Therapists in Tarrytown, NY
Judith Arlene Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tarrytown, NY 10591
* Warm, Accepting, & Compassionate * Holistic Approach (Buddhism, CBT, wellness, DBT, psychodynamic)
* Eating Disorders Specialist
* Mood Disorders Specialist (depression, bipolar disorder) * LGBT-friendly
* Trained at Ackerman Institute
* Some Sliding Scale Fee Slots
* Union Square & Westchester Offices
* Former Adjunct Professor NYU School of Social Work
* Past-Vice President of Family & Divorce Mediation Council.
I have a unique, interdisciplinary background as a seasoned and compassionate holistic psychotherapist (individual, couples, family), divorce/family mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach. I view and treat patients as whole people, integrating Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, wellness, and Buddhist principles into a tailored holistic approach. Together, these approaches help patients understand and change how their thoughts and emotions impact their behavior. As a mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach, I am committed to helping people avoid court and resolve their differences sensibly and compassionately. I am passionate about minimizing the negative effects of divorce and separation by fostering effective coparenting.
* Warm, Accepting, & Compassionate * Holistic Approach (Buddhism, CBT, wellness, DBT, psychodynamic)
* Eating Disorders Specialist
* Mood Disorders Specialist (depression, bipolar disorder) * LGBT-friendly
* Trained at Ackerman Institute
* Some Sliding Scale Fee Slots
* Union Square & Westchester Offices
* Former Adjunct Professor NYU School of Social Work
* Past-Vice President of Family & Divorce Mediation Council.
I have a unique, interdisciplinary background as a seasoned and compassionate holistic psychotherapist (individual, couples, family), divorce/family mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach. I view and treat patients as whole people, integrating Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, wellness, and Buddhist principles into a tailored holistic approach. Together, these approaches help patients understand and change how their thoughts and emotions impact their behavior. As a mediator, child specialist, and divorce coach, I am committed to helping people avoid court and resolve their differences sensibly and compassionately. I am passionate about minimizing the negative effects of divorce and separation by fostering effective coparenting.
More Therapists Nearby
Mijin Kim
DA, LCAT
Verified Verified
Hartsdale, NY 10530
Do you feel overwhelmed or insecure? Do you struggle with repeating patterns of negative emotions and relationships? Are you stuck with past and current trauma and utilizing unhealthy means to cope? Do you over-manage yourself or surroundings to have a sense of control? I specialize in helping teens and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, work stress, cross-cultural issues, couples, family, and other interpersonal issues. My work emphasizes helping clients understand and overcome their internal blockages, and gain empowerment to make intentional and impactful choices in life.
Do you feel overwhelmed or insecure? Do you struggle with repeating patterns of negative emotions and relationships? Are you stuck with past and current trauma and utilizing unhealthy means to cope? Do you over-manage yourself or surroundings to have a sense of control? I specialize in helping teens and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, work stress, cross-cultural issues, couples, family, and other interpersonal issues. My work emphasizes helping clients understand and overcome their internal blockages, and gain empowerment to make intentional and impactful choices in life.
Marisol Kaminski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
In addition to two masters' degrees, I have extensive post-graduate training, specializing in eating disorders, substance abuse, addictions/compulsive behaviors, the use of contemporary psychoanalytic methods, and the incorporation of DBT.
Seeking help takes courage. I create a safe, empathic space where, working together, we will uncover and unwind the self-defeating patterns of thought and behavior that are causing you pain. I use a holistic approach, bringing in mindfulness techniques, behavioral interventions, and DBT when needed, to help provide you with insight into unseen obstacles and the practical tools and skills to promote more productive behaviors. Together, we can come to understand and free you from old perceptions of your self that are holding you back so that real transformation can begin and you can live life more fully.
In addition to two masters' degrees, I have extensive post-graduate training, specializing in eating disorders, substance abuse, addictions/compulsive behaviors, the use of contemporary psychoanalytic methods, and the incorporation of DBT.
Seeking help takes courage. I create a safe, empathic space where, working together, we will uncover and unwind the self-defeating patterns of thought and behavior that are causing you pain. I use a holistic approach, bringing in mindfulness techniques, behavioral interventions, and DBT when needed, to help provide you with insight into unseen obstacles and the practical tools and skills to promote more productive behaviors. Together, we can come to understand and free you from old perceptions of your self that are holding you back so that real transformation can begin and you can live life more fully.
Susan Schrott Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DCSW, LCSW, CEDS, CYT
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10607
Waitlist for new clients
With over three decades of experience, I have the privilege to provide therapy to those seeking help with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression as well as relationship issues. You deserve to get compassionate and inspired treatment from a professional who is experienced and well trained in leading approaches for eating disorders. Sessions are aimed at developing confidence, self esteem and identified goals that bring you health and joy. I understand that trust and confidentiality are the cornerstones of the courageous journey to healing allowing patients to move a richer and more meaningful life.
With over three decades of experience, I have the privilege to provide therapy to those seeking help with an eating disorder, anxiety, depression as well as relationship issues. You deserve to get compassionate and inspired treatment from a professional who is experienced and well trained in leading approaches for eating disorders. Sessions are aimed at developing confidence, self esteem and identified goals that bring you health and joy. I understand that trust and confidentiality are the cornerstones of the courageous journey to healing allowing patients to move a richer and more meaningful life.
Laura Landau, LCSW-R,CASAC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarsdale, NY 10583
A NY State Certified Addiction Specialist, and Eating Disorders Specialist, I treat trauma, loss, food/eating/body image disorders.
Therapy begins within a trusted, emotional connection where your unique story can truly be heard. I'm dedicated to helping you sort out your feelings and circumstances, to examine difficult relationships. I will teach you effective coping skills, strategies to better handle stress and distress. We will utilize new tools to address problem behavior patterns, unhealthy relationships and to problem solve. I utilize a nuanced, crafted combination of evidenced-based therapies: Mindfulness, Supportive, Relational, Psychodynamic, Motivational, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Modern Analytic and Family Treatments.
A NY State Certified Addiction Specialist, and Eating Disorders Specialist, I treat trauma, loss, food/eating/body image disorders.
Therapy begins within a trusted, emotional connection where your unique story can truly be heard. I'm dedicated to helping you sort out your feelings and circumstances, to examine difficult relationships. I will teach you effective coping skills, strategies to better handle stress and distress. We will utilize new tools to address problem behavior patterns, unhealthy relationships and to problem solve. I utilize a nuanced, crafted combination of evidenced-based therapies: Mindfulness, Supportive, Relational, Psychodynamic, Motivational, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Modern Analytic and Family Treatments.
Michael Fischman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-R, CGP, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Hello and welcome to my profile.
By now I would assume that you've read several profiles on the "Psychology Today" site and by this point they are probably all sounding astonishingly similar. That's got to be frustrating.
I hope that the following information concerning my practice doesn't have the same effect.
Let me be brief: I work with a multitude of issues and problems that relate to: couples, anxiety, depression and anger management. I also work with addictions including eating disorders. My approach can help you work through unconscious conflict (repeating patterns again and again without understanding why) as well as compulsive behaviors such as drinking, thought ruminating and habitual behaviors that are difficult to control.I can help you 'evolve' out of your particular problem. I am supportive and reality based while I can always find humor in the worst and the best of times. Together we can turn this all around and get you to where you want to be.
Hello and welcome to my profile.
By now I would assume that you've read several profiles on the "Psychology Today" site and by this point they are probably all sounding astonishingly similar. That's got to be frustrating.
I hope that the following information concerning my practice doesn't have the same effect.
Let me be brief: I work with a multitude of issues and problems that relate to: couples, anxiety, depression and anger management. I also work with addictions including eating disorders. My approach can help you work through unconscious conflict (repeating patterns again and again without understanding why) as well as compulsive behaviors such as drinking, thought ruminating and habitual behaviors that are difficult to control.I can help you 'evolve' out of your particular problem. I am supportive and reality based while I can always find humor in the worst and the best of times. Together we can turn this all around and get you to where you want to be.
Alexis M De Braganca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chappaqua, NY 10514
My work as a therapist focuses on helping adolescent and adult clients coping with life changes and difficult circumstances leading the individual to a variety of protective yet self-defeating responses. I am experienced in treating substance abuse, eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I take a hands-on, eclectic and team approach with the individual and their unique support systems towards attaining their goals of treatment; as well as to restore mental health and wellness, and balance in their lives and relationships.
My work as a therapist focuses on helping adolescent and adult clients coping with life changes and difficult circumstances leading the individual to a variety of protective yet self-defeating responses. I am experienced in treating substance abuse, eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I take a hands-on, eclectic and team approach with the individual and their unique support systems towards attaining their goals of treatment; as well as to restore mental health and wellness, and balance in their lives and relationships.
Jacqueline Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
Through trust and collaboration we start to build understanding so the anxiety and depression often seen with food concerns doesn't dominate one's life. Struggling with food can lead to obesity, bulimia and anorexia. Definitions of addiction are complicated but if you think of food before relationships, or you're in a physical and psychological state you feel you cannot share with others then maybe it's time to come in for healing. I've had the honor of working with hundreds of people over the past 18 years witnessing and fostering recovery from eating issues and related disorders.
Through trust and collaboration we start to build understanding so the anxiety and depression often seen with food concerns doesn't dominate one's life. Struggling with food can lead to obesity, bulimia and anorexia. Definitions of addiction are complicated but if you think of food before relationships, or you're in a physical and psychological state you feel you cannot share with others then maybe it's time to come in for healing. I've had the honor of working with hundreds of people over the past 18 years witnessing and fostering recovery from eating issues and related disorders.
Erika Lee Doukas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583 (Online Only)
I work with with adults and adolescents, and specialize in couples therapy, and in treating eating disorders.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, and have been in practice for 31 years. I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative process, and that good treatment can be life changing. I have a non-judgmental approach, and partner with clients to identify obstacles that interfere with self esteem, relationships and goals. Often times people get stuck in redundant, maladaptive patterns of behavior. When these patterns are identified and understood, more productive options become accessible. I am proficient in both CBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy, and typically integrate both approaches and tailor treatment to meet the needs of my clients.
I work with with adults and adolescents, and specialize in couples therapy, and in treating eating disorders.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, and have been in practice for 31 years. I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative process, and that good treatment can be life changing. I have a non-judgmental approach, and partner with clients to identify obstacles that interfere with self esteem, relationships and goals. Often times people get stuck in redundant, maladaptive patterns of behavior. When these patterns are identified and understood, more productive options become accessible. I am proficient in both CBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy, and typically integrate both approaches and tailor treatment to meet the needs of my clients.
Christine Knorr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Not Verified Not Verified
5 Endorsed
New City, NY 10956
I own a small group practice of therapists who specialize in treating eating disorders.
Having an eating disorder can make you feel trapped in a world where thoughts about food and your body become your whole life. You don’t have to stay trapped. You don’t have to keep canceling plans, making excuses, or hiding your behaviors. You can start to feel comfortable in your own skin, eat the way others do, and be more present in your life. I have over 10 years of experience providing specialized therapy to people with eating disorders and understand the complex nuances of what you are facing. I know how to move you towards recovery so that you don’t have to continue to suffer.
I own a small group practice of therapists who specialize in treating eating disorders.
Having an eating disorder can make you feel trapped in a world where thoughts about food and your body become your whole life. You don’t have to stay trapped. You don’t have to keep canceling plans, making excuses, or hiding your behaviors. You can start to feel comfortable in your own skin, eat the way others do, and be more present in your life. I have over 10 years of experience providing specialized therapy to people with eating disorders and understand the complex nuances of what you are facing. I know how to move you towards recovery so that you don’t have to continue to suffer.
Olga Plotkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Rochelle, NY 10804
My clients come for therapy to address depression, relationship difficulties, addictions, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, work related stress, and trauma.
I believe strongly in the positive effects of therapy at any stage of life. Therapy is an amazing healing experience. It provides the opportunity to discuss, relate and unburdan oneself in a confidential, non-judgmental and relaxed environment. While we can't change difficult situations in the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. Relationship and sex therapy can help you heal and determine what comes next.
My clients come for therapy to address depression, relationship difficulties, addictions, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, work related stress, and trauma.
I believe strongly in the positive effects of therapy at any stage of life. Therapy is an amazing healing experience. It provides the opportunity to discuss, relate and unburdan oneself in a confidential, non-judgmental and relaxed environment. While we can't change difficult situations in the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. I am a Certified Sex Therapist. Relationship and sex therapy can help you heal and determine what comes next.
Alex Kurjiaka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583 (Online Only)
Welcome! Thank you for visiting. Exploring our humanness can be hard. I will do my best to hear you and encourage a way forward that makes sense for you and your needs. I am an LPC with a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Western Connecticut State University. I have worked in the field of behavioral health for 12 years and specialize in addiction, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety drawing from trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches.
Welcome! Thank you for visiting. Exploring our humanness can be hard. I will do my best to hear you and encourage a way forward that makes sense for you and your needs. I am an LPC with a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Western Connecticut State University. I have worked in the field of behavioral health for 12 years and specialize in addiction, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety drawing from trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and family systems approaches.
Dr. Jennifer F. D'Agostino
Counselor, PhD, MS, LMHC, NCC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I offer a non-judgmental, holistic, supportive approach to therapy with a focus on positive self-improvement, transformation & wellness. I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy even when there is not an immediate challenge or crisis. Goals in therapy are achieved collaboratively. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, loss/bereavement, mood/personality/eating disorders, substance abuse, ADHD & changing destructive patterns. I work with individuals (children/adolescents/adults), families, couples, and groups. I offer animal-assisted interventions including therapy dogs and equine-assisted mental health sessions.
I offer a non-judgmental, holistic, supportive approach to therapy with a focus on positive self-improvement, transformation & wellness. I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy even when there is not an immediate challenge or crisis. Goals in therapy are achieved collaboratively. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, loss/bereavement, mood/personality/eating disorders, substance abuse, ADHD & changing destructive patterns. I work with individuals (children/adolescents/adults), families, couples, and groups. I offer animal-assisted interventions including therapy dogs and equine-assisted mental health sessions.
Massimo Balestri
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I treat a wide spectrum of conditions including mood and anxiety disorders (e.g., bipolar and depressive disorders, panic and phobias), ADHD, marital issues and PTSD. My niche is in personality disorders (e.g., borderline and narcissistic personality disorder). I have extensive experience treating trauma sequelas, dissociative disorders and helping individuals overcome grief. My practice also includes treatment of eating disorders in adults (e.g., bulimia) and parasuicidal behaviour. Although my practice is mainly guided by empirical modalities, I tend to approach each client in an eclectic manner to customize treatment as needed.
I treat a wide spectrum of conditions including mood and anxiety disorders (e.g., bipolar and depressive disorders, panic and phobias), ADHD, marital issues and PTSD. My niche is in personality disorders (e.g., borderline and narcissistic personality disorder). I have extensive experience treating trauma sequelas, dissociative disorders and helping individuals overcome grief. My practice also includes treatment of eating disorders in adults (e.g., bulimia) and parasuicidal behaviour. Although my practice is mainly guided by empirical modalities, I tend to approach each client in an eclectic manner to customize treatment as needed.
Lynne Julianna Beldegreen
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601
They are often trauma-affected and struggle with symptoms that include self-injury, eating disorders, conduct disorders, relationship conflicts.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
They are often trauma-affected and struggle with symptoms that include self-injury, eating disorders, conduct disorders, relationship conflicts.
I have practiced art therapy and verbal psychotherapy in NYC for 25 years. In private practice for the past 20 years, I have designed an original line of Creative Tools that fall within the disciplines of both Art Therapy and Creative Writing/Poetry therapy. I specialize in working with trauma-affected children, adolescents, families, and adults. My extensive clinical experience includes Directorships at inner-city agencies and hospitals. I have been invited to design and staff Art Therapy programs in some of these facilities. Trained at NYU, I work there as a Clinical Supervisor and Guest Lecturer.
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Vanessa Reiser Narcissism Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Congers, NY 10920
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, low self-esteem, or anyone in need of developing new ways to cope with life’s every day challenges. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, low self-esteem, or anyone in need of developing new ways to cope with life’s every day challenges. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser
Lisa Bargellini
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10607
If you have been struggling to feel connected with others and in life, coping by using self-destructive behaviors, or simply want to gain insight into behaviors and responses, therapy will be a useful tool. Making small changes in your way of coping can bring about positive and deserving results - and with my services, I will help you achieve just that. I tailor therapy to suit everyone's needs, and discover what works best for you in your treatment.
If you have been struggling to feel connected with others and in life, coping by using self-destructive behaviors, or simply want to gain insight into behaviors and responses, therapy will be a useful tool. Making small changes in your way of coping can bring about positive and deserving results - and with my services, I will help you achieve just that. I tailor therapy to suit everyone's needs, and discover what works best for you in your treatment.
Justine De Leon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced psychotherapist who works with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions or other stressful situations. I utilize a strengths based perspective, and incorporate cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), but primarily I use an eclectic approach depending upon your individual needs. I look at both past events and current factors that may be holding you back from achieving your goals and provide you with the tools that will empower you to make changes in your life so that you can ultimately be successful.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who works with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions or other stressful situations. I utilize a strengths based perspective, and incorporate cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), but primarily I use an eclectic approach depending upon your individual needs. I look at both past events and current factors that may be holding you back from achieving your goals and provide you with the tools that will empower you to make changes in your life so that you can ultimately be successful.
Charles Andrew Opsahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Eastchester, NY 10709
You may have wondered whether therapy can be helpful to you. I offer a phone consult to discuss any questions you may have. I understand the impact of your psychological health and am committed to helping during this time. As a senior staff therapist at Greenwich Psychology group, I enjoy working with individuals who are intelligent and thoughtful but may be struggling with anxiety, depression, family, and work issues. I work to create a safe and non- judgmental space where we can explore your challenges and find ways to reconnect with your healthier and positive self.
You may have wondered whether therapy can be helpful to you. I offer a phone consult to discuss any questions you may have. I understand the impact of your psychological health and am committed to helping during this time. As a senior staff therapist at Greenwich Psychology group, I enjoy working with individuals who are intelligent and thoughtful but may be struggling with anxiety, depression, family, and work issues. I work to create a safe and non- judgmental space where we can explore your challenges and find ways to reconnect with your healthier and positive self.
See more therapy options for Tarrytown
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Tarrytown
- Ardsley
- Briarcliff Manor
- Dobbs Ferry
- Hartsdale
- Irvington
- Nyack
- Piermont
- Pleasantville
- Scarsdale
- Sleepy Hollow
- Valley Cottage
- White Plains
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.