Photo of Gray Matters Counseling & Consulting Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette County, GA
Gray Matters Counseling & Consulting Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tyrone, GA 30290
"Getting to the heart of the matter..." We exist to encourage and promote the overall health, well-being and life success of individuals and families - spirit, soul, and body.
"Getting to the heart of the matter..." We exist to encourage and promote the overall health, well-being and life success of individuals and families - spirit, soul, and body.
(770) 574-4826 View (770) 574-4826
Photo of Monique Darnell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette 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

Online Therapists

Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayette 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 Phyllis Williams, Counselor in Fayette County, GA
Phyllis Williams
Counselor, MSEd, MHC-LP, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I specialize in anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, grief, trauma, post-natal trauma, familial conflict.
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, eating disorders, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, grief, trauma, post-natal trauma, familial conflict.
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
(678) 504-6326 View (678) 504-6326
Photo of Robin Reeves-Oppenheim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayette 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 Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayette 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 Kelsey Sander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayette County, GA
Kelsey Sander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Waitlist for new clients
Manna Treatment specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma-based disorders, and general mental health. My goal as a primary therapist at Manna is to provide clients and their families a safe space to heal from their underlying hurts and pains and become leaders of their own journey again. Manna offers outpatient therapy, including individual and family, as well as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient for eating disorders and intensive outpatient for trauma recovery. I also provide the option for clients to utilize faith-based principles in their work with me, if desired.
Manna Treatment specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma-based disorders, and general mental health. My goal as a primary therapist at Manna is to provide clients and their families a safe space to heal from their underlying hurts and pains and become leaders of their own journey again. Manna offers outpatient therapy, including individual and family, as well as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient for eating disorders and intensive outpatient for trauma recovery. I also provide the option for clients to utilize faith-based principles in their work with me, if desired.
(678) 326-4522 View (678) 326-4522
Photo of Talk it Out, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette County, GA
Talk it Out
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
We specialize in numerous mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, grief, LGBTQIAA issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, life transitions, among others.
Hello and welcome to Talk it Out! We are a family friendly group practice located near Truist Park (formally SunTrust Park) with easy access off of 285 and 75. We specialize in a wide array of mental health concerns. One of our knowledgeable and compassionate clinicians will work with you to meet your specific goals in therapy. Our clinicians utilize various treatment modalities and vary in terms of gender and age so you can feel confident that you will be matched with a clinician that you will feel comfortable and safe with.
We specialize in numerous mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, grief, LGBTQIAA issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, life transitions, among others.
Hello and welcome to Talk it Out! We are a family friendly group practice located near Truist Park (formally SunTrust Park) with easy access off of 285 and 75. We specialize in a wide array of mental health concerns. One of our knowledgeable and compassionate clinicians will work with you to meet your specific goals in therapy. Our clinicians utilize various treatment modalities and vary in terms of gender and age so you can feel confident that you will be matched with a clinician that you will feel comfortable and safe with.
(678) 343-2499 View (678) 343-2499
Photo of Counseling Innovations, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette County, GA
Counseling Innovations
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
I have particular expertise working with Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Eating Disorders, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Asperger's Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families identify areas where change is needed to enhance growth, harmony, and balance in their lives. I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
I have particular expertise working with Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Eating Disorders, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Asperger's Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia.
As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to help individuals, couples, and families identify areas where change is needed to enhance growth, harmony, and balance in their lives. I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
(678) 919-1077 View (678) 919-1077
Photo of Lauteasha Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fayette 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 Fawzia Khan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette County, GA
Fawzia Khan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RN
Not Verified Not Verified
Decatur, GA 30033
I have advocated for patients of all ages, suffering from depression, addiction, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, divorce, custody battles, marriage and family conflict.
I have over 15 years of counseling experience with clients of all ages. Multicultural issues, marriage and family, and abuse are areas close to my heart. My practice is based on serving clients with empathy and compassion, and providing coping skills to support their growth and development.
I have advocated for patients of all ages, suffering from depression, addiction, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, divorce, custody battles, marriage and family conflict.
I have over 15 years of counseling experience with clients of all ages. Multicultural issues, marriage and family, and abuse are areas close to my heart. My practice is based on serving clients with empathy and compassion, and providing coping skills to support their growth and development.
(404) 738-9629 View (404) 738-9629
Photo of Haley Peck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayette County, GA
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.
(678) 658-3172 View (678) 658-3172
Photo of Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fayette 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 Olivia Baggett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayette County, GA
Olivia Baggett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338
Hey, Hey! I’m excited to meet you! I work with adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of life experiences including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, launching, interpersonal conflict, familial dysfunction, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I believe therapy is for everyone and lean strongly on my ability to authentically connect with my clients.
Hey, Hey! I’m excited to meet you! I work with adolescents and adults experiencing a broad range of life experiences including anxiety, depression, perfectionism, launching, interpersonal conflict, familial dysfunction, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I believe therapy is for everyone and lean strongly on my ability to authentically connect with my clients.
(470) 748-2989 View (470) 748-2989
Photo of Asikari Perfect Impact, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette County, GA
Asikari Perfect Impact, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303
I work with individuals and families who are suffering from emotional, behavioral, relationship, and trauma issues My visions is by providing clients with a safe environment, where they are able to begin to express themselves without judgment. I encourage my clients to feel free to bring any thought feeling and concern to the partnership.
I work with individuals and families who are suffering from emotional, behavioral, relationship, and trauma issues My visions is by providing clients with a safe environment, where they are able to begin to express themselves without judgment. I encourage my clients to feel free to bring any thought feeling and concern to the partnership.
(404) 973-2369 View (404) 973-2369
Photo of Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette County, 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 Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Fayette 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 Angel Schieber in Fayette County, GA
Angel Schieber
MAed, MAPC, RYT200, AACC
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
With over 33 years of personal recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, I specialize in recovery from substance use disorders, pornography addiction, sexual/intimacy issues, self-image/gender, anxiety, and depression. Individual or relationship counseling available.
With over 33 years of personal recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, I specialize in recovery from substance use disorders, pornography addiction, sexual/intimacy issues, self-image/gender, anxiety, and depression. Individual or relationship counseling available.
(678) 723-1728 View (678) 723-1728
Photo of Claire Wieman, LCSW, Evo-Life, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fayette County, GA
Claire Wieman, LCSW, Evo-Life, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jasper, GA 30143
WELCOME! If you have never felt at completely ease/fully understood by your therapist, or have felt reluctant to try therapy for the first time, I especially encourage you to contact our practice. We love observing relief wash over you as your hope begins to be restored. Our top priority is to hear you, see you, and never judge you before any clinical assessment/recommendation is made/communicated to you. It is my personal promise that you will feel that your personality, strengths, and preferences are known and understood under our care. With that in mind, you can always feel secure and supported when we discuss your challenges.
WELCOME! If you have never felt at completely ease/fully understood by your therapist, or have felt reluctant to try therapy for the first time, I especially encourage you to contact our practice. We love observing relief wash over you as your hope begins to be restored. Our top priority is to hear you, see you, and never judge you before any clinical assessment/recommendation is made/communicated to you. It is my personal promise that you will feel that your personality, strengths, and preferences are known and understood under our care. With that in mind, you can always feel secure and supported when we discuss your challenges.
(518) 802-3015 View (518) 802-3015
Photo of Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fayette 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

See more therapy options for Fayette 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.