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Online Therapists

Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, 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 Karla Redman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Karla Redman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dawsonville, GA 30534
My specialties include depression, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, PTSD, trauma, crisis intervention, and eating disorders.
You have taken the first major step of getting healthier by acknowledging there is a concern and you are reaching out. My goal is to provide you a safe and comfortable environment to begin this journey. Change is possible. If you have experienced trauma, I can help you in the healing process. If you need someone to guide you through a difficult situation, I am here. I have been practicing in Mental Health since the 80's and many people have crossed my path. I love what I do and look forward to being there for you during this difficult time.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, PTSD, trauma, crisis intervention, and eating disorders.
You have taken the first major step of getting healthier by acknowledging there is a concern and you are reaching out. My goal is to provide you a safe and comfortable environment to begin this journey. Change is possible. If you have experienced trauma, I can help you in the healing process. If you need someone to guide you through a difficult situation, I am here. I have been practicing in Mental Health since the 80's and many people have crossed my path. I love what I do and look forward to being there for you during this difficult time.
(678) 884-4035 View (678) 884-4035
Photo of Elizabeth Coe, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pickens County, GA
Elizabeth Coe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I enjoy working with children and adolescents, aged 3- 18 years old suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, and self-esteem concerns.
I believe in creating a nurturing, trustworthy environment to enhance my ability to truly see and hear my clients. My goal is to provide a judgment-free and safe space for my clients to openly share their troubles while connecting on a deeper level to evoke positive change in their circumstances. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I strive to meet my client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey.
I enjoy working with children and adolescents, aged 3- 18 years old suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, and self-esteem concerns.
I believe in creating a nurturing, trustworthy environment to enhance my ability to truly see and hear my clients. My goal is to provide a judgment-free and safe space for my clients to openly share their troubles while connecting on a deeper level to evoke positive change in their circumstances. My approach to therapy is strength-based and client-centered. I strive to meet my client’s where they are and help support them in their therapeutic journey.
(404) 689-2505 View (404) 689-2505
Photo of Amy Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Amy Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076
Amy views a person as a unique individual, with strengths and talents that shine when their best self is discovered. As human beings, we are designed to connect with one another, therefore Amy believes that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation to begin the healing process. Healing is found through the healing of the mind, body, and spirit and Amy is here to help you discover and grow your authentic self in each of these areas. She combines a person-centered therapeutic approach with DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to work with eating disorders, anxiety and depression, life transitions, trauma, and more.
Amy views a person as a unique individual, with strengths and talents that shine when their best self is discovered. As human beings, we are designed to connect with one another, therefore Amy believes that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation to begin the healing process. Healing is found through the healing of the mind, body, and spirit and Amy is here to help you discover and grow your authentic self in each of these areas. She combines a person-centered therapeutic approach with DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to work with eating disorders, anxiety and depression, life transitions, trauma, and more.
(678) 658-3613 View (678) 658-3613
Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens 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 Gathering Precious Stones Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Gathering Precious Stones Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCCH, CAMS
Verified Verified
McDonough, GA 30253
It is my passion to help others find the value in their lives; while discovering the core of life's issues. Over 20 years experience in the field. I offer a non-judgement space for healing, for children, adolescents, and adults.
It is my passion to help others find the value in their lives; while discovering the core of life's issues. Over 20 years experience in the field. I offer a non-judgement space for healing, for children, adolescents, and adults.
(404) 620-2364 x1001 View (404) 620-2364 x1001
Photo of Looking Forward Counseling & Mentoring Svcs, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Looking Forward Counseling & Mentoring Svcs, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, BC-TMH, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
My goal as a clinician is to encourage and empower my clients to be the best version of themselves. Recognizing there is always room to grow beyond unfortunate circumstances is vital to increasing one's quality of life. Administering services within the social services spectrum with everything it entails to include but not limited to the coordination of care, community linkage and emotional support fit very with my desire to help my clients reach their full potential.
My goal as a clinician is to encourage and empower my clients to be the best version of themselves. Recognizing there is always room to grow beyond unfortunate circumstances is vital to increasing one's quality of life. Administering services within the social services spectrum with everything it entails to include but not limited to the coordination of care, community linkage and emotional support fit very with my desire to help my clients reach their full potential.
(404) 948-6975 View (404) 948-6975
Photo of Dr. Terry Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Dr. Terry Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
(678) 944-8120 View (678) 944-8120
Photo of Mitra Rokni Yavari, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Mitra Rokni Yavari
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Johns Creek, GA 30022
My specialty is working with children as young as 4 and adolescents. I do testing for ADHD/ADD. I also do Neurofeedback and AlphaTheta treatment. Neurofeedback is a treatment for ADHD, bed wetting, anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. Alpha Theta is a treatment for fears, Phobias and Addiction. I also offer marriage/ couple counseling and multicultural counseling. I teach Anger Management classes and techniques to help people understand the nature of anger and different ways to control their aggression.
My specialty is working with children as young as 4 and adolescents. I do testing for ADHD/ADD. I also do Neurofeedback and AlphaTheta treatment. Neurofeedback is a treatment for ADHD, bed wetting, anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. Alpha Theta is a treatment for fears, Phobias and Addiction. I also offer marriage/ couple counseling and multicultural counseling. I teach Anger Management classes and techniques to help people understand the nature of anger and different ways to control their aggression.
(678) 635-9697 View (678) 635-9697
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Pickens 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 A Healing Journey Counseling & Consultation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, 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
Photo of I am MOORE, LLC #2, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pickens County, GA
I am MOORE, LLC #2
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Buckhead, GA 30625
I AM MOORE, LLC is a counseling and consulting practice owned by Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED, LMFT. At I AM MOORE, LLC, we have therapists that can work with you regarding a variety of treatment issues and populations, including but not limited to Military Families, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Workplace conflict, Family dysfunction, Family Secrets, Childhood trauma, Parent/child relationships, Teen delinquency, Sibling Issues, Caregiver stress, Children with disabilities, Single life, Dating, Pre-marital, Couples conflict, Divorce, Career Transition, Gen X, Y(Millennials), Z, & beyond, and much more.
I AM MOORE, LLC is a counseling and consulting practice owned by Darren D. Moore, Ph.D., MAED, LMFT. At I AM MOORE, LLC, we have therapists that can work with you regarding a variety of treatment issues and populations, including but not limited to Military Families, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Addiction, Workplace conflict, Family dysfunction, Family Secrets, Childhood trauma, Parent/child relationships, Teen delinquency, Sibling Issues, Caregiver stress, Children with disabilities, Single life, Dating, Pre-marital, Couples conflict, Divorce, Career Transition, Gen X, Y(Millennials), Z, & beyond, and much more.
(706) 702-1906 View (706) 702-1906
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, 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 Angel Schieber in Pickens 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 Amelia R Turrubiates-Huacuja, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Amelia R Turrubiates-Huacuja
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, MFT-C
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Amelia’s commitment is to help people regardless ethnicity, nationality, gender or socio-economic, and cultural background. Amelia believes that a collaborative therapeutic relationship will help to overcome the problems people have when they seek for professional counseling. Amelia’s ultimately goal is to empower the clients to best ensure their success.
Amelia’s commitment is to help people regardless ethnicity, nationality, gender or socio-economic, and cultural background. Amelia believes that a collaborative therapeutic relationship will help to overcome the problems people have when they seek for professional counseling. Amelia’s ultimately goal is to empower the clients to best ensure their success.
(678) 688-9856 View (678) 688-9856
Photo of Laura Lebovitz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Laura Lebovitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097  (Online Only)
We all go through struggles. Sometimes it can feel difficult to go on the journey to peace, resiliency, and health on our own. Torridon Counseling can help you tap into your inner strength and harness it to create the strongest and healthiest you. Let’s go on that journey together.
We all go through struggles. Sometimes it can feel difficult to go on the journey to peace, resiliency, and health on our own. Torridon Counseling can help you tap into your inner strength and harness it to create the strongest and healthiest you. Let’s go on that journey together.
(404) 620-6866 View (404) 620-6866
Photo of Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, GA
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
(678) 974-0056 View (678) 974-0056
Photo of Jalinia Logan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pickens County, GA
Jalinia Logan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCATP, LPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
For the past 12 years, I enjoyed working with people seeking supportive services such as counseling and mental health referrals. While working with people in therapy, I utilize a strengths-based approach. I believe in meeting people where they are and providing educational as well as open social support with mental health needs. My goal is to help people express their thoughts/feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms along with giving support. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and adults in counseling. I have a specialty in treating anxiety as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
For the past 12 years, I enjoyed working with people seeking supportive services such as counseling and mental health referrals. While working with people in therapy, I utilize a strengths-based approach. I believe in meeting people where they are and providing educational as well as open social support with mental health needs. My goal is to help people express their thoughts/feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms along with giving support. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and adults in counseling. I have a specialty in treating anxiety as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
(708) 719-4081 View (708) 719-4081
Photo of Familial Bonds LLC Psychotherapy and Consultation in Pickens County, GA
Familial Bonds LLC Psychotherapy and Consultation
QLC, MAMFT, CANP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Finding the right practitioner; when it comes to your emotional, mental, and spiritual health needs; can be challenging because you may not know what you should be considering during this search. Select a professional who is not only compassionate and passionate about their work and the people they serve, but also someone who knows the element of strength and perseverance personally. Stress can have a huge impact on the way we function in the various domains of our lives and this can sometimes send us down the rabbit hole of doubt. In order to truly accept yourself you must discover the elements of your becoming.
Finding the right practitioner; when it comes to your emotional, mental, and spiritual health needs; can be challenging because you may not know what you should be considering during this search. Select a professional who is not only compassionate and passionate about their work and the people they serve, but also someone who knows the element of strength and perseverance personally. Stress can have a huge impact on the way we function in the various domains of our lives and this can sometimes send us down the rabbit hole of doubt. In order to truly accept yourself you must discover the elements of your becoming.
(470) 280-3840 View (470) 280-3840
Photo of Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pickens County, 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

See more therapy options for Pickens 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.