Eating Disorders Therapists in Tampa, FL

Photo of Serge Matt Lacoste - Dr. Matt Lacoste - A-why Clinic, Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Dr. Matt Lacoste - A-why Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Online Only
Psychologist in private practice since 2003, I developed a holistic and integrative approach to treat psychological issues. Inspired by Rogerian philosophy, I emphasize the well-being of my patients by helping them to find answers, strategies, strengths to pass through difficulties or disorders and become healthier, happier, stronger, and efficient.
Psychologist in private practice since 2003, I developed a holistic and integrative approach to treat psychological issues. Inspired by Rogerian philosophy, I emphasize the well-being of my patients by helping them to find answers, strategies, strengths to pass through difficulties or disorders and become healthier, happier, stronger, and efficient.
(850) 716-1317 View (850) 716-1317
Photo of Erin Grupp - Catalyst Center for Change LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP, CST, CSAT-S
Catalyst Center for Change LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP, CST, CSAT-S
6 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances); ADHD, & Eating Disorders.
Erin Grupp, LCSW, founded Catalyst Center for Change LLC with her husband Scott Grupp, LMHC, to provide powerfully effective customized therapy for individuals, couples and families. Erin is a Certified Addiction Professional, Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, CSAT Therapist & Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Resolution Therapist and a Psychodramatist (PAT.) Catalyst provides 3-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances); ADHD, & Eating Disorders.
Erin Grupp, LCSW, founded Catalyst Center for Change LLC with her husband Scott Grupp, LMHC, to provide powerfully effective customized therapy for individuals, couples and families. Erin is a Certified Addiction Professional, Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, CSAT Therapist & Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Resolution Therapist and a Psychodramatist (PAT.) Catalyst provides 3-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
(813) 375-9701 View (813) 375-9701
Photo of Debra S Gill, Psychologist, PhD
Debra S Gill
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have run DBT groups in the past and currently teach DBT skills on an Individual basis for Binge Eating, Emotional Eating, Bulimia, Addiction, and Anxiety.
I have 30+ years experience using therapy and coaching to help people meet their goals and grow more confident in their ability to manage feelings, anxieties, relationships, weight, and health. I stand with my clients to develop lasting healthy habits including self-care and self-compassion. My style is highly interactive and focused on making sure you gain something valuable from every session we share. I listen compassionately and ask questions to help you understand yourself better. I will teach you strategies to use when feelings are strong or when you feel urges to something unhealthy or unhelpful. Please click on My Website!
I have run DBT groups in the past and currently teach DBT skills on an Individual basis for Binge Eating, Emotional Eating, Bulimia, Addiction, and Anxiety.
I have 30+ years experience using therapy and coaching to help people meet their goals and grow more confident in their ability to manage feelings, anxieties, relationships, weight, and health. I stand with my clients to develop lasting healthy habits including self-care and self-compassion. My style is highly interactive and focused on making sure you gain something valuable from every session we share. I listen compassionately and ask questions to help you understand yourself better. I will teach you strategies to use when feelings are strong or when you feel urges to something unhealthy or unhelpful. Please click on My Website!
(973) 435-4978 View (973) 435-4978
Photo of Katy Rosini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LCSW
Katy Rosini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LCSW
Tampa, FL 33609
Treating eating disorders is my passion.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I have a master’s degree in clinical social work and a master’s degree in public health. I have been intensely trained in Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy, by the creator of RODBT. I have also been formally trained in Dialectal Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Treating eating disorders is my passion.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker; I have a master’s degree in clinical social work and a master’s degree in public health. I have been intensely trained in Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy, by the creator of RODBT. I have also been formally trained in Dialectal Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(727) 235-7508 View (727) 235-7508
Photo of Francisca Ortiz, Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Francisca Ortiz
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in eating disorders, body image concerns, trauma, and mood & anxiety-related challenges.
My approach is warm, collaborative, & strengths-based, integrating CBT, ACT, DBT, ERP, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). ART uses guided eye movements to support trauma relief by helping the brain process distressing experiences, with many clients noticing improvement in as few as one session.
I specialize in eating disorders, body image concerns, trauma, and mood & anxiety-related challenges.
My approach is warm, collaborative, & strengths-based, integrating CBT, ACT, DBT, ERP, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). ART uses guided eye movements to support trauma relief by helping the brain process distressing experiences, with many clients noticing improvement in as few as one session.
(813) 773-1938 View (813) 773-1938
Photo of Dr. Cindy Floyd, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Cindy Floyd
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
Floyd is a psychologist treating those struggling with Eating Disorders (ARFID, Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge-Eating, and more), Anxiety, OCD, Panic, Social Anxiety, Phobias, Depression, Relationship concerns, Acute Stress, Grief, and more.
Dr. Floyd has 20 years of experience working with individuals, families, and treatment teams on the path to Eating Disorder recovery. Floyd Psychology offers a comprehensive approach to Eating Disorder treatment, including evidence-based family participation and referrals to community professionals for nutrition support and medical monitoring as needed.
Floyd is a psychologist treating those struggling with Eating Disorders (ARFID, Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge-Eating, and more), Anxiety, OCD, Panic, Social Anxiety, Phobias, Depression, Relationship concerns, Acute Stress, Grief, and more.
Dr. Floyd has 20 years of experience working with individuals, families, and treatment teams on the path to Eating Disorder recovery. Floyd Psychology offers a comprehensive approach to Eating Disorder treatment, including evidence-based family participation and referrals to community professionals for nutrition support and medical monitoring as needed.
(813) 518-8346 View (813) 518-8346
Photo of Cassie Alvarado, Psychologist, PsyD
Cassie Alvarado
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
I specialize in treating eating disorders and body image concerns, and enjoy working with young adults and parents.
Do you feel stuck in your thoughts or find yourself avoiding difficult thoughts and feelings? Are you struggling with eating or body image concerns? Are you going through a life transition? I help clients identify thinking patterns and behaviors keeping them stuck, and help them develop new skills for coping. I will help you work toward your values to live a more meaningful life. I offer a collaborative, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach to therapy.
I specialize in treating eating disorders and body image concerns, and enjoy working with young adults and parents.
Do you feel stuck in your thoughts or find yourself avoiding difficult thoughts and feelings? Are you struggling with eating or body image concerns? Are you going through a life transition? I help clients identify thinking patterns and behaviors keeping them stuck, and help them develop new skills for coping. I will help you work toward your values to live a more meaningful life. I offer a collaborative, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach to therapy.
(813) 492-8224 View (813) 492-8224
Photo of Catarina Reyes Santinho, Psychologist, PsyD
Catarina Reyes Santinho
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in eating disorders, body image, and multicultural issues.
I offer a warm, safe space where you can let go of the pressure to be strong and just BE. I believe that therapy doesn’t always have to be heavy; humor, connection, and honesty all matter! As someone with lived experience of an eating disorder and as someone who identifies as BIPOC, I offer a deep and unique understanding to the work of healing and recovery.
I specialize in eating disorders, body image, and multicultural issues.
I offer a warm, safe space where you can let go of the pressure to be strong and just BE. I believe that therapy doesn’t always have to be heavy; humor, connection, and honesty all matter! As someone with lived experience of an eating disorder and as someone who identifies as BIPOC, I offer a deep and unique understanding to the work of healing and recovery.
(813) 896-5275 View (813) 896-5275
Photo of Dr. Yanet Vanegas, Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Dr. Yanet Vanegas
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I was trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital and use evidence-based treatments to support clients with OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
In our sessions, we work together to understand what’s keeping you or your child stuck and identify new ways of responding to those challenges. Whether we’re addressing self-critical thoughts, perfectionism, anxiety, or relationship difficulties, I help clients build confidence and develop skills that support lasting change.
I was trained at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital and use evidence-based treatments to support clients with OCD, eating disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
In our sessions, we work together to understand what’s keeping you or your child stuck and identify new ways of responding to those challenges. Whether we’re addressing self-critical thoughts, perfectionism, anxiety, or relationship difficulties, I help clients build confidence and develop skills that support lasting change.
(813) 535-5368 View (813) 535-5368
Photo of Sandra Seeger, Counselor, LMHC, TEP
Sandra Seeger
Counselor, LMHC, TEP
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
Ever felt anxious or worried about going to a therapy appointment? Personal growth and the processing of issues can be hard work but it can also be fun and enjoyable. I use psychodrama, art therapy, and relaxation techniques to help people reach their goals. I don't believe in the medical model of illness, rather that everyone has challenges in life. The goal of therapy is to create positive emotional and behavioral changes to achieve optimum quality of life. Google "Obsessed A&E" for furter info on therapy with anxiety disorders and Sandra Seeger
Ever felt anxious or worried about going to a therapy appointment? Personal growth and the processing of issues can be hard work but it can also be fun and enjoyable. I use psychodrama, art therapy, and relaxation techniques to help people reach their goals. I don't believe in the medical model of illness, rather that everyone has challenges in life. The goal of therapy is to create positive emotional and behavioral changes to achieve optimum quality of life. Google "Obsessed A&E" for furter info on therapy with anxiety disorders and Sandra Seeger
(813) 438-4384 View (813) 438-4384
Photo of Cait Berosh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Cait Berosh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Online Only
I’m especially passionate about supporting teenage and young adult women navigating perfectionism, anxiety, eating disorders, and relationship challenges.
Hi, I'm Cait, a private practice therapist in Florida. Many of the clients I work with are high-achieving and incredibly capable, and still privately feel exhausted by the pressure to keep everything together. What often starts as striving and discipline can slowly turn into perfectionism, anxiety, and a difficult relationship with food, exercise, or body image. On the outside, you may appear confident and successful, while internally feeling stuck in patterns that leave you overwhelmed and self-critical. Even when you accomplish something, it may rarely feel like enough, and it can be hard to know how to step out of this cycle.
I’m especially passionate about supporting teenage and young adult women navigating perfectionism, anxiety, eating disorders, and relationship challenges.
Hi, I'm Cait, a private practice therapist in Florida. Many of the clients I work with are high-achieving and incredibly capable, and still privately feel exhausted by the pressure to keep everything together. What often starts as striving and discipline can slowly turn into perfectionism, anxiety, and a difficult relationship with food, exercise, or body image. On the outside, you may appear confident and successful, while internally feeling stuck in patterns that leave you overwhelmed and self-critical. Even when you accomplish something, it may rarely feel like enough, and it can be hard to know how to step out of this cycle.
(772) 362-2042 View (772) 362-2042
Photo of Patricia Casañas, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CYT-200
Patricia Casañas
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CYT-200
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33606
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, an eating disorder, OCD and other compulsive behaviors, trauma, or depression, I offer evidence-based support to help you build insight, develop effective coping tools, and regain confidence in your daily life.
I offer more than talk therapy—I use proven, evidence-based tools tailored to you. Viewing clients holistically and through a trauma informed and relational lens, I work collaboratively and inclusively. My approach includes eye movement therapy for trauma, plus strong training in CBT, I-CBT, Exposure Therapy, and RO-DBT to support lasting healing and growth.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, an eating disorder, OCD and other compulsive behaviors, trauma, or depression, I offer evidence-based support to help you build insight, develop effective coping tools, and regain confidence in your daily life.
I offer more than talk therapy—I use proven, evidence-based tools tailored to you. Viewing clients holistically and through a trauma informed and relational lens, I work collaboratively and inclusively. My approach includes eye movement therapy for trauma, plus strong training in CBT, I-CBT, Exposure Therapy, and RO-DBT to support lasting healing and growth.
(727) 359-0089 View (727) 359-0089
Photo of Jennifer McFarlin, Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, EdS
Jennifer McFarlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, EdS
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
I work with clients with insecure attachment styles, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and spiritual issues.
Hello! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping my clients heal strained relationships with themselves and others. My specialization is in relationships and attachment, and I work with individuals wanting to improve any type of relationship in their lives. In couples therapy, we will work on increasing understanding and empathy and strengthening communication. In Individual work, we will identify and reprogram core wounds that negatively impact your life!
I work with clients with insecure attachment styles, anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and spiritual issues.
Hello! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping my clients heal strained relationships with themselves and others. My specialization is in relationships and attachment, and I work with individuals wanting to improve any type of relationship in their lives. In couples therapy, we will work on increasing understanding and empathy and strengthening communication. In Individual work, we will identify and reprogram core wounds that negatively impact your life!
(813) 548-4061 View (813) 548-4061
Photo of Susan Mullins, Counselor, LMHC, TEP, CEDS
Susan Mullins
Counselor, LMHC, TEP, CEDS
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
Do you struggle with a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, unresolved trauma or disordered eating that affects your ability to connect with others, be fully present in your life?
With a deep commitment to understanding and supporting my clients, I use a holistic approach to help you break free of what's holding you back. I offer a range of tools to foster growth, understanding, and emotional resilience. Key approaches I use include: EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Psychodrama, Mindfulness and CBT.
Do you struggle with a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self, unresolved trauma or disordered eating that affects your ability to connect with others, be fully present in your life?
With a deep commitment to understanding and supporting my clients, I use a holistic approach to help you break free of what's holding you back. I offer a range of tools to foster growth, understanding, and emotional resilience. Key approaches I use include: EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Psychodrama, Mindfulness and CBT.
(813) 534-4230 View (813) 534-4230
Photo of Anna V Schad, Counselor, MS, LMHC, CEDS
Anna V Schad
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist in Florida specializing in trauma, eating disorders, personality disorders, and codependency.
Using a variety of modalities, I will work with you to gain insight into beliefs, patterns, and emotional biases that may be causing you distress and are preventing you from being able to truly experience your life. I use CBT, DBT, RODBT, Psychodrama, Solution Focused, Inner Child Work and other modalities as needed to address your need.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist in Florida specializing in trauma, eating disorders, personality disorders, and codependency.
Using a variety of modalities, I will work with you to gain insight into beliefs, patterns, and emotional biases that may be causing you distress and are preventing you from being able to truly experience your life. I use CBT, DBT, RODBT, Psychodrama, Solution Focused, Inner Child Work and other modalities as needed to address your need.
(561) 404-9691 View (561) 404-9691
Photo of Jennie Friedman, Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LCPC, CMHC
Jennie Friedman
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LCPC, CMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, happierMy specialties are helping clients who have learning disorders, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
You're feeling like no matter how hard you try, nothing is good enough. It has been hard for you to stop the messages you have received from consuming you every day. You find yourself constantly battling the demons in your head that tell you you’re not good enough. I can help tame your inner critic and throw away the mask. I see the struggle and strength in all my clients. I know you can achieve what you choose because you no longer hide behind the mask. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in the stigmatization
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, happierMy specialties are helping clients who have learning disorders, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
You're feeling like no matter how hard you try, nothing is good enough. It has been hard for you to stop the messages you have received from consuming you every day. You find yourself constantly battling the demons in your head that tell you you’re not good enough. I can help tame your inner critic and throw away the mask. I see the struggle and strength in all my clients. I know you can achieve what you choose because you no longer hide behind the mask. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in the stigmatization
(941) 241-0250 View (941) 241-0250
Photo of Danielle Bishop, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Danielle Bishop
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist with approximately 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who present with trauma, anxiety, depression, and life changes, and I also participate in play therapy. I completed my education through Walden University, where I studied Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as Applied Psychology. I also hold bachelor’s degrees in pre-movement therapy and forensic psychology from Stockton University.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist with approximately 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who present with trauma, anxiety, depression, and life changes, and I also participate in play therapy. I completed my education through Walden University, where I studied Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as Applied Psychology. I also hold bachelor’s degrees in pre-movement therapy and forensic psychology from Stockton University.
(813) 437-4523 View (813) 437-4523
Photo of Zoe Skowronski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Zoe Skowronski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I built on that in inpatient and PHP/IOP programs treating BPD, eating disorders, and complex trauma.
Accepting NEW patients! Do you struggle with people-pleasing, low self-worth, or painful relationships that leave you feeling like you’ve lost yourself? Maybe you grew up in a family that looked “fine” on the outside but left you with invisible scars of trauma. You might find yourself replaying old patterns—turning to food, restriction, or overexercise to cope, feeling guilty when you try to set boundaries, or wondering why you keep choosing partners who don’t treat you well. If you’re exhausted from trying to hold it all together while doubting yourself inside, therapy can help you finally break free.
I built on that in inpatient and PHP/IOP programs treating BPD, eating disorders, and complex trauma.
Accepting NEW patients! Do you struggle with people-pleasing, low self-worth, or painful relationships that leave you feeling like you’ve lost yourself? Maybe you grew up in a family that looked “fine” on the outside but left you with invisible scars of trauma. You might find yourself replaying old patterns—turning to food, restriction, or overexercise to cope, feeling guilty when you try to set boundaries, or wondering why you keep choosing partners who don’t treat you well. If you’re exhausted from trying to hold it all together while doubting yourself inside, therapy can help you finally break free.
(727) 594-7532 View (727) 594-7532
Photo of Scott Grupp - Catalyst Center for Change LLC, Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, MCAP, CSAT, CMAT
Catalyst Center for Change LLC
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, MCAP, CSAT, CMAT
Tampa, FL 33609
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances), infidelity/betrayal trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and how those issues have affected loved ones.
Scott Grupp, LMHC, founded Catalyst Center for Change LLC with his wife, Erin Grupp, LCSW, to provide powerfully effective customized therapy for individuals, couples and families. Scott is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Master Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Sex Therapist (CST), Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist (EFT Therapist) and a Certified Practitioner in Clinical Hypnosis & Rapid Trauma Resolution. Catalyst provides Three-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after intimate betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
Catalyst specializes in treating compulsive behaviors and addictions (including food, sex, love, relationships, gambling, shopping, substances), infidelity/betrayal trauma, ADHD, Eating Disorders, and how those issues have affected loved ones.
Scott Grupp, LMHC, founded Catalyst Center for Change LLC with his wife, Erin Grupp, LCSW, to provide powerfully effective customized therapy for individuals, couples and families. Scott is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Master Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Sex Therapist (CST), Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist (EFT Therapist) and a Certified Practitioner in Clinical Hypnosis & Rapid Trauma Resolution. Catalyst provides Three-Day Intensives for couples looking to restore relationships after intimate betrayal and/or sexual addiction (polygraph can be included.) Catalyst also offers customized Individual or Couple Intensives; please inquire.
(813) 213-4137 View (813) 213-4137
Photo of Jessica Quintana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jessica Quintana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I support people through a range of mental health challenges, with a focus on anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Hi, I’m Jessica—a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and big believer in the power of healing conversations. Say you are feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you’re stuck in your own head—spinning with worries, heavy with sadness, or at odds with your body and how you feel in it. You’re trying so hard, and you just want a little relief, a little peace, a little breathing room to feel like yourself again. You’re craving support that actually feels supportive—not clinical or cold, but human. You’re ready for change but not sure where to start.
I support people through a range of mental health challenges, with a focus on anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
Hi, I’m Jessica—a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and big believer in the power of healing conversations. Say you are feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you’re stuck in your own head—spinning with worries, heavy with sadness, or at odds with your body and how you feel in it. You’re trying so hard, and you just want a little relief, a little peace, a little breathing room to feel like yourself again. You’re craving support that actually feels supportive—not clinical or cold, but human. You’re ready for change but not sure where to start.
(813) 896-3202 View (813) 896-3202

See more therapy options for Tampa

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.