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Online Therapists

Photo of James O Montford Jr., Pastoral Counselor in Young Harris, 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 Ryan R Schwerzmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in Young Harris, 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 Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
We treat: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Stress, relationship issues, Parenting, Divorce, Couples, Mood Disorders, Childhood abuse, Sexual Abuse, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Loneliness, Grief, Eating disorders, Addiction (all forms), ADHD/ADD, Women's Issues, LGBT Issues, Men's Issues,Teen Issues, Bipolar, Play therapy/social skills for ages 3 and up, and Life coaching.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, and family therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, East Cobb, West Cobb, Smyrna, Vinings, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 394-3719 View (678) 394-3719
Photo of James E Kingman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
James E Kingman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
37 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
Are you seeking to renew or clarify your sense of purpose or cope more effectively with life and anxiety? There's hope for you to get unstuck, and achieve growth and stability. I offer a compassionate, safe space to uncover inner desires while solving issues, such as anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ identity/sexuality, eating disorders, or relationship goals. After a successful corporate career, I pursued a life-long desire to help others. My hope is to empower you to gain peace of mind and meaningful change. Let's start exploring your strengths and values, as we redefine your pathway for optimal growth. Note: Prepare/Enrich certified
Are you seeking to renew or clarify your sense of purpose or cope more effectively with life and anxiety? There's hope for you to get unstuck, and achieve growth and stability. I offer a compassionate, safe space to uncover inner desires while solving issues, such as anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ identity/sexuality, eating disorders, or relationship goals. After a successful corporate career, I pursued a life-long desire to help others. My hope is to empower you to gain peace of mind and meaningful change. Let's start exploring your strengths and values, as we redefine your pathway for optimal growth. Note: Prepare/Enrich certified
(770) 464-5194 View (770) 464-5194
Photo of Vincent Fitch, Psychologist in Young Harris, GA
Vincent Fitch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
I specialize in eating disorders, body image, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, and sleep difficulties.
Asking for help can be difficult especially when you pride yourself for being an independent person. When the uncontrollable aspects of life emerge and stick around it can often lead to feeling out of control, stuck, or unproductive even for someone that is usually successful. The truth is that life happens no matter the best of our own intentions and that is where I can work with you to reclaim your ideal life and achieve your goals.
I specialize in eating disorders, body image, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship concerns, and sleep difficulties.
Asking for help can be difficult especially when you pride yourself for being an independent person. When the uncontrollable aspects of life emerge and stick around it can often lead to feeling out of control, stuck, or unproductive even for someone that is usually successful. The truth is that life happens no matter the best of our own intentions and that is where I can work with you to reclaim your ideal life and achieve your goals.
(404) 962-0948 View (404) 962-0948
Photo of Travis Sanderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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 New Beginning Counseling, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Young Harris, 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 George Wesley Evans, Pastoral Counselor in Young Harris, GA
George Wesley Evans
Pastoral Counselor
Not Verified Not Verified
Gainesville, GA 30501
I am a Certified Pastoral Counselor who works with individuals struggling with everyday life issues. Many times we may find ourselves experiencing anger, depression or anxiety. We all have these emotions from time to time. They do not need to control our lives. Maybe your journey is without purpose or direction. We have all been there. I am here to help you find your purpose.
I am a Certified Pastoral Counselor who works with individuals struggling with everyday life issues. Many times we may find ourselves experiencing anger, depression or anxiety. We all have these emotions from time to time. They do not need to control our lives. Maybe your journey is without purpose or direction. We have all been there. I am here to help you find your purpose.
(678) 949-5354 View (678) 949-5354
Photo of Brad W Erlandson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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 Terell Irwin Tepper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Terell Irwin Tepper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Powder Springs, GA 30127
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
The Populations I have had Experience working with include but are not limited to: Adolescents and Teens: ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, ODD, Anger Challenges, Challenges with Compliance to Rules, Probation/Legal Involvement, Trauma 2. Athletes: Performance Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorder, Communication Challenges, mood swings, Trauma 3. Adults: Anxiety, Depression, Psychosis, Trauma, Grief, Addiction, Impulse Control, Couples, Families, LGBTQ+
(678) 400-0546 View (678) 400-0546
Photo of Healing Minds Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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 Endpoints Health in Young Harris, GA
Endpoints Health
LCSW, MSW, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318
We want to help you address your depression, anxiety, grief, stress, or relationship issues. We work with individuals, couples, and families. Our team of counselors is diverse and they have a lot of experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds. We're looking forward to meeting you and helping you be your best self.
We want to help you address your depression, anxiety, grief, stress, or relationship issues. We work with individuals, couples, and families. Our team of counselors is diverse and they have a lot of experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds. We're looking forward to meeting you and helping you be your best self.
(762) 465-9438 View (762) 465-9438
Photo of Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Birmingham Family Counseling and Mediation Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30304
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
Currently Accepting New Clients. Perhaps you are a parent, struggling to find help for your child or teen who is dealing with behavioral or emotional concerns? Maybe you are an individual who is struggling with sadness, hopelessness, stress or anxiety. At Birmingham Family Counseling, we strive to provide inclusive, individualized care to support those who may be dealing with difficulty in life. We are here to support you through this time.
(205) 635-7880 View (205) 635-7880
Photo of Wayne Hulon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Wayne Hulon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
(770) 927-4536 View (770) 927-4536
Photo of Brett I Rozen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Brett I Rozen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30326
In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere (both in office and online with Video Counseling) I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. I work to help them attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a caring and compassionate professional and, provide counseling to adolescents, adults, and couples. My practice welcomes ALL people in an affirming environment. I work frequently with couples, helping them get unstuck from unhealthy behavior "patterns"; allowing them to find their way back to each other. **VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE.**
In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere (both in office and online with Video Counseling) I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. I work to help them attain the personal growth they're striving for. I am a caring and compassionate professional and, provide counseling to adolescents, adults, and couples. My practice welcomes ALL people in an affirming environment. I work frequently with couples, helping them get unstuck from unhealthy behavior "patterns"; allowing them to find their way back to each other. **VIDEO COUNSELING AVAILABLE.**
(404) 566-5130 View (404) 566-5130
Photo of Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent in Young Harris, 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 Jay Mundy, Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Jay Mundy
Counselor, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30605
Are you feeling stuck, directionless, unable to find a way forward? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Do you feel like your past is holding you back?
Are you feeling stuck, directionless, unable to find a way forward? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Do you feel like your past is holding you back?
(706) 760-9556 View (706) 760-9556
Photo of Christopher M Little, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, GA
Christopher M Little
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
We all have within us the ability to solve our own problems. What we lack sometimes is direction. We must work to remove the challenges that have prevented us from enjoying life; heal the misconceptions and misinterpretations and develop a strong spiritual foundation and connection to the world around us. It takes courage to begin the journey and perseverance to move through the process of healing to accomplish your goals. My role includes providing a safe space to explore your life, help identify and remove any barriers to having a healthier existence.
We all have within us the ability to solve our own problems. What we lack sometimes is direction. We must work to remove the challenges that have prevented us from enjoying life; heal the misconceptions and misinterpretations and develop a strong spiritual foundation and connection to the world around us. It takes courage to begin the journey and perseverance to move through the process of healing to accomplish your goals. My role includes providing a safe space to explore your life, help identify and remove any barriers to having a healthier existence.
(770) 285-5503 View (770) 285-5503
Photo of Joe Stapp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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
Photo of Dr. Terry Maurice Samuels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Young Harris, 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

See more therapy options for Young Harris

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.