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Online Therapists

Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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 Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Young Harris, GA
Ryan R Schwerzmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I have over 15 years of experience treating children, couples and families using an integrated approach based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family systems theories. My primary interests are in communication, self-expression, self-esteem, anxiety and behavior problems. I served as the Student and Associate Chair of the Georgia Association of Marriage and Family Therapists from 2009 -2012. I am the founder of Adaptive Therapy Counseling Group, LLC in Lilburn and Alpharetta, where I have treated individuals and families suffering from eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders for over 10 years.
I have over 15 years of experience treating children, couples and families using an integrated approach based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family systems theories. My primary interests are in communication, self-expression, self-esteem, anxiety and behavior problems. I served as the Student and Associate Chair of the Georgia Association of Marriage and Family Therapists from 2009 -2012. I am the founder of Adaptive Therapy Counseling Group, LLC in Lilburn and Alpharetta, where I have treated individuals and families suffering from eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders for over 10 years.
(404) 736-6734 View (404) 736-6734
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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 The Counseling Group LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
The Counseling Group LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CPCS, CFMHE
Verified Verified
Cumming, GA 30041
Here at The Counseling Group LLC, we have a variety of counselors who are trained in many different types of therapy. During the intake process, the intake coordinator will select the counselor who matches your needs the best. The list of specialties are based on all our counselors. Please visit our website to review our counselors and therapies they practice. We look forward to working with you.
Here at The Counseling Group LLC, we have a variety of counselors who are trained in many different types of therapy. During the intake process, the intake coordinator will select the counselor who matches your needs the best. The list of specialties are based on all our counselors. Please visit our website to review our counselors and therapies they practice. We look forward to working with you.
(678) 956-6479 View (678) 956-6479
Photo of Dr. Kerene T Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Young Harris, GA
Dr. Kerene T Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW, C-DBT, CCTP, CCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30354  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I opened the doors to my practice with the goal of providing clients with top-of-the-line mental health services. Whether you’re looking for a bit of counseling, or need professional assistance overcoming a traumatic experience - your wellbeing is my number one priority. I go above and beyond to cater to the needs of every client with a personalized treatment approach.
I opened the doors to my practice with the goal of providing clients with top-of-the-line mental health services. Whether you’re looking for a bit of counseling, or need professional assistance overcoming a traumatic experience - your wellbeing is my number one priority. I go above and beyond to cater to the needs of every client with a personalized treatment approach.
(678) 326-4734 View (678) 326-4734
Photo of Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Stonecrest Integrated Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Snellville, GA 30039  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
Hello, My name is Dr. April Brewer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC (Georgia & Virginia). I have gained a diverse professional experience as a U.S. Air Force Medic (Active Duty), Psychometrician (U.S. Navy Civilian), DUI & Drug Court Counselor, Mental Health Therapist (Veterans Affairs Medical Center), Behavioral Health Treatment Court Coordinator/Mental Health Clinician (Superior & State Court), Military & Family Life Counselor on DOD installations, & Private Practice providing individual, couples, family, psycho-education, & consultation services for individuals of all ages. I believe in taking an eclectic approach to meet your unique needs by providing virtual counseling & coaching
(470) 558-0523 View (470) 558-0523
Photo of Helping Other Live Together Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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 Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist in private practice in the state of Georgia. I help children and adults overcome the negative effects that stressful or traumatic life experiences have on how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist in private practice in the state of Georgia. I help children and adults overcome the negative effects that stressful or traumatic life experiences have on how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
(470) 517-6868 View (470) 517-6868
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045  (Online Only)
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
(470) 236-5317 x5 View (470) 236-5317 x5
Photo of Shretta Rhone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Shretta Rhone
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30321
I provide ongoing counseling services to positively impact the lives of the members of our communities. Clients are given tools to enable them to make the necessary changes to move their lives forward. As a therapist, I lend a helping hand to enable clients to become stronger, more functional individuals and family members. I am a warm, caring therapist who creates the optimum environment for my clients to grow. My approach is person centered, warm and inviting.
I provide ongoing counseling services to positively impact the lives of the members of our communities. Clients are given tools to enable them to make the necessary changes to move their lives forward. As a therapist, I lend a helping hand to enable clients to become stronger, more functional individuals and family members. I am a warm, caring therapist who creates the optimum environment for my clients to grow. My approach is person centered, warm and inviting.
(678) 944-7639 View (678) 944-7639
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Young Harris, 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 Turnmeika Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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 Tiffany Britt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Tiffany Britt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
Reaching your highest potential begins with intentional and courageous living, even in the midst of significant challenges and disappointments. Yet many often operate from a place of fear and doubt, preventing them from moving toward wholeness, self-confidence and purposeful living. Living courageously from a place of balance, intention, and purpose allows her clients to achieve wellness and reach their highest potential. Tiffany’s passion is creating a supportive, safe place for clients to experience connection and understanding. She explores the fears, perceptions & assumptions her clients have relied on through-out their lives.
Reaching your highest potential begins with intentional and courageous living, even in the midst of significant challenges and disappointments. Yet many often operate from a place of fear and doubt, preventing them from moving toward wholeness, self-confidence and purposeful living. Living courageously from a place of balance, intention, and purpose allows her clients to achieve wellness and reach their highest potential. Tiffany’s passion is creating a supportive, safe place for clients to experience connection and understanding. She explores the fears, perceptions & assumptions her clients have relied on through-out their lives.
(770) 824-3031 View (770) 824-3031
Photo of Terell Irwin Tepper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Terell Irwin Tepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Powder Springs, GA 30127
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
(678) 400-0546 View (678) 400-0546
Photo of Michele Lynne Tamarkin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Young Harris, GA
Michele Lynne Tamarkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
I am a solution-driven psychotherapist with a humanistic and experiential focus on emotional and physical well-being for children through young adults. I'm licensed with the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California, a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and an in-home Therapeutic Crisis Coach for families. I encourage choice and change toward wholeness.
I am a solution-driven psychotherapist with a humanistic and experiential focus on emotional and physical well-being for children through young adults. I'm licensed with the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California, a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and an in-home Therapeutic Crisis Coach for families. I encourage choice and change toward wholeness.
(678) 403-6270 View (678) 403-6270
Photo of Brett I Rozen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Brett I Rozen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere (both in office and online with Video Counseling) I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. I work to help them attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a caring and compassionate professional and, provide counseling to adolescents, adults, and couples. My practice welcomes ALL people in an affirming environment. I work frequently with couples, helping them get unstuck from unhealthy behavior "patterns"; allowing them to find their way back to each other. **VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE.**
In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere (both in office and online with Video Counseling) I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. I work to help them attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a caring and compassionate professional and, provide counseling to adolescents, adults, and couples. My practice welcomes ALL people in an affirming environment. I work frequently with couples, helping them get unstuck from unhealthy behavior "patterns"; allowing them to find their way back to each other. **VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE.**
(404) 566-5130 View (404) 566-5130
Photo of Minal Shah at Atlanta DBT Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Minal Shah at Atlanta DBT Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Norcross, GA 30071
If you are tired of digging around to find “what’s wrong with you” or endless therapy appointments that don't actually solve the problem, DBT will teach you how to meet your needs in relationships and stand up for yourself, how to choose your emotions and control them., and how to get through unimaginable moments intact. You'll learn how to build connections and live for today. In short? DBT will solve the problems you have without creating more. And remember, if you aren’t getting something out of psychotherapy, it’s time to move on. Having successfully helped surgeons to homemakers, get successful outcomes today with us.
If you are tired of digging around to find “what’s wrong with you” or endless therapy appointments that don't actually solve the problem, DBT will teach you how to meet your needs in relationships and stand up for yourself, how to choose your emotions and control them., and how to get through unimaginable moments intact. You'll learn how to build connections and live for today. In short? DBT will solve the problems you have without creating more. And remember, if you aren’t getting something out of psychotherapy, it’s time to move on. Having successfully helped surgeons to homemakers, get successful outcomes today with us.
(770) 691-5410 View (770) 691-5410
Photo of Monica Gray, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Monica Gray
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CAMS, QPRT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucker, GA 30084  (Online Only)
Where We Stand is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health and substance abuse services to communities within the metro Atlanta area. Our focus is to provide cost-effective, quality treatment.
Where We Stand is a multidisciplinary behavioral health care practice that offers mental health and substance abuse services to communities within the metro Atlanta area. Our focus is to provide cost-effective, quality treatment.
(678) 831-2539 View (678) 831-2539
Photo of Melissa Dingler, Psychologist in Young Harris, GA
Melissa Dingler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30005
I offer an integrative approach in a relaxed, warm environment. I want to help you transform your life so you can achieve more happiness and more satisfaction. It takes courage to face your issues so it is important to me that we establish trust and good communication. Then we can work together to accomplish your goals.
I offer an integrative approach in a relaxed, warm environment. I want to help you transform your life so you can achieve more happiness and more satisfaction. It takes courage to face your issues so it is important to me that we establish trust and good communication. Then we can work together to accomplish your goals.
(404) 492-6751 View (404) 492-6751
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs, Inc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Pathways Transition Programs, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Winder, GA 30680
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider in WINDER, 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 WINDER, 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) 518-4038 View (470) 518-4038

See more therapy options for Young Harris

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.