Therapists in Coweta County, GA
Patricia Calloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Newnan, GA 30263
With over 20 years of experience, I enjoy working with mature and prepared clients to dedicate the time needed to achieve their goals. I utilize various techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I am using holistic, client-centered, and collaborative approaches. My main focus is Anxiety, Depression, Aging, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe that if you are passionate about helping clients, you can help them find the healing and happiness they seek.
With over 20 years of experience, I enjoy working with mature and prepared clients to dedicate the time needed to achieve their goals. I utilize various techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I am using holistic, client-centered, and collaborative approaches. My main focus is Anxiety, Depression, Aging, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe that if you are passionate about helping clients, you can help them find the healing and happiness they seek.
Louis Fuertes Boynton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Newnan, GA 30263
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unhealthy and stressed out? My therapy focuses on positive psychology and how to help people find a healthy lifestyle. Using this model, I have developed a type of therapy that focuses on helping people achieve health in mind, body and soul. This work includes finding out what problems exist in a persons life, and working to solve the problems we all face in life (loss/grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and stress). My hope is that by finding solutions and working out those solutions life will get better.
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unhealthy and stressed out? My therapy focuses on positive psychology and how to help people find a healthy lifestyle. Using this model, I have developed a type of therapy that focuses on helping people achieve health in mind, body and soul. This work includes finding out what problems exist in a persons life, and working to solve the problems we all face in life (loss/grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and stress). My hope is that by finding solutions and working out those solutions life will get better.
Sandy Heinsz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newnan, GA 30263
Life shouldn't have to be so hard. If you're one of those people or one of those families struggling to keep your head above the proverbial waterline, let me throw you a lifeline. You may find what seemed like insurmountable obstacles in your path when you were in crisis turn out to be manageable stepping stones when we examine and reframe them together. I'll help you map out a clear path and concrete steps to achieving your personal goals. I believe in empowering you so that you can quickly reach your full potential spiritually, emotionally, physically, and educationally.
Life shouldn't have to be so hard. If you're one of those people or one of those families struggling to keep your head above the proverbial waterline, let me throw you a lifeline. You may find what seemed like insurmountable obstacles in your path when you were in crisis turn out to be manageable stepping stones when we examine and reframe them together. I'll help you map out a clear path and concrete steps to achieving your personal goals. I believe in empowering you so that you can quickly reach your full potential spiritually, emotionally, physically, and educationally.
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sharpsburg, GA 30277
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
West Georgia Counseling & Assessment Services, LLC
LPC
Verified Verified
Newnan, GA 30263
West Georgia Counseling & Assessment Services has been servicing families through the DFCS since 2000. As of 2021, our practice also services individuals and families with private insurance, as a self pay client, individual, marital & family therapy sessions. We proudly serve our military veterans and their families as well as all members of our community. Our agency is composed of male and female, highly credentialed, diverse, and experienced staff of LPC's, APC's, Master level counselors, parent aids, and other staff.
West Georgia Counseling & Assessment Services has been servicing families through the DFCS since 2000. As of 2021, our practice also services individuals and families with private insurance, as a self pay client, individual, marital & family therapy sessions. We proudly serve our military veterans and their families as well as all members of our community. Our agency is composed of male and female, highly credentialed, diverse, and experienced staff of LPC's, APC's, Master level counselors, parent aids, and other staff.
Online Therapists
Ashley Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kathleen, GA 31047 (Online Only)
My areas of interest include treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, relationship issues, family conflict, academic and career difficulties, women's issues, self-esteem, self-image, work/life balance, PTSD, BPD, ADHD.
With 30 years of counseling experience, I hope to provide a safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings. My therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I received my undergraduate degree in 1992 from Virginia Tech in Family and Child Development and my masters degree in Counseling from Radford University in 1994.
My areas of interest include treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, relationship issues, family conflict, academic and career difficulties, women's issues, self-esteem, self-image, work/life balance, PTSD, BPD, ADHD.
With 30 years of counseling experience, I hope to provide a safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings. My therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I received my undergraduate degree in 1992 from Virginia Tech in Family and Child Development and my masters degree in Counseling from Radford University in 1994.
Olivia Chante' Frazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ASFA PT
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30215
Her areas of expertise include exercise / movement therapy, eating disorders, bariatrics, self-esteem/body image, emotional regulation, stress management, depression, anxiety, life transitions, coping skills, grief, relationships, social skills, trauma, women's issues, anger management, balancing day-to-day life, and overall healthy wellbeing.
Chanté is the founder of “Transform You,” which is a private practice specializing in exercise and nutrition-based interventions for treating mental health. Chante' is an exercise therapist (PT) and mindset coach. She fosters meaningful, fulfilling relationships with her clients, and enjoys assisting them in identifying and carrying out their own authentic solutions. Chante’ thrives on helping others break out of unhealthy patterns to feel empowered and strong. She assists clients in learning the importance of incorporating physical movement and nutrition into their lives as a healthy coping skill to managing overall well-being.
Her areas of expertise include exercise / movement therapy, eating disorders, bariatrics, self-esteem/body image, emotional regulation, stress management, depression, anxiety, life transitions, coping skills, grief, relationships, social skills, trauma, women's issues, anger management, balancing day-to-day life, and overall healthy wellbeing.
Chanté is the founder of “Transform You,” which is a private practice specializing in exercise and nutrition-based interventions for treating mental health. Chante' is an exercise therapist (PT) and mindset coach. She fosters meaningful, fulfilling relationships with her clients, and enjoys assisting them in identifying and carrying out their own authentic solutions. Chante’ thrives on helping others break out of unhealthy patterns to feel empowered and strong. She assists clients in learning the importance of incorporating physical movement and nutrition into their lives as a healthy coping skill to managing overall well-being.
Jo-Anne T Liakakos
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30009
In addition I hold a Bachelors Degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a Specialty in Foods and Nutrition; working with eating disorders and emotional and behavioral issues surrounding food.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and assist you in creating the life you desire. 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 work together to resolve issues and lead you to experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
In addition I hold a Bachelors Degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with a Specialty in Foods and Nutrition; working with eating disorders and emotional and behavioral issues surrounding food.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and assist you in creating the life you desire. 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 work together to resolve issues and lead you to experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Karla Redman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dawsonville, GA 30534
My specialties include depression, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, PTSD, trauma, crisis intervention, and eating disorders.
You have taken the first major step of getting healthier by acknowledging there is a concern and you are reaching out. My goal is to provide you a safe and comfortable environment to begin this journey. Change is possible. If you have experienced trauma, I can help you in the healing process. If you need someone to guide you through a difficult situation, I am here. I have been practicing in Mental Health since the 80's and many people have crossed my path. I love what I do and look forward to being there for you during this difficult time.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, PTSD, trauma, crisis intervention, and eating disorders.
You have taken the first major step of getting healthier by acknowledging there is a concern and you are reaching out. My goal is to provide you a safe and comfortable environment to begin this journey. Change is possible. If you have experienced trauma, I can help you in the healing process. If you need someone to guide you through a difficult situation, I am here. I have been practicing in Mental Health since the 80's and many people have crossed my path. I love what I do and look forward to being there for you during this difficult time.
Intuitive Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188
Over the years, my clients have trusted me to help them work through a number of challenges some of which include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, divorce, self-injury, eating disorders, sexual abuse, ADHD, and OCD.
As a therapist, I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and families. Through a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship, my clients can expect to find hope and feel empowered. I strive to help individuals identify their strengths and become more self-aware. By learning to cope and respond to life’s challenges in a healthy and meaningful way, my clients achieve personal growth and strengthened relationships.
Over the years, my clients have trusted me to help them work through a number of challenges some of which include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, divorce, self-injury, eating disorders, sexual abuse, ADHD, and OCD.
As a therapist, I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and families. Through a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship, my clients can expect to find hope and feel empowered. I strive to help individuals identify their strengths and become more self-aware. By learning to cope and respond to life’s challenges in a healthy and meaningful way, my clients achieve personal growth and strengthened relationships.
Riner Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, EdS, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Macon, GA 31204
I specialize in eating disorders / body image and OCD.
For a moment, consider life as a roller coaster. When you are waiting in line, life may move slowly or you may feel stuck. Other times, you may be thrown for a scary loop and have difficulty hanging on or managing the various twists and curves. I am committed to joining you for the ride, providing a safe and nurturing environment, assisting you as you set and reach goals, and being your biggest cheerleader as you create meaningful change and positive health. I also believe in teaching and mentoring, and therefore have 2 counselors in training that are available to help too with a significant sliding fee scale rate.
I specialize in eating disorders / body image and OCD.
For a moment, consider life as a roller coaster. When you are waiting in line, life may move slowly or you may feel stuck. Other times, you may be thrown for a scary loop and have difficulty hanging on or managing the various twists and curves. I am committed to joining you for the ride, providing a safe and nurturing environment, assisting you as you set and reach goals, and being your biggest cheerleader as you create meaningful change and positive health. I also believe in teaching and mentoring, and therefore have 2 counselors in training that are available to help too with a significant sliding fee scale rate.
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!
Sharon R Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076
I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, addictions, women's issues, and trauma.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one for many people. Taking the first steps towards, first, admitting there is a problem, and then reaching out for help takes bravery and courage. It's also a sign that you may be tired of living the way you have been living and you're ready to face the issues that are causing you and your family discomfort. I am here to help you every step of the way. As a seasoned psychotherapist with many years working in the field, I can help you by giving you a formal diagnosis at the time of our first session, educate you of your issue, and teach you better coping skills.
I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, addictions, women's issues, and trauma.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one for many people. Taking the first steps towards, first, admitting there is a problem, and then reaching out for help takes bravery and courage. It's also a sign that you may be tired of living the way you have been living and you're ready to face the issues that are causing you and your family discomfort. I am here to help you every step of the way. As a seasoned psychotherapist with many years working in the field, I can help you by giving you a formal diagnosis at the time of our first session, educate you of your issue, and teach you better coping skills.
Key Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
Are life stressors causing a strain? Ever feel like you just can’t get it right no matter how hard you try, or feel like you’re falling into a comparison trap? Everyone has periods when they may benefit from professional support. Please consider allowing us to help you move from pain to peace. Key Counseling Group is a private practice specializing in stepfamily, stepparent, and career coaching as well as psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, relationship stressors, parenting support, trauma, eating disorders, and more. We work with couples, individuals, children, teens, and families.
Are life stressors causing a strain? Ever feel like you just can’t get it right no matter how hard you try, or feel like you’re falling into a comparison trap? Everyone has periods when they may benefit from professional support. Please consider allowing us to help you move from pain to peace. Key Counseling Group is a private practice specializing in stepfamily, stepparent, and career coaching as well as psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, substance abuse, grief, relationship stressors, parenting support, trauma, eating disorders, and more. We work with couples, individuals, children, teens, and families.
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
Cathy Weinstein Schiff LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
My areas of expertise include Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Relationship Issues, Codependency, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Parenting Issues and Education, and Stress Management.
I am an LCSW specializing in individual, couple's and family therapy. My approach is eclectic, incorporating a variety of techniques to meet the needs of each client. Therapy is a collaborative effort and I enjoy guiding clients to identify their own strengths and inner resources. I believe in giving clients the tools and support they need to move ahead on their own, knowing support is available when they need it from me. I have new patient appointment availability to see older adolescents and adults of all ages. I welcome all individuals regardless of sex, religion, sexual preference, or race.
My areas of expertise include Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Relationship Issues, Codependency, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Parenting Issues and Education, and Stress Management.
I am an LCSW specializing in individual, couple's and family therapy. My approach is eclectic, incorporating a variety of techniques to meet the needs of each client. Therapy is a collaborative effort and I enjoy guiding clients to identify their own strengths and inner resources. I believe in giving clients the tools and support they need to move ahead on their own, knowing support is available when they need it from me. I have new patient appointment availability to see older adolescents and adults of all ages. I welcome all individuals regardless of sex, religion, sexual preference, or race.
Haley Peck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McDonough, GA 30252
Hello, my name is Haley Peck. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 4 years of clinical experience guiding and helping individuals and minors facing Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and PTSD. I utilize a combination of Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), EMDR, Client-Centered Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies during treatments with my clients. It is of the utmost importance to me that we focus on your progress along the way, as well as self-encouragement during the hard times to remind you why you started therapy and all of the positive outcomes to look forward to.
Hello, my name is Haley Peck. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 4 years of clinical experience guiding and helping individuals and minors facing Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and PTSD. I utilize a combination of Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), EMDR, Client-Centered Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies during treatments with my clients. It is of the utmost importance to me that we focus on your progress along the way, as well as self-encouragement during the hard times to remind you why you started therapy and all of the positive outcomes to look forward to.
Ginair Goodwin McKerrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I appreciate the opportunity to share about my private practice and expertise with you. I am an experienced licensed psychotherapist in private practice and I specialize in the fields of Eating Disorders, Body Image, Depression and Women's issues. I work with individuals over the age of 14, couples and families of any ethnicity or sexual orientation. I also have expertise and experience in working with a broad range of women's issues.
I appreciate the opportunity to share about my private practice and expertise with you. I am an experienced licensed psychotherapist in private practice and I specialize in the fields of Eating Disorders, Body Image, Depression and Women's issues. I work with individuals over the age of 14, couples and families of any ethnicity or sexual orientation. I also have expertise and experience in working with a broad range of women's issues.
Joy Ssebikindu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
My specialties include issues with communication, family transitions including divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating/eating disorders.
Kate Braestrup says it best: "I'm not here to keep you from freaking out. I'm here to be with you while you freak out, or grieve or laugh or suffer or sing. It is a ministry of presence. It is showing up with a loving heart." I truly believe that everyone could benefit from psychotherapy at some point in their lives -- we all need support. Taking the step towards seeking help of any kind can sometimes be difficult. I consider it a privilege to be chosen to walk out life's challenges with you.
My specialties include issues with communication, family transitions including divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety and disordered eating/eating disorders.
Kate Braestrup says it best: "I'm not here to keep you from freaking out. I'm here to be with you while you freak out, or grieve or laugh or suffer or sing. It is a ministry of presence. It is showing up with a loving heart." I truly believe that everyone could benefit from psychotherapy at some point in their lives -- we all need support. Taking the step towards seeking help of any kind can sometimes be difficult. I consider it a privilege to be chosen to walk out life's challenges with you.
Shannon Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518 (Online Only)
Specialties include: Anxiety, Depression, Self-Injury, Women's Issues, Eating Disorders and Bariatric Surgery, Men's Issues, Premenaposaul Depression, Self-Esteem, Body Image Issues, Stress Management, Life Transitions, Parenting Issues, and Divorce Recovery.
There are times in life that we feel stuck, hurt, or confused and anxiety, grief, or depression seems insurmountable. Feeling heard and understood by someone who can walk along side, offer support, and to help find hope can be a step in the right direction. Through the therapeutic process Shannon assists clients ages 18 years and up with converting negative, destructive, or counterproductive thoughts and behaviors into more positive and beneficial ones. She approaches each client with empathy, respect, and congruency through services offered in office or through telemental health options.
Specialties include: Anxiety, Depression, Self-Injury, Women's Issues, Eating Disorders and Bariatric Surgery, Men's Issues, Premenaposaul Depression, Self-Esteem, Body Image Issues, Stress Management, Life Transitions, Parenting Issues, and Divorce Recovery.
There are times in life that we feel stuck, hurt, or confused and anxiety, grief, or depression seems insurmountable. Feeling heard and understood by someone who can walk along side, offer support, and to help find hope can be a step in the right direction. Through the therapeutic process Shannon assists clients ages 18 years and up with converting negative, destructive, or counterproductive thoughts and behaviors into more positive and beneficial ones. She approaches each client with empathy, respect, and congruency through services offered in office or through telemental health options.
See more therapy options for Coweta 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.