Eating Disorders Therapists in Carroll County, GA

Photo of Tonya D Klemmer Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tonya D Klemmer Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117
Children and teens go through many changes and often end up having a hard time navigating all of these changes. The changes everyone is faced with today; especially since COVID-19, are causing people to feel lost and uncertain as to how to move forward. Your teen may be struggling with disordered eating, making decisions, and their social network. Your adolescent may be experiencing an increase in stress and anxiety due to the uncertainty of the future. You may be questioning your beliefs; exploring alternative practices. You need additional guidance and exploration to feel better and self-actualize. We can help you with this.
Children and teens go through many changes and often end up having a hard time navigating all of these changes. The changes everyone is faced with today; especially since COVID-19, are causing people to feel lost and uncertain as to how to move forward. Your teen may be struggling with disordered eating, making decisions, and their social network. Your adolescent may be experiencing an increase in stress and anxiety due to the uncertainty of the future. You may be questioning your beliefs; exploring alternative practices. You need additional guidance and exploration to feel better and self-actualize. We can help you with this.
(678) 839-9793 View (678) 839-9793
Photo of Mary L Godard, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Mary L Godard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117
I see you. You can’t eat. You can’t sleep. Your heart feels like it is beating out of your chest. You feel alone. You put everyone else first and wonder when it will be your turn. You don’t even feel like the person in the mirror, so how can you hope to find acceptance from anyone else? Is your main concern your body size or shape? Your sexuality? The role others expect of you? You are overwhelmed by feelings you don’t even understand. You wonder if you will be stuck like this forever.
I see you. You can’t eat. You can’t sleep. Your heart feels like it is beating out of your chest. You feel alone. You put everyone else first and wonder when it will be your turn. You don’t even feel like the person in the mirror, so how can you hope to find acceptance from anyone else? Is your main concern your body size or shape? Your sexuality? The role others expect of you? You are overwhelmed by feelings you don’t even understand. You wonder if you will be stuck like this forever.
(470) 414-5021 View (470) 414-5021
Photo of Dr. Michelle Butler - Heart Centered Therapeutic Services LLC., EdD, LCC, CCTP, CFTP
Heart Centered Therapeutic Services LLC.
EdD, LCC, CCTP, CFTP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, GA 30117
Many people are reluctant to seek help, therefore they will suffer in silence. Life can often be difficult, and overwhelming, and it seems that you will never get through that moment. This may be due to past or present trauma, divorce, anxiety, mental health issues, or other situations in life. You may need someone to guide you through those difficult moments to find the healing and peace you desire. The therapeutic interventions I use will assist you in finding those things. Through a trustworthy client and counselor relationship, we can discover how to find healing to have a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Many people are reluctant to seek help, therefore they will suffer in silence. Life can often be difficult, and overwhelming, and it seems that you will never get through that moment. This may be due to past or present trauma, divorce, anxiety, mental health issues, or other situations in life. You may need someone to guide you through those difficult moments to find the healing and peace you desire. The therapeutic interventions I use will assist you in finding those things. Through a trustworthy client and counselor relationship, we can discover how to find healing to have a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(470) 693-9222 View (470) 693-9222
Photo of Christina Fischer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Christina Fischer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi Im Christina, I truly believe in building a trusting relationship that leads to the empowerment and growth of the client. As a mother of three and a lover of nature, i get that life is not always what we want or expect it to be, there are times when one's path is unclear and finding one's way becomes quite difficult. If you keep on doing what you've always done, you will keep on getting what you have always gotten. If you are not living your best life it is time to make a commitment to yourself and dedicate the time and energy to increase the quality of your life.
Hi Im Christina, I truly believe in building a trusting relationship that leads to the empowerment and growth of the client. As a mother of three and a lover of nature, i get that life is not always what we want or expect it to be, there are times when one's path is unclear and finding one's way becomes quite difficult. If you keep on doing what you've always done, you will keep on getting what you have always gotten. If you are not living your best life it is time to make a commitment to yourself and dedicate the time and energy to increase the quality of your life.
(470) 518-4708 View (470) 518-4708
Photo of Susan Miller McGowan, PhD
Susan Miller McGowan
PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a guide to help you through the challenges of life? Are you looking for tools designed especially for you to help bring a sense of peace? Do you desire better relationships? Do you need someone to help hold a safe space for you as you face specific challenges in your life? Are you desiring a deeper sense of Purpose for your life. Do you have a lingering sense that there is so much more to life, but you don't know where to turn? For 30+ years I have been drawing from many types of psychology as well as body and spirit centered practices, and bring effective tools for healing.
Are you looking for a guide to help you through the challenges of life? Are you looking for tools designed especially for you to help bring a sense of peace? Do you desire better relationships? Do you need someone to help hold a safe space for you as you face specific challenges in your life? Are you desiring a deeper sense of Purpose for your life. Do you have a lingering sense that there is so much more to life, but you don't know where to turn? For 30+ years I have been drawing from many types of psychology as well as body and spirit centered practices, and bring effective tools for healing.
(470) 410-6787 View (470) 410-6787
Photo of Donna Lochard, MA
Donna Lochard
MA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello, I'm Donna Lochard, Therapist for "The Little Things." I help people grow past the obstacles standing in the way of their happiness and life satisfaction, without having to face the journey alone and without having fear of the unknown. I know what it is like to feel stuck, scared of change because you don't know if you'll get it right or make it worse. I know what it feels like to crave something different, to want something more, and to be better. I am very happy to work with you in your journey and show you how to recognize your obstacles, push through challenges, and learn new skills to help you grow and transform.
Hello, I'm Donna Lochard, Therapist for "The Little Things." I help people grow past the obstacles standing in the way of their happiness and life satisfaction, without having to face the journey alone and without having fear of the unknown. I know what it is like to feel stuck, scared of change because you don't know if you'll get it right or make it worse. I know what it feels like to crave something different, to want something more, and to be better. I am very happy to work with you in your journey and show you how to recognize your obstacles, push through challenges, and learn new skills to help you grow and transform.
(678) 786-2538 View (678) 786-2538

Online Therapists

Photo of Judi-Lee Webb, Psychologist, PhD, CEDS-C
Judi-Lee Webb
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I conduct individual, couples, and family therapy with adolescents and adults and specialize in treating, mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues and obesity issues, relationship issues, family issues, adolescent issues, GLBTQ issues and diversity issues.
I believe in establishing a collaborative approach with my clients to help support the therapeutic process. Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, I help my clients learn to identify and challenge their unhealthy thoughts and behaviors so they can develop fuller, more meaningful lives. I work with clients in managing their emotions, improve their ability to communicate with others, and build healthy and resilient self-concept. Utilizing a direct, interactive approach, with a touch of humor, I teach my clients coping skills so they can pull from their "toolbox" of skills in between sessions and eventually throughout their lives.
I conduct individual, couples, and family therapy with adolescents and adults and specialize in treating, mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues and obesity issues, relationship issues, family issues, adolescent issues, GLBTQ issues and diversity issues.
I believe in establishing a collaborative approach with my clients to help support the therapeutic process. Using cognitive-behavioral techniques, I help my clients learn to identify and challenge their unhealthy thoughts and behaviors so they can develop fuller, more meaningful lives. I work with clients in managing their emotions, improve their ability to communicate with others, and build healthy and resilient self-concept. Utilizing a direct, interactive approach, with a touch of humor, I teach my clients coping skills so they can pull from their "toolbox" of skills in between sessions and eventually throughout their lives.
(770) 450-5912 View (770) 450-5912
Photo of Becky Wofford, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Becky Wofford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
My passion is working with women on issues including eating disorders, sexual and relational wholeness, healthy boundaries, divorce recovery, and coping with chronic disease or illness.
Many people come to counseling feeling stuck in certain behaviors, relational patterns, or emotional cycles, perhaps without even understanding why, or without hope of lasting change. My desire is to journey with you toward emotional, mental, spiritual, and relational wholeness. You may be facing a broken relationship, suffering from disordered eating or body image concerns, have a history of sexual abuse or trauma, be living with or recovering from a serious illness, or be experiencing depression or anxiety. There is hope!
My passion is working with women on issues including eating disorders, sexual and relational wholeness, healthy boundaries, divorce recovery, and coping with chronic disease or illness.
Many people come to counseling feeling stuck in certain behaviors, relational patterns, or emotional cycles, perhaps without even understanding why, or without hope of lasting change. My desire is to journey with you toward emotional, mental, spiritual, and relational wholeness. You may be facing a broken relationship, suffering from disordered eating or body image concerns, have a history of sexual abuse or trauma, be living with or recovering from a serious illness, or be experiencing depression or anxiety. There is hope!
(678) 820-6781 View (678) 820-6781
Photo of Ansley Mayson, Counselor, APC, NCC
Ansley Mayson
Counselor, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
Ansley primarily works with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and eating disorders.
Ansley’s approach to therapy is grounded in compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of how relationships—whether with others or oneself—shape our emotional and mental well-being. Drawing from evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), she works collaboratively with clients to promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healthier relationship patterns.
Ansley primarily works with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and eating disorders.
Ansley’s approach to therapy is grounded in compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of how relationships—whether with others or oneself—shape our emotional and mental well-being. Drawing from evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), she works collaboratively with clients to promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healthier relationship patterns.
(404) 689-9938 View (404) 689-9938
Photo of Ann Sheppard, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ann Sheppard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
For the past fifteen years, she has helped individuals and families who were struggling with mood disorders (Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder) anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, grief, anger management, codependency, trauma, peer relationships, self-harming, unplanned pregnancy, divorce, infidelity, personality disorders, and unexpected change.
Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, a Master of Arts in Counseling from The University of Texas at San Antonio, and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2008. She has worked in middle and high school settings as well as group practices that were more focused on adult mental health.
For the past fifteen years, she has helped individuals and families who were struggling with mood disorders (Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder) anxiety, eating disorders, addiction, grief, anger management, codependency, trauma, peer relationships, self-harming, unplanned pregnancy, divorce, infidelity, personality disorders, and unexpected change.
Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, a Master of Arts in Counseling from The University of Texas at San Antonio, and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2008. She has worked in middle and high school settings as well as group practices that were more focused on adult mental health.
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Photo of Rand Basma, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Rand Basma
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
Some of my other clinical experiences include working with substance use, HIV/AIDS, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
I approach therapy through a trauma informed, culturally sensitive, and somatic lens. I utilize EMDR to help process trauma and other negative emotions stored in the body. I have completed EMDR training under Deany Laliotis, LICSW and am working under the consultation of Dr. Pegah Moghaddam, PsyD.
Some of my other clinical experiences include working with substance use, HIV/AIDS, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation.
I approach therapy through a trauma informed, culturally sensitive, and somatic lens. I utilize EMDR to help process trauma and other negative emotions stored in the body. I have completed EMDR training under Deany Laliotis, LICSW and am working under the consultation of Dr. Pegah Moghaddam, PsyD.
(404) 777-4366 View (404) 777-4366
Photo of Alex Kinney Gunn, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Alex Kinney Gunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Her specialities include: eating disorders, body image, and low self-esteem.
Alex works as an individual therapist helping heal women, ages 18+, from their struggles with anxiety and depression. Her lighthearted, warm approach to therapy encourages openness, vulnerability and thus healing. Alex loves to help clients grow by staying true to their authentic selves through self-awareness & self-compassion. She believes that being genuine to one’s true self helps us reach a greater sense of self-worth and fulfillment in our lives. You can expect her sessions to feel comfortable and relaxed, because she finds it important to model genuineness and authenticity to her clients.
Her specialities include: eating disorders, body image, and low self-esteem.
Alex works as an individual therapist helping heal women, ages 18+, from their struggles with anxiety and depression. Her lighthearted, warm approach to therapy encourages openness, vulnerability and thus healing. Alex loves to help clients grow by staying true to their authentic selves through self-awareness & self-compassion. She believes that being genuine to one’s true self helps us reach a greater sense of self-worth and fulfillment in our lives. You can expect her sessions to feel comfortable and relaxed, because she finds it important to model genuineness and authenticity to her clients.
(706) 430-3198 View (706) 430-3198
Tu Vo
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
Our expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
Our expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
(678) 515-5823 View (678) 515-5823
Photo of Susie Tharpe Click, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Susie Tharpe Click
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with eating disorders and body image issues, and I welcome those who need support on their healing journey.
Many women feel pressure to be perfect in an imperfect world and evaluate themselves harshly no matter what they do. Maybe you identify with the term “people pleaser” (even if the label makes you cringe!) and find saying “no” challenging because you are so keenly aware of others’ feelings. Maybe the secrecy of keeping your own emotions at bay – or even feeling unsure of exactly what they are – leaves you feeling isolated, wishing you had closer connections you could lean on. Maybe you find it hard to get motivated and think, “what’s the point?” You want to lead a meaningful life, but you aren't sure what you truly value.
I have extensive experience working with eating disorders and body image issues, and I welcome those who need support on their healing journey.
Many women feel pressure to be perfect in an imperfect world and evaluate themselves harshly no matter what they do. Maybe you identify with the term “people pleaser” (even if the label makes you cringe!) and find saying “no” challenging because you are so keenly aware of others’ feelings. Maybe the secrecy of keeping your own emotions at bay – or even feeling unsure of exactly what they are – leaves you feeling isolated, wishing you had closer connections you could lean on. Maybe you find it hard to get motivated and think, “what’s the point?” You want to lead a meaningful life, but you aren't sure what you truly value.
(770) 580-1084 View (770) 580-1084
Photo of Julianna Robinson Zellner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julianna Robinson Zellner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in treating adults (18+) with complex trauma, relationship challenges, history of intimate partner violence (emotional, verbal, sexual, or physical abuse), eating disorders, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, religious trauma, & life transitions.
My goal is to provide a safe, warm and nurturing space for you to voice and process your experiences while assisting you with developing coping strategies and empowering you toward wellness, self-acceptance and wholeness. I strive to help clients build a life aligned with their values as they experience freedom and healing.
I specialize in treating adults (18+) with complex trauma, relationship challenges, history of intimate partner violence (emotional, verbal, sexual, or physical abuse), eating disorders, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, religious trauma, & life transitions.
My goal is to provide a safe, warm and nurturing space for you to voice and process your experiences while assisting you with developing coping strategies and empowering you toward wellness, self-acceptance and wholeness. I strive to help clients build a life aligned with their values as they experience freedom and healing.
(678) 735-5384 View (678) 735-5384
Midtown Psychotherapy Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
We offer support for a variety of challenges including relationship issues, anxiety and depression, life transitions, trauma, eating disorders, addiction, and Psychological Assessment services.
Midtown Psychotherapy Associates offers outstanding clinical care and personalized attention for individuals, couples, and families. The experienced and caring professionals in the MPA community are committed to providing clinical excellence addressing a wide range of issues. We work with you to identify the right therapist relationship for your specific issues, interests, or relationship situations. We offer secure online video sessions in addition to in-person sessions.
We offer support for a variety of challenges including relationship issues, anxiety and depression, life transitions, trauma, eating disorders, addiction, and Psychological Assessment services.
Midtown Psychotherapy Associates offers outstanding clinical care and personalized attention for individuals, couples, and families. The experienced and caring professionals in the MPA community are committed to providing clinical excellence addressing a wide range of issues. We work with you to identify the right therapist relationship for your specific issues, interests, or relationship situations. We offer secure online video sessions in addition to in-person sessions.
(470) 567-5776 View (470) 567-5776
Photo of Dr. Beverly L. Boyd - Dr. Beverly L. Boyd, Transformative Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Dr. Beverly L. Boyd, Transformative Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have successfully treated PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Eating Disorders, Career-related, and Expat Issues.
I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is eclectic in nature often utilizing, cognitive-behavioral, positive psychology, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapies. I will tailor our session including the dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique circumstances. My goal is to help you to get well.
I have successfully treated PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Family Issues, Eating Disorders, Career-related, and Expat Issues.
I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is eclectic in nature often utilizing, cognitive-behavioral, positive psychology, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapies. I will tailor our session including the dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique circumstances. My goal is to help you to get well.
(404) 982-4692 View (404) 982-4692
Photo of Sarah S Pannell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Sarah S Pannell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30068
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, eating disorders & perinatal concerns, including infertility.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, eating disorders & perinatal concerns, including infertility.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
(678) 883-7539 View (678) 883-7539
Photo of Katherine C Thyne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Katherine C Thyne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I specialize and have extensive training in working with trauma, grief, depression, eating disorders ( Bulimia, Compulsive Overeating), I truly believe in the ability to move on from traumatic situations.
Hello. I use a direct, yet supportive approach to focus on improving life skills and releasing negative beliefs and behaviors. Experience has shown that by changing unhealthy patterns, expressing fears, and taking gentle risks, it is possible to live a more satisfying life regardless of past traumas and other issues. With a combination of techniques, we will work together on both short and long term goals. I am an interactive therapist and encourage intensive work both in and out of the office. I have a home office and use video sessions as needed to help with time constraints/distance. I have two small sweet dogs.
I specialize and have extensive training in working with trauma, grief, depression, eating disorders ( Bulimia, Compulsive Overeating), I truly believe in the ability to move on from traumatic situations.
Hello. I use a direct, yet supportive approach to focus on improving life skills and releasing negative beliefs and behaviors. Experience has shown that by changing unhealthy patterns, expressing fears, and taking gentle risks, it is possible to live a more satisfying life regardless of past traumas and other issues. With a combination of techniques, we will work together on both short and long term goals. I am an interactive therapist and encourage intensive work both in and out of the office. I have a home office and use video sessions as needed to help with time constraints/distance. I have two small sweet dogs.
(678) 929-4804 View (678) 929-4804
Photo of Nora Arkin, Psychologist, PhD
Nora Arkin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychologist who specializes in eating disorders, body image concerns, mindfulness and compassion, and relationship based therapies.
I have a passion for working with couples, families, and in relationship based therapies. I also provide parent consultation. I completed a fellowship at Mclean Hospital-Harvard Medical School in Adolescent Mental Health and completed my predoctoral internship at the University of Virginia Counseling and Psychological Services.
I am a psychologist who specializes in eating disorders, body image concerns, mindfulness and compassion, and relationship based therapies.
I have a passion for working with couples, families, and in relationship based therapies. I also provide parent consultation. I completed a fellowship at Mclean Hospital-Harvard Medical School in Adolescent Mental Health and completed my predoctoral internship at the University of Virginia Counseling and Psychological Services.
(508) 978-1675 View (508) 978-1675

See more therapy options for Carroll County

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.