Photo of Jenna Kauffman, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Jenna Kauffman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I am versed in working with anxiety disorders and panic attacks, OCD, depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, phase of life concerns, adjustment issues, stress management, and relationship issues.
With the right clinician, therapy can give you the freedom to be who you are and who you want to be. Therefore my primary focus to treatment is establishing and strengthening an authentic and collaborative relationship, one that offers a non-judgmental and safe space for healing to occur. I utilize evidence-based practices based in training in multiple modalities of psychotherapy, catered to each individual. Taking into account the multidimensionality of the human experience, I offer both theory and practice towards living a meaningful life, doing the work of self-discovery, and healing with greater perspective and awareness.
I am versed in working with anxiety disorders and panic attacks, OCD, depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, phase of life concerns, adjustment issues, stress management, and relationship issues.
With the right clinician, therapy can give you the freedom to be who you are and who you want to be. Therefore my primary focus to treatment is establishing and strengthening an authentic and collaborative relationship, one that offers a non-judgmental and safe space for healing to occur. I utilize evidence-based practices based in training in multiple modalities of psychotherapy, catered to each individual. Taking into account the multidimensionality of the human experience, I offer both theory and practice towards living a meaningful life, doing the work of self-discovery, and healing with greater perspective and awareness.
(857) 355-0884 View (857) 355-0884
Photo of Sarah Frenette, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Sarah Frenette
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I specialize in treating eating disorders and body image concerns, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, family conflict, grief, stress, life transitions and relationship concerns.
I believe that most of us can greatly benefit from a safe, trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Seeking help can be an overwhelming and intimidating process. I am a warm, engaged and directive therapist who believes that people can make positive changes to feel better and live more fulfilling and connected lives. My approach to therapy is integrative; combining psychodynamic, behavioral, and relational models. I work with college students, adults and couples on a variety of presenting concerns. Additionally, I offer consultation and supervision services to other clinicians.
I specialize in treating eating disorders and body image concerns, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, family conflict, grief, stress, life transitions and relationship concerns.
I believe that most of us can greatly benefit from a safe, trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Seeking help can be an overwhelming and intimidating process. I am a warm, engaged and directive therapist who believes that people can make positive changes to feel better and live more fulfilling and connected lives. My approach to therapy is integrative; combining psychodynamic, behavioral, and relational models. I work with college students, adults and couples on a variety of presenting concerns. Additionally, I offer consultation and supervision services to other clinicians.
(617) 340-8275 View (617) 340-8275
Photo of Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
(857) 384-4858 View (857) 384-4858
Photo of Margaret J Connolly, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Margaret J Connolly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as eating disorders.
As a therapist, I provide individual, couples and family therapy to adolescents and adults. I work in a collaborative, non-judgmental manner that aims to promote positive change within a person's life. After a comprehensive assessment, I utilize a variety of approaches including psychodynamic (focused on developing insight) and cognitive behavioral (focused on understanding the thoughts and behaviors that shape experience) based on individual need. Through therapy that respects the complexities of each individual's life, I strive for my clients to develop a deep understanding of themselves that will enable long lasting growth.
I have extensive experience treating individuals with depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as eating disorders.
As a therapist, I provide individual, couples and family therapy to adolescents and adults. I work in a collaborative, non-judgmental manner that aims to promote positive change within a person's life. After a comprehensive assessment, I utilize a variety of approaches including psychodynamic (focused on developing insight) and cognitive behavioral (focused on understanding the thoughts and behaviors that shape experience) based on individual need. Through therapy that respects the complexities of each individual's life, I strive for my clients to develop a deep understanding of themselves that will enable long lasting growth.
(617) 934-6794 View (617) 934-6794
Photo of Kaitlin Spitz, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Kaitlin Spitz
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
Waitlist for new clients
I am a warm, interactive, and supportive licensed clinical therapist who approaches each client as a whole person. I provide psychotherapy to individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, relationship problems, family issues, academic and occupational stress, trauma, and life transitions. I use relational, insight-oriented, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients explore their emotions and behaviors without judgement. My goal is to help clients gain insight, understand how their past experiences influence the present, and develop a better understanding of themselves.
I am a warm, interactive, and supportive licensed clinical therapist who approaches each client as a whole person. I provide psychotherapy to individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, relationship problems, family issues, academic and occupational stress, trauma, and life transitions. I use relational, insight-oriented, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients explore their emotions and behaviors without judgement. My goal is to help clients gain insight, understand how their past experiences influence the present, and develop a better understanding of themselves.
(781) 708-4381 View (781) 708-4381
Photo of Andrea Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Andrea Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Areas of interest include: CBT, eating disorders, life transitions, chronic medical conditions, anxiety, depression, academic and work stress, and relationship problems.
I believe people are experts in their own lives; my goal is to partner with you to find answers and solutions to address the challenges you are facing. Whether you are looking for individual, couples or family therapy, you will find my approach to be collaborative and solution-focused with strong CBT leanings. Perhaps you are struggling to cope with an eating disorder, overwhelming anxiety or depression. We can work together to address these challenges.
Areas of interest include: CBT, eating disorders, life transitions, chronic medical conditions, anxiety, depression, academic and work stress, and relationship problems.
I believe people are experts in their own lives; my goal is to partner with you to find answers and solutions to address the challenges you are facing. Whether you are looking for individual, couples or family therapy, you will find my approach to be collaborative and solution-focused with strong CBT leanings. Perhaps you are struggling to cope with an eating disorder, overwhelming anxiety or depression. We can work together to address these challenges.
(617) 934-5474 View (617) 934-5474
Photo of Judith Wilner Lawrence, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Judith Wilner Lawrence
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
When beginning psychotherapy, individuals often feel vulnerable and in need of a safe space in which to examine their struggles and work towards healing. With over 30 years of experience, and as a Harvard-trained psychologist, I provide such a space. I work with empathy, intellect, and humor to help clients address such diverse concerns as life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories, and I use CBT and mindfulness techniques where appropriate to help clients understand themselves, achieve their goals, and find satisfaction in their lives.
When beginning psychotherapy, individuals often feel vulnerable and in need of a safe space in which to examine their struggles and work towards healing. With over 30 years of experience, and as a Harvard-trained psychologist, I provide such a space. I work with empathy, intellect, and humor to help clients address such diverse concerns as life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories, and I use CBT and mindfulness techniques where appropriate to help clients understand themselves, achieve their goals, and find satisfaction in their lives.
(617) 739-1212 View (617) 739-1212
Photo of Susan H Phillips, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Susan H Phillips
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Using a collaborative, practical approach, I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, couple problems, parenting concerns (early childhood and adolescence), eating disorders, ACOA issues and the more general impact of childhood stressors on adult development.
Throughout almost 30 years as a clinical psychologist, I've been impressed that the emotional suffering affecting us all, at times, has such universal causes. Insecurities and shame connected to childhood experiences over which we've had no control can take root, damaging self-esteem and emerging in symptoms of depression, anxiety and self-destructive behavior patterns. Even without overwhelming childhood stressors, feelings of inadequacy, and once self-protective, now limiting "chains" of feeling/thinking/reacting can interfere with realizing dreams, weathering losses and meeting new life challenges in the areas of love and work.
Using a collaborative, practical approach, I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, couple problems, parenting concerns (early childhood and adolescence), eating disorders, ACOA issues and the more general impact of childhood stressors on adult development.
Throughout almost 30 years as a clinical psychologist, I've been impressed that the emotional suffering affecting us all, at times, has such universal causes. Insecurities and shame connected to childhood experiences over which we've had no control can take root, damaging self-esteem and emerging in symptoms of depression, anxiety and self-destructive behavior patterns. Even without overwhelming childhood stressors, feelings of inadequacy, and once self-protective, now limiting "chains" of feeling/thinking/reacting can interfere with realizing dreams, weathering losses and meeting new life challenges in the areas of love and work.
(617) 841-8072 View (617) 841-8072
Photo of Dr. April Berry-Fletcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Dr. April Berry-Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02146
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families with concerns around ADHD, learning or academic issues, depression, trauma, anxiety and eating disorders.
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
(617) 600-4029 View (617) 600-4029
Photo of Tera Hirsch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Tera Hirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Waitlist for new clients
Entering therapy shows motivation to heal and grow often at a time when one feels most vulnerable. My approach is one of warmth and respect. I try to create an environment where clients feel free to discuss any problem. While I believe our past experiences inform our present life, I do not believe they define us. Difficult symptoms are often ways we have found to best manage painful emotions, thoughts and body sensations. Unfortunately, 'symptoms' occur when our 'solutions' for managing thoughts and feelings are no longer working for us. I strive to help clients find solutions that work better for them.
Entering therapy shows motivation to heal and grow often at a time when one feels most vulnerable. My approach is one of warmth and respect. I try to create an environment where clients feel free to discuss any problem. While I believe our past experiences inform our present life, I do not believe they define us. Difficult symptoms are often ways we have found to best manage painful emotions, thoughts and body sensations. Unfortunately, 'symptoms' occur when our 'solutions' for managing thoughts and feelings are no longer working for us. I strive to help clients find solutions that work better for them.
(857) 239-0160 View (857) 239-0160
Photo of Rebecca Eddy Muccilli, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Rebecca Eddy Muccilli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who provides therapy to individuals who are looking to more authentically connect with themselves and others; understand who they are, what they are feeling, and why they are experiencing the emotions they are feeling. I am trained to provide a variety of therapeutic interventions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit the unique needs and desires of each individual client. I use an insight oriented approach to aid individuals in understanding and interrupting repetitive patterns that may be interfering or often lead us to that "stuck" feeling.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who provides therapy to individuals who are looking to more authentically connect with themselves and others; understand who they are, what they are feeling, and why they are experiencing the emotions they are feeling. I am trained to provide a variety of therapeutic interventions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit the unique needs and desires of each individual client. I use an insight oriented approach to aid individuals in understanding and interrupting repetitive patterns that may be interfering or often lead us to that "stuck" feeling.
(857) 226-8759 View (857) 226-8759
Photo of Lauren S. Berly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Lauren S. Berly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I believe that a person's ability to change or grow or adapt to difficult situations is present inside them. Depression, anxiety and poor coping strategies can get in the way. My job as your therapist is to help you build your self esteem and belief in yourself and increase your sense of optimism and control over your life. With new insights, your ability to take action will increase.
I believe that a person's ability to change or grow or adapt to difficult situations is present inside them. Depression, anxiety and poor coping strategies can get in the way. My job as your therapist is to help you build your self esteem and belief in yourself and increase your sense of optimism and control over your life. With new insights, your ability to take action will increase.
(617) 652-0962 View (617) 652-0962
Photo of Thomas Babbitt, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Thomas Babbitt
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
My “ideal” client is you! I welcome pretty much anyone who needs help. Psychotherapy is always about the supportive relationship between therapist and client, no matter what the specific orientation of the clinician. We can approach the issue from any number of angles. These angles, or techniques, are: whatever works. Period. Whatever brings you relief. I will work very hard for you.
My “ideal” client is you! I welcome pretty much anyone who needs help. Psychotherapy is always about the supportive relationship between therapist and client, no matter what the specific orientation of the clinician. We can approach the issue from any number of angles. These angles, or techniques, are: whatever works. Period. Whatever brings you relief. I will work very hard for you.
(833) 789-0583 View (833) 789-0583
Photo of Jordan Haghighi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brookline, MA
Jordan Haghighi
Pre-Licensed Professional, Mhc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Deciding to seek any form of support isn't always the easiest decision. Recognizing that you want to connect with a professional about anxiety, depression, previous trauma or just someone to talk to with an impartial view, is a tremendous step in your growth as an individual. I pride myself on my ability to meet with my clients where they are at. To genuinely listen to them without judgement. Ensuring that they know I am on their team and want to help them achieve their goals. My primary goal is for the clients I work with to feel as comfortable and rewarded as possible through this process.
Deciding to seek any form of support isn't always the easiest decision. Recognizing that you want to connect with a professional about anxiety, depression, previous trauma or just someone to talk to with an impartial view, is a tremendous step in your growth as an individual. I pride myself on my ability to meet with my clients where they are at. To genuinely listen to them without judgement. Ensuring that they know I am on their team and want to help them achieve their goals. My primary goal is for the clients I work with to feel as comfortable and rewarded as possible through this process.
(857) 675-3118 View (857) 675-3118
Photo of Grace Lawton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Grace Lawton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, obsessive thinking, family/relationship conflicts, self-confidence concerns, and life transitions. In our work together, I'll take an integrative approach, pulling from a variety of modalities to best fit your needs. I am actively invested in motivating you to challenge negative thinking, change undesired patterns in your life, embrace your true potential, and live a life that aligns with your goals and values. I work best with those who desire the skills to cope with life's challenges and are motivated to see change in their life.
I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, obsessive thinking, family/relationship conflicts, self-confidence concerns, and life transitions. In our work together, I'll take an integrative approach, pulling from a variety of modalities to best fit your needs. I am actively invested in motivating you to challenge negative thinking, change undesired patterns in your life, embrace your true potential, and live a life that aligns with your goals and values. I work best with those who desire the skills to cope with life's challenges and are motivated to see change in their life.
(857) 375-7682 View (857) 375-7682
Photo of Rachel M McBride, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Rachel M McBride
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I understand that symptoms and problems have meaning and I help patients to come to understand this meaning. Therapy loosens the forces that bind people to ways of living that have become unsatisfying. I seek to help patients understand themselves in a deep and complex way so that life becomes more free, more enriched, and more meaningful.
I understand that symptoms and problems have meaning and I help patients to come to understand this meaning. Therapy loosens the forces that bind people to ways of living that have become unsatisfying. I seek to help patients understand themselves in a deep and complex way so that life becomes more free, more enriched, and more meaningful.
(413) 650-1381 View (413) 650-1381
Photo of Catarina Montenegro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Catarina Montenegro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I strive to cultivate a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive space where you can feel seen and empowered to achieve your goals. I acknowledge the bravery and courage it takes to seek help, and I'm here to support you through that journey with compassion. Whether you're looking for an empathetic listener or practical coping skills and tools, I'm dedicated to creating an individualized treatment plan, supporting and collaborating with you every step of the way. Building strong therapeutic rapport is essential to me. I believe in meeting you where you are at in your journey, understanding that everyone's path to healing is unique.
I strive to cultivate a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive space where you can feel seen and empowered to achieve your goals. I acknowledge the bravery and courage it takes to seek help, and I'm here to support you through that journey with compassion. Whether you're looking for an empathetic listener or practical coping skills and tools, I'm dedicated to creating an individualized treatment plan, supporting and collaborating with you every step of the way. Building strong therapeutic rapport is essential to me. I believe in meeting you where you are at in your journey, understanding that everyone's path to healing is unique.
(929) 323-4744 View (929) 323-4744
Photo of Be Mindful and Well, PhD in Brookline, MA
Be Mindful and Well, PhD
PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
We provide a holistic mental health coaching/counseling committed to personal, social and professional growth. Our professionals are expert professors, PhD, MA, BS in the field of health and counseling, and serving clients of all ages, and organizations for more than 20yrs.The center provides: 1- life coaching to women for varied health concerns: Nutritional counseling/ concerns for women, children, students, chronic diseases; Adaptation to pregnancy; Postpartum; menopause; Dealing with aging process; health concerns, and chronic diseases, parenting issues, adolescence challenges, body image, and skin problems and concerns.
We provide a holistic mental health coaching/counseling committed to personal, social and professional growth. Our professionals are expert professors, PhD, MA, BS in the field of health and counseling, and serving clients of all ages, and organizations for more than 20yrs.The center provides: 1- life coaching to women for varied health concerns: Nutritional counseling/ concerns for women, children, students, chronic diseases; Adaptation to pregnancy; Postpartum; menopause; Dealing with aging process; health concerns, and chronic diseases, parenting issues, adolescence challenges, body image, and skin problems and concerns.
(617) 744-7497 View (617) 744-7497
Photo of Kimberly S Gerber, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Kimberly S Gerber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
You deserve to feel better and function more effectively now. Pursuing therapy is a courageous move, proving that you value yourself enough to achieve a better quality of life. I commend you for that and look forward to the opportunity to welcome you to my practice.
You deserve to feel better and function more effectively now. Pursuing therapy is a courageous move, proving that you value yourself enough to achieve a better quality of life. I commend you for that and look forward to the opportunity to welcome you to my practice.
(617) 410-8046 View (617) 410-8046
Photo of Lois Glass, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Lois Glass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
Therapy can be an important aid in managing transitions, stresses, and crises. It can also provide a safe and supportive context to address longstanding struggles with depression, anxiety, or other concerns. I am a psychodynamically trained therapist who also utilizes cognitive behavioral and relational approaches. My clients describe me as attentive, supportive, and non judgemental. I view therapy as a collaboration between myself with my professional skills and training, and you with your knowledge of yourself and your desire for support and change. I am an authentic, active therapist who approaches therapy gently and directly.
Therapy can be an important aid in managing transitions, stresses, and crises. It can also provide a safe and supportive context to address longstanding struggles with depression, anxiety, or other concerns. I am a psychodynamically trained therapist who also utilizes cognitive behavioral and relational approaches. My clients describe me as attentive, supportive, and non judgemental. I view therapy as a collaboration between myself with my professional skills and training, and you with your knowledge of yourself and your desire for support and change. I am an authentic, active therapist who approaches therapy gently and directly.
(781) 990-6775 View (781) 990-6775
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.