Eating Disorders Therapists in Mosby, VA

Photo of Janet C Wilson, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Janet C Wilson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Serves Area
I provide psychotherapeutic treatment to adults and couples who seek to resolve troublesome symptoms, heal trauma, overcome obstacles to life goals, increase harmony and deepen relationships, and achieve greater clarity regarding important aspects of their identity. I individualize my approach to each client, drawing upon 40 yrs. of clinical experience and utilizing methods to include IFS, EMDR, hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy, Dream Work, Relationship Enhancement Therapy, and Ego State Psychology. My overarching goal is to unlock the innate healing resources that exist within each of us to facilitate the unfolding of desired change.
I provide psychotherapeutic treatment to adults and couples who seek to resolve troublesome symptoms, heal trauma, overcome obstacles to life goals, increase harmony and deepen relationships, and achieve greater clarity regarding important aspects of their identity. I individualize my approach to each client, drawing upon 40 yrs. of clinical experience and utilizing methods to include IFS, EMDR, hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy, Dream Work, Relationship Enhancement Therapy, and Ego State Psychology. My overarching goal is to unlock the innate healing resources that exist within each of us to facilitate the unfolding of desired change.
(703) 596-1147 View (703) 596-1147
Photo of Christine Conde, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Conde
Marriage & Family Therapist
Online Only
Do you ever feel so sad that it is difficult to get through the day? Or do you worry so much that you are having trouble focusing or concentrating? Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times and it can be hard to figure out how to cope with these tough situations. It can be even more difficult to deal with these things if we do not have the proper tools to help us deal with these challenges. I can help by providing the necessary tools and techniques to guide you through these difficult times. In 2016 I graduated from Capella University with a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Do you ever feel so sad that it is difficult to get through the day? Or do you worry so much that you are having trouble focusing or concentrating? Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times and it can be hard to figure out how to cope with these tough situations. It can be even more difficult to deal with these things if we do not have the proper tools to help us deal with these challenges. I can help by providing the necessary tools and techniques to guide you through these difficult times. In 2016 I graduated from Capella University with a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(434) 595-4891 View (434) 595-4891

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jean Ward, Psychologist, PhD
Jean Ward
Psychologist, PhD
Reston, VA 20190
Waitlist for new clients
I treat teenagers and adults for symptoms of anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, and mood disorders, and support clients who are struggling with loss and managing life changes from major disruptions.
I specialize in middle school, high school, and college student transitions; adult transitions in work, family, and personal relationships; eating disorders including excessive weight gain, bulimia and binge-eating; and coming to terms with grief, loss and bereavement. Please visit my website to learn more about putting Positive Psychology into practice.
I treat teenagers and adults for symptoms of anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, eating disorders, and mood disorders, and support clients who are struggling with loss and managing life changes from major disruptions.
I specialize in middle school, high school, and college student transitions; adult transitions in work, family, and personal relationships; eating disorders including excessive weight gain, bulimia and binge-eating; and coming to terms with grief, loss and bereavement. Please visit my website to learn more about putting Positive Psychology into practice.
(571) 497-4554 View (571) 497-4554
Photo of Meredith Kerley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Meredith Kerley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, grief, eating disorders, and difficult life transitions.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Virginia and Maryland, I am committed to helping individuals ages 15+ overcome barriers and achieve holistic well-being. I build upon each individual's strengths and uniqueness, and I work collaboratively with clients to help navigate life's challenges, cultivate resilience, achieve greater insight and clarity of mind, and change longstanding counterproductive patterns of behavior. I believe that it is through this work that clients are able to live more authentic lives and experience more fulfilling relationships.
My experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, grief, eating disorders, and difficult life transitions.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Virginia and Maryland, I am committed to helping individuals ages 15+ overcome barriers and achieve holistic well-being. I build upon each individual's strengths and uniqueness, and I work collaboratively with clients to help navigate life's challenges, cultivate resilience, achieve greater insight and clarity of mind, and change longstanding counterproductive patterns of behavior. I believe that it is through this work that clients are able to live more authentic lives and experience more fulfilling relationships.
(703) 591-5912 x5 View (703) 591-5912 x5
Photo of Anisha Zaman, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Anisha Zaman
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Alexandria, VA 22312
Anisha offers specialized expertise in areas including Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Body Image, Self-esteem, Suicidal Ideations, Self-Injurious Behavior, and gender/sexuality identity exploration.
In her therapeutic approach, Anisha emphasizes trauma-informed care and seamlessly integrates a variety of therapeutic techniques such as psychodynamics, internal family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Anisha offers specialized expertise in areas including Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Body Image, Self-esteem, Suicidal Ideations, Self-Injurious Behavior, and gender/sexuality identity exploration.
In her therapeutic approach, Anisha emphasizes trauma-informed care and seamlessly integrates a variety of therapeutic techniques such as psychodynamics, internal family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
(540) 572-7193 View (540) 572-7193
Photo of Stephanie Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Stephanie Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in adult Mental Healthcare, offering a blend of Behavioral Therapy, Neuroscience, Somatic techniques & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder & Eating Disorders.
You can heal and change can happen. Life can be so different in 3 months, let alone a year's time. You aren't alone and don't have to be! Help is a phone call away. Reach out. I look forward to walking beside you on your wellness journey.
I specialize in adult Mental Healthcare, offering a blend of Behavioral Therapy, Neuroscience, Somatic techniques & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder & Eating Disorders.
You can heal and change can happen. Life can be so different in 3 months, let alone a year's time. You aren't alone and don't have to be! Help is a phone call away. Reach out. I look forward to walking beside you on your wellness journey.
(571) 701-2431 View (571) 701-2431
Photo of Mary Rodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Rodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Mary has experience working with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, intermittent explosive disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and various mental health disorders.
Mary Jouett Rodman, LCSW, graduated from Jane Addams College of Social Work at The University of Illinois at Chicago. Mary encompasses a holistic approach when identifying and treating the macro and micro needs of the community. Mary is focused on creating sustainable healing by incorporating strength-based systems of care. As a clinical social worker, her treatment approach includes motivational interviewing, integrating self-compassion principles, embodied practices, and a person-centered treatment approach.
Mary has experience working with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, intermittent explosive disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and various mental health disorders.
Mary Jouett Rodman, LCSW, graduated from Jane Addams College of Social Work at The University of Illinois at Chicago. Mary encompasses a holistic approach when identifying and treating the macro and micro needs of the community. Mary is focused on creating sustainable healing by incorporating strength-based systems of care. As a clinical social worker, her treatment approach includes motivational interviewing, integrating self-compassion principles, embodied practices, and a person-centered treatment approach.
(757) 337-5443 View (757) 337-5443
Photo of Allison Ober, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Allison Ober
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
My practice includes a strong focus on the treatment of eating disorders, and I know how isolating these struggles can be.
I am trained in and most often use Family-Based Treatment (FBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My background in special education has deeply informed my work with neurodivergent clients. I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, offering flexibility and creativity in our work together.
My practice includes a strong focus on the treatment of eating disorders, and I know how isolating these struggles can be.
I am trained in and most often use Family-Based Treatment (FBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My background in special education has deeply informed my work with neurodivergent clients. I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, offering flexibility and creativity in our work together.
(571) 556-9072 View (571) 556-9072
Photo of Crista L. Studer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RDN, CEDS-C, NCC
Crista L. Studer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RDN, CEDS-C, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado and Virginia, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist-Consultant (CEDS-C) with the unique ability to combine nutrition and mental health for clients suffering from disordered eating, poor body image, low self-esteem, anxiety/depression, and other mental health disorders.
I specialize in disordered eating with an emphasis on intuitive eating, and from a Health At Every Size (HAES)-aligned perspective. My client-centered, holistic approach looks at the individual beyond their mental health struggles helping clients find their identity and voice outside of their symptoms.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado and Virginia, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist-Consultant (CEDS-C) with the unique ability to combine nutrition and mental health for clients suffering from disordered eating, poor body image, low self-esteem, anxiety/depression, and other mental health disorders.
I specialize in disordered eating with an emphasis on intuitive eating, and from a Health At Every Size (HAES)-aligned perspective. My client-centered, holistic approach looks at the individual beyond their mental health struggles helping clients find their identity and voice outside of their symptoms.
(720) 335-5880 View (720) 335-5880
Photo of Kellie Zundel-Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kellie Zundel-Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am also specially trained in eating disorders and offer the gold standard in treatment.
Society bombards us with expectations of how we should look, act, and feel in order to belong. We endlessly search for the next diet, workout routine, relationship, promotion, house, car, etc to fill this emptiness inside that's saying, "I'm not enough". We feel distant from our emotions, our bodies, and our true selves in this pursuit of external validation. This "not enough" feeling sits deeply below protective patterns that might appear as an eating disorder, body shame, substance abuse, toxic relationships, anxiety, depression, OCD, etc.
I am also specially trained in eating disorders and offer the gold standard in treatment.
Society bombards us with expectations of how we should look, act, and feel in order to belong. We endlessly search for the next diet, workout routine, relationship, promotion, house, car, etc to fill this emptiness inside that's saying, "I'm not enough". We feel distant from our emotions, our bodies, and our true selves in this pursuit of external validation. This "not enough" feeling sits deeply below protective patterns that might appear as an eating disorder, body shame, substance abuse, toxic relationships, anxiety, depression, OCD, etc.
(571) 777-0152 View (571) 777-0152
Photo of Paige Townley, Resident in Counseling, MA
Paige Townley
Resident in Counseling, MA
Reston, VA 20191
She specializes in treating eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders.
I enjoy working with clients who are ten years and older and are suffering from eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems; I utilize different treatment modalities that best suit my client's needs but rely on evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT and client-centered.
She specializes in treating eating disorders, anxiety disorders and mood disorders.
I enjoy working with clients who are ten years and older and are suffering from eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems; I utilize different treatment modalities that best suit my client's needs but rely on evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT and client-centered.
(757) 637-1377 View (757) 637-1377
Photo of Brigitte Sandoval, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Brigitte Sandoval
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Arlington, VA 22209
Hi, I’m Brigitte Sandoval, a licensed Resident in Counseling at Rock Recovery that specializes in helping individuals overcome the challenges of eating disorders and disordered eating.
My therapeutic approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy, each of which will effectively address the underlying emotional and psychological factors of eating disorders. My goal is to help you move away from self-criticism and toward a more compassionate and value-driven life.
Hi, I’m Brigitte Sandoval, a licensed Resident in Counseling at Rock Recovery that specializes in helping individuals overcome the challenges of eating disorders and disordered eating.
My therapeutic approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy, each of which will effectively address the underlying emotional and psychological factors of eating disorders. My goal is to help you move away from self-criticism and toward a more compassionate and value-driven life.
(571) 493-3691 View (571) 493-3691
Photo of Rachel Jahelka, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Rachel Jahelka
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Vienna, VA 22180
Our caring team-based approach specializes in eating disorders, addictions, and identity/transgender needs.
Rachel Jahelka is a recent graduate of Florida Atlantic University’s Master of Social Work program, currently working towards her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensure. With a wealth of experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds who are struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, and co-occurring disorders, Rachel is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care. She is well-versed in therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques.
Our caring team-based approach specializes in eating disorders, addictions, and identity/transgender needs.
Rachel Jahelka is a recent graduate of Florida Atlantic University’s Master of Social Work program, currently working towards her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensure. With a wealth of experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds who are struggling with anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, and co-occurring disorders, Rachel is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care. She is well-versed in therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques.
(571) 200-3556 View (571) 200-3556
Photo of Mary Rodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Rodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Mary has experience working with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, intermittent explosive disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and various mental health disorders.
Mary Jouett Rodman, LCSW, graduated from Jane Addams College of Social Work at The University of Illinois at Chicago. Mary encompasses a holistic approach when identifying and treating the macro and micro needs of the community. Mary is focused on creating sustainable healing by incorporating strength-based systems of care. As a clinical social worker, her treatment approach includes motivational interviewing, integrating self-compassion principles, embodied practices, and a person-centered treatment approach.
Mary has experience working with patients experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse, intermittent explosive disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and various mental health disorders.
Mary Jouett Rodman, LCSW, graduated from Jane Addams College of Social Work at The University of Illinois at Chicago. Mary encompasses a holistic approach when identifying and treating the macro and micro needs of the community. Mary is focused on creating sustainable healing by incorporating strength-based systems of care. As a clinical social worker, her treatment approach includes motivational interviewing, integrating self-compassion principles, embodied practices, and a person-centered treatment approach.
(804) 570-1397 View (804) 570-1397
Photo of Kellie Zundel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kellie Zundel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
Maybe you struggle with binge eating or bulimia and each time you binge you tell yourself it will be the last time-but it never is.
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and OSFED. I enjoy using shame resilience work (alongside CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy) to help my clients to rewrite their shame stories and heal deep wounds, which may be underlying the eating disorder.
Maybe you struggle with binge eating or bulimia and each time you binge you tell yourself it will be the last time-but it never is.
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and OSFED. I enjoy using shame resilience work (alongside CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy) to help my clients to rewrite their shame stories and heal deep wounds, which may be underlying the eating disorder.
(571) 336-0958 View (571) 336-0958
Photo of Andrea Lankford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Andrea Lankford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with individuals with perinatal/postpartum issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship/family issues, self-esteem/self-image issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I have worked in a variety of settings and I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am passionate about providing culturally competent, client-centered, and holistic care to those with a variety of mental health needs and backgrounds.
I have extensive experience working with individuals with perinatal/postpartum issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship/family issues, self-esteem/self-image issues, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working in the mental health field for over a decade. I have worked in a variety of settings and I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am passionate about providing culturally competent, client-centered, and holistic care to those with a variety of mental health needs and backgrounds.
(571) 470-6864 View (571) 470-6864
Photo of Virginia Inglese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS
Virginia Inglese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RDN, EMDR, CEDS
Vienna, VA 22180
Our caring team-based approach specializes in eating disorders, addictions and identity/transgender needs.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
Our caring team-based approach specializes in eating disorders, addictions and identity/transgender needs.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or self harming behaviors? Have you suffered from trauma and abuse, or have lost touch of your own needs and feelings? I use an integrative approach that emphasizes emotional and physical healing and addresses the underlying core issues that continue to sabotage the recovery process. My treatment approach helps you let go of negative beliefs, self destructive patterns, and learn to develop positive relationships and healthy coping skills. We build on your strengths and focus is on recovery and self care to find your true inner self.
(703) 634-9922 View (703) 634-9922
Photo of Amy White (Fowler), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Amy White (Fowler)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I have experience in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders (utilizing the Health At Every Size and All Foods Fit philosophies), anxiety, and those who have experienced trauma.
You deserve to live a life without things that hold you back, pull you down, or leave you in the dark. Whether this is an eating disorder that has stopped you from enjoying life or made you see yourself differently than how others see you, anxiety that has caused you to feel you cannot take a chance, or depression that has made you feel as though there is no way to cope, I want to work with you to help you find and understand your true self. Therapy is identifying what needs to change, taking those steps, and working to meet your goals. This journey can be challenging, however, you will find in the end it is very fulfilling.
I have experience in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders (utilizing the Health At Every Size and All Foods Fit philosophies), anxiety, and those who have experienced trauma.
You deserve to live a life without things that hold you back, pull you down, or leave you in the dark. Whether this is an eating disorder that has stopped you from enjoying life or made you see yourself differently than how others see you, anxiety that has caused you to feel you cannot take a chance, or depression that has made you feel as though there is no way to cope, I want to work with you to help you find and understand your true self. Therapy is identifying what needs to change, taking those steps, and working to meet your goals. This journey can be challenging, however, you will find in the end it is very fulfilling.
(571) 999-6975 View (571) 999-6975
Photo of Erin O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Erin O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
McLean, VA 22102
My primary focus includes working with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, mood disturbances and a history of trauma and their families and supports.
My goal is to deliver client-centered and collaborative care, working as a team with you, your family/supports and other appropriate professionals. I offer a compassionate, approachable and steady approach as I support you in identifying the valued change you want to make.
My primary focus includes working with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, mood disturbances and a history of trauma and their families and supports.
My goal is to deliver client-centered and collaborative care, working as a team with you, your family/supports and other appropriate professionals. I offer a compassionate, approachable and steady approach as I support you in identifying the valued change you want to make.
(571) 200-2952 View (571) 200-2952
Photo of Crystal Hamling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Crystal Hamling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
4 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
As a clinical mental health counselor, I am able to work with you on just about any challenge you may be experiencing, from depression and anxiety, to substance abuse, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
I offer counseling in-person and online. Clients I may see online include Virginia residents and people living abroad, i.e., outside the U.S. I specialize in offering counseling services to people living in Italy.
As a clinical mental health counselor, I am able to work with you on just about any challenge you may be experiencing, from depression and anxiety, to substance abuse, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
I offer counseling in-person and online. Clients I may see online include Virginia residents and people living abroad, i.e., outside the U.S. I specialize in offering counseling services to people living in Italy.
(571) 234-1471 View (571) 234-1471

See more therapy options for Mosby

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.