Photo of Dr. Terry Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Dr. Terry Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, GA 30157
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

Online Therapists

Photo of Cathy Weinstein Schiff LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, GA
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.
(404) 537-3834 View (404) 537-3834
Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, 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 Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Dallas, 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 Tamara Brown Payne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Tamara Brown Payne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CRC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30135  (Online Only)
As a holistic therapist and life strategist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential through growth in all aspects of your life. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in life. By applying eclectic therapy approaches and techniques, we will discover long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Philosophy: "It is what it is, but it doesn't have to be. Experience is a lesson and the lesson is a new experience."
As a holistic therapist and life strategist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential through growth in all aspects of your life. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in life. By applying eclectic therapy approaches and techniques, we will discover long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Philosophy: "It is what it is, but it doesn't have to be. Experience is a lesson and the lesson is a new experience."
(678) 929-6493 View (678) 929-6493
Photo of Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, 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 Coping & Healing Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Coping & Healing Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022  (Online Only)
Our experience enables us to offer effective client, individualized, psychotherapy care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples in-person or via secured telehealth technologies.
Our experience enables us to offer effective client, individualized, psychotherapy care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples in-person or via secured telehealth technologies.
(678) 647-7409 View (678) 647-7409
Photo of Heike APC with The Counseling Group LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Dallas, 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 Monique Darnell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, 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 Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LPC, LAPC, MFT, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McDonough, GA 30253
Are you living with anxiety or depression? Are you having relationship issues with your significant other or family members? Do you need help adjusting to major life changes? Are you ready to make changes to your life that will result in health, happiness, and healing in all areas of your life? Today is the day to schedule an appointment with Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching McDonough to address these issues and more. Located just south of Atlanta, GA, Thriveworks McDonough therapists, counselors, and life coaches are closer than you think to get you through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit us at www.thriveworks.com/mcdonough to see what we are all about. At Thriveworks You Can Thrive. We Can Help.
Are you living with anxiety or depression? Are you having relationship issues with your significant other or family members? Do you need help adjusting to major life changes? Are you ready to make changes to your life that will result in health, happiness, and healing in all areas of your life? Today is the day to schedule an appointment with Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching McDonough to address these issues and more. Located just south of Atlanta, GA, Thriveworks McDonough therapists, counselors, and life coaches are closer than you think to get you through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit us at www.thriveworks.com/mcdonough to see what we are all about. At Thriveworks You Can Thrive. We Can Help.
(404) 998-5102 View (404) 998-5102
Photo of Dr. Kerene T Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, GA
Dr. Kerene T Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW, C-DBT, CCTP, CCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30354  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I opened the doors to my practice with the goal of providing clients with top-of-the-line mental health services. Whether you’re looking for a bit of counseling, or need professional assistance overcoming a traumatic experience - your wellbeing is my number one priority. I go above and beyond to cater to the needs of every client with a personalized treatment approach.
I opened the doors to my practice with the goal of providing clients with top-of-the-line mental health services. Whether you’re looking for a bit of counseling, or need professional assistance overcoming a traumatic experience - your wellbeing is my number one priority. I go above and beyond to cater to the needs of every client with a personalized treatment approach.
(678) 326-4734 View (678) 326-4734
Photo of Dr. Courtney B Caldwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, GA
Dr. Courtney B Caldwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CJSOC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Macon, GA 31204
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy helps work through your thoughts, emotions, perceptions, interactions and relationships in a safe supportive atmosphere. A good therapist will support and guide you to gain increased perspective and insight while also empowering you to self-assess and identify solutions/needed changes, not impress their beliefs on you. The active change agent in your journey to increased happiness and fulfillment is YOU; a good therapist just guides the way. I am happy to help whether you are adjusting to change and transition, wanting to improve or change relationships, or hoping to learn better ways to manage/cope with stress/emotions.
Therapy helps work through your thoughts, emotions, perceptions, interactions and relationships in a safe supportive atmosphere. A good therapist will support and guide you to gain increased perspective and insight while also empowering you to self-assess and identify solutions/needed changes, not impress their beliefs on you. The active change agent in your journey to increased happiness and fulfillment is YOU; a good therapist just guides the way. I am happy to help whether you are adjusting to change and transition, wanting to improve or change relationships, or hoping to learn better ways to manage/cope with stress/emotions.
(478) 292-2591 View (478) 292-2591
Photo of Darren D Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, GA
Darren D Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT , Aprvd, Supv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, GA 31907
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED., LMFT is a Clinical Professor, Associate Director for Clinical Training and Supervision in a Masters program in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Georgia, Alabama, NY, IL, and credentialed for telehealth in Florida. Dr. Moore utilizes an integrative therapeutic approach when working with clients. Dr. Moore is direct and believes in addressing problems head on, to ensure optimal success, within a limited amount of time. He has degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, Virginia Tech University, Valdosta State University, and the University of Minnesota.
(762) 583-8917 View (762) 583-8917
Photo of Mitra Rokni Yavari, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, 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 Monica Gray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Monica Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CAMS, QPRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucker, GA 30084  (Online Only)
Where We Stand is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health and substance abuse services to communities within the metro Atlanta area. Our focus is to provide cost-effective, quality treatment.
Where We Stand is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health and substance abuse services to communities within the metro Atlanta area. Our focus is to provide cost-effective, quality treatment.
(678) 831-2539 View (678) 831-2539
Photo of Jennifer A Riapos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, GA
Jennifer A Riapos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Waitlist for new clients
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
(678) 263-2735 View (678) 263-2735
Photo of Jason Magistro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Jason Magistro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Locust Grove, GA 30248  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or maybe just an overall feeling like there's something missing in your life? As an Existential/Psychodynamic psychotherapist, my primary focus is to offer a safe place for us to explore the dynamics of your inner self. I work with range of clients whom suffer from substance abuse, anxiety, depression along with individuals seeking meaning, purpose and connection to their beautifully unique and authentic Self. The space we build together is safe, sacred and judgement free so we can explore the deepest aspects of you..
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or maybe just an overall feeling like there's something missing in your life? As an Existential/Psychodynamic psychotherapist, my primary focus is to offer a safe place for us to explore the dynamics of your inner self. I work with range of clients whom suffer from substance abuse, anxiety, depression along with individuals seeking meaning, purpose and connection to their beautifully unique and authentic Self. The space we build together is safe, sacred and judgement free so we can explore the deepest aspects of you..
(404) 549-6493 View (404) 549-6493
Photo of Brenda Jean-Baptiste - Coping Healing Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Brenda Jean-Baptiste - Coping Healing Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022  (Online Only)
Understanding that there has been a shift in your mental health is the first step for your journey into self-discovery. I am happy that you have chosen to take a deeper look into your life, you are experiencing extreme bravery. As a therapist, I believe that there is a cause for every behavior and response. My role in your journey is to assist you in finding the root of your stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, codependence, and other life altering events and emotions that have disturbed your mental health. My therapeutic environment is designed to be a safe place to identify yourself and your experiences for growth and healing.
Understanding that there has been a shift in your mental health is the first step for your journey into self-discovery. I am happy that you have chosen to take a deeper look into your life, you are experiencing extreme bravery. As a therapist, I believe that there is a cause for every behavior and response. My role in your journey is to assist you in finding the root of your stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, codependence, and other life altering events and emotions that have disturbed your mental health. My therapeutic environment is designed to be a safe place to identify yourself and your experiences for growth and healing.
(678) 235-3922 View (678) 235-3922
Photo of Recovery & Consulting Through A Different Lens LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, GA
Recovery & Consulting Through A Different Lens LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CTP, CAADC, CCDPD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281  (Online Only)
Viktor Frankl said "When we are no longer able to change a situation we are challenged to change ourselves." The ideal clients are individuals who recognize that they want to experience life differently so that they feel more connected to society. They are the individuals that pick up the phone, face their fears, and reach out for help and support. For Susanah, those are individuals who are thinking about sobriety and been released from the entrapment of substance use, others want to deal with trauma in their lives, and couples want to deal with the struggles in their relationship/marriage. Susanah's goal is to support your journey.
Viktor Frankl said "When we are no longer able to change a situation we are challenged to change ourselves." The ideal clients are individuals who recognize that they want to experience life differently so that they feel more connected to society. They are the individuals that pick up the phone, face their fears, and reach out for help and support. For Susanah, those are individuals who are thinking about sobriety and been released from the entrapment of substance use, others want to deal with trauma in their lives, and couples want to deal with the struggles in their relationship/marriage. Susanah's goal is to support your journey.
(678) 338-8610 View (678) 338-8610
Photo of Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, GA
Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS , CCTP
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
(770) 373-4876 View (770) 373-4876
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.