Eating Disorders Therapists in Beach Park, IL

Photo of Jon E Larson, Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Jon E Larson
Counselor, EdD, MS, LCPC, CRC, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beach Park, IL 60099
Do you have a hard time being calm and alert? Overloaded with worry, sadness, or anger? Having a hard time focusing, making decisions, or getting along with people? Are you easily distracted, feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing extreme body tension? Do you have low energy, get lousy sleep, or can't shake troubling thoughts? At times, you don't feel like yourself? If any of these describe you, I want to help you.
Do you have a hard time being calm and alert? Overloaded with worry, sadness, or anger? Having a hard time focusing, making decisions, or getting along with people? Are you easily distracted, feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing extreme body tension? Do you have low energy, get lousy sleep, or can't shake troubling thoughts? At times, you don't feel like yourself? If any of these describe you, I want to help you.
(224) 723-1780 View (224) 723-1780

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nanci Edgcomb in Beach Park, IL
Nanci Edgcomb
MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
My areas of specialized training include addictions/recovery, eating disorders, somatic trauma work, marital therapy, depression, anxiety and grief.
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
My areas of specialized training include addictions/recovery, eating disorders, somatic trauma work, marital therapy, depression, anxiety and grief.
Often we want something to be different in ourselves, our relationships or in our lives, but we don't know how to make it happen. I will work to create a supportive partnership with you in order to bring about a decrease in self-defeating and unproductive emotions and behaviors. My extensive training and 30 years of experience allows me to guide clients in the process of revealing and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of accessing their full potential and taking positive action.
(847) 244-0701 View (847) 244-0701
Photo of Jada Choate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beach Park, IL
Jada Choate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085
She also hopes to help with those experiencing domestic violence, eating disorders, family conflict, grief and loss, identity issues, life transitions, school issues, self esteem issues and sexual abuse and intimacy issues.
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
She also hopes to help with those experiencing domestic violence, eating disorders, family conflict, grief and loss, identity issues, life transitions, school issues, self esteem issues and sexual abuse and intimacy issues.
Jada is a licensed social worker who earned her bachelor of arts and science in psychology with a minor in sociology from Quinnipiac University. Jada also holds a master’s of arts in social work from the University of Chicago. Prior to joining Willis Counseling and Consulting, Jada worked supervising a mental health support and suicide prevention text line for teens. At WCC, Jada hopes to work with those age seven and older who struggle with addiction, anger, anxiety, body dysmorphia (BDD), boundaries, dating and relationships, decision making, depression and domestic violence.
(773) 207-6098 View (773) 207-6098
Photo of HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx, Counselor in Beach Park, IL
HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
The adolescent therapies offered at HOPE address relationship issues, oppositional/defiant behaviors, self-esteem concerns, self-abusive behaviors, eating disorders, adjustment, abuse/neglect, PTSD, negative attitudes, addictions and more; all of which may be creating dysfunction in your teen's life and affecting your teen's overall development.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
The adolescent therapies offered at HOPE address relationship issues, oppositional/defiant behaviors, self-esteem concerns, self-abusive behaviors, eating disorders, adjustment, abuse/neglect, PTSD, negative attitudes, addictions and more; all of which may be creating dysfunction in your teen's life and affecting your teen's overall development.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
(815) 977-8751 View (815) 977-8751
Photo of Megan Sayre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beach Park, IL
Megan Sayre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-S, WPATH P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
My expertise includes treating depression, anxiety, self-injury, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ clients, eating disorders, and developing healthy boundaries.
My strengths include making authentic connections, practicing compassionate accountability, and bringing gentle humor into therapy. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy techniques in my sessions. I am a relational therapist and focus on developing clients' strengths while also providing support for clients to stretch beyond their comfort zones. My treatment motto has become "It's through discomfort that we change." I will provide you with the education, compassion and support needed for you to face any fears or discomfort to become a healthier and happier person.
My expertise includes treating depression, anxiety, self-injury, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ clients, eating disorders, and developing healthy boundaries.
My strengths include making authentic connections, practicing compassionate accountability, and bringing gentle humor into therapy. I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy techniques in my sessions. I am a relational therapist and focus on developing clients' strengths while also providing support for clients to stretch beyond their comfort zones. My treatment motto has become "It's through discomfort that we change." I will provide you with the education, compassion and support needed for you to face any fears or discomfort to become a healthier and happier person.
(847) 305-3182 View (847) 305-3182
Photo of Nada Pavlovic, Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Nada Pavlovic
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
With over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating chemical dependency and process addictions, mood disorders, self-injury, suicidality, trauma, codependency and eating disorders.
Have you ever felt “stuck” in your life and not sure how to move forward to make positive changes? I strongly believe that when we cannot make changes to our situation, we need to make changes to our thinking and perception, which requires exploration and support. When we can make changes to our situation, it can be risky and scary and best done with plenty of planning and validation. I am passionate about helping people make these “shifts” in perception and situation.
With over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating chemical dependency and process addictions, mood disorders, self-injury, suicidality, trauma, codependency and eating disorders.
Have you ever felt “stuck” in your life and not sure how to move forward to make positive changes? I strongly believe that when we cannot make changes to our situation, we need to make changes to our thinking and perception, which requires exploration and support. When we can make changes to our situation, it can be risky and scary and best done with plenty of planning and validation. I am passionate about helping people make these “shifts” in perception and situation.
(224) 676-9800 x26 View (224) 676-9800 x26
Photo of Jeffrey Caldcleugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Beach Park, IL
Jeffrey Caldcleugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy related to substance use disorders, eating disorders, process addictions, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss and crisis intervention.
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy related to substance use disorders, eating disorders, process addictions, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss and crisis intervention.
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
(312) 548-3788 View (312) 548-3788
Photo of Rosalind Rodgers, Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Rosalind Rodgers
Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT, GL-CMA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60087  (Online Only)
Rosalind believes that the integration of the mind, body, and spirit is an essential part of the healing process. Rosalind’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, client centered, and layered with an Empowerment framework. Rosalind utilizes traditional talk-therapy, somatic work, and creative arts interventions to both illuminate and concretize a path towards healing.
Rosalind believes that the integration of the mind, body, and spirit is an essential part of the healing process. Rosalind’s approach to treatment is trauma informed, client centered, and layered with an Empowerment framework. Rosalind utilizes traditional talk-therapy, somatic work, and creative arts interventions to both illuminate and concretize a path towards healing.
(224) 714-0264 View (224) 714-0264
Photo of Great Lakes Psychology Group - Buffalo Grove, Marriage & Family Therapist in Beach Park, IL
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Buffalo Grove
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
(630) 426-7930 View (630) 426-7930
Photo of Dr. Nabila Irizarry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Beach Park, IL
Dr. Nabila Irizarry
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Chicago, IL 60064  (Online Only)
Healing is an act of courage and liberation. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, I follow a culturally-responsive/identity-affirming approach to therapy. We will work together to understand personal and societal factors that contribute to your sense of self. Through self-exploration of personal narratives, analysis of interpersonal experiences, and understanding of the intersections between our past and present, we become more in charge of our future and aware of how we occupy and share spaces with others. My goal is to guide you towards healthier habits that can alleviate your suffering and enable a life-long journey of fulfillment.
Healing is an act of courage and liberation. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, I follow a culturally-responsive/identity-affirming approach to therapy. We will work together to understand personal and societal factors that contribute to your sense of self. Through self-exploration of personal narratives, analysis of interpersonal experiences, and understanding of the intersections between our past and present, we become more in charge of our future and aware of how we occupy and share spaces with others. My goal is to guide you towards healthier habits that can alleviate your suffering and enable a life-long journey of fulfillment.
(312) 757-1425 View (312) 757-1425
Photo of Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry in Beach Park, IL
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
Photo of The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology in Beach Park, IL
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
North Chicago, IL 60064
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
(224) 427-6245 View (224) 427-6245
Photo of Ascent Counseling Services, Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Ascent Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085  (Online Only)
I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
I like people. It's hard to not feel compassion for an individual who is willing to bear their soul to find a better out come. I am clinically astute, however, I deliver a warm and compassionate and objective viewpoint to assist my clients. I have a diverse background which allows me to fully empathize with the clients I serve. I am licensed in both Illinois and Wisconsin . I have extensive experience working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and traumatic history. Prior to working in my own practice, I worked with specialized children in foster care.
(224) 231-4085 View (224) 231-4085
Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085  (Online Only)
In moments we feel inadequate, uncertain, or even confused, we often look for a helping hand. As a therapist, I perfectly understand that we all need a little extra support at some point in our lives. Together, we will work out solutions that could help you grow as an individual. Working with me can help improve your emotional well-being, make peace with your past, and live the life you’ve always wanted. Our minds can get overwhelmed sometimes, but I will help you unravel what’s causing you stress. Whether it is anxiety, grief, abuse, or even a tough breakup – there will be no judgment from me. Help is just a phone call away.
In moments we feel inadequate, uncertain, or even confused, we often look for a helping hand. As a therapist, I perfectly understand that we all need a little extra support at some point in our lives. Together, we will work out solutions that could help you grow as an individual. Working with me can help improve your emotional well-being, make peace with your past, and live the life you’ve always wanted. Our minds can get overwhelmed sometimes, but I will help you unravel what’s causing you stress. Whether it is anxiety, grief, abuse, or even a tough breakup – there will be no judgment from me. Help is just a phone call away.
(773) 985-2443 View (773) 985-2443
Photo of Thea Rossmiller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Beach Park, IL
Thea Rossmiller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
I am a passionate individual with a calming presence. I have experience working with children as young as five all the way through to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disturbances, self-esteem, ADHD, autism and more. Through therapeutic intervention and hands-on learning, I aim to create a transformative environment for my clients. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also aim to create a safe space for individuals to explore their gender or sexuality. No member of our community should feel isolated or alone, and I am here to be the support you need.
(224) 324-3073 View (224) 324-3073
Photo of Paul Smiley, Psychologist in Beach Park, IL
Paul Smiley
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Dr. Paul Smiley is a board certified psychologist who has been independently licensed in the State of Illinois since 2008. He is on staff at Lake Forest Hospital, and manages Parkside Psychological Services, which is dedicated to serving people of all ages and needs. The team of talented providers is committed to understanding the root of client’s concerns and working with them to bring about effective changes for recovery. We are currently accepting patients with a wide spectrum of symptoms, with flexible hours from Monday-Saturday including day and evening appointments. We look forward to being a trusted provider with you!
Dr. Paul Smiley is a board certified psychologist who has been independently licensed in the State of Illinois since 2008. He is on staff at Lake Forest Hospital, and manages Parkside Psychological Services, which is dedicated to serving people of all ages and needs. The team of talented providers is committed to understanding the root of client’s concerns and working with them to bring about effective changes for recovery. We are currently accepting patients with a wide spectrum of symptoms, with flexible hours from Monday-Saturday including day and evening appointments. We look forward to being a trusted provider with you!
(224) 706-1196 View (224) 706-1196
Photo of Libertyville Counseling Group, Psychologist in Beach Park, IL
Libertyville Counseling Group
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
We are a multi-disciplinary group private practice located in Libertyville, Illinois. We have highly trained clinicians with many years of experience and a genuine passion for our work. Our many specialties range from managing every day stress to coping with trauma, loss, emotional disorders and behavioral problems in children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
We are a multi-disciplinary group private practice located in Libertyville, Illinois. We have highly trained clinicians with many years of experience and a genuine passion for our work. Our many specialties range from managing every day stress to coping with trauma, loss, emotional disorders and behavioral problems in children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
(224) 412-3578 View (224) 412-3578
Photo of Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC, Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Lynn Moosman, MA, LCPC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
Within each of us is the ability to heal from painful emotional symptoms and to live a well balanced, fulfilling life. Coming to counseling takes courage but can lead the reduction of anxiety and depression, as well as improving relationships and finding solutions to recurring problems in our lives. With over 24 years in professional counseling psychology, I am well versed in traditional theory and treatment, but use evidenced-based alternative treatments based on client's needs.
(847) 941-0548 View (847) 941-0548
Photo of Steven Bloomfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Steven Bloomfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Master of Science (MS) in Educational Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. In addition to my education, I have worked with clients from adolescence through adulthood using both individual and group therapy. I also hold a Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have had a private practice utilizing Clinical Hypnosis to aid clients in weight management, PTSD, dealing with phobias and smoking cessation.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Master of Science (MS) in Educational Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. In addition to my education, I have worked with clients from adolescence through adulthood using both individual and group therapy. I also hold a Certificate in Clinical Hypnosis from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have had a private practice utilizing Clinical Hypnosis to aid clients in weight management, PTSD, dealing with phobias and smoking cessation.
(847) 865-9360 View (847) 865-9360
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Beach Park, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612

See more therapy options for Beach Park

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.