Eating Disorders Counselling in East London, London

Photo of Oliver Fallon, MBACP, Counsellor
Oliver Fallon
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E2
I have long experience working in the National Eating Disorders and OCD Services in the NHS.
Specialist OCD and Eating Disorder Therapy. If you or someone you love suffers from an eating disorder or severe OCD it can be incredibly distressing and serious. Talking to a specialist who understands the complex issues around anorexia and bulimia and OCD is your first step towards recovery. You can be free from your obsessions and compulsions and problems with food, body image and exercise. The first step is simply to talk about what's going on with an empathetic and understanding person. You don't have to be in crisis to have therapy, you just have to want to change things for the better.
I have long experience working in the National Eating Disorders and OCD Services in the NHS.
Specialist OCD and Eating Disorder Therapy. If you or someone you love suffers from an eating disorder or severe OCD it can be incredibly distressing and serious. Talking to a specialist who understands the complex issues around anorexia and bulimia and OCD is your first step towards recovery. You can be free from your obsessions and compulsions and problems with food, body image and exercise. The first step is simply to talk about what's going on with an empathetic and understanding person. You don't have to be in crisis to have therapy, you just have to want to change things for the better.
020 3816 1637 View 020 3816 1637
Photo of Kate Pryce, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Kate Pryce
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E1
I am a clinical psychologist with over 10 years' experience of working in the NHS. As a clinical psychologist I am trained to provide a range of psychological therapies for many different problems. In my private practice I focus on using a form of psychological therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Research evidence indicates that CBT can help with many difficulties which include: · Anxiety based problems including: · panic attacks · post-traumatic stress disorder · obsessive compulsive disorder · social anxiety · health anxiety · phobias · Depression and low mood · Sleep difficulties · Low self esteem · Problematic perfectionism · Eating disorders · Sleep difficulties · Anger
I am a clinical psychologist with over 10 years' experience of working in the NHS. As a clinical psychologist I am trained to provide a range of psychological therapies for many different problems. In my private practice I focus on using a form of psychological therapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Research evidence indicates that CBT can help with many difficulties which include: · Anxiety based problems including: · panic attacks · post-traumatic stress disorder · obsessive compulsive disorder · social anxiety · health anxiety · phobias · Depression and low mood · Sleep difficulties · Low self esteem · Problematic perfectionism · Eating disorders · Sleep difficulties · Anger
020 3870 3852 View 020 3870 3852
Photo of Selen Ozbek, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Selen Ozbek
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions that seem to pull you further away from the life you want to live. Whether you’re struggling with body image issues, eating disorders, chronic pain or grief, you might feel like your goals are slipping out of reach. You long for change but aren’t sure where to start, and you might be searching for a way to understand yourself better and create a life that feels more meaningful and fulfilling.
You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions that seem to pull you further away from the life you want to live. Whether you’re struggling with body image issues, eating disorders, chronic pain or grief, you might feel like your goals are slipping out of reach. You long for change but aren’t sure where to start, and you might be searching for a way to understand yourself better and create a life that feels more meaningful and fulfilling.
020 4538 4817 View 020 4538 4817
Photo of Silvia Vittoria Vitello, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Silvia Vittoria Vitello
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
East London, London E1  (Online Only)
I am an Italian Constructivist Therapy. According to the abovementioned approach, I will use the therapeutic relationship dynamics to help the person achieve greater emotional and relational self-awareness. My master's degree in Clinical and Health psychology helped me to dive into the psychological treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral illnesses such as alcoholism, eating disorders, or depression. Thanks to a year-long experience in Canada, I also combine the clinical aspect with the cultural to provide a multifaceted approach where both cognitive, relational, and cultural aspects can be take into account.
I am an Italian Constructivist Therapy. According to the abovementioned approach, I will use the therapeutic relationship dynamics to help the person achieve greater emotional and relational self-awareness. My master's degree in Clinical and Health psychology helped me to dive into the psychological treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral illnesses such as alcoholism, eating disorders, or depression. Thanks to a year-long experience in Canada, I also combine the clinical aspect with the cultural to provide a multifaceted approach where both cognitive, relational, and cultural aspects can be take into account.
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Photo of Harbans Nagpal, MBBS, Psychotherapist
Harbans Nagpal
Psychotherapist, MBBS
Verified Verified
East London, London E1
English Psychotherapist specialized in the treatment of obesity, bulimia, anorexia, gambing, smoking, drinking, cannabis and other addictions.
I am a Lacanian psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with 25 years of experience. I treat eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia and obesity, and addictions such as to nicotine, cannabis, gambling, sex, chocolate, tea and coffee. After my training in medicine (Oxford, Cambridge) I worked in London and at the American Hospital of Paris. To specialize, I trained in psychiatry and psychoanalysis (with Jacques Lacan at the École Freudienne) in Paris. For many years I was a Consultant Psychiatrist at Saint Anne’s Hospital in Paris. For the last twenty years I have worked as a specialised psychotherapist. Do take a look at my website.
English Psychotherapist specialized in the treatment of obesity, bulimia, anorexia, gambing, smoking, drinking, cannabis and other addictions.
I am a Lacanian psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with 25 years of experience. I treat eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia and obesity, and addictions such as to nicotine, cannabis, gambling, sex, chocolate, tea and coffee. After my training in medicine (Oxford, Cambridge) I worked in London and at the American Hospital of Paris. To specialize, I trained in psychiatry and psychoanalysis (with Jacques Lacan at the École Freudienne) in Paris. For many years I was a Consultant Psychiatrist at Saint Anne’s Hospital in Paris. For the last twenty years I have worked as a specialised psychotherapist. Do take a look at my website.
01223 679756 View 01223 679756
Photo of Dr Basak Ince Caglar, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Basak Ince Caglar
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
East London, London E8
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I currently work as a postdoctoral research associate and as an honorary therapist in London. I am experienced in a wide range of mental health problems; eating disorders, body image issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotion regulation difficulties, and trauma.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. I currently work as a postdoctoral research associate and as an honorary therapist in London. I am experienced in a wide range of mental health problems; eating disorders, body image issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, emotion regulation difficulties, and trauma.
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Photo of Dr Katie Kalinowski, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Katie Kalinowski
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E17
My practice focuses on treating eating disorders, stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Most people want to feel good within themselves and within their lives. I don’t think this is too much to ask! If obstacles have previously prevented this, it does not mean the future need be the same. Change is always possible and often we need a helping hand. I am passionate about collaboration as the most empowering route on a therapeutic journey. You have the strength and the answers and together we can make sense of any hurt, obstacle or fear.
My practice focuses on treating eating disorders, stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.
Most people want to feel good within themselves and within their lives. I don’t think this is too much to ask! If obstacles have previously prevented this, it does not mean the future need be the same. Change is always possible and often we need a helping hand. I am passionate about collaboration as the most empowering route on a therapeutic journey. You have the strength and the answers and together we can make sense of any hurt, obstacle or fear.
01992 927945 View 01992 927945
Photo of Melis Okur, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Melis Okur
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
East London, London E14
People who have experienced depression, trauma, eating disorders, immigration/adaptation issues and anxiety are what I’ve specialized working with.
People who have experienced depression, trauma, eating disorders, immigration/adaptation issues and anxiety are what I’ve specialized working with.
020 3974 1811 View 020 3974 1811
Photo of Maria Sergeeva, MSc, Psychotherapist
Maria Sergeeva
Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
East London, London E1
Here is a non-exhaustive list of areas I cover: anxiety, depression, narcissistic trauma, CPTSD, PTSD, panic attack, insomnia, procrastination, rejection sensitivity dysphoria, eating disorders, addictions, impulse control disorders, meltdowns, time-management, relationship breakdowns and conflicts, anger management, opening up a relationship,.
I am an integrative neurodivergence and LGBTQ+ affirming psychotherapist (ACT, CBT, CFT, IFS, DBT skills training) meaning that I combine several approaches depending on a client, their needs and goals. I’m also a clinical psychologist and sex therapist. My main specialities include: eating disorders, ADHD and ASD in adults, DBT skills training for ADHD and ASD, impulse control disorders and trauma-informed care. My interests in sex and relationship therapy include kink-affirming practice, gender identity and sexuality questioning, trauma-informed care, sexuality, intimacy and relationships in neurodivergent individuals.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of areas I cover: anxiety, depression, narcissistic trauma, CPTSD, PTSD, panic attack, insomnia, procrastination, rejection sensitivity dysphoria, eating disorders, addictions, impulse control disorders, meltdowns, time-management, relationship breakdowns and conflicts, anger management, opening up a relationship,.
I am an integrative neurodivergence and LGBTQ+ affirming psychotherapist (ACT, CBT, CFT, IFS, DBT skills training) meaning that I combine several approaches depending on a client, their needs and goals. I’m also a clinical psychologist and sex therapist. My main specialities include: eating disorders, ADHD and ASD in adults, DBT skills training for ADHD and ASD, impulse control disorders and trauma-informed care. My interests in sex and relationship therapy include kink-affirming practice, gender identity and sexuality questioning, trauma-informed care, sexuality, intimacy and relationships in neurodivergent individuals.
020 4538 8900 View 020 4538 8900
Photo of Vicky Elizabeth, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Vicky Elizabeth
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E11
I am also an Eating Disorder Specialist and have years of experience with mild difficulties around food and body image to the more severe and entrenched eating disorders.
I have been providing goal focussed therapy for over 25 years for a whole range of problems; privately and within the NHS - people really do experience change! I work with children, adults and families and it can be effective to include them at some point during treatment. Good therapy is transformational.
I am also an Eating Disorder Specialist and have years of experience with mild difficulties around food and body image to the more severe and entrenched eating disorders.
I have been providing goal focussed therapy for over 25 years for a whole range of problems; privately and within the NHS - people really do experience change! I work with children, adults and families and it can be effective to include them at some point during treatment. Good therapy is transformational.
023 9431 1895 View 023 9431 1895
Photo of Dr Katie Trigg, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Katie Trigg
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
East London, London E10  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals that have experienced: stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders and have specialist experience in working with children, adolescents and adults living with physical health conditions and their families.
Hello, my name is Katie and I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of experience working within mental health services. I know that life can be incredibly difficult at times and I seek to offer you a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental space to tell your story and provide you with therapeutic support moving forwards. My ethos is to work with people collaboratively, using a flexible, person-centered approach to make sure that therapy suits your unique individual needs. Life can be overwhelming and I will work with you so we can process and understand what’s going on for you together and identify ways to help.
I have worked with individuals that have experienced: stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders and have specialist experience in working with children, adolescents and adults living with physical health conditions and their families.
Hello, my name is Katie and I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years of experience working within mental health services. I know that life can be incredibly difficult at times and I seek to offer you a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental space to tell your story and provide you with therapeutic support moving forwards. My ethos is to work with people collaboratively, using a flexible, person-centered approach to make sure that therapy suits your unique individual needs. Life can be overwhelming and I will work with you so we can process and understand what’s going on for you together and identify ways to help.
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Photo of Sara Koczwara, MBACP, Counsellor
Sara Koczwara
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E8
I worked with a wide variety of clients and have experience in helping people with a range of emotional and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, gender and identity issues, and sexual problems.
My name is Sara and I am a Humanistic Integrative Therapist. I strongly believe that with the right support and guidance people are able to overcome any difficulties in their life and live in a healthier and more fulfilling way. One of my core values is trust and I see it as a vital part of the therapeutic process and any relationship.
I worked with a wide variety of clients and have experience in helping people with a range of emotional and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, abuse, addictions, eating disorders, mood disorders, trauma, gender and identity issues, and sexual problems.
My name is Sara and I am a Humanistic Integrative Therapist. I strongly believe that with the right support and guidance people are able to overcome any difficulties in their life and live in a healthier and more fulfilling way. One of my core values is trust and I see it as a vital part of the therapeutic process and any relationship.
020 4538 2975 View 020 4538 2975
Photo of Bisan Wehbi, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Bisan Wehbi
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
East London, London E17
I have extensive experience of working with children and young people in the education and charity sector, although my professional projects include work with refugees, people with SEN, cancer patients, single parents, people who suffer with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and many other areas.
I am a HCPC and BAAT registered Art Psychotherapist. Art Psychotherapy integrates speaking psychotherapy with expression through the art materials. This allows to communicate unconscious information and gives space for whatever might feel difficult to be communicated verbally, to resurface. I use a psychodynamic approach, which focuses on building a trusting client-therapist relationship to process difficult experiences. I facilitate a safe space, where we seek the root of unexplained behaviours and patterns.
I have extensive experience of working with children and young people in the education and charity sector, although my professional projects include work with refugees, people with SEN, cancer patients, single parents, people who suffer with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and many other areas.
I am a HCPC and BAAT registered Art Psychotherapist. Art Psychotherapy integrates speaking psychotherapy with expression through the art materials. This allows to communicate unconscious information and gives space for whatever might feel difficult to be communicated verbally, to resurface. I use a psychodynamic approach, which focuses on building a trusting client-therapist relationship to process difficult experiences. I facilitate a safe space, where we seek the root of unexplained behaviours and patterns.
020 4538 7524 View 020 4538 7524
Photo of Kate-Marie Travis, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Kate-Marie Travis
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E2
I have a rich 22 years of experience specialising in children, families, couples, and individuals facing diverse relational, personal, and mental health challenges (inc: anorexia, depression, anxiety, bipolar, EUDP, personality disorders, and schizophrenia). I bring sensitivity and curiosity to navigate these complexities. I strive to be your ally in understanding and overcoming challenges, fostering a safe and flexible space where your unique needs are met. Together, we'll embark on a transformative journey, embracing diversity and cultural nuances. Your goals are my priority.
I have a rich 22 years of experience specialising in children, families, couples, and individuals facing diverse relational, personal, and mental health challenges (inc: anorexia, depression, anxiety, bipolar, EUDP, personality disorders, and schizophrenia). I bring sensitivity and curiosity to navigate these complexities. I strive to be your ally in understanding and overcoming challenges, fostering a safe and flexible space where your unique needs are met. Together, we'll embark on a transformative journey, embracing diversity and cultural nuances. Your goals are my priority.
020 4524 2977 View 020 4524 2977
Photo of Evelyn Greaves Bey - London Minds , DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
London Minds
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E5  (Online Only)
Eating disorders.
At some point in life we experience the storms of life that impact our very being and our ability to function with daily life due to unexpected events or crisis. It can be difficult to express concerns, doubts, fears etc to manage what seems to be a rollercoaster period. It is sometimes difficult to manage or confront internal/external conflicts or to determine which path to take when in the midst of challenging life experiences. We worry about not being understood or accepted. It is for such reasons that I feel honoured to become a part of client' lives during moments of connecting to weather the storms together.
Eating disorders.
At some point in life we experience the storms of life that impact our very being and our ability to function with daily life due to unexpected events or crisis. It can be difficult to express concerns, doubts, fears etc to manage what seems to be a rollercoaster period. It is sometimes difficult to manage or confront internal/external conflicts or to determine which path to take when in the midst of challenging life experiences. We worry about not being understood or accepted. It is for such reasons that I feel honoured to become a part of client' lives during moments of connecting to weather the storms together.
020 3962 1464 View 020 3962 1464
Photo of Eleanor Barreau, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Eleanor Barreau
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E3
I have experience working with anxiety (panic attacks, health, generalised), OCD, depression, chronic fatigue, bereavement, childhood trauma, domestic violence, relationships issues, eating disorders, work issues, life goals.
As you consider finding a therapist, it's crucial to find someone who understands your unique story and makes you feel comfortable. I create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns and difficult experiences with ease. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, loneliness, or anger, tackling these issues alone can be overwhelming and even frightening. With therapy, you can start to rebuild that sense of connection with yourself. I believe that creating a safe space where you can be open and honest helps you explore and concur the issues that you feel are holding you back.
I have experience working with anxiety (panic attacks, health, generalised), OCD, depression, chronic fatigue, bereavement, childhood trauma, domestic violence, relationships issues, eating disorders, work issues, life goals.
As you consider finding a therapist, it's crucial to find someone who understands your unique story and makes you feel comfortable. I create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns and difficult experiences with ease. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, loneliness, or anger, tackling these issues alone can be overwhelming and even frightening. With therapy, you can start to rebuild that sense of connection with yourself. I believe that creating a safe space where you can be open and honest helps you explore and concur the issues that you feel are holding you back.
020 3893 5973 View 020 3893 5973
Photo of Karen Katz, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Karen Katz
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
East London, London E17
I am an OCD specialist, having a lead role at a highly specialist national service and have worked as a therapist in the NHS for over 20 years. I provide evidence based therapy to treat disorders and psychological difficulties including PTSD, general anxiety, phobias, low self esteem, eating disorders, depression and perfectionism. My clients often report feeling stuck in a pattern of thinking or behaviour and want to make real and lasting changes. My approach focuses on identifying and working through what is maintaining the difficulties and helps clients to gain the tools to keep them self well once therapy has ended.
I am an OCD specialist, having a lead role at a highly specialist national service and have worked as a therapist in the NHS for over 20 years. I provide evidence based therapy to treat disorders and psychological difficulties including PTSD, general anxiety, phobias, low self esteem, eating disorders, depression and perfectionism. My clients often report feeling stuck in a pattern of thinking or behaviour and want to make real and lasting changes. My approach focuses on identifying and working through what is maintaining the difficulties and helps clients to gain the tools to keep them self well once therapy has ended.
020 3962 0595 View 020 3962 0595
Photo of Ekua Edufuah, MBACP, Counsellor
Ekua Edufuah
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E10
I work with a range of issues such as; mental health, trauma, bereavement, self esteem, identity, culture, religion, sexuality, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, adoption, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and domestic violence.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
I work with a range of issues such as; mental health, trauma, bereavement, self esteem, identity, culture, religion, sexuality, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, adoption, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and domestic violence.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
020 3962 0730 View 020 3962 0730
Photo of Louis Carruthers, MBACP, Counsellor
Louis Carruthers
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
East London, London E1
I am experienced working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and family issues.
I am an Integrative Counsellor (MBACP) and I work with adults both in-person and online on a wide range of behavioural, emotional, and relationship issues. I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings and facilitate self-awareness and movement towards healing and growth. I have been trained in a number of modalities including person-centred, psychodynamic, existential, cognitive, and relational approaches. My practice also draws on embodied/somatic approaches to trauma. My approach is tailored to the client and what works best for each individual.​
I am experienced working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and family issues.
I am an Integrative Counsellor (MBACP) and I work with adults both in-person and online on a wide range of behavioural, emotional, and relationship issues. I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings and facilitate self-awareness and movement towards healing and growth. I have been trained in a number of modalities including person-centred, psychodynamic, existential, cognitive, and relational approaches. My practice also draws on embodied/somatic approaches to trauma. My approach is tailored to the client and what works best for each individual.​
020 3949 7725 View 020 3949 7725
Photo of Charlene Edwards, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Charlene Edwards
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East London, London E17
I have worked in mental health within the NHS for over 10 years, working with a range of difficulties including; trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and psychosis.
There may be many reasons why you are finding life more difficult at the moment. This could be longstanding problems or perhaps something you've noticed more recently. You may want to understand why this is happening to you and what has contributed to this in order to be able to make differences in how you feel or the things that you may be doing or not doing. Each person is unique and whatever may be going on, I can support you in understanding the root of these difficulties and then help to make life long changes in order for you to make the most out of your life moving forward.
I have worked in mental health within the NHS for over 10 years, working with a range of difficulties including; trauma, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and psychosis.
There may be many reasons why you are finding life more difficult at the moment. This could be longstanding problems or perhaps something you've noticed more recently. You may want to understand why this is happening to you and what has contributed to this in order to be able to make differences in how you feel or the things that you may be doing or not doing. Each person is unique and whatever may be going on, I can support you in understanding the root of these difficulties and then help to make life long changes in order for you to make the most out of your life moving forward.
020 3322 2386 View 020 3322 2386
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See more therapy options for East London, London

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.