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 Lacey McClure, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Lacey McClure
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Being a young adult is SUPER hard. There is a lot of pressure to know exactly what your next steps should be. You may have noticed yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious or disconnected. Do you find yourself having trouble with food, hating your body, or just not feeling like yourself lately? Maybe you have tried reaching out to friends or family and they just don’t get it. Over the past several years I have worked with clients with a diverse range of life experiences and through this work have developed a specialty in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders; and gaining clarity around purpose, self love, and sexuality.
Being a young adult is SUPER hard. There is a lot of pressure to know exactly what your next steps should be. You may have noticed yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious or disconnected. Do you find yourself having trouble with food, hating your body, or just not feeling like yourself lately? Maybe you have tried reaching out to friends or family and they just don’t get it. Over the past several years I have worked with clients with a diverse range of life experiences and through this work have developed a specialty in treating anxiety, depression, and eating disorders; and gaining clarity around purpose, self love, and sexuality.
(617) 231-9532 View (617) 231-9532
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 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 Nyssa Wittliff Boardman, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Nyssa Wittliff Boardman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
While I specialize in eating disorders and body image concerns, these issues do not occur in isolation.
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
While I specialize in eating disorders and body image concerns, these issues do not occur in isolation.
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
(857) 422-7528 View (857) 422-7528
Photo of Kristina Wischhusen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Kristina Wischhusen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
Through relational and trauma informed lenses, I work with individuals who struggle in areas that include anxiety, depression, relationship problems, eating disorders, grief and loss, transitions, ADHD, identity issues, and much more.
With the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship, I offer a safe space for adults and older adolescents to self-reflect and grow through their personal development. I use a curious, collaborative, and compassionate approach so my clients can feel seen, heard, and even challenged at times. Growth and change can happen when we explore our vulnerabilities, feelings, and struggles in a safe and supportive environment. I aspire for each of my clients to live a grounded, fulfilling, and optimal life.
Through relational and trauma informed lenses, I work with individuals who struggle in areas that include anxiety, depression, relationship problems, eating disorders, grief and loss, transitions, ADHD, identity issues, and much more.
With the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship, I offer a safe space for adults and older adolescents to self-reflect and grow through their personal development. I use a curious, collaborative, and compassionate approach so my clients can feel seen, heard, and even challenged at times. Growth and change can happen when we explore our vulnerabilities, feelings, and struggles in a safe and supportive environment. I aspire for each of my clients to live a grounded, fulfilling, and optimal life.
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Photo of Anne Liblich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Anne Liblich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
My most utilized therapeutic interventions for treating eating disorders, anxiety, and mood disorders are CBT, ERP, and ACT.
Do you or a loved one struggle with disordered eating, or a possible eating disorder? Sometimes it is difficult to know when it is cause for concern, however if there is an unhealthy relationship with food that is enough to warrant therapeutic intervention. I am an experienced eating disorder therapist with an abundance of knowledge in the field, and open to provide help. I offer treatment for disordered eating, bulimia, anorexia, ARFID, orthorexia, yo-yo dieting, and body image issues. In addition I specialize in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I welcome all ages, genders and backgrounds and have tele-health availability.
My most utilized therapeutic interventions for treating eating disorders, anxiety, and mood disorders are CBT, ERP, and ACT.
Do you or a loved one struggle with disordered eating, or a possible eating disorder? Sometimes it is difficult to know when it is cause for concern, however if there is an unhealthy relationship with food that is enough to warrant therapeutic intervention. I am an experienced eating disorder therapist with an abundance of knowledge in the field, and open to provide help. I offer treatment for disordered eating, bulimia, anorexia, ARFID, orthorexia, yo-yo dieting, and body image issues. In addition I specialize in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I welcome all ages, genders and backgrounds and have tele-health availability.
(508) 501-7195 View (508) 501-7195
Photo of Katharine Thomson, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Katharine Thomson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, I have a private practice for children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, OCD, self-injury, trauma, somatic symptoms, and eating disorders (including ARFID). I welcome children/teens, couples, parents, and families from all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions include mindfulness (relaxation and awareness) and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth and humor.
In addition to my faculty and hospital-based roles, I have a private practice for children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in evidence-based approaches, including CBT and DBT, and treat a range of psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, OCD, self-injury, trauma, somatic symptoms, and eating disorders (including ARFID). I welcome children/teens, couples, parents, and families from all backgrounds and strive for culturally responsive and attuned care. My interventions include mindfulness (relaxation and awareness) and focus on reducing distress and improving relationships, all delivered with warmth and humor.
(617) 600-5984 View (617) 600-5984
Photo of Darcy Brandt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Darcy Brandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
My psychotherapy practice is informed by my extensive training and experience on the Klarman Eating Disorders Unit at McLean Hospital and at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.
My patients are typically older adolescents, college students, and adults who are facing a range of difficulties relating to relationships, changes, school, work, or body image. In a psychotherapy treatment, I aim to build a genuine connection with my patients and work collaboratively with them to deepen an understanding of behavior. I am trained to listen closely for underlying dynamics that might be contributing to current symptoms or troubles, and I work tactfully to address this with my patients to help reduce symptoms and experience more fulfillment and freedom in the many dimensions of their lives.
My psychotherapy practice is informed by my extensive training and experience on the Klarman Eating Disorders Unit at McLean Hospital and at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.
My patients are typically older adolescents, college students, and adults who are facing a range of difficulties relating to relationships, changes, school, work, or body image. In a psychotherapy treatment, I aim to build a genuine connection with my patients and work collaboratively with them to deepen an understanding of behavior. I am trained to listen closely for underlying dynamics that might be contributing to current symptoms or troubles, and I work tactfully to address this with my patients to help reduce symptoms and experience more fulfillment and freedom in the many dimensions of their lives.
(857) 675-6230 View (857) 675-6230
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 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 Alex Bauermeister, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Alex Bauermeister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IAYT, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and OCD. I am a certified yoga teacher and yoga therapist, and often infuse this background into my clinical work to help clients befriend their body and regulate their nervous system.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, and OCD. I am a certified yoga teacher and yoga therapist, and often infuse this background into my clinical work to help clients befriend their body and regulate their nervous system.
(857) 855-4465 View (857) 855-4465
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 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 Amy K Friedman, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Amy K Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
My specialties run the gamut - but they include in no specific order, trauma, spirituality and religion, creativity and creative professionals, relationships, existential identity, fertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and parenting, eating disorders, cutting, couples and families, Depression, and Anxiety.
I am warm, authentic, dynamic, and connective, and I believe in meaning-making and healing through relationship. I also believe in the balance of holding what's challenging or traumatic, while looking at possibilities for growth and change. I truly love the work that I do, providing holding, healing, and transformation in a safe and natural way. Come meet me for a free sample session, and see what possibilities we might explore together. My contact information is (617) 935 - 9116. I look forward to hopefully meeting with you.
My specialties run the gamut - but they include in no specific order, trauma, spirituality and religion, creativity and creative professionals, relationships, existential identity, fertility, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and parenting, eating disorders, cutting, couples and families, Depression, and Anxiety.
I am warm, authentic, dynamic, and connective, and I believe in meaning-making and healing through relationship. I also believe in the balance of holding what's challenging or traumatic, while looking at possibilities for growth and change. I truly love the work that I do, providing holding, healing, and transformation in a safe and natural way. Come meet me for a free sample session, and see what possibilities we might explore together. My contact information is (617) 935 - 9116. I look forward to hopefully meeting with you.
(617) 379-0441 View (617) 379-0441
Photo of Aliza Phillips-Stoll, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Aliza Phillips-Stoll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, eating disorders and relationship challenges. With adolescents, adults, and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, eating disorders and relationship challenges. With adolescents, adults, and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
(508) 348-7274 View (508) 348-7274
Photo of Dr. Hannah Clark, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Dr. Hannah Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and traumatic stress by integrating Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Choosing a therapist is a brave choice, and I am honored that you're considering working with me. I am Dr. Hannah Clark (she/her), a licensed clinical psychologist located in Somerville, MA. I have over 10 years of experience providing evidence-based treatment to individuals, couples, and families. My primary specialties are in eating disorders and trauma-related conditions. I am especially interested in helping clients navigate role transitions and develop rich, meaningful connections in life.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and traumatic stress by integrating Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
Choosing a therapist is a brave choice, and I am honored that you're considering working with me. I am Dr. Hannah Clark (she/her), a licensed clinical psychologist located in Somerville, MA. I have over 10 years of experience providing evidence-based treatment to individuals, couples, and families. My primary specialties are in eating disorders and trauma-related conditions. I am especially interested in helping clients navigate role transitions and develop rich, meaningful connections in life.
(617) 446-5751 View (617) 446-5751
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 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 Shelly Williams, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Shelly Williams
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, which contributes to my expertise. These range from psychiatric and eating disorder wards to community-based clinics. I utilize psychodynamic therapy to help my clients get the most out of their lives.
I have worked in a variety of clinical settings, which contributes to my expertise. These range from psychiatric and eating disorder wards to community-based clinics. I utilize psychodynamic therapy to help my clients get the most out of their lives.
(857) 392-3315 View (857) 392-3315
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.