Photo of Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lilburn, 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Tara Coppola Croy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
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 Sarah Durrance, Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Sarah Durrance
Counselor, MA, APC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norcross, GA 30071
Amidst a world of continuously changing life circumstances, unexpected hurts, and complex relationships, it is only natural for you to feel weary. Possibly you've identified the problem, yet you don't know where to go from there. Regardless of the difficulty you may be facing, I long to enter into your life and walk with you towards growth. Because I believe we heal in the context of relationships, my hope is that our relationship can provide a safe context for you to let go of your burdens and experience wholeness. As a companion on your journey, I am passionate about promoting a safe place for you to experience transformation.
Amidst a world of continuously changing life circumstances, unexpected hurts, and complex relationships, it is only natural for you to feel weary. Possibly you've identified the problem, yet you don't know where to go from there. Regardless of the difficulty you may be facing, I long to enter into your life and walk with you towards growth. Because I believe we heal in the context of relationships, my hope is that our relationship can provide a safe context for you to let go of your burdens and experience wholeness. As a companion on your journey, I am passionate about promoting a safe place for you to experience transformation.
(470) 589-5085 View (470) 589-5085
Photo of Lucia Caltabiano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Lucia Caltabiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30340  (Online Only)
As an neurodivergent non-binary provider, I specialize in eating disorder and those who soothe with substances. My approach is to guide my clients in their recovery through empowerment and liberation mental health. This means that while working toward goals related to recovery, we also do work towards reclaiming the neurodivergent and/or trans gender identity.
As an neurodivergent non-binary provider, I specialize in eating disorder and those who soothe with substances. My approach is to guide my clients in their recovery through empowerment and liberation mental health. This means that while working toward goals related to recovery, we also do work towards reclaiming the neurodivergent and/or trans gender identity.
(470) 594-2335 View (470) 594-2335
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045  (Online Only)
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
(470) 236-5317 x5 View (470) 236-5317 x5
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045  (Online Only)
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider in LAWRENCEVILLE, GA for all ages. We specialize in working with children, teens, and parents. In addition to our office, we visit clients in their homes, schools, & other locations (restrictions apply). From our team of medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address their specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience.
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider in LAWRENCEVILLE, GA for all ages. We specialize in working with children, teens, and parents. In addition to our office, we visit clients in their homes, schools, & other locations (restrictions apply). From our team of medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address their specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience.
(470) 323-8772 View (470) 323-8772
Photo of Alcira Osayi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Alcira Osayi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096
Alcira holds a master’s in social work from NYU and a certificate in Theology. Often described as patient, compassionate and a good listener, Alcira became a therapist because she is curious about human behavior, personalities and cultures. As a therapist, she hopes to uplift her guests with her intuitive, sensitive and client-led approach. She has experience with a variety of concerns, including anxiety and depression, suicidal thoughts, obsessive compulsive disorder and trauma. Outside of work, Alcria enjoys outdoor activities, writing and drawing and long walks in nature. She also enjoys trying different foods.
Alcira holds a master’s in social work from NYU and a certificate in Theology. Often described as patient, compassionate and a good listener, Alcira became a therapist because she is curious about human behavior, personalities and cultures. As a therapist, she hopes to uplift her guests with her intuitive, sensitive and client-led approach. She has experience with a variety of concerns, including anxiety and depression, suicidal thoughts, obsessive compulsive disorder and trauma. Outside of work, Alcria enjoys outdoor activities, writing and drawing and long walks in nature. She also enjoys trying different foods.
(470) 946-6719 View (470) 946-6719

Online Therapists

Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, 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, family, and group 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, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, 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, family, and group 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, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 771-6943 View (678) 771-6943
Photo of Sharon R Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Sharon R Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076
I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, addictions, women's issues, and trauma.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one for many people. Taking the first steps towards, first, admitting there is a problem, and then reaching out for help takes bravery and courage. It's also a sign that you may be tired of living the way you have been living and you're ready to face the issues that are causing you and your family discomfort. I am here to help you every step of the way. As a seasoned psychotherapist with many years working in the field, I can help you by giving you a formal diagnosis at the time of our first session, educate you of your issue, and teach you better coping skills.
I specialize in working with anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, addictions, women's issues, and trauma.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one for many people. Taking the first steps towards, first, admitting there is a problem, and then reaching out for help takes bravery and courage. It's also a sign that you may be tired of living the way you have been living and you're ready to face the issues that are causing you and your family discomfort. I am here to help you every step of the way. As a seasoned psychotherapist with many years working in the field, I can help you by giving you a formal diagnosis at the time of our first session, educate you of your issue, and teach you better coping skills.
(678) 981-9133 View (678) 981-9133
Photo of Phyllis Williams, Counselor in Lilburn, 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 Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 394-3719 View (678) 394-3719
Photo of Nak Union Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Nak Union Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MAC, DR
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30349
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. We work with Children, Families and Adults who find they are struggling with chronic mental health illness, substance recovery, divorce, loss, grief or trauma. Transitions can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. Our strength-based approach will help you heal emotionally and find your inner resiliency.
Often when people are faced with life's challenges, they do not realize how strong they can be. We work with Children, Families and Adults who find they are struggling with chronic mental health illness, substance recovery, divorce, loss, grief or trauma. Transitions can be difficult but they can also lead us to new emotional growth. Our strength-based approach will help you heal emotionally and find your inner resiliency.
(678) 951-8812 View (678) 951-8812
Photo of Dr. Terry Maurice Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Dr. Terry Maurice Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
You made a bold and courageous decision to find help for your struggle. Millions of people deal with mental health problems daily and you are not alone in deciding to face your fears and find balance in life. I am here to help you and coach you through overcoming the obstacles in your life as you reach your full potential. By committing yourself to the progression of therapy, you can acquire holistic strategies designed to help you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically, and I would love to be your guide.
You made a bold and courageous decision to find help for your struggle. Millions of people deal with mental health problems daily and you are not alone in deciding to face your fears and find balance in life. I am here to help you and coach you through overcoming the obstacles in your life as you reach your full potential. By committing yourself to the progression of therapy, you can acquire holistic strategies designed to help you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically, and I would love to be your guide.
(404) 738-9149 View (404) 738-9149
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Psychologist in Lilburn, GA
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Psychologist, MD, LPC, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider for children and their families located in DECATUR, WATKINSVILLE, and LAWRENCEVILLE, GEORGIA. From our team of 100+ medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience. We take great pride in being a resource for all individuals and families we serve.
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider for children and their families located in DECATUR, WATKINSVILLE, and LAWRENCEVILLE, GEORGIA. From our team of 100+ medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience. We take great pride in being a resource for all individuals and families we serve.
(404) 620-3438 View (404) 620-3438
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lilburn, GA
Turnmeika Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTS-I, CMAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
Throughout life's journey, many people will or may have encountered some form of trauma, abuse, hurt, or pain. If that’s you, I want you also to know that it’s been me too. You’re Not Alone! I am passionate about working with Teens And Adults. I speak trauma, truth, and transparency. Allow me to walk with you along the journey and assist you in living and no longer existing.
(470) 468-2837 View (470) 468-2837
Photo of Angel Schieber in Lilburn, 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 Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Lilburn, 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 Sara Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
Sara Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30009
I create a friendly, non-judgmental, safe environment for my clients that empower them to succeed in making real changes in their lives. I believe that each person has a unique self that must respected, recognized and understood. I provide support by working with you towards improving your coping skills so that you could make positive changes, improve relationships, change negative patterns and live life to the fullest.
I create a friendly, non-judgmental, safe environment for my clients that empower them to succeed in making real changes in their lives. I believe that each person has a unique self that must respected, recognized and understood. I provide support by working with you towards improving your coping skills so that you could make positive changes, improve relationships, change negative patterns and live life to the fullest.
(678) 712-2509 View (678) 712-2509
Photo of Melissa Dingler, Psychologist in Lilburn, GA
Melissa Dingler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I offer an integrative approach in a relaxed, warm environment. I want to help you transform your life so you can achieve more happiness and more satisfaction. It takes courage to face your issues so it is important to me that we establish trust and good communication. Then we can work together to accomplish your goals.
I offer an integrative approach in a relaxed, warm environment. I want to help you transform your life so you can achieve more happiness and more satisfaction. It takes courage to face your issues so it is important to me that we establish trust and good communication. Then we can work together to accomplish your goals.
(404) 492-6751 View (404) 492-6751
Photo of A Healing Journey Counseling & Consultation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lilburn, GA
A Healing Journey Counseling & Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cartersville, GA 30120
"No one understands what I'm going through!" Do you feel this way? Many times, when we experience crisis or stress, it is very normal to feel like no one understands. My goal is to serve those who struggle with Trauma, Personality Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and other Emotional Disorders. I believe trauma whether one time incident or ongoing incidents can be the root cause to other mental health issues. That is why my treatment plans are unique to each individual and their specific issues and circumstances. My philosophy is that anyone can overcome anything, with the right help.
"No one understands what I'm going through!" Do you feel this way? Many times, when we experience crisis or stress, it is very normal to feel like no one understands. My goal is to serve those who struggle with Trauma, Personality Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, and other Emotional Disorders. I believe trauma whether one time incident or ongoing incidents can be the root cause to other mental health issues. That is why my treatment plans are unique to each individual and their specific issues and circumstances. My philosophy is that anyone can overcome anything, with the right help.
(404) 620-2961 View (404) 620-2961
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.