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Online Therapists

Photo of Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30071
This can be depicted as depression/sadness, anxiety, anger, fear, exhaustion, personality or mood disorders, eating disorders, relationship problems,.
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
This can be depicted as depression/sadness, anxiety, anger, fear, exhaustion, personality or mood disorders, eating disorders, relationship problems,.
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
(404) 800-3147 x21 View (404) 800-3147 x21
Photo of Lea Noring, Marriage & Family Therapist in Banks County, GA
Lea Noring
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of interest include highly sensitive individuals, helping individuals recover from traumatic bullying experiences, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, co-parenting therapy, couple therapy, ADHD, school problems, dyslexia, processing disorders, NVLD, personality type (MBTI and Enneagram), and helping families implement no-fault communication.
Welcome! I work with individuals, families, and couples to help them find new ways to look at their lives and new ways to manage difficult emotions. For more than twenty years, I've been working with children, adults, and families and have worked as an ADHD coach and as a special education advocate. I have also been a program director overseeing eating disorder clinics with clients who had primary eating disorders as well as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, attachment disorders, and borderline personality disorder, among others.
My areas of interest include highly sensitive individuals, helping individuals recover from traumatic bullying experiences, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, co-parenting therapy, couple therapy, ADHD, school problems, dyslexia, processing disorders, NVLD, personality type (MBTI and Enneagram), and helping families implement no-fault communication.
Welcome! I work with individuals, families, and couples to help them find new ways to look at their lives and new ways to manage difficult emotions. For more than twenty years, I've been working with children, adults, and families and have worked as an ADHD coach and as a special education advocate. I have also been a program director overseeing eating disorder clinics with clients who had primary eating disorders as well as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, attachment disorders, and borderline personality disorder, among others.
(470) 768-8307 View (470) 768-8307
Photo of Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Banks County, GA
Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
(404) 495-5897 x100 View (404) 495-5897 x100
Photo of Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Banks County, GA
Ryan R Schwerzmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I have over 15 years of experience treating children, couples and families using an integrated approach based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family systems theories. My primary interests are in communication, self-expression, self-esteem, anxiety and behavior problems. I served as the Student and Associate Chair of the Georgia Association of Marriage and Family Therapists from 2009 -2012. I am the founder of Adaptive Therapy Counseling Group, LLC in Lilburn and Alpharetta, where I have treated individuals and families suffering from eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders for over 10 years.
I have over 15 years of experience treating children, couples and families using an integrated approach based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family systems theories. My primary interests are in communication, self-expression, self-esteem, anxiety and behavior problems. I served as the Student and Associate Chair of the Georgia Association of Marriage and Family Therapists from 2009 -2012. I am the founder of Adaptive Therapy Counseling Group, LLC in Lilburn and Alpharetta, where I have treated individuals and families suffering from eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders for over 10 years.
(404) 736-6734 View (404) 736-6734
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Banks County, GA
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
(470) 215-1788 View (470) 215-1788
Photo of Attento Counseling Practice, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Attento Counseling Practice
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
*Request an Appointment Here https://attentocounseling.com/request-an-appointment/ *Attento Counseling is an outpatient behavioral health provider with 3 locations and over 60 licensed clinicians in the north Atlanta metro area (Marietta, Cumming, and Kennesaw). We also offer an affordable, accessible sliding-scale option for clients in need through our Mental Wellness & Emotional Learning program. Visit mwel.net for more information.
(404) 383-6944 View (404) 383-6944
Photo of Gathering Precious Stones Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Gathering Precious Stones Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCCH, CAMS
Verified Verified
McDonough, GA 30253
It is my passion to help others find the value in their lives; while discovering the core of life's issues. Over 20 years experience in the field. I offer a non-judgement space for healing, for children, adolescents, and adults.
It is my passion to help others find the value in their lives; while discovering the core of life's issues. Over 20 years experience in the field. I offer a non-judgement space for healing, for children, adolescents, and adults.
(404) 620-2364 x1001 View (404) 620-2364 x1001
Photo of Tiffany Britt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Tiffany Britt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Reaching your highest potential begins with intentional and courageous living, even in the midst of significant challenges and disappointments. Yet many often operate from a place of fear and doubt, preventing them from moving toward wholeness, self-confidence and purposeful living. Living courageously from a place of balance, intention, and purpose allows her clients to achieve wellness and reach their highest potential. Tiffany’s passion is creating a supportive, safe place for clients to experience connection and understanding. She explores the fears, perceptions & assumptions her clients have relied on through-out their lives.
Reaching your highest potential begins with intentional and courageous living, even in the midst of significant challenges and disappointments. Yet many often operate from a place of fear and doubt, preventing them from moving toward wholeness, self-confidence and purposeful living. Living courageously from a place of balance, intention, and purpose allows her clients to achieve wellness and reach their highest potential. Tiffany’s passion is creating a supportive, safe place for clients to experience connection and understanding. She explores the fears, perceptions & assumptions her clients have relied on through-out their lives.
(770) 824-3031 View (770) 824-3031
Photo of Randall & Randall Recovery Consultants, LLc, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Banks County, GA
Randall & Randall Recovery Consultants, LLc
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCII, MATS, CAMS
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
You have experienced something that has definitely caught your attention. You have found yourself in a sink or swim situation. Do you have a problem? Maybe, but for now you just want to find a way out. Once you do, maybe you will discover there is work to do. Maybe, there is something missing? How can one fill this void? How does one rid themselves of experiences they don't take the time to confront? Lets start the healing process.
You have experienced something that has definitely caught your attention. You have found yourself in a sink or swim situation. Do you have a problem? Maybe, but for now you just want to find a way out. Once you do, maybe you will discover there is work to do. Maybe, there is something missing? How can one fill this void? How does one rid themselves of experiences they don't take the time to confront? Lets start the healing process.
(770) 809-6595 View (770) 809-6595
Photo of Joe Stapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Joe Stapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Waitlist for new clients
*I am not able to accept new patients at this time.* Are you at a point where you or a loved one has lost hope? With over 27 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, marriages, and families, I've seen many find hope that was previously absent by using a short-term, targeted, and effective approach to counseling. Each therapist has unique strengths. Mine is working through tough problems other therapists don't prefer to treat by seeing clients in their homes rather than in an office. Most people are able to see a significant change within 6 months. Counseling should not last forever and neither should your struggles
*I am not able to accept new patients at this time.* Are you at a point where you or a loved one has lost hope? With over 27 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, marriages, and families, I've seen many find hope that was previously absent by using a short-term, targeted, and effective approach to counseling. Each therapist has unique strengths. Mine is working through tough problems other therapists don't prefer to treat by seeing clients in their homes rather than in an office. Most people are able to see a significant change within 6 months. Counseling should not last forever and neither should your struggles
(706) 408-0692 View (706) 408-0692
Photo of Atlanta Counseling & Diagnostics Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Atlanta Counseling & Diagnostics Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045
Atlanta Counseling & Diagnostics Center (ACADC) provides comprehensive psychotherapy services for children and adults. We offer an array of innovative and dynamic counseling techniques that make every interaction thought-provoking, stimulating, interactive, and enjoyable. What separates ACADC from others is our ability to meet the client's needs and allow them to grow in a safe and non-judgemental atmosphere. We conduct Behavioral Health Assessments, Verified Diagnosis, and Risk Assessments. We provide Trauma Assessments for Foster Care clients too. We also offer teletherapy via the Zoom app. Call today! Tambien Hablamos Espanol.
Atlanta Counseling & Diagnostics Center (ACADC) provides comprehensive psychotherapy services for children and adults. We offer an array of innovative and dynamic counseling techniques that make every interaction thought-provoking, stimulating, interactive, and enjoyable. What separates ACADC from others is our ability to meet the client's needs and allow them to grow in a safe and non-judgemental atmosphere. We conduct Behavioral Health Assessments, Verified Diagnosis, and Risk Assessments. We provide Trauma Assessments for Foster Care clients too. We also offer teletherapy via the Zoom app. Call today! Tambien Hablamos Espanol.
(470) 291-2577 View (470) 291-2577
Photo of Gray Matters Counseling & Consulting Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Gray Matters Counseling & Consulting Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tyrone, GA 30290
"Getting to the heart of the matter..." We exist to encourage and promote the overall health, well-being and life success of individuals and families - spirit, soul, and body.
"Getting to the heart of the matter..." We exist to encourage and promote the overall health, well-being and life success of individuals and families - spirit, soul, and body.
(770) 574-4826 View (770) 574-4826
Photo of Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
(470) 558-0523 View (470) 558-0523
Photo of Canton Counseling- Kristen Fraser, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Canton Counseling- Kristen Fraser, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NBCC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Canton, GA 30115
We all need support in dealing with life's challenges, but sometimes just asking for help can feel as overwhelming as the problems for which we are seeking support. Finding the right therapist is very important. Who can I trust? Will I be heard and understood? Will they work well with my children and/or family? I understand these concerns and work to create a compassionate therapeutic environment to help my clients grow and change.
We all need support in dealing with life's challenges, but sometimes just asking for help can feel as overwhelming as the problems for which we are seeking support. Finding the right therapist is very important. Who can I trust? Will I be heard and understood? Will they work well with my children and/or family? I understand these concerns and work to create a compassionate therapeutic environment to help my clients grow and change.
(770) 450-5587 x1 View (770) 450-5587 x1
Photo of Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Banks County, GA
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30346
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
(678) 824-2031 View (678) 824-2031
Photo of Angel Schieber in Banks County, GA
Angel Schieber
MAed, MAPC, RYT200, AACC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
With over 33 years of personal recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, I specialize in recovery from substance use disorders, pornography addiction, sexual/intimacy issues, self-image/gender, anxiety, and depression. Individual or relationship counseling available.
With over 33 years of personal recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, I specialize in recovery from substance use disorders, pornography addiction, sexual/intimacy issues, self-image/gender, anxiety, and depression. Individual or relationship counseling available.
(678) 723-1728 View (678) 723-1728
Photo of Monique Darnell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Monique Darnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214  (Online Only)
If you are feeling stuck, if you are feeling like every door you knock on is not opening, and that rejection and abandonment are the food you eat as a result of the not answered door, I am your therapist. Let's heal, discover, address, and process these things so that 2024 can be the year of receiving, loving, being present, and living life fully you! With that being said I must let you know the journey won't be easy, but you are worth it! The world deserves to finally meet the real you, the inner child in you deserves to be seen and live the life of the real you! Let's do it together.
If you are feeling stuck, if you are feeling like every door you knock on is not opening, and that rejection and abandonment are the food you eat as a result of the not answered door, I am your therapist. Let's heal, discover, address, and process these things so that 2024 can be the year of receiving, loving, being present, and living life fully you! With that being said I must let you know the journey won't be easy, but you are worth it! The world deserves to finally meet the real you, the inner child in you deserves to be seen and live the life of the real you! Let's do it together.
(470) 516-9097 View (470) 516-9097
Photo of Dorothy D Watts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Banks County, GA
Dorothy D Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(678) 929-4779 View (678) 929-4779
Photo of Alexander Kohl, Counselor in Banks County, GA
Alexander Kohl
Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
My name is Dr. Alexander Kohl and I have over ten years experience working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I received my PhD in clinical psychology with a specialization in neuropsychology. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment so my clients feel safe and heard while discussing difficult issues. I believe in treating the whole individual, not just their symptoms, and will work with you to determine realistic and achievable goals. One of the most important aspects about therapy is that you find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and can trust. I hope I can help you along this process!
My name is Dr. Alexander Kohl and I have over ten years experience working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I received my PhD in clinical psychology with a specialization in neuropsychology. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment so my clients feel safe and heard while discussing difficult issues. I believe in treating the whole individual, not just their symptoms, and will work with you to determine realistic and achievable goals. One of the most important aspects about therapy is that you find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and can trust. I hope I can help you along this process!
(470) 252-4352 View (470) 252-4352
Photo of Terell Irwin Tepper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Banks County, GA
Terell Irwin Tepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAMS II
Verified Verified
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
(678) 400-0546 View (678) 400-0546

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.