Photo of Marni Ledwitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Marni Ledwitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodstock, GA 30188
Since 1997, I've been a Licensed Psychotherapist, progressing from community mental health to working in both inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, particularly focusing on impaired physicians. Eventually, I ventured into private practice. My journey involved providing career aptitude assessments and mediation services for college students and facilitating C-level team-building exercises. This experience revealed to me the effectiveness of peak performance training for individuals at any stage of life.
Since 1997, I've been a Licensed Psychotherapist, progressing from community mental health to working in both inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, particularly focusing on impaired physicians. Eventually, I ventured into private practice. My journey involved providing career aptitude assessments and mediation services for college students and facilitating C-level team-building exercises. This experience revealed to me the effectiveness of peak performance training for individuals at any stage of life.
(678) 971-0993 View (678) 971-0993

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Erin Conley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Erin Conley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075
I am an integrative psychotherapist, combining traditional psychotherapy with science based mind-body approaches to restore and enhance emotional, mental, and physiological balance, health, and well-being. My specialities include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress reduction, self acceptance and overall personal growth. I believe in identifying qualities of health and strength in each person I meet and I enjoy working with individuals who are willing to explore the root causes of symptoms and are motivated to improve their quality of life.
I am an integrative psychotherapist, combining traditional psychotherapy with science based mind-body approaches to restore and enhance emotional, mental, and physiological balance, health, and well-being. My specialities include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress reduction, self acceptance and overall personal growth. I believe in identifying qualities of health and strength in each person I meet and I enjoy working with individuals who are willing to explore the root causes of symptoms and are motivated to improve their quality of life.
(833) 210-7574 View (833) 210-7574
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30144
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 Melissa Dingler, Psychologist in Woodstock, GA
Melissa Dingler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075
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 Jalinia Logan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, 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 Symmetry Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Symmetry Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075
At Symmetry Counseling we strive to support the mind-body connection in healing the complete person. We offer psychotherapy and psychological testing services as well as supportive therapies for all phases and stages of life and have a diverse staff available to meet your needs. Our clinicians are seasoned professionals with many years of experience providing an exceptional level of care to clients.
At Symmetry Counseling we strive to support the mind-body connection in healing the complete person. We offer psychotherapy and psychological testing services as well as supportive therapies for all phases and stages of life and have a diverse staff available to meet your needs. Our clinicians are seasoned professionals with many years of experience providing an exceptional level of care to clients.
(770) 637-4310 View (770) 637-4310
Photo of Farida Scriber, Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Farida Scriber
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30066
My goal is to help individual, couples, and families process through their emotions in order to make sense of their world and to lead more productive and fulfilling lives. I have convenient evening and weekend hours available.
My goal is to help individual, couples, and families process through their emotions in order to make sense of their world and to lead more productive and fulfilling lives. I have convenient evening and weekend hours available.
(470) 285-9201 View (470) 285-9201
Photo of Jennifer McClellan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Jennifer McClellan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kennesaw, GA 30152
I have a passion for helping people move through their individual seasons of life. I enjoy providing a space for clients to explore how their life experiences, both past and present, are influencing who they are and how they can move forward with living a life with purpose. Bringing awareness to change is an opportunity to investigate personal grow and evolve regardless of your ‘season’, which can be overwhelming when we want to feel heard and supported. While working with me, I will strive to collaborate with you and provide empathy, honest communication, and support in the therapeutic process.
I have a passion for helping people move through their individual seasons of life. I enjoy providing a space for clients to explore how their life experiences, both past and present, are influencing who they are and how they can move forward with living a life with purpose. Bringing awareness to change is an opportunity to investigate personal grow and evolve regardless of your ‘season’, which can be overwhelming when we want to feel heard and supported. While working with me, I will strive to collaborate with you and provide empathy, honest communication, and support in the therapeutic process.
(470) 323-8811 View (470) 323-8811
Photo of Kristie Garrett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Kristie Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30062
My approach with clients is to begin where you are and identify specific goals for your situation. I do this by helping to discover the strengths you already possess and build a plan from there. I believe that each person has the full capacity and ability to heal no matter the hurdles or the history. In addition to my support and guidance to the people I work with, I also walk through the journey with something to learn from you as well. We all have a unique story and it's my role to help you tell yours from a place of positive support and healing using a variety of evidence based techniques.
My approach with clients is to begin where you are and identify specific goals for your situation. I do this by helping to discover the strengths you already possess and build a plan from there. I believe that each person has the full capacity and ability to heal no matter the hurdles or the history. In addition to my support and guidance to the people I work with, I also walk through the journey with something to learn from you as well. We all have a unique story and it's my role to help you tell yours from a place of positive support and healing using a variety of evidence based techniques.
(678) 562-6683 View (678) 562-6683

Online Therapists

Photo of Tara Coppola Croy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Tara Coppola Croy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30092
I enjoy assisting people of all ages in overcoming the effects of specialties such as depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Behavior Problems.
The challenges of life in today's society presents the need for behavioral and mental health services like never before. I have twenty-four years of experience in providing outpatient therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in order to assist them in overcoming the effects of these challenges. I utilize a solution-focused approach, because I believe that there is always a solution to every problem! I enjoy helping people understand that they have the ability to effectively cope with their emotions and life situations, which therefore enables them to live their best lives.
I enjoy assisting people of all ages in overcoming the effects of specialties such as depression, anxiety, physical and sexual abuse, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Behavior Problems.
The challenges of life in today's society presents the need for behavioral and mental health services like never before. I have twenty-four years of experience in providing outpatient therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in order to assist them in overcoming the effects of these challenges. I utilize a solution-focused approach, because I believe that there is always a solution to every problem! I enjoy helping people understand that they have the ability to effectively cope with their emotions and life situations, which therefore enables them to live their best lives.
(678) 853-7669 View (678) 853-7669
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, 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 Karla Redman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, 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 Cathy Weinstein Schiff LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Cathy Weinstein Schiff LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30326
My areas of expertise include Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Relationship Issues, Codependency, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Parenting Issues and Education, and Stress Management.
I am an LCSW specializing in individual, couple's and family therapy. My approach is eclectic, incorporating a variety of techniques to meet the needs of each client. Therapy is a collaborative effort and I enjoy guiding clients to identify their own strengths and inner resources. I believe in giving clients the tools and support they need to move ahead on their own, knowing support is available when they need it from me. I have new patient appointment availability to see older adolescents and adults of all ages. I welcome all individuals regardless of sex, religion, sexual preference, or race.
My areas of expertise include Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Marital/Relationship Issues, Codependency, Grief, Divorce Adjustment, Parenting Issues and Education, and Stress Management.
I am an LCSW specializing in individual, couple's and family therapy. My approach is eclectic, incorporating a variety of techniques to meet the needs of each client. Therapy is a collaborative effort and I enjoy guiding clients to identify their own strengths and inner resources. I believe in giving clients the tools and support they need to move ahead on their own, knowing support is available when they need it from me. I have new patient appointment availability to see older adolescents and adults of all ages. I welcome all individuals regardless of sex, religion, sexual preference, or race.
(404) 537-3834 View (404) 537-3834
Photo of Recovery & Consulting Through A Different Lens LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodstock, 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 Dorothea E Lotze, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodstock, GA
Dorothea E Lotze
Marriage & Family Therapist, ThM, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tucker, GA 30084  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Georgia and journey with individuals age 18 and older. Clients who come to me are going through transitions, seeking to recover from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, find their gender/sexuality identity or have suffered trauma. I specialize working with couples and with survivors of narcissistic abuse. I approach our therapeutic relationship with utmost sensitivity and respect to multi/cross-cultural factors. You can bring your personal values and spirituality and integrate them into our healing work. I am here to support you as you are finding your authentic self.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in Georgia and journey with individuals age 18 and older. Clients who come to me are going through transitions, seeking to recover from anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, find their gender/sexuality identity or have suffered trauma. I specialize working with couples and with survivors of narcissistic abuse. I approach our therapeutic relationship with utmost sensitivity and respect to multi/cross-cultural factors. You can bring your personal values and spirituality and integrate them into our healing work. I am here to support you as you are finding your authentic self.
(404) 609-0596 View (404) 609-0596
Photo of Marni Ledwitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Marni Ledwitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McDonough, GA 30253  (Online Only)
Since 1997, I've been a Licensed Psychotherapist, progressing from community mental health to working in both inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, particularly focusing on impaired physicians. Eventually, I ventured into private practice. My journey involved providing career aptitude assessments and mediation services for college students and facilitating C-level team-building exercises. This experience revealed to me the effectiveness of peak performance training for individuals at any stage of life.
Since 1997, I've been a Licensed Psychotherapist, progressing from community mental health to working in both inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, particularly focusing on impaired physicians. Eventually, I ventured into private practice. My journey involved providing career aptitude assessments and mediation services for college students and facilitating C-level team-building exercises. This experience revealed to me the effectiveness of peak performance training for individuals at any stage of life.
(678) 321-9810 View (678) 321-9810
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Woodstock, 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 Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LPC, LAPC, MFT, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McDonough, GA 30253
Are you living with anxiety or depression? Are you having relationship issues with your significant other or family members? Do you need help adjusting to major life changes? Are you ready to make changes to your life that will result in health, happiness, and healing in all areas of your life? Today is the day to schedule an appointment with Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching McDonough to address these issues and more. Located just south of Atlanta, GA, Thriveworks McDonough therapists, counselors, and life coaches are closer than you think to get you through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit us at www.thriveworks.com/mcdonough to see what we are all about. At Thriveworks You Can Thrive. We Can Help.
Are you living with anxiety or depression? Are you having relationship issues with your significant other or family members? Do you need help adjusting to major life changes? Are you ready to make changes to your life that will result in health, happiness, and healing in all areas of your life? Today is the day to schedule an appointment with Thriveworks Counseling and Coaching McDonough to address these issues and more. Located just south of Atlanta, GA, Thriveworks McDonough therapists, counselors, and life coaches are closer than you think to get you through the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visit us at www.thriveworks.com/mcdonough to see what we are all about. At Thriveworks You Can Thrive. We Can Help.
(404) 998-5102 View (404) 998-5102
Photo of Marni Ledwitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, GA
Marni Ledwitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McDonough, GA 30253  (Online Only)
Since 1997, I've been a Licensed Psychotherapist, progressing from community mental health to working in both inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, particularly focusing on impaired physicians. Eventually, I ventured into private practice. My journey involved providing career aptitude assessments and mediation services for college students and facilitating C-level team-building exercises. This experience revealed to me the effectiveness of peak performance training for individuals at any stage of life.
Since 1997, I've been a Licensed Psychotherapist, progressing from community mental health to working in both inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities, particularly focusing on impaired physicians. Eventually, I ventured into private practice. My journey involved providing career aptitude assessments and mediation services for college students and facilitating C-level team-building exercises. This experience revealed to me the effectiveness of peak performance training for individuals at any stage of life.
(706) 702-5020 View (706) 702-5020
Photo of Gathering Precious Stones Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodstock, 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
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.