Eating Disorders Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Sage Rubinstein, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Sage Rubinstein
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, feeling stuck in depression, battling with eating disorders, substance use, or dealing with past trauma, we will work together to understand the root causes of your concerns and create a personalized plan for healing.
Have you ever asked yourself... Why do I feel anxious even when everything seems “fine” on the outside? Why do I keep repeating the same patterns in my relationships? How can I break free from negative self-talk and build self-esteem? Why do I feel like I’m stuck in the past, and how can I move forward? What can I do to regain control over my eating habits or substance use? If you’ve been grappling with these or similar questions, therapy can provide the support you need to find answers and feel empowered to take action. Together, we can help you break free from the pain and find clarity, peace, and joy.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, feeling stuck in depression, battling with eating disorders, substance use, or dealing with past trauma, we will work together to understand the root causes of your concerns and create a personalized plan for healing.
Have you ever asked yourself... Why do I feel anxious even when everything seems “fine” on the outside? Why do I keep repeating the same patterns in my relationships? How can I break free from negative self-talk and build self-esteem? Why do I feel like I’m stuck in the past, and how can I move forward? What can I do to regain control over my eating habits or substance use? If you’ve been grappling with these or similar questions, therapy can provide the support you need to find answers and feel empowered to take action. Together, we can help you break free from the pain and find clarity, peace, and joy.
(720) 730-6091 View (720) 730-6091
Photo of Colleen Mann-Buxton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-P
Colleen Mann-Buxton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-P
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I specialize in supporting preteens, adolescents, and adults as they navigate eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational concerns.
We all long for and deserve a space where we can feel seen and understood without judgment. My clients come to therapy for support with eating disorder recovery, anxiety, depression, or navigating the challenges of adolescence. Whether they’re seeking healing from trauma, support through life transitions, or guidance in building self-compassion, my clients' goal is to feel more connected to themselves and others. They’re ready for growth and are seeking a therapist who offers warmth, creativity, and practical tools to help them move forward.
I specialize in supporting preteens, adolescents, and adults as they navigate eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relational concerns.
We all long for and deserve a space where we can feel seen and understood without judgment. My clients come to therapy for support with eating disorder recovery, anxiety, depression, or navigating the challenges of adolescence. Whether they’re seeking healing from trauma, support through life transitions, or guidance in building self-compassion, my clients' goal is to feel more connected to themselves and others. They’re ready for growth and are seeking a therapist who offers warmth, creativity, and practical tools to help them move forward.
(720) 674-9122 View (720) 674-9122
Photo of Emily Watkins - Stems Therapy Collective, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stems Therapy Collective, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
At Stems Therapy Collective, our clinicians specialize in everything from trauma and mood disorders to neurodivergence, eating disorders, and queer/trans-affirming care.
At Stems Therapy Collective, we’re here for those navigating life’s toughest challenges; whether it’s stress, overwhelming emotions, or the weight of systemic pressures. We work with clients of all ages (10-65) who want more than a cookie-cutter approach. Our down-to-earth, equitable team fosters real connections, because we know therapy works best when it’s human, authentic, and tailored to your needs. Ready to work with a team that truly listens and understands? Let’s talk!
At Stems Therapy Collective, our clinicians specialize in everything from trauma and mood disorders to neurodivergence, eating disorders, and queer/trans-affirming care.
At Stems Therapy Collective, we’re here for those navigating life’s toughest challenges; whether it’s stress, overwhelming emotions, or the weight of systemic pressures. We work with clients of all ages (10-65) who want more than a cookie-cutter approach. Our down-to-earth, equitable team fosters real connections, because we know therapy works best when it’s human, authentic, and tailored to your needs. Ready to work with a team that truly listens and understands? Let’s talk!
(720) 740-8581 View (720) 740-8581
Photo of Kim Yalango, Psychologist, PhD
Kim Yalango
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I have ample experience working with relationship concerns, anxiety, body image/ eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ concerns, women's issues, and life transitions.
I emphasize exploring the roots of your concerns and understanding how past experiences & relationships have shaped you and your mental health. While exploring the past and gaining insight into your patterns, we will work together to empower you with resources & skills to tackle current difficulties. I am licensed in CO and as a PSYPACT provider.
I have ample experience working with relationship concerns, anxiety, body image/ eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ concerns, women's issues, and life transitions.
I emphasize exploring the roots of your concerns and understanding how past experiences & relationships have shaped you and your mental health. While exploring the past and gaining insight into your patterns, we will work together to empower you with resources & skills to tackle current difficulties. I am licensed in CO and as a PSYPACT provider.
(720) 664-9389 View (720) 664-9389
Photo of Jess Truitt, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Jess Truitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
I am qualified to help others with healthy coping skills, interpersonal skills and relationships, identity exploration, grief work, as well as eating disorders, gender-affirming care, and severe/persistent mental illness.
Maybe life feels too heavy sometimes and you need someone to help you carry that weight, or maybe you feel stuck and longing for change through the help of a trusted professional. The most important parts of our lives - our relationships, jobs, passions, and experiences will continue to present us with challenges that require support, compassion, and guidance to endure. It's an honor for me to walk alongside you in your journey towards healing and growth. In my therapeutic practice, I use my knowledge of evidence-based practices to support the alignment of mind, body, and spirit while honoring each person’s individual experiences.
I am qualified to help others with healthy coping skills, interpersonal skills and relationships, identity exploration, grief work, as well as eating disorders, gender-affirming care, and severe/persistent mental illness.
Maybe life feels too heavy sometimes and you need someone to help you carry that weight, or maybe you feel stuck and longing for change through the help of a trusted professional. The most important parts of our lives - our relationships, jobs, passions, and experiences will continue to present us with challenges that require support, compassion, and guidance to endure. It's an honor for me to walk alongside you in your journey towards healing and growth. In my therapeutic practice, I use my knowledge of evidence-based practices to support the alignment of mind, body, and spirit while honoring each person’s individual experiences.
(720) 640-7842 View (720) 640-7842
Photo of Megan Cristobal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Megan Cristobal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I have experience working with relationships, eating disorders, addiction, mood disorders and trauma and I regularly work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
I work from a strengths based perspective. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness, I can help you to learn skills to reach your goals and process challenges with you. When working with couples, I use Gottman Method and Emotion Focused Family Therapy.
I have experience working with relationships, eating disorders, addiction, mood disorders and trauma and I regularly work with adults, adolescents, and couples.
I work from a strengths based perspective. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness, I can help you to learn skills to reach your goals and process challenges with you. When working with couples, I use Gottman Method and Emotion Focused Family Therapy.
(720) 706-9382 View (720) 706-9382
Photo of Rebekkah Goodhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rebekkah Goodhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Denver, CO 80211
I specialize in work with eating disorders, trauma, postpartum depression, and couples distress.
My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that who you are makes sense. Even when your emotions, behaviors, or relationships are extremely different than what you want them to be, I believe that our feelings carry wisdom, our behaviors serve a function, and our current situation becomes clear in the context of our whole story. With this stance of curiosity and acceptance, I can help you understand the parts of your life that are causing distress and move toward the life you want to be living. I am an ideal fit for clients who want to make a change in their behavior while understanding the way those behaviors have functioned.
I specialize in work with eating disorders, trauma, postpartum depression, and couples distress.
My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that who you are makes sense. Even when your emotions, behaviors, or relationships are extremely different than what you want them to be, I believe that our feelings carry wisdom, our behaviors serve a function, and our current situation becomes clear in the context of our whole story. With this stance of curiosity and acceptance, I can help you understand the parts of your life that are causing distress and move toward the life you want to be living. I am an ideal fit for clients who want to make a change in their behavior while understanding the way those behaviors have functioned.
(720) 806-4063 View (720) 806-4063
Photo of Sarah Long, Psychologist, LCP, CEDS
Sarah Long
Psychologist, LCP, CEDS
Denver, CO 80209
As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS), I specialize in recovery from eating disorders, trauma, and co-occurring concerns.
Whether you’re suffering from an eating disorder or body dissatisfaction, struggling with the effects of trauma, or need support during a difficult time, you are probably here with the hope for healing and a more balanced and fulfilling life. Perhaps you are ready for change, but the prospect of addressing painful experiences, trauma, or what underlies an eating disorder sounds overwhelming and scary. You are not alone, and there is hope. I appreciate collaboration, honesty and some humor! My style is warm, supportive, and authentic. It would be my honor to support you on your journey.
As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS), I specialize in recovery from eating disorders, trauma, and co-occurring concerns.
Whether you’re suffering from an eating disorder or body dissatisfaction, struggling with the effects of trauma, or need support during a difficult time, you are probably here with the hope for healing and a more balanced and fulfilling life. Perhaps you are ready for change, but the prospect of addressing painful experiences, trauma, or what underlies an eating disorder sounds overwhelming and scary. You are not alone, and there is hope. I appreciate collaboration, honesty and some humor! My style is warm, supportive, and authentic. It would be my honor to support you on your journey.
(720) 675-7123 View (720) 675-7123
Photo of Kathleen D Robinson, Psychologist, PsyD
Kathleen D Robinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Denver, CO 80222
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, relationship issues and identity development.
My treatment orientation utilizes a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and mindfulness approaches to best fit the needs of my clients. I enjoy teaching my clients coping skills to effectively deal with fear and stress and break away from old, ineffective patterns.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, relationship issues and identity development.
My treatment orientation utilizes a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and mindfulness approaches to best fit the needs of my clients. I enjoy teaching my clients coping skills to effectively deal with fear and stress and break away from old, ineffective patterns.
(303) 782-0433 View (303) 782-0433
Photo of Allie Don Sing, Counselor, MA, LPC
Allie Don Sing
Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I also specialize in disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image.
Individuals often seek therapy to further personal growth and to address ongoing challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy offers clients a supportive space to authentically assess and explore life circumstances and to begin working towards meaningful change. I consider it my purpose in the therapeutic relationship to bring curiosity rather than judgment to our time together by being a compassionate communicator. I take a client-centered approach that gives you the opportunity to take an active role in your therapy while I respect your personal perspective, beliefs, values, and preferences.
I also specialize in disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image.
Individuals often seek therapy to further personal growth and to address ongoing challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy offers clients a supportive space to authentically assess and explore life circumstances and to begin working towards meaningful change. I consider it my purpose in the therapeutic relationship to bring curiosity rather than judgment to our time together by being a compassionate communicator. I take a client-centered approach that gives you the opportunity to take an active role in your therapy while I respect your personal perspective, beliefs, values, and preferences.
(970) 431-8469 View (970) 431-8469
Photo of Roxanna Villarreal, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Roxanna Villarreal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80224
Areas I can help: domestic violence, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anger management, relationship issues, identity challenges, LGBTQIA+, support for caregivers, eating disorders, and I offer Christian counseling upon request!
I have 8 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families! I bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to my passion areas and really try to partner with you as you navigate these areas of your life!
Areas I can help: domestic violence, narcissistic abuse recovery, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anger management, relationship issues, identity challenges, LGBTQIA+, support for caregivers, eating disorders, and I offer Christian counseling upon request!
I have 8 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families! I bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to my passion areas and really try to partner with you as you navigate these areas of your life!
(833) 570-3285 View (833) 570-3285
Photo of Kayla Copper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Kayla Copper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, body image distress, LGBTQ+ related issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I enjoy supporting people who are on their paths towards self-discovery, personal growth, and self-love. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients, working together to identify individual needs, challenges, and areas for growth and exploration. I focus on creating a safe and non-judgemental space to promote curiosity and openness. I am “compassionately directive” as I not only listen to what my clients share, I also advise and challenge. I integrate humor, metaphors, and analogies into my practice as I find them to be useful in understanding and connecting, allowing for an authentic relationship to develop.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, body image distress, LGBTQ+ related issues, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I enjoy supporting people who are on their paths towards self-discovery, personal growth, and self-love. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with my clients, working together to identify individual needs, challenges, and areas for growth and exploration. I focus on creating a safe and non-judgemental space to promote curiosity and openness. I am “compassionately directive” as I not only listen to what my clients share, I also advise and challenge. I integrate humor, metaphors, and analogies into my practice as I find them to be useful in understanding and connecting, allowing for an authentic relationship to develop.
(720) 410-5285 View (720) 410-5285
Photo of Dr. Elysia Sotiriou, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Elysia Sotiriou
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
Elysia specializes in working with children, teens, and adults struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and relationship or attachment issues.
Elysia Sotiriou, PhD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering both individual and family therapy services as well as comprehensive psychological assessments for both children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Elysia uses a combination of relational and cognitive-behavioral approaches such as ACT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions when working with clients. She believes strongly in including families, teachers, and healthcare providers in the treatment process in order to meet each individual’s unique needs while helping clients achieve their full potential across each domain of their lives.
Elysia specializes in working with children, teens, and adults struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and relationship or attachment issues.
Elysia Sotiriou, PhD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering both individual and family therapy services as well as comprehensive psychological assessments for both children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Elysia uses a combination of relational and cognitive-behavioral approaches such as ACT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based interventions when working with clients. She believes strongly in including families, teachers, and healthcare providers in the treatment process in order to meet each individual’s unique needs while helping clients achieve their full potential across each domain of their lives.
(720) 571-1435 View (720) 571-1435
Photo of Bri Hayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bri Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Denver, CO 80218
I have experience in and enjoy working with concerns related to life-limiting illnesses, grief and loss, chronic diseases, eating disorders, body image, sports performance, perinatal mental health, infant loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
I strive to create a collaborative therapeutic environment, practice through a trauma-informed lens, honor self-determination, and promote patient autonomy.
I have experience in and enjoy working with concerns related to life-limiting illnesses, grief and loss, chronic diseases, eating disorders, body image, sports performance, perinatal mental health, infant loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
I strive to create a collaborative therapeutic environment, practice through a trauma-informed lens, honor self-determination, and promote patient autonomy.
(720) 637-1314 View (720) 637-1314
Photo of Sara Nieder- Sage Within Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Sara Nieder- Sage Within Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80230
I have been a licensed clinician in Colorado for the past 20 years and hold special certifications in eating disorders and trauma-informed therapy.
Life is an incredible journey full of endless possibilities, but we all face challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. However, I am here to provide guidance and empower you to live the extraordinary life you truly desire. I possess a range of therapeutic tools, including somatic therapy and EMDR, tailored to help you navigate beyond the barriers hindering your personal evolution. And if an eating disorder is one of your barriers, I am a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with years of expertise in the field. Let's collaboratively step into this transformative journey.
I have been a licensed clinician in Colorado for the past 20 years and hold special certifications in eating disorders and trauma-informed therapy.
Life is an incredible journey full of endless possibilities, but we all face challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. However, I am here to provide guidance and empower you to live the extraordinary life you truly desire. I possess a range of therapeutic tools, including somatic therapy and EMDR, tailored to help you navigate beyond the barriers hindering your personal evolution. And if an eating disorder is one of your barriers, I am a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with years of expertise in the field. Let's collaboratively step into this transformative journey.
(720) 999-9766 View (720) 999-9766
Photo of Brooke Verbal, Counselor, LPC
Brooke Verbal
Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I have experience in a variety of areas including eating disorders, mood disorders, spirituality, life transitions, addictions, grief, trauma, stress, and relationship issues.
There are a lot of beautiful things in this world, but there is nothing I have encountered more beautiful and complex than human beings. There is so much depth, mystery, beauty, pain, and meaning in each person's story. I became a therapist because of my longing to hear people's stories and meet them exactly where they are. My greatest passion is caring for people through empathy, understanding, listening, and interceding into life's painful moments. I am committed to offering my clients acceptance, compassion, and unconditional positive regard in the midst of struggle.
I have experience in a variety of areas including eating disorders, mood disorders, spirituality, life transitions, addictions, grief, trauma, stress, and relationship issues.
There are a lot of beautiful things in this world, but there is nothing I have encountered more beautiful and complex than human beings. There is so much depth, mystery, beauty, pain, and meaning in each person's story. I became a therapist because of my longing to hear people's stories and meet them exactly where they are. My greatest passion is caring for people through empathy, understanding, listening, and interceding into life's painful moments. I am committed to offering my clients acceptance, compassion, and unconditional positive regard in the midst of struggle.
(720) 782-0318 View (720) 782-0318
Photo of Lianne Gann, Psychologist, PhD
Lianne Gann
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in perinatal and postpartum mental health, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship issues.
Therapy can be a deeply profound and vulnerable endeavor. Sometimes one can find themselves 'stuck' in patterns that are no longer serving them and my approach to therapy focuses on partnering with you to help identify where you feel stuck and work toward healing. You can think of me as your partner or teammate in that process, one that provides compassion, encouragement, and some gentle challenge when appropriate. Using a collaborative, relational, and trauma informed approach, I hope to establish a safe space for you to be vulnerable and feel understood.
I specialize in perinatal and postpartum mental health, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship issues.
Therapy can be a deeply profound and vulnerable endeavor. Sometimes one can find themselves 'stuck' in patterns that are no longer serving them and my approach to therapy focuses on partnering with you to help identify where you feel stuck and work toward healing. You can think of me as your partner or teammate in that process, one that provides compassion, encouragement, and some gentle challenge when appropriate. Using a collaborative, relational, and trauma informed approach, I hope to establish a safe space for you to be vulnerable and feel understood.
(844) 455-0840 View (844) 455-0840
Photo of Megan Lewis, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Megan Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with couples/individuals with trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I encourage open dialogue about feelings, fears, and desires, helping each partner express their needs in a constructive way. This process can enhance intimacy and also strengthen the overall relationship. I’ve seen firsthand how couples can transform their connection when they learn to navigate their emotions and vulnerabilities together.
I specialize in working with couples/individuals with trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I encourage open dialogue about feelings, fears, and desires, helping each partner express their needs in a constructive way. This process can enhance intimacy and also strengthen the overall relationship. I’ve seen firsthand how couples can transform their connection when they learn to navigate their emotions and vulnerabilities together.
(303) 732-6976 View (303) 732-6976
Photo of Jenny Wegner, Counselor, MS, MFT
Jenny Wegner
Counselor, MS, MFT
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237
My private practice focus is: Perfectionism, Body Image work, Eating Disorders, Depression and Anxiety.
Are you a high achieving, perfectionist, who also struggles with your relationship with food and body image? Do you have feelings of not being "good enough" or feelings of shame? If so, I am the right therapist for you. For the last 17 years I have specialized in helping individuals work towards a better relationship with the exhausting struggle perfectionism, food and your body imagine can play in your day to day life. I am greatly passionate about what I do, and care for each and one of my clients. Together we will work towards confidence within yourself, worthiness and you being ENOUGH!
My private practice focus is: Perfectionism, Body Image work, Eating Disorders, Depression and Anxiety.
Are you a high achieving, perfectionist, who also struggles with your relationship with food and body image? Do you have feelings of not being "good enough" or feelings of shame? If so, I am the right therapist for you. For the last 17 years I have specialized in helping individuals work towards a better relationship with the exhausting struggle perfectionism, food and your body imagine can play in your day to day life. I am greatly passionate about what I do, and care for each and one of my clients. Together we will work towards confidence within yourself, worthiness and you being ENOUGH!
(720) 815-4689 View (720) 815-4689
Photo of Helene Simons, Psychologist, PsyD
Helene Simons
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I love working with people of all ages experiencing various psychological issues, and I specialize in eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and relationships.
Your mental health is important. How you experience your world and cope with your feelings, influences every part of you. Every person deserves a place where they can share their most challenging experiences, cope with their feelings, and feel empowered to live life. Helping people find motivation to improve their health and well being is my passion. I started my psychology practice to provide a space for people of all ages and backgrounds to begin their paths to self-improvement. I work with people in-person as well as remotely through HIPAA compliant video telehealth technology.
I love working with people of all ages experiencing various psychological issues, and I specialize in eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and relationships.
Your mental health is important. How you experience your world and cope with your feelings, influences every part of you. Every person deserves a place where they can share their most challenging experiences, cope with their feelings, and feel empowered to live life. Helping people find motivation to improve their health and well being is my passion. I started my psychology practice to provide a space for people of all ages and backgrounds to begin their paths to self-improvement. I work with people in-person as well as remotely through HIPAA compliant video telehealth technology.
(720) 722-6915 View (720) 722-6915

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Eating Disorders Therapists

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.