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Photo of Coping & Healing Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Coping & Healing Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dunwoody, GA 30338  (Online Only)
Our experience enables us to offer effective client, individualized, psychotherapy care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples in-person or via secured telehealth technologies.
Our experience enables us to offer effective client, individualized, psychotherapy care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples in-person or via secured telehealth technologies.
(678) 647-7409 View (678) 647-7409
Photo of Familial Bonds LLC Psychotherapy and Consultation in Sandy Springs, GA
Familial Bonds LLC Psychotherapy and Consultation
QLC, MAMFT, CANP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
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 Sandy Springs, 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 Jason Magistro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Jason Magistro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or maybe just an overall feeling like there's something missing in your life? As an Existential/Psychodynamic psychotherapist, my primary focus is to offer a safe place for us to explore the dynamics of your inner self. I work with range of clients whom suffer from substance abuse, anxiety, depression along with individuals seeking meaning, purpose and connection to their beautifully unique and authentic Self. The space we build together is safe, sacred and judgement free so we can explore the deepest aspects of you..
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious or maybe just an overall feeling like there's something missing in your life? As an Existential/Psychodynamic psychotherapist, my primary focus is to offer a safe place for us to explore the dynamics of your inner self. I work with range of clients whom suffer from substance abuse, anxiety, depression along with individuals seeking meaning, purpose and connection to their beautifully unique and authentic Self. The space we build together is safe, sacred and judgement free so we can explore the deepest aspects of you..
(404) 549-6493 View (404) 549-6493
Photo of Jennifer A Riapos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Jennifer A Riapos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Waitlist for new clients
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
(678) 263-2735 View (678) 263-2735
Photo of Monique Darnell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Monique Darnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30301  (Online Only)
If you are feeling stuck, if you are feeling like every door you knock on is not opening, and that rejection and abandonment are the food you eat as a result of the not answered door, I am your therapist. Let's heal, discover, address, and process these things so that 2024 can be the year of receiving, loving, being present, and living life fully you! With that being said I must let you know the journey won't be easy, but you are worth it! The world deserves to finally meet the real you, the inner child in you deserves to be seen and live the life of the real you! Let's do it together.
If you are feeling stuck, if you are feeling like every door you knock on is not opening, and that rejection and abandonment are the food you eat as a result of the not answered door, I am your therapist. Let's heal, discover, address, and process these things so that 2024 can be the year of receiving, loving, being present, and living life fully you! With that being said I must let you know the journey won't be easy, but you are worth it! The world deserves to finally meet the real you, the inner child in you deserves to be seen and live the life of the real you! Let's do it together.
(470) 516-9097 View (470) 516-9097
Photo of Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS , CCTP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
(770) 373-4876 View (770) 373-4876
Photo of Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Elizabeth (Lizz) Toledo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, II
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033  (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 Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Tucker, GA 30084
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 Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329  (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 Samelhia M Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Samelhia M Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
I am a counselor who specializes in helping clients achieve their goals. I offer a judgment-free, unconventional approach to counseling as I believe therapy should be tailored to the person asking for help. I firmly believe everyone does things in their own unique way and time so honing in on self-identified strengths assists me with helping clients improve upon what they may consider their "challenges". I also assist my clients with getting in tune with those hidden strengths they may be unaware of. The hardest part of therapy is getting started. Book a session and take a chance. It is the only way to be the change you wish to see.
I am a counselor who specializes in helping clients achieve their goals. I offer a judgment-free, unconventional approach to counseling as I believe therapy should be tailored to the person asking for help. I firmly believe everyone does things in their own unique way and time so honing in on self-identified strengths assists me with helping clients improve upon what they may consider their "challenges". I also assist my clients with getting in tune with those hidden strengths they may be unaware of. The hardest part of therapy is getting started. Book a session and take a chance. It is the only way to be the change you wish to see.
(470) 228-4755 View (470) 228-4755

Online Therapists

Photo of Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Transformations Therapy of Atlanta, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
We work with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, anger management, ADHD, substance abuse, women’s issues, eating disorders, and other disorders.
In life, we can find ourselves wanting to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves- emotionally and behaviorally. At Transformations Therapy, we have many clinicians trained to help individuals struggling with a variety of issues. We work with children, adolescents and adults and have clinicians trained in Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Trauma Focused CBT, along with many other treatment modalities. We understand the difficulty in seeking help during tough times. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and work with you in a non judgemental and compassionate way to help you to become your best self!
(404) 495-5897 x100 View (404) 495-5897 x100
Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, 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 Heike APC with The Counseling Group LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sandy Springs, GA
Heike APC with The Counseling Group LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30041
I work with a variety of clients with many different levels of needs. I feel the additional training I've taken and will continue to take will allow me to assist my clients in meeting through goals.
I work with a variety of clients with many different levels of needs. I feel the additional training I've taken and will continue to take will allow me to assist my clients in meeting through goals.
(770) 415-8717 View (770) 415-8717
Photo of SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Skye, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
SkyeHelps Counseling & Wellness - Skye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CPCS, EMDR
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dahlonega, GA 30533
You are worthy of love and belonging! I help individuals and families gain insight in order to live fuller, happier, more connected lives. Anxiety, depression, conflict, and major life changes affect how we think and feel. I help you work through the beliefs that create the feelings and behaviors that are holding you back from getting what you want out of life and reconnect with your body to feel congruent, calm, happy, and confident. I particularly working with people and couples who have communication problems and/or trauma histories. I'm here to help, and you can be assured of complete confidentiality.
You are worthy of love and belonging! I help individuals and families gain insight in order to live fuller, happier, more connected lives. Anxiety, depression, conflict, and major life changes affect how we think and feel. I help you work through the beliefs that create the feelings and behaviors that are holding you back from getting what you want out of life and reconnect with your body to feel congruent, calm, happy, and confident. I particularly working with people and couples who have communication problems and/or trauma histories. I'm here to help, and you can be assured of complete confidentiality.
(706) 979-2344 View (706) 979-2344
Photo of Recovery & Consulting Through A Different Lens LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
Recovery & Consulting Through A Different Lens LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CTP, CAADC, CCDPD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stockbridge, GA 30281  (Online Only)
Viktor Frankl said "When we are no longer able to change a situation we are challenged to change ourselves." The ideal clients are individuals who recognize that they want to experience life differently so that they feel more connected to society. They are the individuals that pick up the phone, face their fears, and reach out for help and support. For Susanah, those are individuals who are thinking about sobriety and been released from the entrapment of substance use, others want to deal with trauma in their lives, and couples want to deal with the struggles in their relationship/marriage. Susanah's goal is to support your journey.
Viktor Frankl said "When we are no longer able to change a situation we are challenged to change ourselves." The ideal clients are individuals who recognize that they want to experience life differently so that they feel more connected to society. They are the individuals that pick up the phone, face their fears, and reach out for help and support. For Susanah, those are individuals who are thinking about sobriety and been released from the entrapment of substance use, others want to deal with trauma in their lives, and couples want to deal with the struggles in their relationship/marriage. Susanah's goal is to support your journey.
(678) 338-8610 View (678) 338-8610
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Sandy Springs, 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 Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Dr. Tonya Sumner Brown Queen Of Hearts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MDiv, LPC, CPCS, DVISII
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30034
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
I have 32 years of counseling experience. I blend Spiritual (when requested) and Clinical Counseling. Many spiritual people across America are confused about where to go for counseling. My husband of 30 years and I have traveled the world with many religions. I have 2 Bachelors, 2 Master of Divinity Degrees, a Post-Masters in Hospital & Hospice Chaplaincy, and a PsyD. in Psychology. I was a Chaplain intern, resident or taught religious programs at many Atlanta hospitals. I am a HIV/AIDS, cancer and bereavement specialist. I bring a multiplicity of clinical specialties and counseling modalities to my clients from 2 and up.
(404) 800-3044 View (404) 800-3044
Photo of I am MOORE, LLC #2, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sandy Springs, GA
I am MOORE, LLC #2
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907
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 Healing Minds Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sandy Springs, GA
Healing Minds Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD , LPC , LCMH, SAP, MAC
Verified Verified
Columbus, GA 31907
HMI has a diverse group of therapists that can meet your personal goals, needs, and all of your expectations. No matter what your issues may be HMI has trained staff that can help you recover from any traumatic event in your life. HMI is based on the belief that "We're here to help you become a better you" and will do everything within the legal parameters to help you achieve your goals.
HMI has a diverse group of therapists that can meet your personal goals, needs, and all of your expectations. No matter what your issues may be HMI has trained staff that can help you recover from any traumatic event in your life. HMI is based on the belief that "We're here to help you become a better you" and will do everything within the legal parameters to help you achieve your goals.
(706) 917-8121 View (706) 917-8121

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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.