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Online Therapists

Photo of Align Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Align Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucker, GA 30084
I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating neurodiversity and Autism, healing from the complexities of trauma, seeking support and recovery from eating disorders, and anyone who wants to embrace the potential of a major life transition.
Welcome, I’m Matthew, and I'm here to guide you on a transformative journey towards a more authentic, fulfilling, and purposeful life. As you embark on this exciting new chapter, I want you to know that I'll meet you right where you are, and that I’ll be on your team. It's incredibly important to me that everyone feels welcomed and valued, regardless of their orientation, race, background, or identity.
I specialize in supporting individuals who are navigating neurodiversity and Autism, healing from the complexities of trauma, seeking support and recovery from eating disorders, and anyone who wants to embrace the potential of a major life transition.
Welcome, I’m Matthew, and I'm here to guide you on a transformative journey towards a more authentic, fulfilling, and purposeful life. As you embark on this exciting new chapter, I want you to know that I'll meet you right where you are, and that I’ll be on your team. It's incredibly important to me that everyone feels welcomed and valued, regardless of their orientation, race, background, or identity.
(678) 735-4579 View (678) 735-4579
Photo of Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, GA
Ryan R Schwerzmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I have over 15 years of experience treating children, couples and families using an integrated approach based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family systems theories. My primary interests are in communication, self-expression, self-esteem, anxiety and behavior problems. I served as the Student and Associate Chair of the Georgia Association of Marriage and Family Therapists from 2009 -2012. I am the founder of Adaptive Therapy Counseling Group, LLC in Lilburn and Alpharetta, where I have treated individuals and families suffering from eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders for over 10 years.
I have over 15 years of experience treating children, couples and families using an integrated approach based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and family systems theories. My primary interests are in communication, self-expression, self-esteem, anxiety and behavior problems. I served as the Student and Associate Chair of the Georgia Association of Marriage and Family Therapists from 2009 -2012. I am the founder of Adaptive Therapy Counseling Group, LLC in Lilburn and Alpharetta, where I have treated individuals and families suffering from eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders for over 10 years.
(404) 736-6734 View (404) 736-6734
Photo of James O Montford Jr., Pastoral Counselor in Franklin County, GA
James O Montford Jr.
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MSPC, BACS, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30349
Dr. James Montford, Jr. has a passion for marriage and family counseling, teens, young adult males, and those that struggle with substance abuse and other addictions. James specializes in Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. AREAS OF FOCUS: Men's Issues, Marriage and Family, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self-mutilating behavior, Sexual Addictions, and Identity Issues, Eating disorders. James earned his Ph.D. in Religious Philosophy in Christian Counseling his master's in Professional Counseling and his Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies James is a Certified Christian Counselor in Ga and Fla.
Dr. James Montford, Jr. has a passion for marriage and family counseling, teens, young adult males, and those that struggle with substance abuse and other addictions. James specializes in Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. AREAS OF FOCUS: Men's Issues, Marriage and Family, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self-mutilating behavior, Sexual Addictions, and Identity Issues, Eating disorders. James earned his Ph.D. in Religious Philosophy in Christian Counseling his master's in Professional Counseling and his Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies James is a Certified Christian Counselor in Ga and Fla.
(770) 626-7947 View (770) 626-7947
Photo of Brad W Erlandson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Brad W Erlandson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Presently you may feel overwhelmed or confused about the emotional place you find yourself. You long for inner relief and peace of mind. You may feel that some of your relationships are broken and need resolution. You are wondering about your options and may need someone to walk with you through your challenge. Anxiety, depression, chronic pain, faith/meaning struggles, ADHD, relational and marital and family issues are my current specialties. I promise I will do my best to meet your need. I have two master's and a specialization in mental health. I have seen people heal and grow.
Presently you may feel overwhelmed or confused about the emotional place you find yourself. You long for inner relief and peace of mind. You may feel that some of your relationships are broken and need resolution. You are wondering about your options and may need someone to walk with you through your challenge. Anxiety, depression, chronic pain, faith/meaning struggles, ADHD, relational and marital and family issues are my current specialties. I promise I will do my best to meet your need. I have two master's and a specialization in mental health. I have seen people heal and grow.
(678) 340-6788 View (678) 340-6788
Photo of Dr. Terry Maurice Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Dr. Terry Maurice Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
You made a bold and courageous decision to find help for your struggle. Millions of people deal with mental health problems daily and you are not alone in deciding to face your fears and find balance in life. I am here to help you and coach you through overcoming the obstacles in your life as you reach your full potential. By committing yourself to the progression of therapy, you can acquire holistic strategies designed to help you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically, and I would love to be your guide.
You made a bold and courageous decision to find help for your struggle. Millions of people deal with mental health problems daily and you are not alone in deciding to face your fears and find balance in life. I am here to help you and coach you through overcoming the obstacles in your life as you reach your full potential. By committing yourself to the progression of therapy, you can acquire holistic strategies designed to help you grow mentally, emotionally, and physically, and I would love to be your guide.
(404) 738-9149 View (404) 738-9149
Photo of New Beginning Counseling, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, GA
New Beginning Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Acworth, GA 30101
The mission of New Beginning Counseling, LLC is to strengthen, encourage and inspire individuals to attain a healthier self thereby progressing to more beneficial relationships. NBC, LLC is focused on providing helpful counseling to those hoping to build or reestablish personal relationships. New Beginning Counseling, LLC is based on the belief that the clients' needs are of the utmost importance. I am committed to meeting those needs. I have worked extensively with individuals dealing with anger management, anxiety, addictions (including sexual addiction), depression and personal relationships.
The mission of New Beginning Counseling, LLC is to strengthen, encourage and inspire individuals to attain a healthier self thereby progressing to more beneficial relationships. NBC, LLC is focused on providing helpful counseling to those hoping to build or reestablish personal relationships. New Beginning Counseling, LLC is based on the belief that the clients' needs are of the utmost importance. I am committed to meeting those needs. I have worked extensively with individuals dealing with anger management, anxiety, addictions (including sexual addiction), depression and personal relationships.
(470) 412-8961 View (470) 412-8961
Photo of Cory Tarver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Cory Tarver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cumming, GA 30028
Thank you for taking the time to explore my approach to therapy. I have over 5 years of experience working with people to heal trauma. Traumatic events could include any experience a person perceived as threatening. My therapeutic modality is using a combination of Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Internal Relationship Focusing (IRF). I believe each client's body has the wisdom to guide us, client and therapist, through the resolution of trauma symptoms. I love to work with people who have spent considerable time in talk therapy and are now looking for alternative approaches.
Thank you for taking the time to explore my approach to therapy. I have over 5 years of experience working with people to heal trauma. Traumatic events could include any experience a person perceived as threatening. My therapeutic modality is using a combination of Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Internal Relationship Focusing (IRF). I believe each client's body has the wisdom to guide us, client and therapist, through the resolution of trauma symptoms. I love to work with people who have spent considerable time in talk therapy and are now looking for alternative approaches.
(770) 574-4837 View (770) 574-4837
Photo of Healing Minds Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Healing Minds Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD , LPC , LCMH, SAP, MAC
Verified Verified
Suwanee, GA 30024
HMI has a diverse group of therapists that can meet your personal goals, needs, and all of your expectations. No matter what your issues may be HMI has trained staff that can help you recover from any traumatic event in your life. HMI is based on the belief that "We're here to help you become a better you" and will do everything within the legal parameters to help you achieve your goals.
HMI has a diverse group of therapists that can meet your personal goals, needs, and all of your expectations. No matter what your issues may be HMI has trained staff that can help you recover from any traumatic event in your life. HMI is based on the belief that "We're here to help you become a better you" and will do everything within the legal parameters to help you achieve your goals.
(706) 917-8121 View (706) 917-8121
Photo of Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Success Brand - Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist in private practice in the state of Georgia. I help children and adults overcome the negative effects that stressful or traumatic life experiences have on how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist in private practice in the state of Georgia. I help children and adults overcome the negative effects that stressful or traumatic life experiences have on how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
(470) 517-6868 View (470) 517-6868
Photo of Travis Sanderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Travis Sanderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Blue Ridge, GA 30513  (Online Only)
Travis believes in a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust to help individuals and families achieve their goals. He has specialization in clinical psychology, children and adolescents, substance, Couples and Families, Depression and Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Addiction, trauma, outdoor recreation, and mental health counseling. As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients on their personal journeys. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, and ultimately developing a life in which they feel they can thrive.
Travis believes in a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust to help individuals and families achieve their goals. He has specialization in clinical psychology, children and adolescents, substance, Couples and Families, Depression and Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Addiction, trauma, outdoor recreation, and mental health counseling. As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients on their personal journeys. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, and ultimately developing a life in which they feel they can thrive.
(801) 797-3679 View (801) 797-3679
Photo of Dr. Jose Fidias Franco V., Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Dr. Jose Fidias Franco V.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, PsyD, LPC, LMHC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30909
As a solution-focused practitioners, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and leave a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you are looking for counseling approaches and techniques such as clinical hypnosis, mind-body interventions, and neurotherapy when talk therapy has not worked for you, we can provide those services and give you the extra support and guidance to help you move in a new direction in your life.
As a solution-focused practitioners, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and leave a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you are looking for counseling approaches and techniques such as clinical hypnosis, mind-body interventions, and neurotherapy when talk therapy has not worked for you, we can provide those services and give you the extra support and guidance to help you move in a new direction in your life.
(888) 509-9040 View (888) 509-9040
Photo of The Pursuit Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
The Pursuit Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(678) 904-8663 View (678) 904-8663
Photo of Michael E Stoneking in Franklin County, GA
Michael E Stoneking
PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
I DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR ANY OF MY SERVICES; donations are appreciated with no expectations . I am well experienced in all areas of Counseling ,. Treatment is individualized and structured for your specific issue The client and myself together develops an individualized plan. I work by listening, hearing and helping my client gain a deeper understanding of obstacles, which are causing repeating patterns of negative behavior,and how to overcome struggles. My clients find me engaging and sensitive to their issues. Phone sessions and E-life advisement for those too busy , or desiring anonymity !
I DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR ANY OF MY SERVICES; donations are appreciated with no expectations . I am well experienced in all areas of Counseling ,. Treatment is individualized and structured for your specific issue The client and myself together develops an individualized plan. I work by listening, hearing and helping my client gain a deeper understanding of obstacles, which are causing repeating patterns of negative behavior,and how to overcome struggles. My clients find me engaging and sensitive to their issues. Phone sessions and E-life advisement for those too busy , or desiring anonymity !
(404) 500-8652 View (404) 500-8652
Photo of Jeffrey Goodell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, GA
Jeffrey Goodell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCC
Verified Verified
Suwanee, GA 30024
I am inspired working with clients who are committed to bettering their mental health and to personal growth, even if feeling stuck. What happens to an individual rarely happens within a vacuum, and a more complete context provides better understanding of how we grow, develop, suffer and change. During moments when hopefulness is dim, we need someone to hear us, to see us, and to believe in us. Each of us is capable of living lives of significance when we embody a true sense of hopefulness. Living a life of significance is a personal and humbling journey marked by having the courage to face our fears, listen clearly, and understand.
I am inspired working with clients who are committed to bettering their mental health and to personal growth, even if feeling stuck. What happens to an individual rarely happens within a vacuum, and a more complete context provides better understanding of how we grow, develop, suffer and change. During moments when hopefulness is dim, we need someone to hear us, to see us, and to believe in us. Each of us is capable of living lives of significance when we embody a true sense of hopefulness. Living a life of significance is a personal and humbling journey marked by having the courage to face our fears, listen clearly, and understand.
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Photo of Dr. Terry Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Dr. Terry Samuels
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, CDBT, CPCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, GA 30236
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
Terry Samuels earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice in December 1994 from Armstrong Atlantic University. Terry obtained his Master of Public Administration degree in December 1996 from Georgia State University. Terry obtained his Master of Professional Counseling degree in December 2015 from Grand Canyon University. Terry completed a 10-month internship at Intown Psychological Associates and completed the hours required for his associate license. Terry is a fully licensed therapist in the state of Georgia (LPC011391). Terry obtained his doctorate in psychology from Grand Canyon University in November of 2023.
(678) 944-8120 View (678) 944-8120
Photo of Neurobehavioral Associates, Psychologist in Franklin County, GA
Neurobehavioral Associates
Psychologist, PysD
Verified Verified
Augusta, GA 30907
Executive Clinical Director/CEO - NeuroBehavioral Associates, LLC. In addition to managing a full clinical load, I manage and maintain a private practice treating adult and pediatric patients with a focus on TBI, stroke, rehabilitation, dementia, substance abuse, etc. In addition, we staff multiple hospitals. I also have extensive (10 years +) experience in IMEs and disability review. Board Certified in Brain Injury by the American Academy for Certification of Brain Injury Specialists (AACBIS). I am one of the national trainers. Biofeedback certified and a trainer for AACBIS. Facilitated the creation of a student training program whereby MA, MD, PA, PhD.
Executive Clinical Director/CEO - NeuroBehavioral Associates, LLC. In addition to managing a full clinical load, I manage and maintain a private practice treating adult and pediatric patients with a focus on TBI, stroke, rehabilitation, dementia, substance abuse, etc. In addition, we staff multiple hospitals. I also have extensive (10 years +) experience in IMEs and disability review. Board Certified in Brain Injury by the American Academy for Certification of Brain Injury Specialists (AACBIS). I am one of the national trainers. Biofeedback certified and a trainer for AACBIS. Facilitated the creation of a student training program whereby MA, MD, PA, PhD.
(706) 418-3523 View (706) 418-3523
Photo of Michel Bordeau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, GA
Michel Bordeau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, FNC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
My name is Michel Bordeau and in addition to being a Clinical Social Worker, I am a Functional Nutrition Coach. I approach anxiety and stress management from an integrative and holistic perspective. Working together we will address the root causes of your worries. Self-belief and self-confidence are significant factors of anxiety, but so are sleeping, eating, and exercising habits, as well as the impact of relationships with family, friends, co-workers, and with one’s environment.
My name is Michel Bordeau and in addition to being a Clinical Social Worker, I am a Functional Nutrition Coach. I approach anxiety and stress management from an integrative and holistic perspective. Working together we will address the root causes of your worries. Self-belief and self-confidence are significant factors of anxiety, but so are sleeping, eating, and exercising habits, as well as the impact of relationships with family, friends, co-workers, and with one’s environment.
(678) 264-3940 View (678) 264-3940
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Franklin County, GA
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
(470) 215-1788 View (470) 215-1788
Photo of Jacob W Glazier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Jacob W Glazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30308  (Online Only)
I believe in the power that language has to create and shape both worlds and identities. As a result, I take a narrative approach to counseling practice and work with clients to examine the way our language helps or hinders possibilities for health and flourishing. I am a counselor licensed in Georgia with over 9 years of experience. I have my PhD in Psychology and my MS Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I have worked with clients that have had a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, career challenges, and life transitions.
I believe in the power that language has to create and shape both worlds and identities. As a result, I take a narrative approach to counseling practice and work with clients to examine the way our language helps or hinders possibilities for health and flourishing. I am a counselor licensed in Georgia with over 9 years of experience. I have my PhD in Psychology and my MS Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I have worked with clients that have had a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, career challenges, and life transitions.
(470) 785-8151 View (470) 785-8151
Photo of Joe Stapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, GA
Joe Stapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Waitlist for new clients
*I am not able to accept new patients at this time.* Are you at a point where you or a loved one has lost hope? With over 27 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, marriages, and families, I've seen many find hope that was previously absent by using a short-term, targeted, and effective approach to counseling. Each therapist has unique strengths. Mine is working through tough problems other therapists don't prefer to treat by seeing clients in their homes rather than in an office. Most people are able to see a significant change within 6 months. Counseling should not last forever and neither should your struggles
*I am not able to accept new patients at this time.* Are you at a point where you or a loved one has lost hope? With over 27 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, marriages, and families, I've seen many find hope that was previously absent by using a short-term, targeted, and effective approach to counseling. Each therapist has unique strengths. Mine is working through tough problems other therapists don't prefer to treat by seeing clients in their homes rather than in an office. Most people are able to see a significant change within 6 months. Counseling should not last forever and neither should your struggles
(706) 408-0692 View (706) 408-0692

See more therapy options for Franklin 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.