Photo of Heather Hamilton, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Heather Hamilton
Counselor, PhD, LPC, DCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Opening 1 additional Day of appointments - 9 openings available beginning in October. With grace, and humor, we'll work with you to address challenges impacting your health, happiness, and relationships with others. It's our philosophy that whatever affects our emotional health (isolation, depression, anxiety, trauma) will affect our physical well-being (appetite, sleep, weight gain). Not too many people enjoy change and these past few years have been nothing but a roller coaster! I'd enjoy the opportunity to talk with you and understand how you're doing. How have you been affected by changes? Is BreakThrough! right for you?
Opening 1 additional Day of appointments - 9 openings available beginning in October. With grace, and humor, we'll work with you to address challenges impacting your health, happiness, and relationships with others. It's our philosophy that whatever affects our emotional health (isolation, depression, anxiety, trauma) will affect our physical well-being (appetite, sleep, weight gain). Not too many people enjoy change and these past few years have been nothing but a roller coaster! I'd enjoy the opportunity to talk with you and understand how you're doing. How have you been affected by changes? Is BreakThrough! right for you?
(360) 746-2024 View (360) 746-2024
Photo of Amy Heidecker, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Amy Heidecker
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
(406) 612-1414 View (406) 612-1414
Photo of Mt Kulshan Ketamine Clinic in Anacortes, WA
Mt Kulshan Ketamine Clinic
MSN, CRNA, ARNP
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Our clients have not had complete recovery with traditional mental health treatment. We offer Ketamine Infusions with wave-paths Psychedelic program and integration coaching. Collaboration with any client therapist or provider who has an interest is welcomed.
Our clients have not had complete recovery with traditional mental health treatment. We offer Ketamine Infusions with wave-paths Psychedelic program and integration coaching. Collaboration with any client therapist or provider who has an interest is welcomed.
(360) 347-9436 View (360) 347-9436

Online Therapists

Photo of Genevieve Wohlford in Anacortes, WA
Genevieve Wohlford
MA, ND
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I specialize in working with women during preconception, challenges getting pregnant, pregnancy, postpartum and into motherhood. Becoming a mother is often exciting and joyous but also can be overwhelming, exhausting and bring up mood changes, worries, fears and more. The support of a counselor during this time can be very helpful and can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also specialize in working with adult women of all ages challenged with depression, anxiety, eating disorders or difficulty losing weight, chronic stress and fatigue. For more information visit www.dr-genevieve-nd.com/
I specialize in working with women during preconception, challenges getting pregnant, pregnancy, postpartum and into motherhood. Becoming a mother is often exciting and joyous but also can be overwhelming, exhausting and bring up mood changes, worries, fears and more. The support of a counselor during this time can be very helpful and can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also specialize in working with adult women of all ages challenged with depression, anxiety, eating disorders or difficulty losing weight, chronic stress and fatigue. For more information visit www.dr-genevieve-nd.com/
(360) 743-3570 View (360) 743-3570
Photo of Lexi Marquardt Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Lexi Marquardt Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229  (Online Only)
I specialize in eating disorders, seeing clients with all types of diagnoses.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
I specialize in eating disorders, seeing clients with all types of diagnoses.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
(971) 328-3338 View (971) 328-3338
Photo of Chris Keller, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Chris Keller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Through graduate training, clinical experience, and research, I have developed expertise in the following areas: men and masculinity; eating disorders and body image concerns; mental health concerns related to spirituality/faith; healing from trauma and unwanted sexual experiences; positive psychology; and health psychology.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I provide psychotherapy and assessment services to adults (individuals, couples, and groups) who are struggling to thrive. I help others increase insight into their struggles and make concrete changes toward experiencing a more fulfilling life. During difficult times it is common to struggle with daily functioning while also trying to heal broader psychological and emotional concerns (e.g., trauma, relational struggles, problematic behavior). Therefore, I often will establish short-term and long-term goals, collaboratively with you, so that counseling can be sustainable, supportive, and effective.
Through graduate training, clinical experience, and research, I have developed expertise in the following areas: men and masculinity; eating disorders and body image concerns; mental health concerns related to spirituality/faith; healing from trauma and unwanted sexual experiences; positive psychology; and health psychology.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I provide psychotherapy and assessment services to adults (individuals, couples, and groups) who are struggling to thrive. I help others increase insight into their struggles and make concrete changes toward experiencing a more fulfilling life. During difficult times it is common to struggle with daily functioning while also trying to heal broader psychological and emotional concerns (e.g., trauma, relational struggles, problematic behavior). Therefore, I often will establish short-term and long-term goals, collaboratively with you, so that counseling can be sustainable, supportive, and effective.
(206) 472-1189 View (206) 472-1189
Photo of Hemlata Mistry, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Hemlata Mistry
Counselor, MEd, RN, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I specialize in Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder) and Trauma.
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
I specialize in Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder) and Trauma.
Knowing when you need help and reaching out for it takes great courage. Therapy is a great avenue to gain clarity and insight about your life concens. If you are having difficulty changing emotional or behavioral patterns, having difficulties in your relationships, having worries about food and weight or are just not feeling happy with your life, therapy can help you to address these issues in a supportive and accepting environment.
(206) 466-3534 View (206) 466-3534
Photo of Elizabeth M Humes, Mental Health Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Elizabeth M Humes
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
Life can be very confusing at times for all of us. I welcome you to take the time for yourself to gain perspective on life's struggles. There can be great benefits in the process! I treat depression/anxiety, trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and marital issues. My office is warm and cozy as we journey together thru the healing process. I use a narrative, solution-focused, CBT modality, Lifespan Integration for clearing trauma, along with a bit of humor over life's bumps. You are welcome to join me for your heart, soul, and body health!
(253) 214-3668 View (253) 214-3668
Photo of Jennifer Buchman, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Jennifer Buchman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, emotional distress, interpersonal challenges, and suicidal thoughts.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services. I begin the therapeutic process with a discussion of your current symptoms and challenges, your strengths, goals, life experiences, and aspects of your identity that help us better understand your unique circumstances. We then collaboratively develop treatment goals and an individualized plan to help you meet your goals. Ultimately, I aim to help you feel confident in your ability to navigate stressors, regulate emotions, and feel strongly connected to your values.
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, emotional distress, interpersonal challenges, and suicidal thoughts.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services. I begin the therapeutic process with a discussion of your current symptoms and challenges, your strengths, goals, life experiences, and aspects of your identity that help us better understand your unique circumstances. We then collaboratively develop treatment goals and an individualized plan to help you meet your goals. Ultimately, I aim to help you feel confident in your ability to navigate stressors, regulate emotions, and feel strongly connected to your values.
(206) 875-2456 View (206) 875-2456
Photo of Melisa Carson-Goldie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Melisa Carson-Goldie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Tukwila, WA 98188
My specialties are eating disorders, anxiety, self harm recovery, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I love working with teens and children but do work with adults as well.
My specialties are eating disorders, anxiety, self harm recovery, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I love working with teens and children but do work with adults as well.
(206) 800-8552 x1 View (206) 800-8552 x1
Photo of Lisa Coll, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Lisa Coll
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
Life comes with joy and pain, love and anger, accomplishments and mess-ups, and sometimes confusion. The times when we struggle and feel stuck or confused as individuals, as couples & as parents are often signals that it’s time to grow. I work collaboratively with my clients and have great success utilizing techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as Narrative and Psychodynamic therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, grief and eating disorders. I also work with individuals, couples and families facing every day parenting, life and relationship challenges.
Life comes with joy and pain, love and anger, accomplishments and mess-ups, and sometimes confusion. The times when we struggle and feel stuck or confused as individuals, as couples & as parents are often signals that it’s time to grow. I work collaboratively with my clients and have great success utilizing techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as Narrative and Psychodynamic therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, grief and eating disorders. I also work with individuals, couples and families facing every day parenting, life and relationship challenges.
(914) 335-3915 View (914) 335-3915
Photo of Cassie Kinson, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Cassie Kinson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
My passion is helping individuals navigate through life challenges and move towards greater self acceptance and inner peace. I work to individualize my approach to the unique needs of each client. I have significant experience working with adults and adolescents dealing with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, stress, work/life balance issues, and trauma. I enjoy working with women and teen girls on self esteem, identity, and a positive body image. My education and training is primarily in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
My passion is helping individuals navigate through life challenges and move towards greater self acceptance and inner peace. I work to individualize my approach to the unique needs of each client. I have significant experience working with adults and adolescents dealing with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, stress, work/life balance issues, and trauma. I enjoy working with women and teen girls on self esteem, identity, and a positive body image. My education and training is primarily in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(425) 341-1249 View (425) 341-1249
Photo of Kurt David Nielsen, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Kurt David Nielsen
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I am a licensed clinical psychologist trained to provide psychological assessment and therapy for individuals struggling with chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, neurocognitive impairment, learning disabilities, eating disorders, trauma, and adjustment disorders. I utilize empirically-supported testing and clinical interviewing techniques to provide thorough psychological assessments and differential diagnoses. My treatment approach is grounded in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. I use evidence-based mindfulness exercises, cognitive-behavior therapy, and biofeedback training to help clients gain increasing awareness of their vulnerabilities and strengths. Clients change by learning to monitor and redirect dysfunctional thoughts before they manifest into undesirable behavior.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist trained to provide psychological assessment and therapy for individuals struggling with chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, neurocognitive impairment, learning disabilities, eating disorders, trauma, and adjustment disorders. I utilize empirically-supported testing and clinical interviewing techniques to provide thorough psychological assessments and differential diagnoses. My treatment approach is grounded in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. I use evidence-based mindfulness exercises, cognitive-behavior therapy, and biofeedback training to help clients gain increasing awareness of their vulnerabilities and strengths. Clients change by learning to monitor and redirect dysfunctional thoughts before they manifest into undesirable behavior.
(360) 209-7608 View (360) 209-7608
Photo of Imei Hsu (Seattle Direct Counseling and Coaching), Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Imei Hsu (Seattle Direct Counseling and Coaching)
Counselor, BSN-RN, MAC, LMHC, NBC-WHC, L2HC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Mood disorders (depression, anxiety) and relationship issues make up the majority of the issues of my clients; Eating Disorders with standard nutrition support; Board certified NBH-WHC Health Coaching for developing sustainable habits, chronic illness management, AIP certified coach to help support those with Autoimmune Disease.
Update: As of 4/4/24 I have 1 counseling & 4 Health Coaching openings. I am a tech savvy counselor with 23+ years experience, 36 years combined across Nursing and Counseling. My Ideal Client is predominantly high-functioning people focused towards mental wellness and health strategies across a variety of challenges. My style is narrative and can help you gain deeper connection in your closest relationships. I'm adept at helping those with Depression and Anxiety, Fatigue, Eating Disorders, Autoimmune Dz/Chronic illness, marital conflict, and Life Transition issues. BIPOC and LBGTQ+ are welcome. I am NBH-WHC board certified.
Mood disorders (depression, anxiety) and relationship issues make up the majority of the issues of my clients; Eating Disorders with standard nutrition support; Board certified NBH-WHC Health Coaching for developing sustainable habits, chronic illness management, AIP certified coach to help support those with Autoimmune Disease.
Update: As of 4/4/24 I have 1 counseling & 4 Health Coaching openings. I am a tech savvy counselor with 23+ years experience, 36 years combined across Nursing and Counseling. My Ideal Client is predominantly high-functioning people focused towards mental wellness and health strategies across a variety of challenges. My style is narrative and can help you gain deeper connection in your closest relationships. I'm adept at helping those with Depression and Anxiety, Fatigue, Eating Disorders, Autoimmune Dz/Chronic illness, marital conflict, and Life Transition issues. BIPOC and LBGTQ+ are welcome. I am NBH-WHC board certified.
(206) 922-8480 View (206) 922-8480
Photo of Lisa Geraud LMFT RD, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Lisa Geraud LMFT RD
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I also teach emotion skills classes. I am also a registered dietitian (RD), which enables me to provide nutrition assessment and counseling for persons with eating and weight concerns or eating disorders. I support and guide families through relational conflict, psychiatric illness and loss. I enjoy working with males and female children over age 12, adolescents and adults.
I am an experienced licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression and relationship issues. I also teach emotion skills classes. I am also a registered dietitian (RD), which enables me to provide nutrition assessment and counseling for persons with eating and weight concerns or eating disorders. I support and guide families through relational conflict, psychiatric illness and loss. I enjoy working with males and female children over age 12, adolescents and adults.
(425) 320-1679 View (425) 320-1679
Photo of Melissa Wohlhueter, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Melissa Wohlhueter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing treatment for teens, adults and couples dealing with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, self-esteem issues, life adjustments, grief & loss, eating disorders, and body image dissatisfaction.
"The best way out is always through" - Robert Frost. I believe in individualized, client centered care, designed to fit your life and empower you to live your best life. I have over 18 years of experience with a variety of modalities and clinical techniques. I am passionate about providing counseling that best suits the needs of the client. I have experience with diverse populations and persons from every walk of life.
I specialize in providing treatment for teens, adults and couples dealing with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, self-esteem issues, life adjustments, grief & loss, eating disorders, and body image dissatisfaction.
"The best way out is always through" - Robert Frost. I believe in individualized, client centered care, designed to fit your life and empower you to live your best life. I have over 18 years of experience with a variety of modalities and clinical techniques. I am passionate about providing counseling that best suits the needs of the client. I have experience with diverse populations and persons from every walk of life.
(425) 243-5681 View (425) 243-5681
Photo of Jennifer Pelton, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Jennifer Pelton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98021  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include: *Anxiety and OCD *Eating Disorders and Body Image Disturbance *Depression and other mood disorders *ADHD *Emotion dysregulation and self-harm *Transitions to high school, to college, and post-college.
As a psychologist, I ensure that evaluation and treatment services are comprehensive and tailored to meet the needs of each client. I have an expertise and passion for working with preteens, teens and young adults. I have a humorous, warm, and down to earth style of counseling that clients appreciate. My treatment approach emphasizes evidence-based practice that works toward building skills and strategies including *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy *Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed coping and skill building *Exposure and Response Prevention *School collaboration *Parent consultation
My areas of focus include: *Anxiety and OCD *Eating Disorders and Body Image Disturbance *Depression and other mood disorders *ADHD *Emotion dysregulation and self-harm *Transitions to high school, to college, and post-college.
As a psychologist, I ensure that evaluation and treatment services are comprehensive and tailored to meet the needs of each client. I have an expertise and passion for working with preteens, teens and young adults. I have a humorous, warm, and down to earth style of counseling that clients appreciate. My treatment approach emphasizes evidence-based practice that works toward building skills and strategies including *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy *Acceptance and Commitment Therapy *Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed coping and skill building *Exposure and Response Prevention *School collaboration *Parent consultation
(206) 539-1855 View (206) 539-1855
Photo of Vermeda Fred, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Vermeda Fred
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MFA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
My clients present adjustment issues, anxiety & depression, eating disorders, marital problems, postpartum depression in moms and/or dads as they adjust to new babies, LGBTQI issues, grief & loss, lethargy (fibromyalgia or auto-immune disorders), or just a loss of meaning and direction.
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
My clients present adjustment issues, anxiety & depression, eating disorders, marital problems, postpartum depression in moms and/or dads as they adjust to new babies, LGBTQI issues, grief & loss, lethargy (fibromyalgia or auto-immune disorders), or just a loss of meaning and direction.
Whenever you think of talking with someone, thoroughly explaining everything from how you feel today, or how you have felt for years, or to the choices you are facing, or how your body and sense of yourself alters things, and you wonder, how do I find that "right" person to talk to? You have found them. Adolescent or adult, individual or a couple, call me for a free consultation, and let's see where to go from here!
(360) 800-4531 View (360) 800-4531
Photo of Jennifer VonSchondorf, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Jennifer VonSchondorf
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
My main areas of practice include but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Relationships/Relational Challenge, Crisis, etc.
I utilize a holistic and integrative perspective with a focus on client-centered therapy. This entails working from a wide array of techniques to focus on each individual’s needs and wants. I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology from Bastyr University an integrative program that utilizes a holistic approach to health and well-being. I have experience working in an inpatient and outpatient setting with individuals, families and groups. I am passionate about whole-person health, and it reflects in my everyday practice and work with clients. It's important to identify the root causes rather than just working to alleviate symptoms.
My main areas of practice include but are not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Relationships/Relational Challenge, Crisis, etc.
I utilize a holistic and integrative perspective with a focus on client-centered therapy. This entails working from a wide array of techniques to focus on each individual’s needs and wants. I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology from Bastyr University an integrative program that utilizes a holistic approach to health and well-being. I have experience working in an inpatient and outpatient setting with individuals, families and groups. I am passionate about whole-person health, and it reflects in my everyday practice and work with clients. It's important to identify the root causes rather than just working to alleviate symptoms.
(425) 217-5108 View (425) 217-5108
Photo of Christina Spears-Bartunek, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Christina Spears-Bartunek
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodinville, WA 98072
I treat eating disorders and obesity by implementing concrete health coaching strategies, as well as identifying underlying issues that may be in play.
Are you feeling tired physically and emotionally? Stress, depression and anxiety all take a great toll on our psyche and bodies. I can help you create that peace and good health we all want. I also see couples who want to create a better relationship and those needing help to decrease depression/anxiety. I want to help you feel relief as quickly as possible by providing clear, practical steps to move forward in your life.
I treat eating disorders and obesity by implementing concrete health coaching strategies, as well as identifying underlying issues that may be in play.
Are you feeling tired physically and emotionally? Stress, depression and anxiety all take a great toll on our psyche and bodies. I can help you create that peace and good health we all want. I also see couples who want to create a better relationship and those needing help to decrease depression/anxiety. I want to help you feel relief as quickly as possible by providing clear, practical steps to move forward in your life.
(206) 535-4433 View (206) 535-4433
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.