Eating Disorders Therapists in Byfield, MA

Photo of Seascape Therapeutic Counseling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byfield, MA
Seascape Therapeutic Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Byfield, MA 01922
A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history. Mahatma Gandhi. As a clinician, I have 23+ years of experience working with children/adolescents and adults. I help them cope with acute crisis such as suicide, cancer, death of a loved one, sexual assault, domestic violence and bullying. I specialize in crisis, trauma, and traumatic grief-specific to child-loss & bereavement, which often leads to PTSD symptoms/depression/anxiety often decreasing a persons quality of life. My goal is to create a sense of safety, hope and worth in an individuals worldview.
A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history. Mahatma Gandhi. As a clinician, I have 23+ years of experience working with children/adolescents and adults. I help them cope with acute crisis such as suicide, cancer, death of a loved one, sexual assault, domestic violence and bullying. I specialize in crisis, trauma, and traumatic grief-specific to child-loss & bereavement, which often leads to PTSD symptoms/depression/anxiety often decreasing a persons quality of life. My goal is to create a sense of safety, hope and worth in an individuals worldview.
(978) 705-6022 View (978) 705-6022

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Hutter, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Stephanie Hutter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
I’m particularly passionate about working with adolescents and young adults struggling with self-injurious behaviors, suicidality, eating disorders, and trauma.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - Whether you’re looking to address a recent life transition or hoping to address more chronic mental health concerns, I understand that beginning with a new therapist is a vulnerable, and often challenging, step to take. While I have an eclectic approach to therapy in order to meet the unique needs of each individual client, my approach is always warm, collaborative, laid-back, and client driven. My background includes experience working in a variety of settings, including outpatient, PHP, CBAT, residential programs, and therapeutic schools.
I’m particularly passionate about working with adolescents and young adults struggling with self-injurious behaviors, suicidality, eating disorders, and trauma.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - Whether you’re looking to address a recent life transition or hoping to address more chronic mental health concerns, I understand that beginning with a new therapist is a vulnerable, and often challenging, step to take. While I have an eclectic approach to therapy in order to meet the unique needs of each individual client, my approach is always warm, collaborative, laid-back, and client driven. My background includes experience working in a variety of settings, including outpatient, PHP, CBAT, residential programs, and therapeutic schools.
(978) 591-6084 View (978) 591-6084
Photo of Hannah M Watkins, Psychologist in Byfield, MA
Hannah M Watkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
My specific areas of interest include: eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety and depression, role/life transitions and identity concerns, and developmental trauma.
As inherently social beings, I believe that we learn to love and accept ourselves, gain self awareness, and form a strong self-concept through our connections with others. As such, I consider the psychotherapeutic relationship and process to be of vital importance in working through any barrier that holds us back from enjoying a meaningful and fulfilling life. True healing happens in connection with others through trust, vulnerability and being seen and accepted for who we are at our core. It’s not about changing who we are but about learning how to use our inherent strengths to care for ourselves and reach our full potential.
My specific areas of interest include: eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety and depression, role/life transitions and identity concerns, and developmental trauma.
As inherently social beings, I believe that we learn to love and accept ourselves, gain self awareness, and form a strong self-concept through our connections with others. As such, I consider the psychotherapeutic relationship and process to be of vital importance in working through any barrier that holds us back from enjoying a meaningful and fulfilling life. True healing happens in connection with others through trust, vulnerability and being seen and accepted for who we are at our core. It’s not about changing who we are but about learning how to use our inherent strengths to care for ourselves and reach our full potential.
View
Photo of Vanessa Wells, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Vanessa Wells
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rowley, MA 01969
My prior work with school adjustment counseling, university counseling & Eating Disorders provide unique insight to support clients struggling with school anxiety, perfectionism, neurodivergence & eating/body image related issues.
It’s essential clients are seen for who they are and given tools that resonate with them to do the work that therapy requires. This means merging our body and mind, our values and actions, and our personhood with our community. I support clients with these meaningful tools and empower them through life's transitions by increasing insight and skill building. One such tool is using Tarot, which can provide perspective or be used as a powerful projective tool regardless of spiritual affiliation. My ultimate goal is to integrate Eastern and Western ideologies into my practice to provide effective personalized mental health care for all.
My prior work with school adjustment counseling, university counseling & Eating Disorders provide unique insight to support clients struggling with school anxiety, perfectionism, neurodivergence & eating/body image related issues.
It’s essential clients are seen for who they are and given tools that resonate with them to do the work that therapy requires. This means merging our body and mind, our values and actions, and our personhood with our community. I support clients with these meaningful tools and empower them through life's transitions by increasing insight and skill building. One such tool is using Tarot, which can provide perspective or be used as a powerful projective tool regardless of spiritual affiliation. My ultimate goal is to integrate Eastern and Western ideologies into my practice to provide effective personalized mental health care for all.
(978) 296-3998 View (978) 296-3998
Photo of Elizabeth Milligan, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Elizabeth Milligan
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913
My specialties include addiction, family of addiction, mood disorders, eating disorders, illness-related depression/anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship or self esteem issues.
I believe that in order to achieve a sense of overall well-being and balance, both our mind and body must be healthy and supported. Depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, illness and eating disorders are all things that can be a part of the human condition. Any of these disorders can become uncomfortable and overwhelming, making it difficult or impossible to achieve balance in the mind and body. I am here to help you.
My specialties include addiction, family of addiction, mood disorders, eating disorders, illness-related depression/anxiety, trauma, grief and relationship or self esteem issues.
I believe that in order to achieve a sense of overall well-being and balance, both our mind and body must be healthy and supported. Depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, illness and eating disorders are all things that can be a part of the human condition. Any of these disorders can become uncomfortable and overwhelming, making it difficult or impossible to achieve balance in the mind and body. I am here to help you.
(978) 290-5056 View (978) 290-5056
Photo of Matt Lipson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byfield, MA
Matt Lipson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913
The individuals that I treat most often have varying levels of need and are at different stages in their own therapeutic process. For this reason, I am very person-centered and tailor treatment to each individual's particular needs. I work with all ages but most often with children, adolescents, and young adults. The majority of individuals that I see struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorders, self-injury, school problems, and ADHD. However, I also have advanced training in working with individuals with chronic mental health issues and personality disorders.
The individuals that I treat most often have varying levels of need and are at different stages in their own therapeutic process. For this reason, I am very person-centered and tailor treatment to each individual's particular needs. I work with all ages but most often with children, adolescents, and young adults. The majority of individuals that I see struggle with anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorders, self-injury, school problems, and ADHD. However, I also have advanced training in working with individuals with chronic mental health issues and personality disorders.
(978) 979-1649 View (978) 979-1649
Photo of Megan Drake Stillman, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Megan Drake Stillman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913  (Online Only)
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
(978) 678-9135 View (978) 678-9135
Photo of Mary Ellen DeBiase, Psychologist in Byfield, MA
Mary Ellen DeBiase
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ipswich, MA 01938
As a former Instructor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School, I am committed to helping my clients understand what has become challenging and develop new coping strategies to address these difficulties. My approach is collaborative, warm, strength based and adapted to each individual. I offer psychotherapy emphasizing modern cognitive behavioral and mindfulness strategies, and treat adults and adolescents. People seek help from me for concerns such as anxiety, eating disorders, difficulties in relationships, depression, women’s health issues such as infertility, and adjustment to losses and transitions.
As a former Instructor in Psychology at Harvard Medical School, I am committed to helping my clients understand what has become challenging and develop new coping strategies to address these difficulties. My approach is collaborative, warm, strength based and adapted to each individual. I offer psychotherapy emphasizing modern cognitive behavioral and mindfulness strategies, and treat adults and adolescents. People seek help from me for concerns such as anxiety, eating disorders, difficulties in relationships, depression, women’s health issues such as infertility, and adjustment to losses and transitions.
(978) 356-0027 View (978) 356-0027
Photo of Amy Blackburn, Psychologist in Byfield, MA
Amy Blackburn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
I am experienced in treating a wide array of psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and identity disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both NH and Mass. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families for more than 30 years in many different settings including public and independent schools, colleges, hospitals, and private and group practice. I have much experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in outpatient settings, and I understand schools and the myriad issues that can arise in schools. I am a thoughtful, warm professional with a good sense of humor. My approach is solution-focused and I integrate various treatment modalities, tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs of my clients.
I am experienced in treating a wide array of psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and identity disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both NH and Mass. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families for more than 30 years in many different settings including public and independent schools, colleges, hospitals, and private and group practice. I have much experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in outpatient settings, and I understand schools and the myriad issues that can arise in schools. I am a thoughtful, warm professional with a good sense of humor. My approach is solution-focused and I integrate various treatment modalities, tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs of my clients.
(857) 271-5231 View (857) 271-5231
Photo of Melissa Rodrigues, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byfield, MA
Melissa Rodrigues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverhill, MA 01832  (Online Only)
I am a Portuguese speaking therapist that empowers individuals to achieve their life goals. My passion to empower individuals has been the driving force behind my practice with a focus on working with persons across the lifespan who struggle with mood and substance abuse disorders, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I work with clients to manage their mental health symptoms rather than be defined by them so that they may achieve balance. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, EMDR & EFT Therapist, and Reiki Practitioner I use a trauma-informed, somatic approach to therapy.
I am a Portuguese speaking therapist that empowers individuals to achieve their life goals. My passion to empower individuals has been the driving force behind my practice with a focus on working with persons across the lifespan who struggle with mood and substance abuse disorders, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I work with clients to manage their mental health symptoms rather than be defined by them so that they may achieve balance. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, EMDR & EFT Therapist, and Reiki Practitioner I use a trauma-informed, somatic approach to therapy.
(351) 200-8663 View (351) 200-8663
Photo of Robyn Deyo, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Robyn Deyo
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Haverhill, MA 01830  (Online Only)
I welcome your call to see if working with me is your next best step in feeling better. I work with adults and couples who are struggling with communication, parenting, depression, anxiety, grief, and post traumatic experiences. With 26 years of experience, my clients would tell you that I provide an intuitive compassionate connection, a respectful, curious approach, and a touch of humor to facilitate your increased self awareness and to teach you practical steps that result in the changes you are looking for today.
I welcome your call to see if working with me is your next best step in feeling better. I work with adults and couples who are struggling with communication, parenting, depression, anxiety, grief, and post traumatic experiences. With 26 years of experience, my clients would tell you that I provide an intuitive compassionate connection, a respectful, curious approach, and a touch of humor to facilitate your increased self awareness and to teach you practical steps that result in the changes you are looking for today.
(505) 405-8185 View (505) 405-8185
Photo of Darwin Gillett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byfield, MA
Darwin Gillett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, ACH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
Are you suffering from limiting fears, depression, grief, anger, stress, anxiety or addictions? If so, I can help. I help clients break free from these and other issues using different mind/body therapies (including hypnosis) to quickly and powerfully integrate health, happiness and peace into people's lives. My intent is always to guide clients to a path of insight and understanding that allow them to fully utilize their inherent inner healing and creativity that we as human beings all possess.
Are you suffering from limiting fears, depression, grief, anger, stress, anxiety or addictions? If so, I can help. I help clients break free from these and other issues using different mind/body therapies (including hypnosis) to quickly and powerfully integrate health, happiness and peace into people's lives. My intent is always to guide clients to a path of insight and understanding that allow them to fully utilize their inherent inner healing and creativity that we as human beings all possess.
(978) 743-9903 View (978) 743-9903
Photo of Lakshmi Linda Sirois, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Lakshmi Linda Sirois
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT, KRIC
Verified Verified
Ipswich, MA 01938
Are you stressed by life, overwhelming feelings, illness, relationships, and/or lack of connection to others/Self/God? I meet you as you are, with presence, compassion, and hope. I help shine a light of awareness onto patterns you no longer want. I help you befriend your shadow - the parts of yourself you don't yet accept. I join with you in a therapeutic relationship to increase connection and acceptance. I work with my clients to find the light at the end of the tunnel by creating new patterns and a more fulfilling, authentic, empowered and present life.
Are you stressed by life, overwhelming feelings, illness, relationships, and/or lack of connection to others/Self/God? I meet you as you are, with presence, compassion, and hope. I help shine a light of awareness onto patterns you no longer want. I help you befriend your shadow - the parts of yourself you don't yet accept. I join with you in a therapeutic relationship to increase connection and acceptance. I work with my clients to find the light at the end of the tunnel by creating new patterns and a more fulfilling, authentic, empowered and present life.
(978) 903-3071 View (978) 903-3071
Photo of Sara E Hart, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Sara E Hart
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amesbury, MA 01913
I believe that one of the key components to successful therapy is fostering a strong therapeutic alliance through having compassion, empathy and respect for my clients. I use a non-judgmental, strengths-based and client-centered approach. I believe that seeking therapy is an important decision that shows personal courage and vulnerability. My approach to therapy is integrative, collaborative, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. I work with adults living with anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, who are new mothers, or who are going through a life transition.
I believe that one of the key components to successful therapy is fostering a strong therapeutic alliance through having compassion, empathy and respect for my clients. I use a non-judgmental, strengths-based and client-centered approach. I believe that seeking therapy is an important decision that shows personal courage and vulnerability. My approach to therapy is integrative, collaborative, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. I work with adults living with anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, who are new mothers, or who are going through a life transition.
(413) 650-5571 View (413) 650-5571
Photo of Kate Graham, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Kate Graham
Counselor, LMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ipswich, MA 01938
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are curious and motivated for change. I focus on building relationships with people so they may deepen their awareness and understanding of themselves and their experiences. My work connects clients with their strength, intelligence and embodied experience to expand their inner resources and feel empowered to make lasting change. I specializes in working with complex trauma, sexual trauma, attachment issues, relationship challenges, sexual health, gender and identity issues.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are curious and motivated for change. I focus on building relationships with people so they may deepen their awareness and understanding of themselves and their experiences. My work connects clients with their strength, intelligence and embodied experience to expand their inner resources and feel empowered to make lasting change. I specializes in working with complex trauma, sexual trauma, attachment issues, relationship challenges, sexual health, gender and identity issues.
(978) 506-9503 View (978) 506-9503
Photo of Erin Vahratian, Counselor in Byfield, MA
Erin Vahratian
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Newbury, MA 01985
We all have a unique path, an unfolding story to tell, and various crossroads to navigate on our journey through life. At times the path may be difficult; we may feel lost and unable to find our way or change direction alone. It may be a crisis in a family or relationship, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, grief/loss, difficulties with work or school, or an inner sense that something is just not right. I believe our natural state is one of joy and well-being but experiences in life can cause suffering and distance us from feeling whole. I take a holistic approach based on the premise that the mind and body function as one.
We all have a unique path, an unfolding story to tell, and various crossroads to navigate on our journey through life. At times the path may be difficult; we may feel lost and unable to find our way or change direction alone. It may be a crisis in a family or relationship, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, grief/loss, difficulties with work or school, or an inner sense that something is just not right. I believe our natural state is one of joy and well-being but experiences in life can cause suffering and distance us from feeling whole. I take a holistic approach based on the premise that the mind and body function as one.
(978) 409-4957 View (978) 409-4957
Photo of Elizabeth Radley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Byfield, MA
Elizabeth Radley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Newburyport, MA 01950
Hello and welcome! Therapy can be a beautiful journey when you work with the right therapist who fits your individual needs and goals. When you commit to and embark on your therapeutic path, choosing a therapist who aligns with who you are and what you are trying to accomplish with therapy makes all the difference. As a license-eligible therapist, my role is to guide you in your growth as I strongly believe YOU are the expert on your life. My role will always be to help my clients navigate life’s challenges to meet their goals and to give them the tools needed to continue to receive the most out of their therapeutic & life journeys.
Hello and welcome! Therapy can be a beautiful journey when you work with the right therapist who fits your individual needs and goals. When you commit to and embark on your therapeutic path, choosing a therapist who aligns with who you are and what you are trying to accomplish with therapy makes all the difference. As a license-eligible therapist, my role is to guide you in your growth as I strongly believe YOU are the expert on your life. My role will always be to help my clients navigate life’s challenges to meet their goals and to give them the tools needed to continue to receive the most out of their therapeutic & life journeys.
(978) 721-8976 View (978) 721-8976
Photo of Gaia Counseling Center, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byfield, MA
Gaia Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
West Newbury, MA 01985  (Online Only)
My name is Michael and I have worked as a clinical social worker and behavioral health therapist for the past 7 years. I attended BU and Simmons where I received my bachelors degree in Psychology and my Masters in Social Work. After graduation, I was hired at Lahey Hospital. I worked in the outpatient oncology department and inpatient liver transplant unit. I provided 1 on 1 mental health counseling to patients and their families newly diagnosed with cancer and end-stage liver disease. I have also worked in several virtual settings including Thriveworks and Better Help. I love my job and feel honored working with people everyday.
My name is Michael and I have worked as a clinical social worker and behavioral health therapist for the past 7 years. I attended BU and Simmons where I received my bachelors degree in Psychology and my Masters in Social Work. After graduation, I was hired at Lahey Hospital. I worked in the outpatient oncology department and inpatient liver transplant unit. I provided 1 on 1 mental health counseling to patients and their families newly diagnosed with cancer and end-stage liver disease. I have also worked in several virtual settings including Thriveworks and Better Help. I love my job and feel honored working with people everyday.
(978) 890-6196 View (978) 890-6196
Photo of Shane MacDonald, LICSW, New Inspiration LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byfield, MA
Shane MacDonald, LICSW, New Inspiration LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Haverhill, MA 01830  (Online Only)
When you improve your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, you are “on the path” to a happier, healthier life. I’d like to help you along that path. Together, we can explore a range of approaches: whatever works. But – so you know where I’m coming from – in the end, it’s always about relationships. I’d like to meet you.
When you improve your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, you are “on the path” to a happier, healthier life. I’d like to help you along that path. Together, we can explore a range of approaches: whatever works. But – so you know where I’m coming from – in the end, it’s always about relationships. I’d like to meet you.
(617) 675-2000 View (617) 675-2000
Photo of Kathy Davis-Gillette, PhD, New Inspiration LLC, Psychologist in Byfield, MA
Kathy Davis-Gillette, PhD, New Inspiration LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Haverhill, MA 01830  (Online Only)
Joy. Self-Esteem. Confidence. Fulfillment. Do you ever feel as if something is missing in your Life––either as an individual or couple? If so, let’s join together and find the missing pieces. As a Team, we’ll take an objective look at your Life and your desires. Then we’ll put together a personal Action Plan that will show the way to a more complete and happier You! The possibilities are endless once you take the first step!
Joy. Self-Esteem. Confidence. Fulfillment. Do you ever feel as if something is missing in your Life––either as an individual or couple? If so, let’s join together and find the missing pieces. As a Team, we’ll take an objective look at your Life and your desires. Then we’ll put together a personal Action Plan that will show the way to a more complete and happier You! The possibilities are endless once you take the first step!
(978) 756-1965 View (978) 756-1965

See more therapy options for Byfield

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.