Eating Disorders Therapists in Elkins Park, PA

Photo of Jessica B Covitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elkins Park, PA
Jessica B Covitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027  (Online Only)
Sometimes we look around and life is not the way we want it to be: full of disappointment, stress, sadness or loss. Sometimes we need help finding our way. In my practice, I seek to create a compassionate, supportive space for collaborative exploration, growth and positive change. I create a place where you can be seen and acknowledged, and you can give words to feelings and experiences, to discover greater understanding and self- awareness. When we understand our patterns of behaviors and feelings, we can free ourselves of the unwanted burdens that weigh us down, and live more fully and happily in the present.
Sometimes we look around and life is not the way we want it to be: full of disappointment, stress, sadness or loss. Sometimes we need help finding our way. In my practice, I seek to create a compassionate, supportive space for collaborative exploration, growth and positive change. I create a place where you can be seen and acknowledged, and you can give words to feelings and experiences, to discover greater understanding and self- awareness. When we understand our patterns of behaviors and feelings, we can free ourselves of the unwanted burdens that weigh us down, and live more fully and happily in the present.
(215) 740-7681 View (215) 740-7681
Photo of Doris Ferleger, Psychologist in Elkins Park, PA
Doris Ferleger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY With compassion and understanding gained from over 38 years of professional experience, and over fifteen years studying compassion and mindfulness-based healing approaches, I provide empathetic support, deep listening and insight, constructive feedback, and effective coping and communication skills to help clients address current life challenges and long-standing inner and outer conflicts.
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY With compassion and understanding gained from over 38 years of professional experience, and over fifteen years studying compassion and mindfulness-based healing approaches, I provide empathetic support, deep listening and insight, constructive feedback, and effective coping and communication skills to help clients address current life challenges and long-standing inner and outer conflicts.
(267) 710-9033 View (267) 710-9033
Photo of Ellen M. Adelman, Psychologist in Elkins Park, PA
Ellen M. Adelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Hello! I am Dr. Ellen Adelman, a licensed clinical psychologist. Effective treatment means looking at issues of the whole person: Mind, Body and Spirit. I often see people with their families or partners to help understand and resolve relationship issues and to improve communication skills. In individual sessions, a process of gentle exploration helps us address anxiety, depression, anger, and issues of self-esteem. We will determine the emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of the problems you face. Together we can identify the areas where you need help and develop strategies to deal with them in a safe and healing environment.
Hello! I am Dr. Ellen Adelman, a licensed clinical psychologist. Effective treatment means looking at issues of the whole person: Mind, Body and Spirit. I often see people with their families or partners to help understand and resolve relationship issues and to improve communication skills. In individual sessions, a process of gentle exploration helps us address anxiety, depression, anger, and issues of self-esteem. We will determine the emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of the problems you face. Together we can identify the areas where you need help and develop strategies to deal with them in a safe and healing environment.
(267) 536-2335 View (267) 536-2335
Photo of Peter T Capper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elkins Park, PA
Peter T Capper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AAMFT
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Not accepting new clients
I am a lifelong agent of change, working with diverse populations to help them achieve their full potential, and be free of self-limiting behaviors. I provide individual, couple and family therapy utilizing the most effective strategies, all in the context of a comfortable and collaborative relationship. I will always view my client in the context of their family, social network and broader environment. Complexity and clinical difficulty is stimulating and familiar to me, and I will wholeheartedly join with you to limit the difficulties you face.
I am a lifelong agent of change, working with diverse populations to help them achieve their full potential, and be free of self-limiting behaviors. I provide individual, couple and family therapy utilizing the most effective strategies, all in the context of a comfortable and collaborative relationship. I will always view my client in the context of their family, social network and broader environment. Complexity and clinical difficulty is stimulating and familiar to me, and I will wholeheartedly join with you to limit the difficulties you face.
(267) 578-2832 View (267) 578-2832

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elaine Alexander, Psychologist in Elkins Park, PA
Elaine Alexander
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
You are invited to experience a relationship which is caring, collaborative and respectful. People often experience relief from knowing they are heard and understood.I help you to address the obstacles that have kept you stuck, anxious, depressed and feeling bad about yourself. I also help people with histories of trauma, abuse, and eating disorders. We unearth long-standing behavior or thought patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing the present in a more fulfilling and meaningful way. We identify and build upon your strengths and skills in an indivualized and supportive relationship
You are invited to experience a relationship which is caring, collaborative and respectful. People often experience relief from knowing they are heard and understood.I help you to address the obstacles that have kept you stuck, anxious, depressed and feeling bad about yourself. I also help people with histories of trauma, abuse, and eating disorders. We unearth long-standing behavior or thought patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing the present in a more fulfilling and meaningful way. We identify and build upon your strengths and skills in an indivualized and supportive relationship
(215) 583-3288 View (215) 583-3288
Photo of Carly Ellman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elkins Park, PA
Carly Ellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSTS
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience providing assistance to clients with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma issues, eating disorders and postpartum depression. I work with children(5 and up), adolescents(ages 11 and up), young adults, couples, families and women. As a licensed clinical social worker I believe in focusing on all aspects of a person's well being; mental, physical, financial and social. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist, and pursuing PhD in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with over 17 years of experience providing assistance to clients with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, trauma issues, eating disorders and postpartum depression. I work with children(5 and up), adolescents(ages 11 and up), young adults, couples, families and women. As a licensed clinical social worker I believe in focusing on all aspects of a person's well being; mental, physical, financial and social. I have a Masters degree in Social Work, Certified Shame-Informed Treatment Specialist, and pursuing PhD in Strategic Leadership and Administrative Studies.
(914) 344-6239 View (914) 344-6239
Photo of Robin Axelrod Sabag, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elkins Park, PA
Robin Axelrod Sabag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues. I realize that coming to see a therapist and opening up is an act of trust and not always easy. In your work with me, I hope you will feel accepted and understood and experience our work as an ongoing process that we co-create. If we work together, you can expect to gain a better understanding of yourself and of meaningful people in your life. My areas of expertise include: eating disorders, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, moodiness, trauma, and addiction.
(215) 995-1199 View (215) 995-1199
Photo of Jane K Shure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elkins Park, PA
Jane K Shure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I'm cofounder of The Resilience Group, nationally recognized for my expertise in bolstering resilience & self-confidence & in helping people break negative patterns to achieve positive change. My TEDx Talk, BOLSTER RESILIENCE, addresses fear-based thinking & offers strategies for building emotional courage & confidence. Named a “Top Doc for Women” by Philadelphia Magazine, I'm a published author on issues of shame, trauma, body-image, eating disorders & lead workshops on Strengthen an Inner Coach more Powerful than Your Inner Critic. For more see: http://theresiliencegroup.com/ http://huffingtonpost.com/jane-shure/
I'm cofounder of The Resilience Group, nationally recognized for my expertise in bolstering resilience & self-confidence & in helping people break negative patterns to achieve positive change. My TEDx Talk, BOLSTER RESILIENCE, addresses fear-based thinking & offers strategies for building emotional courage & confidence. Named a “Top Doc for Women” by Philadelphia Magazine, I'm a published author on issues of shame, trauma, body-image, eating disorders & lead workshops on Strengthen an Inner Coach more Powerful than Your Inner Critic. For more see: http://theresiliencegroup.com/ http://huffingtonpost.com/jane-shure/
(215) 995-1198 View (215) 995-1198
Photo of Rhoda Fuchs-Morton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elkins Park, PA
Rhoda Fuchs-Morton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
I have been providing mental health care since 1989 in both inpatient and outpatient settings, treating individuals, couples and families for a variety of mental health problems. My professional training and background is as a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Addictions Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have a strong background in Alternative Holistic Healing Therapies from mind/body practices,energy psychology, body-based therapies, holistic health and spiritual practices. As a therapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and am able to integrate psychotherapy with alternative healing modalities to support psychological growth in the best way possible for each individual's particular needs (see fuchsmortonholistic.com). I believe it's important to find the "right/best" fit between client and therapist. The following are some of my specializations: individual therapy integrating holistic therapies, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions recovery, couples counseling, adolescence and families, compulsive eating and obesity, spiritual development, children of narcissistic parents, menopausal change, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.
I have been providing mental health care since 1989 in both inpatient and outpatient settings, treating individuals, couples and families for a variety of mental health problems. My professional training and background is as a Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Addictions Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have a strong background in Alternative Holistic Healing Therapies from mind/body practices,energy psychology, body-based therapies, holistic health and spiritual practices. As a therapist I use a variety of therapeutic approaches and am able to integrate psychotherapy with alternative healing modalities to support psychological growth in the best way possible for each individual's particular needs (see fuchsmortonholistic.com). I believe it's important to find the "right/best" fit between client and therapist. The following are some of my specializations: individual therapy integrating holistic therapies, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, addictions recovery, couples counseling, adolescence and families, compulsive eating and obesity, spiritual development, children of narcissistic parents, menopausal change, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.
(609) 849-3184 View (609) 849-3184
Photo of Gail Post, Psychologist in Elkins Park, PA
Gail Post
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
I work with a range of issues, but also have specialties in the areas of eating disorders, anxiety, and the needs of gifted adolescents and adults.
I am a clinical psychologist, parenting coach, author, and workshop leader, in practice for over 35 years. I am also a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Therapy works best as a collaborative relationship between therapist and client - a process that encourages personal growth, behavioral changes, and self-awareness. While offering my experience and perspective, I encourage an interactive, respectful, and engaged therapy process. I am currently offering individual, couples, and family therapy through teletherapy throughout PA and in PSYPACT authorized states.
I work with a range of issues, but also have specialties in the areas of eating disorders, anxiety, and the needs of gifted adolescents and adults.
I am a clinical psychologist, parenting coach, author, and workshop leader, in practice for over 35 years. I am also a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Therapy works best as a collaborative relationship between therapist and client - a process that encourages personal growth, behavioral changes, and self-awareness. While offering my experience and perspective, I encourage an interactive, respectful, and engaged therapy process. I am currently offering individual, couples, and family therapy through teletherapy throughout PA and in PSYPACT authorized states.
(267) 338-4181 View (267) 338-4181
Photo of Monica Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elkins Park, PA
Monica Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038  (Online Only)
I have also helped and supported clients working through different challenges including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, OCD and incarceration/ the justice system.
Starting therapy can be intimidating and overwhelming. But it can also give you the chance to face the challenges and stressors of life, utilize helpful coping skills and allow you to live the life you want for yourself. I believe every client that is willing to do the work can achieve whatever their goals are. Having a therapist with an unbiased, outside perspective can be helpful in understanding behavioral or thought patterns that are not beneficial for you, and can help with implementing techniques to change these to be more supportive.
I have also helped and supported clients working through different challenges including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, OCD and incarceration/ the justice system.
Starting therapy can be intimidating and overwhelming. But it can also give you the chance to face the challenges and stressors of life, utilize helpful coping skills and allow you to live the life you want for yourself. I believe every client that is willing to do the work can achieve whatever their goals are. Having a therapist with an unbiased, outside perspective can be helpful in understanding behavioral or thought patterns that are not beneficial for you, and can help with implementing techniques to change these to be more supportive.
(267) 680-7271 View (267) 680-7271
Photo of Julie Sponsler in Elkins Park, PA
Julie Sponsler
MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cheltenham, PA 19012
Are you feeling stuck or unhappy at home, work or school? Using food to manage stress? Struggling with a relationship? Using experiential techniques beyond basic "talk therapy," I create a safe space helping clients remove the blocks that are keeping them from living a joy-filled life. Many of the approaches I use with clients supported me in my own process of healing from depression and an eating disorder. I now happily share these techniques with my clients. Specializations: Relationship issues, Food issues, Depression, Parenting, Anxiety. Couples therapy (all couples including LGBTQ and polyamorous couples welcome).
Are you feeling stuck or unhappy at home, work or school? Using food to manage stress? Struggling with a relationship? Using experiential techniques beyond basic "talk therapy," I create a safe space helping clients remove the blocks that are keeping them from living a joy-filled life. Many of the approaches I use with clients supported me in my own process of healing from depression and an eating disorder. I now happily share these techniques with my clients. Specializations: Relationship issues, Food issues, Depression, Parenting, Anxiety. Couples therapy (all couples including LGBTQ and polyamorous couples welcome).
(267) 329-0459 View (267) 329-0459
Photo of Elyse (Parcher) Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elkins Park, PA
Elyse (Parcher) Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
Hi and welcome! My name is Elyse and I am an eating disorder and body image specialist in the Philadelphia area. I also work extensively with anxiety disorders, self-esteem, and trauma co-occurring with an eating disorder or as stand-alone issues. I believe that with some courage, commitment, and hope, we can do great things and I am passionate about helping my clients realize their worth and how strong and resilient they really are. I understand that what is hurting you may also be protecting you, and that letting go is no easy feat. I'm here though, to hold your hand, cheer you on, and remind you that you can do this.
Hi and welcome! My name is Elyse and I am an eating disorder and body image specialist in the Philadelphia area. I also work extensively with anxiety disorders, self-esteem, and trauma co-occurring with an eating disorder or as stand-alone issues. I believe that with some courage, commitment, and hope, we can do great things and I am passionate about helping my clients realize their worth and how strong and resilient they really are. I understand that what is hurting you may also be protecting you, and that letting go is no easy feat. I'm here though, to hold your hand, cheer you on, and remind you that you can do this.
(484) 416-0583 View (484) 416-0583
Photo of Kri Gore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Elkins Park, PA
Kri Gore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erdenheim, PA 19038  (Online Only)
You haven’t been feeling like yourself lately. Maybe you wake up already feeling overwhelmed, knowing it’s been difficult managing daily tasks and expectations. You’ve noticed how stress has taken a toll on your relationships, social life and gotten in the way of taking care of yourself. You’ve questioned your eating behaviors at times, or found yourself in the guilt/shame spiral after a late night binge. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck in a cycle of emotional eating and dieting or feeling like you’re held back from small joys in life because of the way you feel in your body. You can relate to all or parts of this paragraph.
You haven’t been feeling like yourself lately. Maybe you wake up already feeling overwhelmed, knowing it’s been difficult managing daily tasks and expectations. You’ve noticed how stress has taken a toll on your relationships, social life and gotten in the way of taking care of yourself. You’ve questioned your eating behaviors at times, or found yourself in the guilt/shame spiral after a late night binge. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck in a cycle of emotional eating and dieting or feeling like you’re held back from small joys in life because of the way you feel in your body. You can relate to all or parts of this paragraph.
(215) 273-3681 View (215) 273-3681
Photo of Joy N Rosenthal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elkins Park, PA
Joy N Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19111  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and the spectrum of mood disorders including bipolar disorder and borderline disorder.
With over 30 years of experience I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and the spectrum of mood disorders including bipolar disorder and borderline disorder.
(610) 634-8484 View (610) 634-8484
Photo of Rachel Breskman, Psychologist in Elkins Park, PA
Rachel Breskman
Psychologist, MEd, CAC
Verified Verified
Wyncote, PA 19095
My approach to therapy is relational. I create a safe environment of collaboration with clients to work toward eliminating unhealthy obstacles to achieving their goals. These behaviors and beliefs are aftereffects of traumas in their pasts. I promote healing by witnessing the client's story and providing feedback including strengths, progress and the causes of clients' pain. I see therapy as an opportunity to experience new ways of relating and coping while developing and appreciation of who they are. Additional techniques I use as indicated are: cognitive exercises, hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and sand tray therapy.
My approach to therapy is relational. I create a safe environment of collaboration with clients to work toward eliminating unhealthy obstacles to achieving their goals. These behaviors and beliefs are aftereffects of traumas in their pasts. I promote healing by witnessing the client's story and providing feedback including strengths, progress and the causes of clients' pain. I see therapy as an opportunity to experience new ways of relating and coping while developing and appreciation of who they are. Additional techniques I use as indicated are: cognitive exercises, hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and sand tray therapy.
(215) 886-5611 View (215) 886-5611
Photo of Jennifer Bullock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elkins Park, PA
Jennifer Bullock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MLSP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Are you feeling stuck? Moving through a life transition? Wanting innovative tools for living a full, connected and satisfying life? We offer welcoming and powerful therapy groups and relationship coaching where we work as a team to develop new tools for living.
Are you feeling stuck? Moving through a life transition? Wanting innovative tools for living a full, connected and satisfying life? We offer welcoming and powerful therapy groups and relationship coaching where we work as a team to develop new tools for living.
(215) 995-0181 View (215) 995-0181
Photo of Gabriella Serruya-Green, Psychologist in Elkins Park, PA
Gabriella Serruya-Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jenkintown, PA 19046
For all the conveniences and genuine marvels of the modern world, rates of stress, disease and mental illness continue to escalate, particularly in the wake of the collective trauma of Covid-19. Children, teens, and young adults have been especially hard hit. I work with individuals of all ages in diminishing feelings of alienation, fear, and hyper-reactivity and cultivating a sense of inner ease and well-being. Using play, talk and family therapy, we work together to understand the unmet needs underlying symptoms and figure out ways to address these needs via channeling the natural human instincts for growth and discovery.
For all the conveniences and genuine marvels of the modern world, rates of stress, disease and mental illness continue to escalate, particularly in the wake of the collective trauma of Covid-19. Children, teens, and young adults have been especially hard hit. I work with individuals of all ages in diminishing feelings of alienation, fear, and hyper-reactivity and cultivating a sense of inner ease and well-being. Using play, talk and family therapy, we work together to understand the unmet needs underlying symptoms and figure out ways to address these needs via channeling the natural human instincts for growth and discovery.
(267) 613-7057 View (267) 613-7057
Photo of Marina James, Pre-Licensed Professional in Elkins Park, PA
Marina James
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glenside, PA 19038
Your anxiety is always present, and depression is a constant visitor, yet, energy and motivation rarely exist. You instinctively understand that society's rules are not always relevant; at the same time, it is hard to decide what is important and how to find your life's purpose, especially with unrealistic media expectations. You worry about money, the future, and the carbon footprint. You have difficulty with challenging conversations and making meaningful relationships. It is hard for you to keep up with the demands of life, keep things organized and workable, and find a healthy balance in life.
Your anxiety is always present, and depression is a constant visitor, yet, energy and motivation rarely exist. You instinctively understand that society's rules are not always relevant; at the same time, it is hard to decide what is important and how to find your life's purpose, especially with unrealistic media expectations. You worry about money, the future, and the carbon footprint. You have difficulty with challenging conversations and making meaningful relationships. It is hard for you to keep up with the demands of life, keep things organized and workable, and find a healthy balance in life.
(267) 982-4444 View (267) 982-4444
Photo of Maureen Foy-Tornay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elkins Park, PA
Maureen Foy-Tornay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC, CTHM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Are you increasingly anxious, thinking about the past and worried about the future while unable to focus on today? Our sessions can offer you the hope and time you need to gain perspective. I have extensive experience working with young adults, college students & couples in inpatient, and outpatient settings struggling with traumatic events in their lives, stress, adjustment and challenges that require more resilience, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. Sometimes unhelpful addictions were our way of coping and we need support to redirect. I am here for you and ready to help.
Are you increasingly anxious, thinking about the past and worried about the future while unable to focus on today? Our sessions can offer you the hope and time you need to gain perspective. I have extensive experience working with young adults, college students & couples in inpatient, and outpatient settings struggling with traumatic events in their lives, stress, adjustment and challenges that require more resilience, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. Sometimes unhelpful addictions were our way of coping and we need support to redirect. I am here for you and ready to help.
(267) 633-8878 View (267) 633-8878

See more therapy options for Elkins Park

Eating Disorders Therapists

What happens in therapy for eating disorders?

In therapy for eating disorders, patients typically describe their eating and exercise behaviors, their patterns of eating in relation to stress, their beliefs about their body, the ways their eating behavior affects their relationships, and their desire (or lack of it) to change. Such information helps the therapist understand the origins of the disorder and the role it plays in the patient’s life, important for guiding treatment. Attitudes and feelings about food and eating, body weight, and physical appearance are common topics of discussion throughout treatment.

What therapy types help with eating disorders?

Once any acute medical or psychiatric emergency is resolved, psychoactive medication is often prescribed, requiring the supervision of a psychiatrist. In addition, patients receive some form of nutritional counseling along with one or more forms of psychotherapy. For adolescents, family-based treatment is empirically validated and considered the first line of treatment; parents and their children meet weekly with a clinician as the adults are coached on how to nourish and psychologically support the young patient. Adults typically receive some form of individual psychotherapy, intended to resolve the cognitive and behavioral disturbances that underlie the disorder and to relieve the mood disturbances that accompany it. In addition, patients may also be helped by group therapy.

What is the goal of therapy for eating disorders?

The most immediate goal of treatment for eating disorders is to save the life of people who are on a path of starving themselves to death or engaging in eating patterns that are doing irreparable physical harm to their body. Once the acute medical danger is past, therapy is required to understand the nature of the disordered eating and/or exercise patterns, establish healthy eating behavior, and to tackle the many erroneous beliefs and distorted self-perceptions that underlie eating disorders and continue to pose a threat to health and life. Therapy also addresses the impaired mood that not only accompanies eating disorders but intensifies the danger to health and life.

What are the limitations of therapy for eating disorders?

Therapy can be very helpful for eating disorders—but that can happen only after people recognize they have a condition that must be treated. Especially with anorexia, the distortions in self-image that accompany the disorder can keep people from acknowledging they have a problem. Individuals may in fact see their eating disorder as a badge of self-control. Those with binge-eating disorder may feel too ashamed to seek help. Therapy cannot help those who do not avail themselves of it.

How long does therapy last for eating disorders?

Because of their complexity, recovery from eating disorders is usually a long-term process—measured in months and years— often marked by setbacks and relapse. Some form of help, such as individual or group therapy, may be advisable for much of that time. It is a general rule of thumb that the longer the illness has endured and the dysregulated eating behavior has taken root, the longer treatment is likely to be needed.