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Online Therapists

Photo of Nancy V Brown in Buckhead, GA
Nancy V Brown
MA, CPS-MH, PLC
Verified Verified
Dacula, GA 30019
I have many years of experience working with teens & adults who struggle with feeling stuck, trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce, eating disorders, sexual abuse, child abuse, Incest, family conflict, addiction, grief, pregnancy loss, suicide loss survivor, parenting concerns, blended families, forgiveness, relationship issues, infidelity, spiritual warfare.
Hablo español! I'm a mental health professional & life coach. TF-CBT trained, delivering psycho education. Religion is not imposed on anyone unless asked, I meet my clients where they are & provide a safe empathetic space free from judgment. I wrote a recovery book in 2017 called "My Costa Rican Humming Bird Sings, Breaking The Bondage And Answering The Call" to help people through their recovery & healing journey. I offer online & in person sessions as well as consulting, staff trainings for corporations in diversity/inclusion, near death experiences, suicide/mental health support & helping them walk through their healing.
I have many years of experience working with teens & adults who struggle with feeling stuck, trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce, eating disorders, sexual abuse, child abuse, Incest, family conflict, addiction, grief, pregnancy loss, suicide loss survivor, parenting concerns, blended families, forgiveness, relationship issues, infidelity, spiritual warfare.
Hablo español! I'm a mental health professional & life coach. TF-CBT trained, delivering psycho education. Religion is not imposed on anyone unless asked, I meet my clients where they are & provide a safe empathetic space free from judgment. I wrote a recovery book in 2017 called "My Costa Rican Humming Bird Sings, Breaking The Bondage And Answering The Call" to help people through their recovery & healing journey. I offer online & in person sessions as well as consulting, staff trainings for corporations in diversity/inclusion, near death experiences, suicide/mental health support & helping them walk through their healing.
(678) 607-8662 View (678) 607-8662
Photo of Christine Bunyan, Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Christine Bunyan
Counselor, MS, LAPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022  (Online Only)
I utilize DBT and CBT skills to teach clients to cope with symptoms related to a wide variety of clinical concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, self-harm, eating disorders, and addiction.
Whatever circumstances you are coming from, I am here to validate your experience with non-judgmental support. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with many different issues, including relationship problems, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, and identity exploration. I began my career as a therapist at a counseling center where clients focused on recovery from sexual abuse, which led me to develop a passion for helping clients heal from traumatic experiences.
I utilize DBT and CBT skills to teach clients to cope with symptoms related to a wide variety of clinical concerns, including anxiety, depression, OCD, self-harm, eating disorders, and addiction.
Whatever circumstances you are coming from, I am here to validate your experience with non-judgmental support. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with many different issues, including relationship problems, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, and identity exploration. I began my career as a therapist at a counseling center where clients focused on recovery from sexual abuse, which led me to develop a passion for helping clients heal from traumatic experiences.
(678) 750-4666 View (678) 750-4666
Photo of Mary Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buckhead, GA
Mary Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
My specialty includes addressing substance abuse, parenting education, behavioral issues, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, forensic/correctional rehabilitation needs, eating disorders, and any other issues that make it difficult to lead a maneagble life.
"The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking." - Albert Einstein I feel honored to have the privilege to be part of people's decision to improve their lives and create new beginnings. Utilizing individual, family, and couples psychotherapy I help people uncover patterns that may be holding them back. Together we work towards implementing strategies to find balance, confidence, and joy. My therapeutic approach includes the building of insight, cognitive and/or behavioral strategies, and the healing experience of a collaborative and compassionate relationship.
My specialty includes addressing substance abuse, parenting education, behavioral issues, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, forensic/correctional rehabilitation needs, eating disorders, and any other issues that make it difficult to lead a maneagble life.
"The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking." - Albert Einstein I feel honored to have the privilege to be part of people's decision to improve their lives and create new beginnings. Utilizing individual, family, and couples psychotherapy I help people uncover patterns that may be holding them back. Together we work towards implementing strategies to find balance, confidence, and joy. My therapeutic approach includes the building of insight, cognitive and/or behavioral strategies, and the healing experience of a collaborative and compassionate relationship.
(470) 412-9443 View (470) 412-9443
Photo of Phyllis Williams, Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Phyllis Williams
Counselor, MSEd, MHC-LP, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I specialize in anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, grief, trauma, post-natal trauma, familial conflict.
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, grief, trauma, post-natal trauma, familial conflict.
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
(678) 504-6326 View (678) 504-6326
Photo of Timothy Whailen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Buckhead, GA
Timothy Whailen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30134
Are you tired of arguing with your own brain or body in ways that most people don't seem able or willing to understand? Getting help does not have to be another insurmountable task. If you have found yourself having to work harder than you believe you should to maintain stability or need a safe place to process with someone who shares some of your experiences, give me a chance to help you learn more about how your own system works and renew your perspective on you. My holistic approach to trauma-informed, neurodivergence-affirming practice is tailored to your needs with tools to help in both an immediate crisis and long-term goals.
Are you tired of arguing with your own brain or body in ways that most people don't seem able or willing to understand? Getting help does not have to be another insurmountable task. If you have found yourself having to work harder than you believe you should to maintain stability or need a safe place to process with someone who shares some of your experiences, give me a chance to help you learn more about how your own system works and renew your perspective on you. My holistic approach to trauma-informed, neurodivergence-affirming practice is tailored to your needs with tools to help in both an immediate crisis and long-term goals.
(770) 230-5658 View (770) 230-5658
Photo of Iolanda L Da Luz, Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Iolanda L Da Luz
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30034  (Online Only)
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
(678) 619-0726 View (678) 619-0726
Photo of Darla N. Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Darla N. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADCII, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warner Robins, GA 31088
It is vital to provide integrated treatment for mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and similar conditions. Located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. I provide safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. I am specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way. I have specialized training in the services being treated.
It is vital to provide integrated treatment for mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, personality disorders, drug and alcohol and similar conditions. Located in the heart of Warner Robins, Georgia. I provide safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. I am specially trained to address the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders and to treat the whole person in a comprehensive way. I have specialized training in the services being treated.
(478) 449-1590 View (478) 449-1590
Photo of Monique Darnell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, 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 Fabby Flanagan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Fabby Flanagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, CCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Douglasville, GA 30134
My goal as your therapist is to provide you with practical solutions and tools that you can be equipped to practice outside of therapy. My approach will be to start where you are, while assisting you in identifying healthy solutions for your problems. I believe that most people have the ability to be empowered to build on their strengths, however at times feel as though they are stuck. I view therapy as a collaborative process. I will work along with you to grow and make positive changes that can result in a more fulfilling life.
My goal as your therapist is to provide you with practical solutions and tools that you can be equipped to practice outside of therapy. My approach will be to start where you are, while assisting you in identifying healthy solutions for your problems. I believe that most people have the ability to be empowered to build on their strengths, however at times feel as though they are stuck. I view therapy as a collaborative process. I will work along with you to grow and make positive changes that can result in a more fulfilling life.
(678) 279-2839 View (678) 279-2839
Photo of Heike APC with The Counseling Group LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Buckhead, GA
Heike APC with The Counseling Group LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041
I work with a variety of clients with many different levels of needs. I feel the additional training I've taken and will continue to take will allow me to assist my clients in meeting through goals.
I work with a variety of clients with many different levels of needs. I feel the additional training I've taken and will continue to take will allow me to assist my clients in meeting through goals.
(770) 415-8717 View (770) 415-8717
Photo of Gathering Precious Stones Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, 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 Theresa Fillingim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Theresa Fillingim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, CACII
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
Clients who are struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression. Clients who want to feel happier and healthier and are willing to learn coping skills to experiences wellness emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Clients who struggle with their faith. Clients who are wanting to improve their relationships with themselves, with their bodies in order to feel more balanced, more energetic, feeling happier, with better decision making skills. Clients who are wanting to improve interpersonal relationships by developing healthy boundaries with others and developing a spiritual connection.
Clients who are struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression. Clients who want to feel happier and healthier and are willing to learn coping skills to experiences wellness emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Clients who struggle with their faith. Clients who are wanting to improve their relationships with themselves, with their bodies in order to feel more balanced, more energetic, feeling happier, with better decision making skills. Clients who are wanting to improve interpersonal relationships by developing healthy boundaries with others and developing a spiritual connection.
(470) 745-4609 View (470) 745-4609
Photo of Dr. Terry Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Dr. Terry Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
(678) 944-8120 View (678) 944-8120
Photo of Jamie H Yates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Jamie H Yates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
VOTED BEST OF GWINNETT 2020, 2021, and 2022! COME SEE WHY! As a licensed professional counselor and life coach I have over 15 years experience working with a very diverse population. From individuals struggling with significant mental health issues to others working on adjustment to new life circumstances, I can offer guidance, support, compassion, and expert care during difficult times in your life. Let me help you develop the tools and skills that will help to ease whatever struggles you may have. Together we can develop and implement a plan to live a positive and fulfilling life!
VOTED BEST OF GWINNETT 2020, 2021, and 2022! COME SEE WHY! As a licensed professional counselor and life coach I have over 15 years experience working with a very diverse population. From individuals struggling with significant mental health issues to others working on adjustment to new life circumstances, I can offer guidance, support, compassion, and expert care during difficult times in your life. Let me help you develop the tools and skills that will help to ease whatever struggles you may have. Together we can develop and implement a plan to live a positive and fulfilling life!
(850) 367-7748 View (850) 367-7748
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Buckhead, 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 Ceillia with The Counseling Group LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Buckhead, GA
Ceillia with The Counseling Group LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
Cecilla studied and graduated in psychology in her native country of Peru. After immigrating to the USA, she has earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology. She has completed AMO academy's required training and evaluation and was awarded the title of Master Hypnotherapist certification. Currently, Cecilla is pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Psychology. She believes in focusing on guiding the client to find the root cause of the mental difficulties and working together to meet desired goals.
Cecilla studied and graduated in psychology in her native country of Peru. After immigrating to the USA, she has earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology. She has completed AMO academy's required training and evaluation and was awarded the title of Master Hypnotherapist certification. Currently, Cecilla is pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Psychology. She believes in focusing on guiding the client to find the root cause of the mental difficulties and working together to meet desired goals.
(770) 749-7157 View (770) 749-7157
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
(470) 468-2837 View (470) 468-2837
Photo of Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
(678) 974-0056 View (678) 974-0056
Photo of Eboni R. Mormant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Buckhead, GA
Eboni R. Mormant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, CPCS, CAMS
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
It is my belief that quality of life is promoted by breaking through barriers that prevent wholistic growth of the the individual and/or family unit. Thus, it has been my professional goal to empower individuals, families and communities over the last 20 years from my clinical and educational experiences. My clinical expertise covers the following: Impulse Control Problems, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexual Addictions, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Learning Disorders, Domestic Violence, Sexual Victimization, Crisis Intervention, Conflict Resolution, Bully Prevention, Anger Management, Family Preservation/Reintegration, Parenting, Stress Management and Assessment/Diagnostics.
It is my belief that quality of life is promoted by breaking through barriers that prevent wholistic growth of the the individual and/or family unit. Thus, it has been my professional goal to empower individuals, families and communities over the last 20 years from my clinical and educational experiences. My clinical expertise covers the following: Impulse Control Problems, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Sexual Addictions, Mood Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Learning Disorders, Domestic Violence, Sexual Victimization, Crisis Intervention, Conflict Resolution, Bully Prevention, Anger Management, Family Preservation/Reintegration, Parenting, Stress Management and Assessment/Diagnostics.
(678) 616-2783 View (678) 616-2783
Photo of New Beginning Counseling, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Buckhead, GA
New Beginning Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Acworth, GA 30101
The mission of New Beginning Counseling, LLC is to strengthen, encourage and inspire individuals to attain a healthier self thereby progressing to more beneficial relationships. NBC, LLC is focused on providing helpful counseling to those hoping to build or reestablish personal relationships. New Beginning Counseling, LLC is based on the belief that the clients' needs are of the utmost importance. I am committed to meeting those needs. I have worked extensively with individuals dealing with anger management, anxiety, addictions (including sexual addiction), depression and personal relationships.
The mission of New Beginning Counseling, LLC is to strengthen, encourage and inspire individuals to attain a healthier self thereby progressing to more beneficial relationships. NBC, LLC is focused on providing helpful counseling to those hoping to build or reestablish personal relationships. New Beginning Counseling, LLC is based on the belief that the clients' needs are of the utmost importance. I am committed to meeting those needs. I have worked extensively with individuals dealing with anger management, anxiety, addictions (including sexual addiction), depression and personal relationships.
(470) 412-8961 View (470) 412-8961

See more therapy options for Buckhead

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.