Photo of Alyssa Booth, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Alyssa Booth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and ARFID.
If you are looking for a therapist who will hold a safe, compassionate space for you to process difficult thoughts, feelings, and events in your life, while simultaneously helping you make the changes necessary to live a more fulfilling life, I am your gal! Life can be hard… Trust me when I say, I get it. With extensive training in several therapeutic modalities, I can help facilitate the healing process necessary to overcome stressors and trauma you might be facing today. Whether these stressors are from old wounds, or have recently popped up, let's work together to get you the healing you deserve.
I specialize in working with eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and ARFID.
If you are looking for a therapist who will hold a safe, compassionate space for you to process difficult thoughts, feelings, and events in your life, while simultaneously helping you make the changes necessary to live a more fulfilling life, I am your gal! Life can be hard… Trust me when I say, I get it. With extensive training in several therapeutic modalities, I can help facilitate the healing process necessary to overcome stressors and trauma you might be facing today. Whether these stressors are from old wounds, or have recently popped up, let's work together to get you the healing you deserve.
(210) 791-0414 View (210) 791-0414
Photo of Online Virtual Therapy With Shaudi Adel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Online Virtual Therapy With Shaudi Adel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78250
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image issues, life transitions, and trauma who want to build a better future.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life. My goal is to help you find compassion for yourself, develop skills to help you navigate life stressors, and be confident in the resilient person you are.
I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders and body image issues, life transitions, and trauma who want to build a better future.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life. My goal is to help you find compassion for yourself, develop skills to help you navigate life stressors, and be confident in the resilient person you are.
(858) 736-9964 View (858) 736-9964
Photo of Papaya Counseling by Maya Ontiveros, LPC Intern in San Antonio, TX
Papaya Counseling by Maya Ontiveros
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist who specializes in treating eating disorders in teens and young adults? What about someone who has worked extensively in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more? Through evidence-based techniques, I help clients unlock their emotions, face their fears, build confidence, and renew their sense of identity. Together, we will discover your motivation and strength to effect real, long-term change.
Are you looking for a therapist who specializes in treating eating disorders in teens and young adults? What about someone who has worked extensively in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more? Through evidence-based techniques, I help clients unlock their emotions, face their fears, build confidence, and renew their sense of identity. Together, we will discover your motivation and strength to effect real, long-term change.
(210) 864-1605 View (210) 864-1605
Photo of Heather Ingram, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Heather Ingram
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
Ingram has training and experience working with a range of mental health concerns including eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, and domestic violence.
Dr. Heather Ingram, originally from Chicago, obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Argosy University in Schaumburg, Illinois. Throughout her training, Dr. Ingram worked in a variety of settings around Chicago including Elgin Mental Health Center on the Unfit to Stand Trial Unit, Bridge View-Challenger Therapeutic Day School, Women In Need Growing Stronger domestic violence shelter, and Gateway Foundation residential substance abuse treatment center. During her work in Boston, Dr. Ingram worked at Walden Behavioral Care eating disorder clinic, where she worked in inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient levels of care.
Ingram has training and experience working with a range of mental health concerns including eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, and domestic violence.
Dr. Heather Ingram, originally from Chicago, obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Argosy University in Schaumburg, Illinois. Throughout her training, Dr. Ingram worked in a variety of settings around Chicago including Elgin Mental Health Center on the Unfit to Stand Trial Unit, Bridge View-Challenger Therapeutic Day School, Women In Need Growing Stronger domestic violence shelter, and Gateway Foundation residential substance abuse treatment center. During her work in Boston, Dr. Ingram worked at Walden Behavioral Care eating disorder clinic, where she worked in inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient levels of care.
(830) 469-4884 View (830) 469-4884
Photo of Center for Dialectical & Cognitive Behav Therapies, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Center for Dialectical & Cognitive Behav Therapies
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC-S, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
The CDCBT specializes in evidence-based treatment of mental health issues. We treat a wide variety of disorders including: chronic depression and anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, grief, and eating disorders.
The CDCBT specializes in evidence-based treatment of mental health issues. We treat a wide variety of disorders including: chronic depression and anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, grief, and eating disorders.
(210) 742-4282 View (210) 742-4282
Photo of Mayra Cano, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Mayra Cano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have experience with anxiety, depression, body image issues, eating disorders/disordered eating.
I aim to establish warm, collaborative therapeutic relationships with my clients. It is important to me to create a comfortable and safe environment for each client or family. I strive to empower my clients to use their own strengths and individualized capabilities to reach their goals and find balance. I deem it important to consider individuals to be part of a family unit when working with families. I think it's beneficial to remain creative with each person/family.
Additionally, I have experience with anxiety, depression, body image issues, eating disorders/disordered eating.
I aim to establish warm, collaborative therapeutic relationships with my clients. It is important to me to create a comfortable and safe environment for each client or family. I strive to empower my clients to use their own strengths and individualized capabilities to reach their goals and find balance. I deem it important to consider individuals to be part of a family unit when working with families. I think it's beneficial to remain creative with each person/family.
(210) 871-8781 View (210) 871-8781
Photo of Nancy Albus, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Nancy Albus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240
My general approach with working with clients for over 20 years is highly individualized, relational and strengthen based. I believe most clients simply need an environment to communicate, process feelings and gain insight in order to create a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I offer individual therapy for adolescents, adults and family therapy. My passion has always been treating eating disorders and the underlying causes such as depression and anxiety. Another clinical passion and area of focus has been assisting women and mothers with identity development and navigating life transitions.
My general approach with working with clients for over 20 years is highly individualized, relational and strengthen based. I believe most clients simply need an environment to communicate, process feelings and gain insight in order to create a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I offer individual therapy for adolescents, adults and family therapy. My passion has always been treating eating disorders and the underlying causes such as depression and anxiety. Another clinical passion and area of focus has been assisting women and mothers with identity development and navigating life transitions.
(314) 526-2550 View (314) 526-2550
Photo of Franny Haag Morar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Franny Haag Morar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment to change, family issues, eating disorders, and substance abuse.
Offering Video Sessions for Texas and in person sessions for Califonia. We are usually afraid of our feelings. We try to avoid them, mask them, hide them. We live in a world that tells us to be happy. We try, but we can't, the feelings catch up with us. So we feel even worse. We feel lost, afraid, and guilty for feeling our feelings. In my practice, I provide a safe environment where you can start exploring your feelings, accept them, and work through them. I will help you get in touch with your inner/true self, accepting yourself for who you are, moving away from shame, guilt and fear, and starting the process of change.
I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, adjustment to change, family issues, eating disorders, and substance abuse.
Offering Video Sessions for Texas and in person sessions for Califonia. We are usually afraid of our feelings. We try to avoid them, mask them, hide them. We live in a world that tells us to be happy. We try, but we can't, the feelings catch up with us. So we feel even worse. We feel lost, afraid, and guilty for feeling our feelings. In my practice, I provide a safe environment where you can start exploring your feelings, accept them, and work through them. I will help you get in touch with your inner/true self, accepting yourself for who you are, moving away from shame, guilt and fear, and starting the process of change.
(323) 370-4863 View (323) 370-4863
Photo of Mina O'Connell, MS, LMFT, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Mina O'Connell, MS, LMFT, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
Anxiety, relationship conflict, and eating disorders are pervasive within our culture.
Are you looking for direction and support at a difficult time? You are most likely on a path to healthy growth and development, but are just hurting along the way. I recognize and value the courage and trust it takes to seek insight, and believe you can achieve your best functioning through focused goals. We can work to help you identify your goals and develop strategies to reach them within the context of your most important relationships. You don't have to give up on improving your health and the important relationships in your life!
Anxiety, relationship conflict, and eating disorders are pervasive within our culture.
Are you looking for direction and support at a difficult time? You are most likely on a path to healthy growth and development, but are just hurting along the way. I recognize and value the courage and trust it takes to seek insight, and believe you can achieve your best functioning through focused goals. We can work to help you identify your goals and develop strategies to reach them within the context of your most important relationships. You don't have to give up on improving your health and the important relationships in your life!
(210) 791-7434 View (210) 791-7434
Photo of Holly D Love, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Holly D Love
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78245
Waitlist for new clients
If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, feeding and eating disorders, relationship concerns, or postpartum struggles I want to help you. I like to collaborate with my clients to aid them in identifying areas of struggle, creating workable goals and plans to help move forward in the change process and re-write unhelpful internal dialogue while creating fresh perspective. I am glad to integrate personal stories, faith, values, DBT and CBT concepts, narrative techniques, and behavioral strategies in tailored ways for each individual.
If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, feeding and eating disorders, relationship concerns, or postpartum struggles I want to help you. I like to collaborate with my clients to aid them in identifying areas of struggle, creating workable goals and plans to help move forward in the change process and re-write unhelpful internal dialogue while creating fresh perspective. I am glad to integrate personal stories, faith, values, DBT and CBT concepts, narrative techniques, and behavioral strategies in tailored ways for each individual.
(720) 780-9946 View (720) 780-9946
Photo of Jamie Guerra, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Jamie Guerra
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am extensively trained in treating severe mental illness, eating disorders, personality disorders, mood, and anxiety in hospital, outpatient and academic settings applying culturally sensitive, trauma informed evidence based treatment including but not limited to EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
Seeking help from a professional is a brave and in many cases necessary first step for healing. Maybe you are trying to navigate a new diagnosis or you have been seeing mental health professionals for years feeling as if you are not getting better. I am here to help and teach you the skills you need to manage life's struggles, big and small.
I am extensively trained in treating severe mental illness, eating disorders, personality disorders, mood, and anxiety in hospital, outpatient and academic settings applying culturally sensitive, trauma informed evidence based treatment including but not limited to EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
Seeking help from a professional is a brave and in many cases necessary first step for healing. Maybe you are trying to navigate a new diagnosis or you have been seeing mental health professionals for years feeling as if you are not getting better. I am here to help and teach you the skills you need to manage life's struggles, big and small.
(210) 796-8578 View (210) 796-8578
Photo of Kasi Howard, Psychologist in San Antonio, TX
Kasi Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213
I have been extensive trained in treating eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression and marital issues.
I believe in working with you to best meet your goals and needs based on where you are. I work with adolescents, age 16 and up and adults. Please check out our website at www.innovarecoverycenter.com to learn more. We are eager to partner with you on your journey to healing! We also offer speciality programs in the following areas: abuse/trauma/PTSD; sexual addiction.
I have been extensive trained in treating eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression and marital issues.
I believe in working with you to best meet your goals and needs based on where you are. I work with adolescents, age 16 and up and adults. Please check out our website at www.innovarecoverycenter.com to learn more. We are eager to partner with you on your journey to healing! We also offer speciality programs in the following areas: abuse/trauma/PTSD; sexual addiction.
(210) 361-4239 View (210) 361-4239
Photo of Jamie Mershon, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Jamie Mershon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249
I use Cognitive Behavior therapy, which is effective in treating eating disorders, anxiety & depression.
Are you In search of a caring professional who is equipped and experienced? Whether you're an adult, family, teen or child---the time for change is now. My 15 years of experience with working in the schools has given me an invaluable insight as to how our younger years, shape and mold us in our later years. Regardless of where you are struggling; past, present and/or future, there is hope. By getting to the root of the problem, we aren’t just treating the symptoms but instead, you will be finding freedom from issues/feelings/situations that seem to be surfacing or returning.
I use Cognitive Behavior therapy, which is effective in treating eating disorders, anxiety & depression.
Are you In search of a caring professional who is equipped and experienced? Whether you're an adult, family, teen or child---the time for change is now. My 15 years of experience with working in the schools has given me an invaluable insight as to how our younger years, shape and mold us in our later years. Regardless of where you are struggling; past, present and/or future, there is hope. By getting to the root of the problem, we aren’t just treating the symptoms but instead, you will be finding freedom from issues/feelings/situations that seem to be surfacing or returning.
(210) 801-9076 View (210) 801-9076
Photo of Heidi Conlin with Genesis Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Heidi Conlin with Genesis Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78257
My experiences include counseling diverse populations of families, couples, and individuals, practicing play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy with children, working with depression, eating disorders, anxiety and other disorders.
I provide affordable counseling to couples, adults, adolescents and children. I recognize that it is difficult to talk with a stranger about problems and therefore, I strive to see my clients' problems through their eyes. I am open minded in order to create a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere for change. I help my clients make small changes to their lives in order to achieve bigger goals.
My experiences include counseling diverse populations of families, couples, and individuals, practicing play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy with children, working with depression, eating disorders, anxiety and other disorders.
I provide affordable counseling to couples, adults, adolescents and children. I recognize that it is difficult to talk with a stranger about problems and therefore, I strive to see my clients' problems through their eyes. I am open minded in order to create a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere for change. I help my clients make small changes to their lives in order to achieve bigger goals.
(830) 256-0682 View (830) 256-0682
Photo of Antoinette D Winters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Antoinette D Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78205  (Online Only)
I am very gifted in making authentic connections with any population I work with. I have worked with a diverse group of clientele such as work with foster children suffering from mental health issues. Including bipolar, reactive attachment, anxiety and depression. I also have an extensive history working with adults who suffer from PTSD, complex childhood trauma, and severe anxiety and depression. Furthermore, I love working with the LGBTQ community in addressing issues sensitive to their needs such as increasing gender identity issues, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders.
I am very gifted in making authentic connections with any population I work with. I have worked with a diverse group of clientele such as work with foster children suffering from mental health issues. Including bipolar, reactive attachment, anxiety and depression. I also have an extensive history working with adults who suffer from PTSD, complex childhood trauma, and severe anxiety and depression. Furthermore, I love working with the LGBTQ community in addressing issues sensitive to their needs such as increasing gender identity issues, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders.
(346) 910-9716 View (346) 910-9716
Photo of Northside Family Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Northside Family Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
No insurance? Limited income? No problem. Counselors at NFCC believe that Jesus Changes Everything. While therapists are trained to encourage and motivate change, we realize that this happens best with Christian counseling. When both the therapist and client work together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit through Biblical-based counseling, you can experience real and lasting transformation. God's love pouring through the counselor offers hope and empathy in a shame and guilt free environment making it safe to practice vulnerability and transparency, which is a giant step toward recovery. Come share your emotional burdens.
No insurance? Limited income? No problem. Counselors at NFCC believe that Jesus Changes Everything. While therapists are trained to encourage and motivate change, we realize that this happens best with Christian counseling. When both the therapist and client work together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit through Biblical-based counseling, you can experience real and lasting transformation. God's love pouring through the counselor offers hope and empathy in a shame and guilt free environment making it safe to practice vulnerability and transparency, which is a giant step toward recovery. Come share your emotional burdens.
(210) 361-7431 x1 View (210) 361-7431 x1
Photo of Jeralyn R Tharp Lpcc-S Licdc, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Jeralyn R Tharp Lpcc-S Licdc
Counselor, MEd , LPCC-S, LICDC, LMHC FL, Gamb
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78213  (Online Only)
Welcome I hope to be part of your support journey as you seek hope, health and recovery to various life challenges . I have over 25 years experience providing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment in a great deal of diverse settings. I am interested in learning more about (you ) and (your ) goals and objectives for therapy. I believe a counseling relationship works best when you are comfortable with a therapist and free to be who you are. I help you reach this goal by bringing to the session , experience , honesty of myself , kindness and genuine regard. I am part of the Veteran Choice Programs to receive VA referrals.
Welcome I hope to be part of your support journey as you seek hope, health and recovery to various life challenges . I have over 25 years experience providing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment in a great deal of diverse settings. I am interested in learning more about (you ) and (your ) goals and objectives for therapy. I believe a counseling relationship works best when you are comfortable with a therapist and free to be who you are. I help you reach this goal by bringing to the session , experience , honesty of myself , kindness and genuine regard. I am part of the Veteran Choice Programs to receive VA referrals.
(210) 405-8981 View (210) 405-8981
Photo of Gonzalez Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Gonzalez Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past relationships? You're not alone. Navigating the aftermath of relational trauma can feel like an uphill battle, but I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way. With compassion and understanding, I offer a safe space for you to explore the depths of your experiences and heal from the wounds of the past. Together, we'll untangle the knots of pain and insecurity, empowering you to reclaim your sense of self-worth and cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships. You deserve to find peace and wholeness, and I'm committed to supporting you on your journey towards healing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past relationships? You're not alone. Navigating the aftermath of relational trauma can feel like an uphill battle, but I'm here to walk alongside you every step of the way. With compassion and understanding, I offer a safe space for you to explore the depths of your experiences and heal from the wounds of the past. Together, we'll untangle the knots of pain and insecurity, empowering you to reclaim your sense of self-worth and cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships. You deserve to find peace and wholeness, and I'm committed to supporting you on your journey towards healing.
(512) 856-1261 View (512) 856-1261
Photo of Danielle Elaine Leal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Danielle Elaine Leal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78224  (Online Only)
My name is Danielle and I am a licensed therapist in Texas. I have 6 years of experience helping clients meet their therapy goals. I pride myself on accepting clients of all ages and backgrounds. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders.
My name is Danielle and I am a licensed therapist in Texas. I have 6 years of experience helping clients meet their therapy goals. I pride myself on accepting clients of all ages and backgrounds. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders.
(210) 405-4973 View (210) 405-4973
Photo of Balanced Counseling of San Antonio in San Antonio, TX
Balanced Counseling of San Antonio
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78240
I know this is hard. You've likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years. But I am so glad you found us and have taken the courageous step of being here. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, or confidence, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey. Our team of therapists have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. We understand no two individuals are the same. Each therapist will tailor your goals and therapy session to meet your own individual needs. We will work together to understand the root cause of your struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. If you're ready to work towards the life you've always wanted. We are ready when you are. Don't hesitate contact us today and lets get to work.
I know this is hard. You've likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years. But I am so glad you found us and have taken the courageous step of being here. I'm confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, or confidence, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey. Our team of therapists have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. We understand no two individuals are the same. Each therapist will tailor your goals and therapy session to meet your own individual needs. We will work together to understand the root cause of your struggles and address those issues with long-lasting strategies, helping you get closer to the life you've always wanted. If you're ready to work towards the life you've always wanted. We are ready when you are. Don't hesitate contact us today and lets get to work.
(210) 361-5512 View (210) 361-5512

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.