating these conditions effectively using CBT requires BABCP-level accreditation (not BACP). My average time to full recovery is 12 sessions. For some conditions (e.g. Panic) it is as little as 3 - 4 sessions! Call now. I meet a lot of people who believe that their condition is untreatable, and they are always astounded by the progress that is possible with CBT when provided by an accredited professional. I treat Depression, Phobias (using VR), Insomnia, Trauma, Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Panic & more. Call now!
I am a specialist in Depression and Anxiety, including Phobias (high-spec VR is available), Insomnia, Trauma, Traumatic Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and Panic.
I am a specialist in Depression & Anxiety. Treating these conditions effectively using CBT requires BABCP-level accreditation (not BACP). My average time to full recovery is 12 sessions. For some conditions (e.g. Panic) it is as little as 3 - 4 sessions! Call now. I meet a lot of people who believe that their condition is untreatable, and they are always astounded by the progress that is possible with CBT when provided by an accredited professional. I treat Depression, Phobias (using VR), Insomnia, Trauma, Grief, Worry (GAD), OCD, Self-esteem, Social & Performance Anxieties, Health Anxiety, Panic & more. Call now!
07396 077085 View 07396 077085
Photo of Dr Rachel Casper-White - All Things Therapy Centre Ltd, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
All Things Therapy Centre Ltd
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
These can include: behavioural and emotional problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, parenting, family relationships, divorce, bereavement, illness, developmental disorders, eating disorders and more.
We offer inclusive therapy for any client with any need or issue. I work in a relational and non-directive way which puts the client in control of the therapy. I use integrative methods and theory to best support the client, these can be creative or conversational. Our clients are accepted, supported and included in the therapeutic process.
These can include: behavioural and emotional problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, parenting, family relationships, divorce, bereavement, illness, developmental disorders, eating disorders and more.
We offer inclusive therapy for any client with any need or issue. I work in a relational and non-directive way which puts the client in control of the therapy. I use integrative methods and theory to best support the client, these can be creative or conversational. Our clients are accepted, supported and included in the therapeutic process.
01756 639053 View 01756 639053
Photo of Piotr Slaczka, Counsellor, MBACP
Piotr Slaczka
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an experienced integrative therapeutic counsellor and psychotherapist specializing in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions—including pornography addiction— eating disorders, and compulsive behaviours.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to your unique needs. I believe that a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. With a Master’s degree in Systemic Therapy, an Honours degree in Integrative Approach, and a Diploma in Humanistic Counselling, I bring extensive training and expertise to our work.
I am an experienced integrative therapeutic counsellor and psychotherapist specializing in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions—including pornography addiction— eating disorders, and compulsive behaviours.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to your unique needs. I believe that a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. With a Master’s degree in Systemic Therapy, an Honours degree in Integrative Approach, and a Diploma in Humanistic Counselling, I bring extensive training and expertise to our work.
0114 478 2063 View 0114 478 2063
Photo of Christina Margaret MacLeod - Christina MacLeod , Counsellor, MSc, GMBPsS
Christina MacLeod
Counsellor, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with people navigating challenges such as neurodiversity, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, or eating disorders.
I specialise in working with neurodiversity, attachment, and emotional challenges. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, tailored to your needs. Whether reframing beliefs, exploring your identity, or managing life’s challenges, I offer a supportive space to help you embrace your strengths and thrive.
I work with people navigating challenges such as neurodiversity, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, family dynamics, or eating disorders.
I specialise in working with neurodiversity, attachment, and emotional challenges. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, tailored to your needs. Whether reframing beliefs, exploring your identity, or managing life’s challenges, I offer a supportive space to help you embrace your strengths and thrive.
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Photo of Jen Davies-Owen, Counsellor, MBACP
Jen Davies-Owen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder? Through therapy we can explore your relationship with food and body image as you find freedom and self acceptance from distress related to eating, food, weight, weight stigma and body image issues. I understand the links between disordered eating and neurodivergence so adapt my approach to meet the needs of neurodivergent clients.
Are you struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder? Through therapy we can explore your relationship with food and body image as you find freedom and self acceptance from distress related to eating, food, weight, weight stigma and body image issues. I understand the links between disordered eating and neurodivergence so adapt my approach to meet the needs of neurodivergent clients.
01244 667214 View 01244 667214
Photo of Dominique Pitman, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Dominique Pitman
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS16
Are you struggling with everyday life at the moment, or are you not feeling yourself? Do you have lots of thoughts going round your head and you don’t know what to do about them? Taking some time out to talk to an experienced therapist can really help. Together we can explore your feelings and worries, better understand where they come from and also figure out what changes you could make to help you feel happier. I aim to listen and be truly alongside you throughout the sessions as you talk about anything that you want to bring – be it experiences from the past, things that are happening now, or concerns for the future.
Are you struggling with everyday life at the moment, or are you not feeling yourself? Do you have lots of thoughts going round your head and you don’t know what to do about them? Taking some time out to talk to an experienced therapist can really help. Together we can explore your feelings and worries, better understand where they come from and also figure out what changes you could make to help you feel happier. I aim to listen and be truly alongside you throughout the sessions as you talk about anything that you want to bring – be it experiences from the past, things that are happening now, or concerns for the future.
0113 519 0482 View 0113 519 0482
Photo of Charles Mahonde - Transform Talking Therapy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Transform Talking Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
A solution focused journey on self discovery and metamorphosis to support you to reach your goals and outcomes through effective and meaningful change. l aim to do just that; offer a transformative therapeutic outlook wherein you are comfortable and secure within the confidential space to engage in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Based at The Practice Rooms in Leeds Park Square, we will dive into a collaborative and restorative journey which places you at the forefront and aims to set you on the path to a healthier and peaceful self.
A solution focused journey on self discovery and metamorphosis to support you to reach your goals and outcomes through effective and meaningful change. l aim to do just that; offer a transformative therapeutic outlook wherein you are comfortable and secure within the confidential space to engage in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Based at The Practice Rooms in Leeds Park Square, we will dive into a collaborative and restorative journey which places you at the forefront and aims to set you on the path to a healthier and peaceful self.
0113 467 9104 View 0113 467 9104
Photo of Anna Selassie, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Anna Selassie
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS7
Are you struggling with low mood, anxiety or trauma? I am a BABCP accredited CBT therapist who specialises in evidence based interventions for problems such as anxiety disorders (including PTSD, social anxiety, OCD, phobias, GAD, disordered eating and more), depression including postnatal depression, low self-esteem and coping with long-term health conditions. I have worked in mental health for over 16 years and as a qualified CBT therapist for 12 years. I currently combine working in private practice with working for the NHS. My style is engaging, warm and collaborative, meaning that we both work together to help you make changes.
Are you struggling with low mood, anxiety or trauma? I am a BABCP accredited CBT therapist who specialises in evidence based interventions for problems such as anxiety disorders (including PTSD, social anxiety, OCD, phobias, GAD, disordered eating and more), depression including postnatal depression, low self-esteem and coping with long-term health conditions. I have worked in mental health for over 16 years and as a qualified CBT therapist for 12 years. I currently combine working in private practice with working for the NHS. My style is engaging, warm and collaborative, meaning that we both work together to help you make changes.
0113 519 3505 View 0113 519 3505
Photo of Chris Bygrave, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Chris Bygrave
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Chris. I offer psychotherapy and psychotherapeutic counselling in Leeds. I see therapy as the co-creation of a warm, authentic relationship, in which we create the conditions to shine a light onto the wounded or neglected parts of the self. I offer open ended sessions, which allows our work together to unfold naturally, leading us into the places where we can explore the roots of your emotional development and relational patterns. This is a process that encourages healing and growth, helping you to becoming more in tune and at ease with who you are as a unique person.
Hi, I'm Chris. I offer psychotherapy and psychotherapeutic counselling in Leeds. I see therapy as the co-creation of a warm, authentic relationship, in which we create the conditions to shine a light onto the wounded or neglected parts of the self. I offer open ended sessions, which allows our work together to unfold naturally, leading us into the places where we can explore the roots of your emotional development and relational patterns. This is a process that encourages healing and growth, helping you to becoming more in tune and at ease with who you are as a unique person.
0113 519 1285 View 0113 519 1285
Photo of Lowri Davies - Purple Leaf Therapies - Lowri, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Purple Leaf Therapies - Lowri
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
Hi I am Lowri. I am a Psychotherapist with over 20 years experince of working with people with a range of mental health struggles, in a variety of different settings. I have been practicing as a CBT therapist for apx 13 years. I use CBT and EMDR as my main mode of therapy but use an integrative approach, drawing on elements of ACT, CFT, TA. I appreciate that no two individuals or experiences are the same. Therefore, I strive to offer an individualised flexible approach, to help you feel supported to take important but often scary steps towards change, regaining inner strength and control in your life.
Hi I am Lowri. I am a Psychotherapist with over 20 years experince of working with people with a range of mental health struggles, in a variety of different settings. I have been practicing as a CBT therapist for apx 13 years. I use CBT and EMDR as my main mode of therapy but use an integrative approach, drawing on elements of ACT, CFT, TA. I appreciate that no two individuals or experiences are the same. Therefore, I strive to offer an individualised flexible approach, to help you feel supported to take important but often scary steps towards change, regaining inner strength and control in your life.
0113 519 1370 View 0113 519 1370
Photo of Steph Callaghan, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Steph Callaghan
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS18
My speciality is neurodiversity and forensic/ex-offender counselling. I am a authentic person, I work in a creative way to offer therapy that meets your needs when words alone are not enough. I work with complex trauma, abuse and addiction. I also offer pre-trial therapy and support to ex-offenders also known as forensic counselling, I support people on probation and at risk of committing further offences. I have worked across many settings including Education, alternative education, CAMHS, the third sector and the NHS. I am a neurodivergent therapist 
My speciality is neurodiversity and forensic/ex-offender counselling. I am a authentic person, I work in a creative way to offer therapy that meets your needs when words alone are not enough. I work with complex trauma, abuse and addiction. I also offer pre-trial therapy and support to ex-offenders also known as forensic counselling, I support people on probation and at risk of committing further offences. I have worked across many settings including Education, alternative education, CAMHS, the third sector and the NHS. I am a neurodivergent therapist 
0113 519 5078 View 0113 519 5078
Photo of Tim Arnott, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Tim Arnott
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS1
Hi there and thank you for viewing my profile. I am a Masters Qualified BACP Registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist working in Leeds city centre (LS1) and York (YO41). As a therapist I help individuals talk about their feelings, think about their choices and help them to achieve positive changes in their lives through the counselling process. I use an integrative model of counselling & psychotherapy which involves a wide range of counselling theories such as psychodynamic and person-centred therapy.
Hi there and thank you for viewing my profile. I am a Masters Qualified BACP Registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist working in Leeds city centre (LS1) and York (YO41). As a therapist I help individuals talk about their feelings, think about their choices and help them to achieve positive changes in their lives through the counselling process. I use an integrative model of counselling & psychotherapy which involves a wide range of counselling theories such as psychodynamic and person-centred therapy.
0113 467 6816 View 0113 467 6816
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See more therapy options for Leeds

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.