Eating Disorders Counselling in Tiverton

Photo of Stella Beever, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Stella Beever
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tiverton EX16
Working with clients facing eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, purging, overeating, orthorexia, or pica, requires specialized training.
Silence can be difficult... its good to talk. I welcome you in a non-judgmental, safe space to express your fears, worries, and stresses, to disclose issues which may leave you unsure which way to turn. I would like to help you gain some clarity, and work towards effecting change. In the aftermath of significant life-altering events or shocks, counselling can offer you a structured avenue to unravel the complexities of your personal situation. You may have never experienced being truly yourself and voicing aloud what is causing you confusion and pain. Talking issues through with me can be a first step.
Working with clients facing eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, purging, overeating, orthorexia, or pica, requires specialized training.
Silence can be difficult... its good to talk. I welcome you in a non-judgmental, safe space to express your fears, worries, and stresses, to disclose issues which may leave you unsure which way to turn. I would like to help you gain some clarity, and work towards effecting change. In the aftermath of significant life-altering events or shocks, counselling can offer you a structured avenue to unravel the complexities of your personal situation. You may have never experienced being truly yourself and voicing aloud what is causing you confusion and pain. Talking issues through with me can be a first step.
01794 337442 View 01794 337442
Photo of Andrew Cowlin - Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tiverton EX16
Cultural issues Depression, Disability, Divorce & Separation, Eating disorders, Family, Financial difficulties, Gender identity, Mindfulness, Obsessive compulsive disorder, (OCD) Parenting skills, Phobias, (PTSD), Self Harm, Sexual Identity, Suicidal Feelings Trauma Victim Support
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
Cultural issues Depression, Disability, Divorce & Separation, Eating disorders, Family, Financial difficulties, Gender identity, Mindfulness, Obsessive compulsive disorder, (OCD) Parenting skills, Phobias, (PTSD), Self Harm, Sexual Identity, Suicidal Feelings Trauma Victim Support
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
01884 219224 View 01884 219224
Photo of Antonella Depetro, Counsellor, MBACP
Antonella Depetro
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have over 8 years' experience in counselling both adults and young people from age 11, with specialist qualifications in counselling young people, eating disorders, self-harm, LGBTQ issues and bereavement.
Welcome. My name is Antonella and I'm an experienced and dedicated counsellor working with both adults and young people. I support people who are going through all kinds of struggles and challenges. Clients I have worked with have told me that for the first time they were able to talk and express their feelings and thoughts about themselves and life as they felt safe and comfortable. I offer a safe and confidential space where you are free to explore yourself and your concerns, and discover your inner resources at your own pace. I will genuinely listen, be with you and accept you for who you are without judgement.
I have over 8 years' experience in counselling both adults and young people from age 11, with specialist qualifications in counselling young people, eating disorders, self-harm, LGBTQ issues and bereavement.
Welcome. My name is Antonella and I'm an experienced and dedicated counsellor working with both adults and young people. I support people who are going through all kinds of struggles and challenges. Clients I have worked with have told me that for the first time they were able to talk and express their feelings and thoughts about themselves and life as they felt safe and comfortable. I offer a safe and confidential space where you are free to explore yourself and your concerns, and discover your inner resources at your own pace. I will genuinely listen, be with you and accept you for who you are without judgement.
01392 321204 View 01392 321204
Photo of Laura Jayne Sollis, Counsellor, MBACP
Laura Jayne Sollis
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
Do you feel stuck, anxious or overwhelmed? Perhaps worry, lack of confidence or low self esteem is having a negative effect on your life, causing you to feel isolated and alone. Talking to loved one about what we are experiencing can feel difficult, we worry that we are putting to much on them or we don't want them to worry about us. Talking to a counsellor can be really helpful at these times and can show a way forward. However I understand that a good counselling relationship is vital to support you in moving toward your goals.
01363 720245 View 01363 720245
Photo of Gavin Weir-Jones, Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Gavin Weir-Jones
Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My work deals universally with the reduction of suffering, your suffering. Specifically this may include Depression, Anxiety, Low Mood, Loss of purpose, Grief, Relationship issues, managing change and family problems. Often we can be lost in our thinking and we can swing, like a pendulum, between worries of the past and anxieties of the future, never really pausing to be present now. This is normal, we all have these times. However sometimes, some of us get stuck in these places and need some guidance to bring us into balance and offer us support,at difficult times in our lives.
My work deals universally with the reduction of suffering, your suffering. Specifically this may include Depression, Anxiety, Low Mood, Loss of purpose, Grief, Relationship issues, managing change and family problems. Often we can be lost in our thinking and we can swing, like a pendulum, between worries of the past and anxieties of the future, never really pausing to be present now. This is normal, we all have these times. However sometimes, some of us get stuck in these places and need some guidance to bring us into balance and offer us support,at difficult times in our lives.
01392 531589 View 01392 531589
Photo of Karen Janas - Karen Janas - Spark Consulting Services Ltd, Counsellor, MBACP
Karen Janas - Spark Consulting Services Ltd
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I offer professional, experienced counselling for individuals, couples, young people, employers and employees. If you are finding life difficult, counselling can help, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, obsessive thoughts, panic, stress, low self-esteem, confidence, your relationships, grief or something else. Counselling is not just about helping you solve problems its about helping you make positive changes that enhance your life. I provide a non-judgemental, confidential space, where you can feel safe to explore things about yourself and any problems you may be facing. Clinic in Wellington, Somerset
I offer professional, experienced counselling for individuals, couples, young people, employers and employees. If you are finding life difficult, counselling can help, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, obsessive thoughts, panic, stress, low self-esteem, confidence, your relationships, grief or something else. Counselling is not just about helping you solve problems its about helping you make positive changes that enhance your life. I provide a non-judgemental, confidential space, where you can feel safe to explore things about yourself and any problems you may be facing. Clinic in Wellington, Somerset
07480 536717 View 07480 536717
Photo of Shem Lopez - Progressive Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist
Progressive Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As an integrative psychotherapist I utilise several therapeutic approaches and draw on their interventions to support my clients in achieving their goals. I meet each client as the unique individual you are. My focus is on finding the most beneficial way for you to achieve your outcomes. I'm here to help you get results not just to listen. I offer a safe, comfortable and protective environment in which we can explore concerns to do with your future, past or present that are affecting you. Therapy is about making sense of your internal world and developing a greater awareness of Self allowing you to form more meaningful connections.
As an integrative psychotherapist I utilise several therapeutic approaches and draw on their interventions to support my clients in achieving their goals. I meet each client as the unique individual you are. My focus is on finding the most beneficial way for you to achieve your outcomes. I'm here to help you get results not just to listen. I offer a safe, comfortable and protective environment in which we can explore concerns to do with your future, past or present that are affecting you. Therapy is about making sense of your internal world and developing a greater awareness of Self allowing you to form more meaningful connections.
01392 321421 View 01392 321421
Photo of Claire Annette Williams, Counsellor, MBACP
Claire Annette Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
I am an experienced, registered MBACP counsellor, and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
01392 537143 View 01392 537143
Photo of Nicola Dunn, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Nicola Dunn
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Nic. I’m calm, empathic and non-judgemental, and I provide a welcoming, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the safety of the counselling relationship. We’ll gently explore what brings you to counselling; this can be any issues, past or present, however big or small they may feel. I’m here to listen, without judgement, and together we’ll work through this to help you to understand and accept yourself, and find a way to move forwards. You may not be sure what you want from counselling, and this is something we can work through together.
Hi, I’m Nic. I’m calm, empathic and non-judgemental, and I provide a welcoming, confidential space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in the safety of the counselling relationship. We’ll gently explore what brings you to counselling; this can be any issues, past or present, however big or small they may feel. I’m here to listen, without judgement, and together we’ll work through this to help you to understand and accept yourself, and find a way to move forwards. You may not be sure what you want from counselling, and this is something we can work through together.
01392 321633 View 01392 321633
Photo of Annie Ford, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Annie Ford
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Serves Area
It takes courage to contact a Counsellor for the first time, are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, need to make sense or gain clarity of your personal issues. As an experienced Professional Counsellor, I provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. A place to explore the changes "you want". Building resilience and strategies to cope with relationships or home or work issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, or stressful health challenges. Short & long-term therapy 9am -7pm + Sat mornings. A calm comfortable garden studio for face to face, or online work.
It takes courage to contact a Counsellor for the first time, are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed, need to make sense or gain clarity of your personal issues. As an experienced Professional Counsellor, I provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. A place to explore the changes "you want". Building resilience and strategies to cope with relationships or home or work issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, or stressful health challenges. Short & long-term therapy 9am -7pm + Sat mornings. A calm comfortable garden studio for face to face, or online work.
07584 336873 View 07584 336873

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gillian Mather, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Gillian Mather
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I am also a Master Practitioner for all aspects of eating disorders- Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge eating, Obesity and other associated issues such as anxiety, depression, low self esteem and body image problems.
As a Master Practitioner working with eating disorders, I use the unique model developed by the National Centre for Eating Disorders which incorporates positive psychology, psycho education, CBT helping to challenge the mind set. I have helped many clients return to a safer, happier place with food, lifestyle and body image.
I am also a Master Practitioner for all aspects of eating disorders- Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge eating, Obesity and other associated issues such as anxiety, depression, low self esteem and body image problems.
As a Master Practitioner working with eating disorders, I use the unique model developed by the National Centre for Eating Disorders which incorporates positive psychology, psycho education, CBT helping to challenge the mind set. I have helped many clients return to a safer, happier place with food, lifestyle and body image.
07480 534009 View 07480 534009
Photo of Jay Dudley, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Jay Dudley
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
My clinical experience and interests include treatment for personality disorders; complex trauma and dissociative processes; eating disorders; OCD; anxiety and depression.
I am a Psychotherapist, Supervisor, & Group Analyst in Training with many years’ experience working as a Psychotherapist in mental health services in the NHS, and in drug rehabilitation services in West London. I was lead for the Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Service in Somerset NHS Trust, before moving to Devon to take up work as a Psychotherapist in a Specialist Therapeutic Community within the Personality Disorder Service. I worked there for 10 years, and then as Professional Lead at The Haldon Specialist Eating Disorder Service. I am undertaking further training as a Group Analyst with the Institute of Group Analysis.
My clinical experience and interests include treatment for personality disorders; complex trauma and dissociative processes; eating disorders; OCD; anxiety and depression.
I am a Psychotherapist, Supervisor, & Group Analyst in Training with many years’ experience working as a Psychotherapist in mental health services in the NHS, and in drug rehabilitation services in West London. I was lead for the Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Service in Somerset NHS Trust, before moving to Devon to take up work as a Psychotherapist in a Specialist Therapeutic Community within the Personality Disorder Service. I worked there for 10 years, and then as Professional Lead at The Haldon Specialist Eating Disorder Service. I am undertaking further training as a Group Analyst with the Institute of Group Analysis.
01489 359948 View 01489 359948
Photo of Rachel Coles, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Rachel Coles
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX5
I have a particular interest & experience in working with Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating difficulties.
I’m a experienced CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service) Systemic Family Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor, I am passionate about working with children, young people and their families supporting them to improve their mental health. I am registered with both UKCP (United Kingdom for Counselling & Psychotherapy) and AFT (Association for Family
I have a particular interest & experience in working with Eating Disorders & Disordered Eating difficulties.
I’m a experienced CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service) Systemic Family Psychotherapist & Clinical Supervisor, I am passionate about working with children, young people and their families supporting them to improve their mental health. I am registered with both UKCP (United Kingdom for Counselling & Psychotherapy) and AFT (Association for Family
01392 321753 View 01392 321753
Photo of Hayley Allen, Counsellor, MBACP
Hayley Allen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX2
I am passionate about and qualified to support individuals dealing with eating disorders and disordered eating.
As an Integrative Therapist, I have the opportunity to truly appreciate and respect you as a unique person. By integrating all aspects of your being - your physical, emotional, mental, behavioural, and spiritual self, I ensure my approach addresses each aspect specifically for you, fostering a feeling of completeness.
I am passionate about and qualified to support individuals dealing with eating disorders and disordered eating.
As an Integrative Therapist, I have the opportunity to truly appreciate and respect you as a unique person. By integrating all aspects of your being - your physical, emotional, mental, behavioural, and spiritual self, I ensure my approach addresses each aspect specifically for you, fostering a feeling of completeness.
01392 321928 View 01392 321928
Photo of Lau M Harp, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Lau M Harp
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Since qualifying in 2016 my experience primarily consists of supporting people with: eating disorders, body image concerns and LGBT+ related issues (including gender dysphoria, coming out, internalised homophobia or transphobia, family rejection, and the process of transitioning).
My primary training is in Dramatherapy which is a creative form of Psychotherapy. This means that in addition to talking we may also explore the use of artwork, stories, metaphors, creative writing, objects and other creative tools. In addition, i'm qualified Sound Therapist and i'm trained in MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults).
Since qualifying in 2016 my experience primarily consists of supporting people with: eating disorders, body image concerns and LGBT+ related issues (including gender dysphoria, coming out, internalised homophobia or transphobia, family rejection, and the process of transitioning).
My primary training is in Dramatherapy which is a creative form of Psychotherapy. This means that in addition to talking we may also explore the use of artwork, stories, metaphors, creative writing, objects and other creative tools. In addition, i'm qualified Sound Therapist and i'm trained in MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults).
01392 542077 View 01392 542077
Photo of Richard Palmer Eating Disorder Expert, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Richard Palmer Eating Disorder Expert
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
At my clinic, we understand the complex emotions that come with an eating disorder, whether you’re battling anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID or another eating disorder.
Recovery is possible, and with the right help, you can regain control of your life. We use leading approaches like CBT-E and MANTRA, combined with a holistic, personalised care plan to guide you step by step towards a healthier relationship with food and your body.
At my clinic, we understand the complex emotions that come with an eating disorder, whether you’re battling anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID or another eating disorder.
Recovery is possible, and with the right help, you can regain control of your life. We use leading approaches like CBT-E and MANTRA, combined with a holistic, personalised care plan to guide you step by step towards a healthier relationship with food and your body.
01278 619855 View 01278 619855
Photo of Lucy Perkins - Lucy Perkins Counselling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Lucy Perkins Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Exeter EX1
I have an extensive background working with both eating disorders and gender identity and I am a proud ally of the LGBTQIA+ community.
A very warm welcome to you. I work with a person centred approach, ensuring our sessions feel right for you as a unique individual. My style of counselling is non-directive, relaxed and inclusive, which means our work together is designed around what you want and need. The work is supportive and respectful as we go at your pace and my aim is to get alongside you on your path, helping you explore your world to find understanding, clarity or solution. Sessions are centered around you and how you experience yourself and the world around you. You are free to come as you are and be accepted, as you are.
I have an extensive background working with both eating disorders and gender identity and I am a proud ally of the LGBTQIA+ community.
A very warm welcome to you. I work with a person centred approach, ensuring our sessions feel right for you as a unique individual. My style of counselling is non-directive, relaxed and inclusive, which means our work together is designed around what you want and need. The work is supportive and respectful as we go at your pace and my aim is to get alongside you on your path, helping you explore your world to find understanding, clarity or solution. Sessions are centered around you and how you experience yourself and the world around you. You are free to come as you are and be accepted, as you are.
01392 690513 View 01392 690513
Photo of Charlotte Dinnis, Counsellor, MBACP
Charlotte Dinnis
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Exeter EX4
I hold a PQ Diploma in Eating Disorders, as well as Trauma and Grief certifications.
Hello, I’m Charlotte, an integrative counsellor based in Exeter. Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, overwhelm, or feeling “not good enough”? Are your relationships being impacted not just with others but with yourself too? Perhaps your relationship with food and your body is changing, too. Do you feel like something needs to change? I specialise in helping individuals navigate these challenges with a compassionate, integrative approach that puts your goals first, at your pace.
I hold a PQ Diploma in Eating Disorders, as well as Trauma and Grief certifications.
Hello, I’m Charlotte, an integrative counsellor based in Exeter. Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, overwhelm, or feeling “not good enough”? Are your relationships being impacted not just with others but with yourself too? Perhaps your relationship with food and your body is changing, too. Do you feel like something needs to change? I specialise in helping individuals navigate these challenges with a compassionate, integrative approach that puts your goals first, at your pace.
01392 542452 View 01392 542452
Photo of Dr Elene Robson, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Elene Robson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Online Only
I can support you and your loved ones to overcome a wide range of difficulties, with particular expertise in working with: anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders (including Anorexia and ARFID), depression and low mood, neurodiversity (Autism and ADHD), and physical health conditions.
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me, who is able to work with family and relational difficulties. I also have two other Clinical Psychologists working alongside me, so we are able to help with most difficulties.
I can support you and your loved ones to overcome a wide range of difficulties, with particular expertise in working with: anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders (including Anorexia and ARFID), depression and low mood, neurodiversity (Autism and ADHD), and physical health conditions.
I have over 20 years of experience working in the NHS, specialising in child and adolescent mental health. This has allowed me to gain extensive experience in working with children, adolescents, young adults, siblings and parents to overcome a wide range of psychological, emotional and behavioural difficulties. I also have a very experienced Family Therapist working alongside me, who is able to work with family and relational difficulties. I also have two other Clinical Psychologists working alongside me, so we are able to help with most difficulties.
01803 308929 View 01803 308929
Photo of Helen Breeze, Counsellor, MBACP
Helen Breeze
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I also have a NCS specialism post graduate diploma in eating disorders.
Are you wanting to bring about changes to your life and the way that you live it? Things may feel overwhelming, difficult to manage, or you just feel stuck and don't know how to move on. You may be dealing with feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, low mood , depression, anger, sadness or loss. You may be struggling with a relationship, your relationship with yourself, a bereavement, ADHD,autism,OCD,a stressful life transition or an eating disorder in which i have a specialist dipolma. I will help you to explore whatever is troubling you, at a pace that feels safe. I have extensive experience & see my professional role as a privilege.
I also have a NCS specialism post graduate diploma in eating disorders.
Are you wanting to bring about changes to your life and the way that you live it? Things may feel overwhelming, difficult to manage, or you just feel stuck and don't know how to move on. You may be dealing with feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, low mood , depression, anger, sadness or loss. You may be struggling with a relationship, your relationship with yourself, a bereavement, ADHD,autism,OCD,a stressful life transition or an eating disorder in which i have a specialist dipolma. I will help you to explore whatever is troubling you, at a pace that feels safe. I have extensive experience & see my professional role as a privilege.
01822 668455 View 01822 668455
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.