Eating Disorders Psychiatrists in Del Mar, CA

Photo of Laura Wakil, MD, Psychiatrist
Laura Wakil
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I see patients for a variety of mental health, emotional and medical concerns that cause psychiatric issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, trauma, ADHD, mood, eating disorders, pregnancy/postpartum, infertility, and menopause, grief, or stress.
I am board certified in psychiatry and neurology, and trained in functional medicine. I specialize in adult/geriatric, reproductive, and adolescent psychiatry. I focus on the whole individual -- not just a constellation of symptoms -- and the treatment I provide is comprehensive, and integrative. My focus is on the relationship with my patients, maintaining trust, and providing excellent care. I approach my patients with the same dedication I would want my own loved ones and family to receive. I do not accept insurance but provide a superbill that you can submit for out of network benefits.
I see patients for a variety of mental health, emotional and medical concerns that cause psychiatric issues including depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, trauma, ADHD, mood, eating disorders, pregnancy/postpartum, infertility, and menopause, grief, or stress.
I am board certified in psychiatry and neurology, and trained in functional medicine. I specialize in adult/geriatric, reproductive, and adolescent psychiatry. I focus on the whole individual -- not just a constellation of symptoms -- and the treatment I provide is comprehensive, and integrative. My focus is on the relationship with my patients, maintaining trust, and providing excellent care. I approach my patients with the same dedication I would want my own loved ones and family to receive. I do not accept insurance but provide a superbill that you can submit for out of network benefits.
(858) 876-2333 View (858) 876-2333
Photo of Elena Urbiztondo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elena Urbiztondo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
Hello, I'm Elena Urbiztondo, a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is compassionate and integrative, combining medication management and psychotherapy, focusing on collaboration and tailored care to support your mental health and help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Preeti Mathur, MD, Psychiatrist
Preeti Mathur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Preeti Mathur, M.D. is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist. She completed her residency and was Chief Resident at Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, NY. She has worked at San Diego County Psychiatric Hospital for 3 years and is currently also working at Palomar Pomerado Hospital.
Preeti Mathur, M.D. is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist. She completed her residency and was Chief Resident at Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, NY. She has worked at San Diego County Psychiatric Hospital for 3 years and is currently also working at Palomar Pomerado Hospital.
(858) 252-1733 View (858) 252-1733
Photo of Orah Mahtov, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orah Mahtov
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
Orah Mahtov is a highly experienced, dual certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry and psychotherapy in California. With years of experience in diverse medical settings, Orah discovered her passion for mental health and obtained a post-master’s certificate in psychiatry at California State University, Los Angeles.
(949) 998-6338 View (949) 998-6338
Photo of Mark Melden, DO, FABPN, Psychiatrist
Mark Melden
Psychiatrist, DO, FABPN
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Our numerous specialties include the following: MOOD, ANXIETY, Bipolar, Panic disorder, GERIATRIC DISORDERS, CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DISORDERS, ADD/ADHD, PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS, Schizophrenia and Schizophrenic, POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER and TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY, AUTISM and ASPERGER disorders, FORENSIC EVALUATIONS, Testamentary Changes, Disability Evaluations, Capacity Evaluations for Lanterman-Petris Short (LPS) and Probate Conservatorship, NEURO-PSYCHIATRIC TESTING, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Memory Loss and Cognitive Dysfunctions, SUBSTANCE AND ALCOHOL Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Suboxone Prescribers for Opiate Dependence, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
Our numerous specialties include the following: MOOD, ANXIETY, Bipolar, Panic disorder, GERIATRIC DISORDERS, CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DISORDERS, ADD/ADHD, PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS, Schizophrenia and Schizophrenic, POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER and TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY, AUTISM and ASPERGER disorders, FORENSIC EVALUATIONS, Testamentary Changes, Disability Evaluations, Capacity Evaluations for Lanterman-Petris Short (LPS) and Probate Conservatorship, NEURO-PSYCHIATRIC TESTING, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Memory Loss and Cognitive Dysfunctions, SUBSTANCE AND ALCOHOL Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Suboxone Prescribers for Opiate Dependence, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
(619) 432-6510 View (619) 432-6510
Photo of Kristin Lulich, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristin Lulich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
Kristin Lulich is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, providing care to children, adolescents, and adults. She received her MSN and DNP from the University of San Diego, NEI Master Psychopharmacology certified. Her experience has encompassed a variety of settings and specialties including inpatient, outpatient, crisis stabilization, consult-liaison psychiatry, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). She has a strong belief in holistic care and creates individualized treatment plans using combinations of pharmacotherapy and individual therapy as well as complimentary and alternative approaches.
Kristin Lulich is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, providing care to children, adolescents, and adults. She received her MSN and DNP from the University of San Diego, NEI Master Psychopharmacology certified. Her experience has encompassed a variety of settings and specialties including inpatient, outpatient, crisis stabilization, consult-liaison psychiatry, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). She has a strong belief in holistic care and creates individualized treatment plans using combinations of pharmacotherapy and individual therapy as well as complimentary and alternative approaches.
(858) 212-0924 View (858) 212-0924
Photo of Naiga Dohnji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Naiga Dohnji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
Dr. Naiga Dohnji (DNP) is a dedicated provider, who embodies the mission and values of being a positive influence in patients' lives, with a rich tapestry of professional experience. She brings a unique perspective to her practice, develops a complete wellness plan to help patients reach their goals. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to be understood. I believe that mental health can affect anyone regardless of status and that every patient is unique in the challenges they face. Taking care of patients is both an honor and a privilege for me. My focus has always been caring for patients.
(562) 784-9682 View (562) 784-9682
Photo of Dr. Dave Auluck - The Focus Doc, MD, Psychiatrist
The Focus Doc
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
Dr. Dave Auluck, M.D. is a 3rd generation physician, 2nd generation psychiatrist, and physician educator. He is passionate about improving the mental health treatment experience. His mission is to ensure personalized, industry-leading, preeminent care is accessible and affordable. He has worked with thousands of patients over the years and overseen program development for tens of thousands of others. He truly understands there is no "one size fits all" approach.
(619) 329-4608 View (619) 329-4608
Photo of Jacqueline Constantino, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacqueline Constantino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as an adult/gerontology primary care NP and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have over 14 years of nursing experience and my goal is to provide compassionate, holistic care to help clients achieve optimal wellness. I am comfortable treating all conditions to include depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorder, binge-eating disorder, and weight management.
(510) 405-5281 View (510) 405-5281
Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
(310) 737-8739 View (310) 737-8739
Photo of Kathryn Weaver, MD, Psychiatrist
Kathryn Weaver
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I specialize in treating patients with medications, therapy or both. I have particular interest in Family therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including Exposure Therapy), and Psychodynamic therapy. I commonly work with patients experiencing issues with mood, anxiety, stress, attention/concentration, school, work, family dynamics, or relationships. Originally from the midwest, I attended medical school at the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago-Medicine and my child and adolescent psychiatry training at UCLA.
I specialize in treating patients with medications, therapy or both. I have particular interest in Family therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including Exposure Therapy), and Psychodynamic therapy. I commonly work with patients experiencing issues with mood, anxiety, stress, attention/concentration, school, work, family dynamics, or relationships. Originally from the midwest, I attended medical school at the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities. I completed my adult psychiatry residency training at the University of Chicago-Medicine and my child and adolescent psychiatry training at UCLA.
(858) 326-9991 View (858) 326-9991
Photo of Shannon Pereira, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Pereira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
Great to meet you! My goal is to help you overcome the challenges you are facing in a safe and comfortable environment to help you improve your quality of life. My passion is helping those with substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use disorder, safely detox from the substances and work towards a meaningful and long-lasting recovery. With a decade of experience serving a wide range of patients, I am a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. To ensure we have a productive first visit, please be sure to fill out your intake form in advance!
(805) 941-3431 View (805) 941-3431
Photo of Halee Fullerton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Halee Fullerton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
My name is Halee Fullerton. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked in various settings. I specialize in medication management. I offer a personalized, holistic, evidence-based approach to the treatment of mental health and addiction disorders. My specific interests are treating depression, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, and addiction disorders in children/adolescents and young adults.
(424) 424-8911 View (424) 424-8911
Photo of Rawan Alshaikh, MD, Psychiatrist
Rawan Alshaikh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014
I strive to provide the time, respect, and support necessary for my patients to safely share and explore their concerns. As a professional in the healthcare field, I firmly believe that the approach taken towards caring for the patient has an integral role to play in patient outcomes. As such, I take an integrative approach to care; one that is patient-centered, healing oriented, and appreciative of the unique set of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual circumstances that contribute to an individual's life and experiences.
I strive to provide the time, respect, and support necessary for my patients to safely share and explore their concerns. As a professional in the healthcare field, I firmly believe that the approach taken towards caring for the patient has an integral role to play in patient outcomes. As such, I take an integrative approach to care; one that is patient-centered, healing oriented, and appreciative of the unique set of biological, psychological, social, and spiritual circumstances that contribute to an individual's life and experiences.
(858) 682-7248 View (858) 682-7248
Photo of Laurie Costa, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laurie Costa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014
As a Master’s prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have been dedicated to behavioral health care since 2012. My experience includes working with individuals in crisis or facing significant life challenges. I pride myself on an empathic and genuine approach to treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This includes addressing substance use, depression, anxiety, thought and memory issues, as well as child and adolescent mental health. I strive to provide care in a calm, relaxing, and friendly environment, welcoming individuals during their most vulnerable times.
As a Master’s prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have been dedicated to behavioral health care since 2012. My experience includes working with individuals in crisis or facing significant life challenges. I pride myself on an empathic and genuine approach to treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This includes addressing substance use, depression, anxiety, thought and memory issues, as well as child and adolescent mental health. I strive to provide care in a calm, relaxing, and friendly environment, welcoming individuals during their most vulnerable times.
(760) 278-7936 View (760) 278-7936
Photo of Vincent David Feitosa, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vincent David Feitosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Greetings to new patients! We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to individuals from all walks of life, with a special emphasis on those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, schizoaffective disorder, dual diagnosis, ADHD, and LGBTQI+ concerns. As a seasoned Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, I bring a wealth of experience, particularly in working with the chronically mentally ill. In our welcoming and nonjudgmental environment, our focus is on providing more than just medication support; we aim to instill hope, relief, and quality of life. Discover a Path to Wellness with Us!
Greetings to new patients! We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to individuals from all walks of life, with a special emphasis on those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, schizoaffective disorder, dual diagnosis, ADHD, and LGBTQI+ concerns. As a seasoned Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Board Certified, I bring a wealth of experience, particularly in working with the chronically mentally ill. In our welcoming and nonjudgmental environment, our focus is on providing more than just medication support; we aim to instill hope, relief, and quality of life. Discover a Path to Wellness with Us!
(858) 879-6097 View (858) 879-6097
Photo of Cara Niemeier, MD, Psychiatrist
Cara Niemeier
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Del Mar, CA 92014  (Online Only)
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
Dr. Niemeier is a Board Certified Psychiatrist by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, with the goal of using the lowest effective doses of sustainable medications when needed.
(619) 268-8439 View (619) 268-8439

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Trenice Johnson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Trenice Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family practice nurse practitioner and I also obtained my Doctor of Nursing practice degree. I have practiced for several years in family practice and mental health services and strongly believe in the importance of mental healthcare. I am thrilled to be treating each person holistically and individually. I am comfortable diagnosing and treating patients struggling with depression, anxiety/panic, insomnia, PTSD, PMDD, Eating disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia.
(858) 786-0159 View (858) 786-0159
Photo of Kemi Fawehinmi - Restoring Minds Behavioral Services, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Restoring Minds Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment.
Are you are struggling with your emotions, having sad mood, anxiety and finding it difficulty to cope with your situation? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. Considering psychiatric evaluation and medication management may be an appropriate treatment for you.
I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and work with a wide array of struggles including anxiety, ADHD, depression, panic, PTSD, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, compulsive behaviors, and adjustment.
Are you are struggling with your emotions, having sad mood, anxiety and finding it difficulty to cope with your situation? It can be discouraging when you feel like you've bounced around to different doctors and therapists and never experienced true relief for your symptoms. You don't want to deal with the hassle of multiple locations, multiple providers, and trying to get them to communicate about YOUR best treatment. Considering psychiatric evaluation and medication management may be an appropriate treatment for you.
(817) 587-0861 View (817) 587-0861
Photo of Matthew Geromi, DO, Psychiatrist
Matthew Geromi
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
His areas of expertise and interest include psychiatric disorders associated with chronic medical illness, eating disorders, reproductive psychiatric care, mental health treatment for health care professionals, and mental health treatment for airline crew.
Matthew Geromi, D.O. is a board-certified physician practicing Psychiatry in the Carmel Valley area of San Diego, CA. He treats adults ages 18 and older including older adults and elders. Dr. Geromi has experience in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders.
His areas of expertise and interest include psychiatric disorders associated with chronic medical illness, eating disorders, reproductive psychiatric care, mental health treatment for health care professionals, and mental health treatment for airline crew.
Matthew Geromi, D.O. is a board-certified physician practicing Psychiatry in the Carmel Valley area of San Diego, CA. He treats adults ages 18 and older including older adults and elders. Dr. Geromi has experience in treating a wide variety of psychiatric conditions including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders, eating disorders, and psychotic disorders.
(858) 779-2058 View (858) 779-2058
Eating Disorders Psychiatrists

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviors, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behavior 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 counseling 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 behavioral 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 behavior, 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 recognize 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 behavior has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.