There are no results for therapists in Carroll County

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Georgia below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carroll 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 Robin Reeves-Oppenheim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carroll County, GA
Robin Reeves-Oppenheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ThD, LCSW, DCSW, CHT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
I provide a unique and innovative therapeutic approach to holistic wellness with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families. I provide a wide range of behavioral health, mental health, and substance abuse services: family & relationship issues, anxiety, stress, depression, inner child, mental disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse & chemical dependency, trauma, neuroscience, transformational psychology, biofield science, Reiki, hypnotherapy, spirituality, energy healing, and mind-body approaches. My licensed professional staff and I are committed to providing the best quality services and cutting edge" best practices".
I provide a unique and innovative therapeutic approach to holistic wellness with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families. I provide a wide range of behavioral health, mental health, and substance abuse services: family & relationship issues, anxiety, stress, depression, inner child, mental disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse & chemical dependency, trauma, neuroscience, transformational psychology, biofield science, Reiki, hypnotherapy, spirituality, energy healing, and mind-body approaches. My licensed professional staff and I are committed to providing the best quality services and cutting edge" best practices".
(678) 929-5207 View (678) 929-5207
Photo of Lauteasha Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carroll County, GA
Lauteasha Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Johns Creek, GA 30022  (Online Only)
My professional experience includes working with clients seeking treatment for a variety of issues including family conflict, marriage issues, parenting issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and eating disorders at any stage of life.
Telehealth Sessions Available in GA and FL. Are you feeling stuck? You want to move forward and reach your goals, but you feel confused about what steps to take next. Do you feel like you are married to a stranger and you are no longer visible to one another? Maybe your thoughts are overwhelming and you feel disconnected from your authentic self. You’d like to be able to quiet your mind and begin to cultivate a sense of peace. Whether you are a couple or family stuck in the same negative cycles, a teen struggling through high school, or a parent struggling to help your teen recover from their eating disorder- I’d like to help you.
My professional experience includes working with clients seeking treatment for a variety of issues including family conflict, marriage issues, parenting issues, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and eating disorders at any stage of life.
Telehealth Sessions Available in GA and FL. Are you feeling stuck? You want to move forward and reach your goals, but you feel confused about what steps to take next. Do you feel like you are married to a stranger and you are no longer visible to one another? Maybe your thoughts are overwhelming and you feel disconnected from your authentic self. You’d like to be able to quiet your mind and begin to cultivate a sense of peace. Whether you are a couple or family stuck in the same negative cycles, a teen struggling through high school, or a parent struggling to help your teen recover from their eating disorder- I’d like to help you.
(470) 837-5739 View (470) 837-5739
Photo of Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carroll 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 Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carroll County, GA
Tara Coppola Croy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30092
I enjoy assisting people of all ages in overcoming the effects of specialties such as depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Behavior Problems.
The challenges of life in today's society presents the need for behavioral and mental health services like never before. I have twenty-four years of experience in providing outpatient therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in order to assist them in overcoming the effects of these challenges. I utilize a solution-focused approach, because I believe that there is always a solution to every problem! I enjoy helping people understand that they have the ability to effectively cope with their emotions and life situations, which therefore enables them to live their best lives.
I enjoy assisting people of all ages in overcoming the effects of specialties such as depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Behavior Problems.
The challenges of life in today's society presents the need for behavioral and mental health services like never before. I have twenty-four years of experience in providing outpatient therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in order to assist them in overcoming the effects of these challenges. I utilize a solution-focused approach, because I believe that there is always a solution to every problem! I enjoy helping people understand that they have the ability to effectively cope with their emotions and life situations, which therefore enables them to live their best lives.
(678) 853-7669 View (678) 853-7669
Photo of Erica Welsh, Counselor in Carroll County, GA
Erica Welsh
Counselor, MAMFT, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I am excited to connect with people who find themselves ready for a change, but perhaps unsure of how to make that happen for themselves. I enjoy helping people explore all parts of their life to help make sense of present situations and to make a plan for a healthier future. This can look like discussing nutrition, exercise, emotional intelligence, past relationships and family dynamics, as well as a myriad of other topics. I prioritize a holistic approach for not only my clients, but for my own life as well and have personally experienced healthy change from this perspective.
I am excited to connect with people who find themselves ready for a change, but perhaps unsure of how to make that happen for themselves. I enjoy helping people explore all parts of their life to help make sense of present situations and to make a plan for a healthier future. This can look like discussing nutrition, exercise, emotional intelligence, past relationships and family dynamics, as well as a myriad of other topics. I prioritize a holistic approach for not only my clients, but for my own life as well and have personally experienced healthy change from this perspective.
(404) 531-1784 View (404) 531-1784
Photo of Eboni R. Mormant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll County, 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 Strategies For Life, LLC, Counselor in Carroll County, GA
Strategies For Life, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Cartersville, GA 30120  (Online Only)
Hello. Looking for a professional who can help you sort out the issues causing you pain, fear, worry, anxiety, grief, & confusion? My practice, Strategies For Life, is located in Cartersville GA. We are conveniently located and just a short drive from the many of the surrounding communities. I have 20+ years of experience in counseling to help people to eliminate emotional distress, find fulfillment and resolve personal challenges. I hold specialization certifications because I have found that different concerns often overlap each other and this allows me to easily transition with my clients from one area to another.
Hello. Looking for a professional who can help you sort out the issues causing you pain, fear, worry, anxiety, grief, & confusion? My practice, Strategies For Life, is located in Cartersville GA. We are conveniently located and just a short drive from the many of the surrounding communities. I have 20+ years of experience in counseling to help people to eliminate emotional distress, find fulfillment and resolve personal challenges. I hold specialization certifications because I have found that different concerns often overlap each other and this allows me to easily transition with my clients from one area to another.
(770) 285-5761 View (770) 285-5761
Photo of Symmetry Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll County, GA
Symmetry Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
At Symmetry Counseling we strive to support the mind-body connection in healing the complete person. We offer psychotherapy and psychological testing services as well as supportive therapies for all phases and stages of life and have a diverse staff available to meet your needs. Our clinicians are seasoned professionals with many years of experience providing an exceptional level of care to clients.
At Symmetry Counseling we strive to support the mind-body connection in healing the complete person. We offer psychotherapy and psychological testing services as well as supportive therapies for all phases and stages of life and have a diverse staff available to meet your needs. Our clinicians are seasoned professionals with many years of experience providing an exceptional level of care to clients.
(770) 637-4310 View (770) 637-4310
Photo of Attento Counseling Practice, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll 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 I am MOORE, LLC #2, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carroll County, GA
I am MOORE, LLC #2
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907
I AM MOORE, LLC is a counseling and consulting practice owned by Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED, LMFT. At I AM MOORE, LLC, we have therapists that can work with you regarding a variety of treatment issues and populations, including but not limited to Military Families, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Workplace conflict, Family dysfunction, Family Secrets, Childhood trauma, Parent/child relationships, Teen delinquency, Sibling Issues, Caregiver stress, Children with disabilities, Single life, Dating, Pre-marital, Couples conflict, Divorce, Career Transition, Gen X, Y(Millennials), Z, & beyond, and much more.
I AM MOORE, LLC is a counseling and consulting practice owned by Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED, LMFT. At I AM MOORE, LLC, we have therapists that can work with you regarding a variety of treatment issues and populations, including but not limited to Military Families, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Workplace conflict, Family dysfunction, Family Secrets, Childhood trauma, Parent/child relationships, Teen delinquency, Sibling Issues, Caregiver stress, Children with disabilities, Single life, Dating, Pre-marital, Couples conflict, Divorce, Career Transition, Gen X, Y(Millennials), Z, & beyond, and much more.
(706) 702-1906 View (706) 702-1906
Photo of Kristi Vanderpool, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll County, GA
Kristi Vanderpool
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, MCC
Verified Verified
Johns Creek, GA 30097
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you worried about your relationship with your spouse or teen? Our counseling sessions offer a safe, confidential space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and concerns without judgment. It's an opportunity to gain insight into yourself and your relationships, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in your life. Kristi Vanderpool can help you identify your strengths, overcome obstacles, and achieve your personal goals.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you worried about your relationship with your spouse or teen? Our counseling sessions offer a safe, confidential space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts, and concerns without judgment. It's an opportunity to gain insight into yourself and your relationships, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in your life. Kristi Vanderpool can help you identify your strengths, overcome obstacles, and achieve your personal goals.
(770) 766-7792 View (770) 766-7792
Photo of Monique Darnell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll 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 Rocio Del Milagro Woody, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carroll County, GA
Rocio Del Milagro Woody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAC, NCAC-II, CCS, CFVIP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
As you are considering scheduling an appointment, I would like to provide you with basic information about me and my practice. I am a Latina immigrant, a native Spanish speaker, and a naturalized United States Citizen since 1987. After learning English, I graduated from The University of Georgia, undergraduate and graduate school, with the highest academic honors. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of education and practical experience which are the foundation of my clinical practice.
As you are considering scheduling an appointment, I would like to provide you with basic information about me and my practice. I am a Latina immigrant, a native Spanish speaker, and a naturalized United States Citizen since 1987. After learning English, I graduated from The University of Georgia, undergraduate and graduate school, with the highest academic honors. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of education and practical experience which are the foundation of my clinical practice.
(678) 245-6168 View (678) 245-6168
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Carroll 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 Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll County, GA
Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist in private practice in the state of Georgia. I help children and adults overcome the negative effects that stressful or traumatic life experiences have on how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist in private practice in the state of Georgia. I help children and adults overcome the negative effects that stressful or traumatic life experiences have on how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
(470) 517-6868 View (470) 517-6868
Photo of Dr. Terry Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll County, 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 Mitra Rokni Yavari, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll County, GA
Mitra Rokni Yavari
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Johns Creek, GA 30022
My specialty is working with children as young as 4 and adolescents. I do testing for ADHD/ADD. I also do Neurofeedback and AlphaTheta treatment. Neurofeedback is a treatment for ADHD, bed wetting, anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. Alpha Theta is a treatment for fears, Phobias and Addiction. I also offer marriage/ couple counseling and multicultural counseling. I teach Anger Management classes and techniques to help people understand the nature of anger and different ways to control their aggression.
My specialty is working with children as young as 4 and adolescents. I do testing for ADHD/ADD. I also do Neurofeedback and AlphaTheta treatment. Neurofeedback is a treatment for ADHD, bed wetting, anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. Alpha Theta is a treatment for fears, Phobias and Addiction. I also offer marriage/ couple counseling and multicultural counseling. I teach Anger Management classes and techniques to help people understand the nature of anger and different ways to control their aggression.
(678) 635-9697 View (678) 635-9697
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Carroll County, 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 Jalinia Logan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carroll County, GA
Jalinia Logan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCATP, LPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
For the past 12 years, I enjoyed working with people seeking supportive services such as counseling and mental health referrals. While working with people in therapy, I utilize a strengths-based approach. I believe in meeting people where they are and providing educational as well as open social support with mental health needs. My goal is to help people express their thoughts/feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms along with giving support. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and adults in counseling. I have a specialty in treating anxiety as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
For the past 12 years, I enjoyed working with people seeking supportive services such as counseling and mental health referrals. While working with people in therapy, I utilize a strengths-based approach. I believe in meeting people where they are and providing educational as well as open social support with mental health needs. My goal is to help people express their thoughts/feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms along with giving support. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and adults in counseling. I have a specialty in treating anxiety as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
(708) 719-4081 View (708) 719-4081

See more therapy options for Carroll County


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.