Eating Disorders Therapists in Chestnut Hill, MA

Photo of Nyssa Wittliff Boardman, PsyD, Psychologist
Nyssa Wittliff Boardman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
While I specialize in eating disorders and body image concerns, these issues do not occur in isolation.
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
While I specialize in eating disorders and body image concerns, these issues do not occur in isolation.
I consider it a great privilege to hear people’s stories and struggles. With my outside perspective and training, we can create a therapy that will shed light on patterns in your life that you would like to change, help make sense of how they came to be, and create a plan to address them head on. I take an active role in therapy by asking thought provoking questions and offering my observations and feedback, which promotes movement towards lasting change.
(857) 422-7528 View (857) 422-7528
Photo of Christina Brothers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Brothers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
My practice has primarily lended itself to the treatment of Eating disorders, and other co-occurring struggles such as OCD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders that are commonly associated with this illness. Currently, I also work in a University setting with both undergrad and grad students, but in the past was the Clinical Director of both an Inpatient Eating Disorder Unit and a Psychiatric Unit. These experiences have provided me with the background of treating adolescents, young adults/adults, and families from all different backgrounds.
My practice has primarily lended itself to the treatment of Eating disorders, and other co-occurring struggles such as OCD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders that are commonly associated with this illness. Currently, I also work in a University setting with both undergrad and grad students, but in the past was the Clinical Director of both an Inpatient Eating Disorder Unit and a Psychiatric Unit. These experiences have provided me with the background of treating adolescents, young adults/adults, and families from all different backgrounds.
(339) 330-1364 View (339) 330-1364
Photo of Judith Wilner Lawrence, PhD, Psychologist
Judith Wilner Lawrence
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
When beginning psychotherapy, individuals often feel vulnerable and in need of a safe space in which to examine their struggles and work towards healing. With over 30 years of experience, and as a Harvard-trained psychologist, I provide such a space. I work with empathy, intellect, and humor to help clients address such diverse concerns as life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories, and I use CBT and mindfulness techniques where appropriate to help clients understand themselves, achieve their goals, and find satisfaction in their lives.
When beginning psychotherapy, individuals often feel vulnerable and in need of a safe space in which to examine their struggles and work towards healing. With over 30 years of experience, and as a Harvard-trained psychologist, I provide such a space. I work with empathy, intellect, and humor to help clients address such diverse concerns as life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories, and I use CBT and mindfulness techniques where appropriate to help clients understand themselves, achieve their goals, and find satisfaction in their lives.
(617) 739-1212 View (617) 739-1212
Photo of Megan Donelan - Megan Donelan Counseling, MA, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Megan Donelan Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Now accepting new clients in Florida and Massachusetts! Megan prioritizes helping clients feel comfortable, safe, and at ease during sessions. Each session is a collaborative process: the client is the expert in their life, and Megan will tailor her approach to suit their boundaries, comfort level, goals, and needs every time they meet. She specializes in anxiety, attachment, trauma but provides support for a wide range of concerns. Many of her clients are new to therapy, and Megan takes pride in destigmatizing therapy- her sessions feel casual, easy, and safe. Therapy doesn't need to feel like a big deal for big changes to occur.
Now accepting new clients in Florida and Massachusetts! Megan prioritizes helping clients feel comfortable, safe, and at ease during sessions. Each session is a collaborative process: the client is the expert in their life, and Megan will tailor her approach to suit their boundaries, comfort level, goals, and needs every time they meet. She specializes in anxiety, attachment, trauma but provides support for a wide range of concerns. Many of her clients are new to therapy, and Megan takes pride in destigmatizing therapy- her sessions feel casual, easy, and safe. Therapy doesn't need to feel like a big deal for big changes to occur.
(857) 855-7198 View (857) 855-7198
Photo of Erin Kilbury, LMHC, Counselor
Erin Kilbury
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Many of us weren't handed a complete toolbox for navigating life's challenges or didn't have models for maintaining satisfying relationships. When it comes to emotional disorders and relational issues people often delay getting the help they deserve. This can perpetuate or prolong painful experiences such as depression, anxiety, and loneliness and relationships can become gridlocked with perpetual issues. Therapy can help us develop the skills to live an anti-depressant life, cope with (even reduce) anxiety, process regrettable events, cultivate meaningful relationships, resolve triggers that impede our goals, and much more.
Many of us weren't handed a complete toolbox for navigating life's challenges or didn't have models for maintaining satisfying relationships. When it comes to emotional disorders and relational issues people often delay getting the help they deserve. This can perpetuate or prolong painful experiences such as depression, anxiety, and loneliness and relationships can become gridlocked with perpetual issues. Therapy can help us develop the skills to live an anti-depressant life, cope with (even reduce) anxiety, process regrettable events, cultivate meaningful relationships, resolve triggers that impede our goals, and much more.
(808) 556-8216 View (808) 556-8216
Photo of Leslie Goodhue, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Goodhue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Leslie Goodhue is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts with over 8 years of experience working in a variety of settings with all ages. She works to help individual clients cope with a range of concerns such as life transitions and everyday stressors to trauma, grief and loss. Despite working with all age groups, her specialty is young adults.
Leslie Goodhue is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts with over 8 years of experience working in a variety of settings with all ages. She works to help individual clients cope with a range of concerns such as life transitions and everyday stressors to trauma, grief and loss. Despite working with all age groups, her specialty is young adults.
(617) 812-2125 View (617) 812-2125
Photo of Amelia Hernandez-Marinez, MEd, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Amelia Hernandez-Marinez
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
As a mental health counselor I am here to support you, be sympathetic and non-judgmental through your journey. Life can be challenging and at times all we need is compassion and a safe place to express ourselves. I work with my patients and meet them where they are and help them focus on the areas that they identify that needs change or maintenance.
As a mental health counselor I am here to support you, be sympathetic and non-judgmental through your journey. Life can be challenging and at times all we need is compassion and a safe place to express ourselves. I work with my patients and meet them where they are and help them focus on the areas that they identify that needs change or maintenance.
(351) 300-5924 View (351) 300-5924

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anne Liblich, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Liblich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
My most utilized therapeutic interventions for treating eating disorders, anxiety, and mood disorders are CBT, ERP, and ACT.
Do you or a loved one struggle with disordered eating, or a possible eating disorder? Sometimes it is difficult to know when it is cause for concern, however if there is an unhealthy relationship with food that is enough to warrant therapeutic intervention. I am an experienced eating disorder therapist with an abundance of knowledge in the field, and open to provide help. I offer treatment for disordered eating, bulimia, anorexia, ARFID, orthorexia, yo-yo dieting, and body image issues. In addition I specialize in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I welcome all ages, genders and backgrounds and have tele-health availability.
My most utilized therapeutic interventions for treating eating disorders, anxiety, and mood disorders are CBT, ERP, and ACT.
Do you or a loved one struggle with disordered eating, or a possible eating disorder? Sometimes it is difficult to know when it is cause for concern, however if there is an unhealthy relationship with food that is enough to warrant therapeutic intervention. I am an experienced eating disorder therapist with an abundance of knowledge in the field, and open to provide help. I offer treatment for disordered eating, bulimia, anorexia, ARFID, orthorexia, yo-yo dieting, and body image issues. In addition I specialize in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I welcome all ages, genders and backgrounds and have tele-health availability.
(508) 501-7195 View (508) 501-7195
Photo of Lucie Waldman, MS, CCIEDC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lucie Waldman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CCIEDC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135
As a therapist, my goal is to help clients navigate struggles in their lives and provide a space of safety and compassion as they work to overcome challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and clients come to therapy with an inner wisdom. I intend to guide them to understand themselves and live more authentically. I work closely to individualize therapy so it fits the needs of the client. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of concerns, including eating disorders, trauma, relationships, and ADHD.
As a therapist, my goal is to help clients navigate struggles in their lives and provide a space of safety and compassion as they work to overcome challenges. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and clients come to therapy with an inner wisdom. I intend to guide them to understand themselves and live more authentically. I work closely to individualize therapy so it fits the needs of the client. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults with a wide range of concerns, including eating disorders, trauma, relationships, and ADHD.
(781) 230-7480 View (781) 230-7480
Photo of Sarai Logue, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarai Logue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464  (Online Only)
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
(857) 598-5399 View (857) 598-5399
Photo of Susan Adair, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Adair
Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with caregivers, parents, siblings, partners, and friends of people struggling with eating disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience specializing in treatment of eating disorders, body image, and anxiety. For the last 10 years I have worked in various roles, from Therapist to Clinical Director, at several eating disorder facilities and in university settings. I work with clients who are teenagers to adults, who are struggling with a variety of mental health and life issues. I have a strong background in DBT and CBT and employ an integrative and client-centered treatment approach, drawing on various treatment modalities to individualize treatment for each client.
I have extensive experience working with caregivers, parents, siblings, partners, and friends of people struggling with eating disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience specializing in treatment of eating disorders, body image, and anxiety. For the last 10 years I have worked in various roles, from Therapist to Clinical Director, at several eating disorder facilities and in university settings. I work with clients who are teenagers to adults, who are struggling with a variety of mental health and life issues. I have a strong background in DBT and CBT and employ an integrative and client-centered treatment approach, drawing on various treatment modalities to individualize treatment for each client.
(857) 376-6922 View (857) 376-6922
Photo of Constance Mccashin, MA, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Constance Mccashin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newtonville, MA 02460
I have a concentration of clients among college age students, and young adults. I specialize in eating disorders, and related issues. I also have a strong background in the performing arts, and see a significant number of creative clients. For twelve years I worked in a college counseling center. This has afforded me the opportunity to work with students who struggle with the concerns of people in their late teens, early twenties: depression; anxiety; ADD; OCD; substance abuse (as well as the more common issues surrounding living away from home, roommates, academic rigor, awaking sexual identity, etc.)
I have a concentration of clients among college age students, and young adults. I specialize in eating disorders, and related issues. I also have a strong background in the performing arts, and see a significant number of creative clients. For twelve years I worked in a college counseling center. This has afforded me the opportunity to work with students who struggle with the concerns of people in their late teens, early twenties: depression; anxiety; ADD; OCD; substance abuse (as well as the more common issues surrounding living away from home, roommates, academic rigor, awaking sexual identity, etc.)
(617) 300-0563 View (617) 300-0563
Photo of Cathryn M Freid, PhD, Psychologist
Cathryn M Freid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
(617) 553-9222 View (617) 553-9222
Photo of Amanda Destefano - The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Our Vision: We envision a community without eating disorders that promotes a positive body culture.
MEDA believes in providing access to equitable care through a variety of flexible, clinical services for both individuals and families/friends, including assessments, therapy sessions, therapy groups, free drop-in support groups, and coaching sessions. MEDA is a nonprofit located in Newton, Massachusetts.
Our Vision: We envision a community without eating disorders that promotes a positive body culture.
MEDA believes in providing access to equitable care through a variety of flexible, clinical services for both individuals and families/friends, including assessments, therapy sessions, therapy groups, free drop-in support groups, and coaching sessions. MEDA is a nonprofit located in Newton, Massachusetts.
(617) 500-4038 View (617) 500-4038
Photo of Kristina Wischhusen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Wischhusen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
Through relational and trauma informed lenses, I work with individuals who struggle in areas that include anxiety, depression, relationship problems, eating disorders, grief and loss, transitions, ADHD, identity issues, and much more.
With the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship, I offer a safe space for adults and older adolescents to self-reflect and grow through their personal development. I use a curious, collaborative, and compassionate approach so my clients can feel seen, heard, and even challenged at times. Growth and change can happen when we explore our vulnerabilities, feelings, and struggles in a safe and supportive environment. I aspire for each of my clients to live a grounded, fulfilling, and optimal life.
Through relational and trauma informed lenses, I work with individuals who struggle in areas that include anxiety, depression, relationship problems, eating disorders, grief and loss, transitions, ADHD, identity issues, and much more.
With the foundation of a trusting therapeutic relationship, I offer a safe space for adults and older adolescents to self-reflect and grow through their personal development. I use a curious, collaborative, and compassionate approach so my clients can feel seen, heard, and even challenged at times. Growth and change can happen when we explore our vulnerabilities, feelings, and struggles in a safe and supportive environment. I aspire for each of my clients to live a grounded, fulfilling, and optimal life.
View
Photo of Jacquelyn MacDougall (Mahoney-Roche), LMHC, Counselor
Jacquelyn MacDougall (Mahoney-Roche)
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02134  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients June of 2024! Please reach out if you are looking for an honest and supportive team mate. I work most often with folks who live with depression, anxiety, and/or eating disorders; although I have experience working with a wide variety of needs and goals. I'm interested in earning your trust, getting to know the real you, and supporting you without judgment. If we can be authentic with each other we can make a plan to move you towards your goals. Of note- I embrace HAES, intuitive eating, and love collaborating with intuitive eating dietitians. To get to know more please visit twotruthscounseling.com.
Accepting new clients June of 2024! Please reach out if you are looking for an honest and supportive team mate. I work most often with folks who live with depression, anxiety, and/or eating disorders; although I have experience working with a wide variety of needs and goals. I'm interested in earning your trust, getting to know the real you, and supporting you without judgment. If we can be authentic with each other we can make a plan to move you towards your goals. Of note- I embrace HAES, intuitive eating, and love collaborating with intuitive eating dietitians. To get to know more please visit twotruthscounseling.com.
(339) 675-2202 View (339) 675-2202
Photo of Yanina Gonzales Blanchard, PsyD, Psychologist
Yanina Gonzales Blanchard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
My areas of interest include eating disorders, relationship problems, stress management issues, adjustment disorders, acculturation issues, grief/loss, depression and anxiety disorders.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 5th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
My areas of interest include eating disorders, relationship problems, stress management issues, adjustment disorders, acculturation issues, grief/loss, depression and anxiety disorders.
Currently, accepting referrals for Adult DBT group starting on Sep 5th 2024. I see psychotherapy as a safe place where healing and change are fostered. I help patients to be able to gain awareness of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they are able to change aspects of themselves that are holding them back from having a self-fulfilling life. I believe that everybody has the capacity to change and live a life worth living. The therapeutic relationship is central. I provide a warm, caring, nonjudgemental and compassionate environment that helps clients to feel supported while working on their goals.
(617) 934-6265 View (617) 934-6265
Photo of Angela Ficken, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Ficken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
Have you ever been to see a therapist, and felt like you just talked the whole time, while the therapist just sat there and listened? Well, I am different. I am an active listener in sessions and believe that providing feedback is the best way to challenge behavior patterns and ultimately help you connect to your own strengths, wisdom, and inner resources. I ask questions and will engage you in a thoughtful way while providing you with a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I work with clients who seek assistance with a range of issues; such as OCD, eating disorders, anxiety, and more.
(617) 936-8311 View (617) 936-8311
Photo of Rebecca Wassell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Wassell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! My hope is you can find a safe place here. All are welcome - none are judged. In my work, I most often support LGBTQ+ and transgender folks, as well as people navigating eating disorders and/or struggles with body image. I also do a lot of ADHD and trauma work. I'm affirming of all sexual, gender, and body identities and presentations. I'm very experienced working with polyamory and ethical non-monogamy and am a sex and kink-positive therapist. In my work around eating, bodies, and body image, I work from a Health at Every Size framework, support fat liberation, and believe all bodies are good bodies.
Welcome to my practice! My hope is you can find a safe place here. All are welcome - none are judged. In my work, I most often support LGBTQ+ and transgender folks, as well as people navigating eating disorders and/or struggles with body image. I also do a lot of ADHD and trauma work. I'm affirming of all sexual, gender, and body identities and presentations. I'm very experienced working with polyamory and ethical non-monogamy and am a sex and kink-positive therapist. In my work around eating, bodies, and body image, I work from a Health at Every Size framework, support fat liberation, and believe all bodies are good bodies.
(339) 345-2893 View (339) 345-2893
Photo of Karen Chinca - Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Chinca-Nourished Minds Counseling + Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
At Nourished Minds, we offer compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based counseling to adolescents, adults, and families. We provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic space for clients struggling with a wide range of mental health disorders which include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, OCD, and depression. Our licensed and experienced therapists specialize in treatment modalities which include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and internal family systems (IFS).
(857) 384-4858 View (857) 384-4858

See more therapy options for Chestnut Hill

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.