Photo of Kirsten Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Kirsten Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096
I have experience working with a variety of mental health issues including, but not limited to: eating disorders, trauma, self-harm, sports performance, depression, anxiety, and anger management.
Have you noticed your adolescent/ teen’s loss of joy? Have you noticed their routine seeming a bit more daunting? Do you notice your child tends to have a hard time connecting with others, including family? Have you observed a difficulty in managing emotions? Lastly, have you noticed your child/teen having difficulty managing emotions related to food? Society tends to have an opinion of how you should handle these observations. It suggests an ineffective “quick fix” – “Stop crying. Just eat. Pull yourself back together. Stop being sad.” As you might have noticed, it is not that simple. So, how does it become less invasive?
I have experience working with a variety of mental health issues including, but not limited to: eating disorders, trauma, self-harm, sports performance, depression, anxiety, and anger management.
Have you noticed your adolescent/ teen’s loss of joy? Have you noticed their routine seeming a bit more daunting? Do you notice your child tends to have a hard time connecting with others, including family? Have you observed a difficulty in managing emotions? Lastly, have you noticed your child/teen having difficulty managing emotions related to food? Society tends to have an opinion of how you should handle these observations. It suggests an ineffective “quick fix” – “Stop crying. Just eat. Pull yourself back together. Stop being sad.” As you might have noticed, it is not that simple. So, how does it become less invasive?
(470) 335-0587 View (470) 335-0587
Photo of Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gwinnett County, GA
Ryan R Schwerzmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lilburn, GA 30047
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 Solutions Program for Eating DIsorders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Solutions Program for Eating DIsorders
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30078  (Online Only)
and end your struggle with overeating, binge eating, anorexia and bulimia.
I have specialized training in working with pre and post op bariatric surgery patients. I have specialized programs for binge eaters, bulimics and anorexics as well and trauma and sexual abuse for the last 40+ years. This work has been my passion since I was over 450 pounds when I was younger and with the help of special therapists was able to lose over 250 pounds and managed to keep that weight off all these years. I was also sexually abused as a young child which led to the onset of my eating disorder.
and end your struggle with overeating, binge eating, anorexia and bulimia.
I have specialized training in working with pre and post op bariatric surgery patients. I have specialized programs for binge eaters, bulimics and anorexics as well and trauma and sexual abuse for the last 40+ years. This work has been my passion since I was over 450 pounds when I was younger and with the help of special therapists was able to lose over 250 pounds and managed to keep that weight off all these years. I was also sexually abused as a young child which led to the onset of my eating disorder.
(516) 584-3620 View (516) 584-3620
Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gwinnett 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 Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30092
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.
(678) 394-3719 View (678) 394-3719
Photo of Elzbieta Orlowska, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Elzbieta Orlowska
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047  (Online Only)
I offer you my knowledge, compassion, patience, guidance, humor (when needed) and years of professional experience. I have worked with people who struggle with eating disorders, addiction (substance abuse, recovery), life transitions/divorce, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, grief, and self esteem. I specialize in working with adolescents, their parents, young adults and adults. I believe every person is unique and needs a different and individual therapeutic approach.
I offer you my knowledge, compassion, patience, guidance, humor (when needed) and years of professional experience. I have worked with people who struggle with eating disorders, addiction (substance abuse, recovery), life transitions/divorce, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, grief, and self esteem. I specialize in working with adolescents, their parents, young adults and adults. I believe every person is unique and needs a different and individual therapeutic approach.
(470) 828-3011 View (470) 828-3011
Photo of Brianna Byars Owen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Brianna Byars Owen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Have you found yourself at a cross roads- feeling like you can't stay where you are but you don't know where to go from here? Are you tired of swinging from one extreme to another? Are you trying to maintain the picture of perfection while inside you feel overwhelmed and anxious? Are you looking for balance in your life? Are you battling with inconsistent behaviors, overwhelming emotions, trauma, food, or body image? To change your life, your next step is to take a "bold crossing" - to make a decision to move and I can help you through the journey.
Have you found yourself at a cross roads- feeling like you can't stay where you are but you don't know where to go from here? Are you tired of swinging from one extreme to another? Are you trying to maintain the picture of perfection while inside you feel overwhelmed and anxious? Are you looking for balance in your life? Are you battling with inconsistent behaviors, overwhelming emotions, trauma, food, or body image? To change your life, your next step is to take a "bold crossing" - to make a decision to move and I can help you through the journey.
(404) 620-4479 View (404) 620-4479
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gwinnett County, GA
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30092
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.
(470) 619-5902 x1 View (470) 619-5902 x1
Photo of Dr. Thelma E Francis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Dr. Thelma E Francis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, CHT
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045
Are you unhappy, perplexed, or confused about your life situation? Do you have life issues and need a resolution? Let me help you to find targeted practical straightforward evidence-based solutions for positive change. We incorporate an eclectic integrative approach, with short-term results, to guide, empower, and motivate individuals, children, families, and adults to focus on positive solutions for change, and to overcome life's challenges. We provide a confidential, caring, and compassionate environment for you to FEEL HEARD, and FIND SOLUTIONS to your problems. Let me help you with effective strategies to CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Contact www.ucwelpeoplesolutionsinc.com.
Are you unhappy, perplexed, or confused about your life situation? Do you have life issues and need a resolution? Let me help you to find targeted practical straightforward evidence-based solutions for positive change. We incorporate an eclectic integrative approach, with short-term results, to guide, empower, and motivate individuals, children, families, and adults to focus on positive solutions for change, and to overcome life's challenges. We provide a confidential, caring, and compassionate environment for you to FEEL HEARD, and FIND SOLUTIONS to your problems. Let me help you with effective strategies to CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Contact www.ucwelpeoplesolutionsinc.com.
(678) 561-5856 View (678) 561-5856
Photo of Elizabeth M. Cooke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Elizabeth M. Cooke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suwanee, GA 30024
Life isn't always easy, but getting the help you need can be... You might be facing problems in your relationship, or having trouble dealing with your children's behaviors and attitudes. You could be feeling overwhelmed by stress and change. Or struggling with confusion about directions to take and decisions to make. Whatever brings you here, entering into the counseling process will allow you first to identify and then to build on your strengths. Even if it seems that your resources are few, we will explore and experiment with different skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Life isn't always easy, but getting the help you need can be... You might be facing problems in your relationship, or having trouble dealing with your children's behaviors and attitudes. You could be feeling overwhelmed by stress and change. Or struggling with confusion about directions to take and decisions to make. Whatever brings you here, entering into the counseling process will allow you first to identify and then to build on your strengths. Even if it seems that your resources are few, we will explore and experiment with different skills in a safe and supportive environment.
(678) 535-3190 View (678) 535-3190
Photo of New Beginnings Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
New Beginnings Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Yolanda is an Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience providing help, hope and healing, in a supportive and confidential environment, to individuals, couples and families who are struggling with life's challenges. I am committed to motivate, empower and facilitate change in my clients by understanding their needs and providing the necessary skills and tools to grow and reach their full potential. I am focussed on delivering the highest quality of care and seek to improve the lives of others and bring them to a place of restoration.
Yolanda is an Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience providing help, hope and healing, in a supportive and confidential environment, to individuals, couples and families who are struggling with life's challenges. I am committed to motivate, empower and facilitate change in my clients by understanding their needs and providing the necessary skills and tools to grow and reach their full potential. I am focussed on delivering the highest quality of care and seek to improve the lives of others and bring them to a place of restoration.
(678) 820-4754 View (678) 820-4754
Photo of Dana P Rogers, Psychologist in Gwinnett County, GA
Dana P Rogers
Psychologist, PhD, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suwanee, GA 30024
Dealing with depression and anxiety and can't move forward in your life. Dr. Dana Rogers offers some insightful ways to cope with your symptoms and get some relief from negative thoughts and self defeated feelings. Research shows that one out of 5 people will experience a depressive episode in their lifetime. Get help now with a professionally trained psychologist who has years of experience helping people with depression and anxiety. Dr. Rogers has been televised for her work in dealing with depression in cardiac patients, and she is a published author on chronic illness in children.
Dealing with depression and anxiety and can't move forward in your life. Dr. Dana Rogers offers some insightful ways to cope with your symptoms and get some relief from negative thoughts and self defeated feelings. Research shows that one out of 5 people will experience a depressive episode in their lifetime. Get help now with a professionally trained psychologist who has years of experience helping people with depression and anxiety. Dr. Rogers has been televised for her work in dealing with depression in cardiac patients, and she is a published author on chronic illness in children.
(470) 354-1426 View (470) 354-1426
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Gwinnett 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 Wholehearted Healing Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Wholehearted Healing Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
I have a passion for helping people through the struggles in their lives. I feel that developing a meaningful connection with my clients is the most important aspect in helping them through the variety of difficulties that they may be facing. I focus on a "whole person" approach. I feel that every person has the capacity and desire for personal growth and change. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way to rediscover our purpose or some help in figuring out how to manage our lives and finding ourselves again.
I have a passion for helping people through the struggles in their lives. I feel that developing a meaningful connection with my clients is the most important aspect in helping them through the variety of difficulties that they may be facing. I focus on a "whole person" approach. I feel that every person has the capacity and desire for personal growth and change. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way to rediscover our purpose or some help in figuring out how to manage our lives and finding ourselves again.
(678) 866-1951 View (678) 866-1951
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gwinnett County, GA
Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, II
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30071  (Online Only)
Providing multicultural mental health and addiction treatment. Especializing in trauma, anxiety and depression. Bilingual (Spanish/English).
Providing multicultural mental health and addiction treatment. Especializing in trauma, anxiety and depression. Bilingual (Spanish/English).
(404) 724-5855 View (404) 724-5855
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
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.
(678) 944-8624 x1 View (678) 944-8624 x1
Photo of Flourish Family Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Flourish Family Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCAADC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
At Flourish Family Therapy, we strive to provide our clients with the greatest possible care. We only offer experienced therapists that empower all our clients to flourish and reach their potential. We don't believe in a cookie cutter, one size fits all approach. Our therapists and administrative staff are dedicated to creating a custom experience for each individual that walks through our doors. Your new future begins now and we're looking forward to helping you achieve your treatment goals.
At Flourish Family Therapy, we strive to provide our clients with the greatest possible care. We only offer experienced therapists that empower all our clients to flourish and reach their potential. We don't believe in a cookie cutter, one size fits all approach. Our therapists and administrative staff are dedicated to creating a custom experience for each individual that walks through our doors. Your new future begins now and we're looking forward to helping you achieve your treatment goals.
(678) 820-6876 View (678) 820-6876
Photo of Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
(470) 558-0523 View (470) 558-0523
Photo of Cecelia Mack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gwinnett County, GA
Cecelia Mack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
Hey, I'm Cecelia. I specialize in assisting those who often feel overwhelmed, teaching them distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Let's work together to develop strategies for managing your emotions effectively. I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, but you're taking a positive step forward. You deserve a nurturing environment to foster healing and personal growth.
(678) 218-1476 View (678) 218-1476
Photo of Rocio Del Milagro Woody, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gwinnett County, GA
Rocio Del Milagro Woody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAC, NCAC-II, CCS, CFVIP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30071
As you are considering scheduling an appointment, I would like to provide you with basic information about me and my practice. I am a Latina immigrant, a native Spanish speaker, and a naturalized United States Citizen since 1987. After learning English, I graduated from The University of Georgia, undergraduate and graduate school, with the highest academic honors. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of education and practical experience which are the foundation of my clinical practice.
As you are considering scheduling an appointment, I would like to provide you with basic information about me and my practice. I am a Latina immigrant, a native Spanish speaker, and a naturalized United States Citizen since 1987. After learning English, I graduated from The University of Georgia, undergraduate and graduate school, with the highest academic honors. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 35 years of education and practical experience which are the foundation of my clinical practice.
(678) 245-6168 View (678) 245-6168

See more therapy options for Gwinnett 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.