Eating Disorders Therapists in Canby, OR
![Photo of Jessica Glasmann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70c7383d-b926-4d34-96b2-f67c5184bcb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Glasmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Canby, OR 97013 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At this time I am seeing clients remotely and doing video sessions; I do not do text or email therapy. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and relationship stress using evidence based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Informed Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My goal is to help you build skills to navigate the stressors you face.
At this time I am seeing clients remotely and doing video sessions; I do not do text or email therapy. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and relationship stress using evidence based modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Informed Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My goal is to help you build skills to navigate the stressors you face.
![Photo of Ingrid Knudson, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e8b6bf8-1ed3-4c0e-9fe2-7c3414c07d58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hope is tangible. “Existe la esperanza.” Life experiences, hurts, burdens, and endless chaos can leave one devastated, isolated, and feeling alone. There is more than emptiness. There is tangible and real-life hope. Ingrid has worked with people for over fifteen years in the role of educator, mentor, and professional counselor. She has spent much time also working with crisis and trauma victims, those working through times of deep grieving and loss, individuals sorting through and understanding their identity, self- worth, and those managing every day with anxiety and depression.
Hope is tangible. “Existe la esperanza.” Life experiences, hurts, burdens, and endless chaos can leave one devastated, isolated, and feeling alone. There is more than emptiness. There is tangible and real-life hope. Ingrid has worked with people for over fifteen years in the role of educator, mentor, and professional counselor. She has spent much time also working with crisis and trauma victims, those working through times of deep grieving and loss, individuals sorting through and understanding their identity, self- worth, and those managing every day with anxiety and depression.
![Photo of Jenny Eaton-McNabb, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6c0e58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Eaton-McNabb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Canby, OR 97013 (Online Only)
I truly believe that through the power of authenticity, vulnerability, and connection we have the innate capacity to transform our lives and find the light, no matter how much darkness has consumed our lives. I would be honored to be a part of this journey with you. I will utilize a strengths-based and client-centered approach to meet you where you are at and walk alongside you towards your personal goals.
I truly believe that through the power of authenticity, vulnerability, and connection we have the innate capacity to transform our lives and find the light, no matter how much darkness has consumed our lives. I would be honored to be a part of this journey with you. I will utilize a strengths-based and client-centered approach to meet you where you are at and walk alongside you towards your personal goals.
![Photo of Terrie Haworth, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e6ce90e-bea8-4513-92ff-eb584324f2f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my approach, I focus on highlighting our strengths that we can use to achieve personal and/or professional growth. This process can be achieved by intentionally developing skills to be more present in our life and a self-awareness of patterns that may be ineffective for the life we want to lead. Depending on the need, I also incorporate alternative methods to support insight and growth through the use of animals (Equine Assisted Psychotherapy). I also recognize the strength it takes to seek change and appreciate how the process can look different for everyone.
In my approach, I focus on highlighting our strengths that we can use to achieve personal and/or professional growth. This process can be achieved by intentionally developing skills to be more present in our life and a self-awareness of patterns that may be ineffective for the life we want to lead. Depending on the need, I also incorporate alternative methods to support insight and growth through the use of animals (Equine Assisted Psychotherapy). I also recognize the strength it takes to seek change and appreciate how the process can look different for everyone.
![Photo of Lea Maria Kujala, LCSW, MAC, CADCIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/321d190e-42f1-4031-971b-9b9ee84aa078/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lea Maria Kujala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Canby, OR 97013
“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” Brenée Brown We are resilient human beings who go through life trying not to be too banged up, and sometimes we get broken. There is a Japanese art form that I love called Kintsugi, where one fixes the broken pot with gold or silver to highlight where it was once broken and thus rendering it beautiful again. Trauma and addiction make us feel like we are broken inside, I work with you to apply your gold or silver highlights.
“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” Brenée Brown We are resilient human beings who go through life trying not to be too banged up, and sometimes we get broken. There is a Japanese art form that I love called Kintsugi, where one fixes the broken pot with gold or silver to highlight where it was once broken and thus rendering it beautiful again. Trauma and addiction make us feel like we are broken inside, I work with you to apply your gold or silver highlights.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Diana Crane, MA, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d67a6d66-25bc-4864-bf07-56f3dec1edbc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Crane
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068
Waitlist for new clients
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles.
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles.
![Photo of Ashley Terry, LPC, LMHC, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9e77746-51a3-4f90-906e-9c938cd0d157/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045 (Online Only)
Specialty areas include eating disorders, body image distress, anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, illness anxiety disorder), PTSD/C-PTSD, substance abuse, sex, and gambling use disorders, relational and marital issues, divorce/separation, life transitions, as well as grief and loss.
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
Specialty areas include eating disorders, body image distress, anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, illness anxiety disorder), PTSD/C-PTSD, substance abuse, sex, and gambling use disorders, relational and marital issues, divorce/separation, life transitions, as well as grief and loss.
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
![Photo of Lori Platt, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a7c8b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The road of life isn't always smooth and easy... and it's a road you don't have to navigate alone. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? I enjoy working with clients who are ready to seek the road to recovery - from trauma, abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and the stress of life.
The road of life isn't always smooth and easy... and it's a road you don't have to navigate alone. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Do you defeat yourself with self-critical thinking? Does stress get in the way of accomplishing your goals in life? I enjoy working with clients who are ready to seek the road to recovery - from trauma, abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and the stress of life.
![Photo of Zanita B Zody, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/743a209b-397f-4141-9bc8-2964ed3e8926/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zanita B Zody
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068 (Online Only)
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
![Photo of Samantha Barr, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81b242c7-c1d3-4562-b362-47736e21b611/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Barr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068 (Online Only)
So, your relationship with food has brought you here, but maybe you’re unsure if what you consider some form of overeating warrants seeking professional help. You don't have to suffer from anorexia and/or bulimia to "deserve" treatment and support. People who are enduring binge and emotional eating are often blamed (by themselves and others) for their use of food. If this is you, you may believe you have no "will power" and your relationship with food/body is your "fault". You aren't yet aware there are reasons (always other than will power) that explain your experience with food/body. You are not to blame.
So, your relationship with food has brought you here, but maybe you’re unsure if what you consider some form of overeating warrants seeking professional help. You don't have to suffer from anorexia and/or bulimia to "deserve" treatment and support. People who are enduring binge and emotional eating are often blamed (by themselves and others) for their use of food. If this is you, you may believe you have no "will power" and your relationship with food/body is your "fault". You aren't yet aware there are reasons (always other than will power) that explain your experience with food/body. You are not to blame.
![Photo of Elaine Lamb, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe25d1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elaine Lamb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068
Not accepting new clients
Depression, anxiety, and family stress are often present for individuals living with eating disorders.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, grief, or depression. I have 30 plus years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who are living with disordered eating, anxiety, grief, and depression. Healing and lasting change is possible when you have a plan that is based on your individual needs and strengths. Therapy is a collaborative process and together we will discover what is getting in the way of your ability to live more comfortably. There is a path through pain.
Depression, anxiety, and family stress are often present for individuals living with eating disorders.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety, grief, or depression. I have 30 plus years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who are living with disordered eating, anxiety, grief, and depression. Healing and lasting change is possible when you have a plan that is based on your individual needs and strengths. Therapy is a collaborative process and together we will discover what is getting in the way of your ability to live more comfortably. There is a path through pain.
![Photo of Crystal Leavitt, MS, MBA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccb9e236-ad28-4ff5-abe7-2a453b7e56d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal Leavitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MBA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045
Accepting NEW clients. Everyone has a story, that should be heard, and have a space where their healing journey can begin. I aid to create a safe, non-judgement space and a therapeutic relationship for clients to share their story, process their pain, and find healing. I specialize in working with children (5+), teens (12+), women, and couples struggling with feeling stuck, behavioral issues, emotional regulation, anxious distress, depressed mood, grief/loss, postpartum issues, trauma, eating disorders, unhealthy body and food relationship, and communication issues and high conflict. I'm also a certified Brainspotting therapist.
Accepting NEW clients. Everyone has a story, that should be heard, and have a space where their healing journey can begin. I aid to create a safe, non-judgement space and a therapeutic relationship for clients to share their story, process their pain, and find healing. I specialize in working with children (5+), teens (12+), women, and couples struggling with feeling stuck, behavioral issues, emotional regulation, anxious distress, depressed mood, grief/loss, postpartum issues, trauma, eating disorders, unhealthy body and food relationship, and communication issues and high conflict. I'm also a certified Brainspotting therapist.
![Photo of Gwen Welch - The Healing Haven, LCSW, ACH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b65e988-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
The Healing Haven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045
I have been working in the therapeutic field for 33 years and am licensed Mental Health Therapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist. My strengths are in relationship issues,eating disorders,weight loss,addictions, anxiety, depression, trauma and chronic pain. I work with adults, teens using psychotherapy and/or hypnotherapy. I am totally committed to my work and have numerous references. I can accommodate your work schedule and work schedule. I am the founder of The Healing Haven. Visit our website www.healinghaven.net to see all of our therapists. We are able to provide secure online therapy particularly during this difficult time
I have been working in the therapeutic field for 33 years and am licensed Mental Health Therapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist. My strengths are in relationship issues,eating disorders,weight loss,addictions, anxiety, depression, trauma and chronic pain. I work with adults, teens using psychotherapy and/or hypnotherapy. I am totally committed to my work and have numerous references. I can accommodate your work schedule and work schedule. I am the founder of The Healing Haven. Visit our website www.healinghaven.net to see all of our therapists. We are able to provide secure online therapy particularly during this difficult time
![Photo of Jessica Conwell, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08cb3f44-9077-4258-9b69-29137b71f217/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Conwell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My practice specialties include working with eating disorders, substance abuse, and problematic gaming and internet use.
I offer therapy for people with a variety of concerns who range in age from adolescent through adulthood. Many challenges can present themselves as we navigate through life and we can all use a little extra support from time to time. I work with my clients to meet them where they are and to help them move towards their goals for emotional growth and healing.
My practice specialties include working with eating disorders, substance abuse, and problematic gaming and internet use.
I offer therapy for people with a variety of concerns who range in age from adolescent through adulthood. Many challenges can present themselves as we navigate through life and we can all use a little extra support from time to time. I work with my clients to meet them where they are and to help them move towards their goals for emotional growth and healing.
![Photo of Melinda Byrd, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc0f85a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I trained at the Menninger Clinic, am active locally in the Oregon Psychological Association, on the Board of the Columbia Rivers Eating Disorders Network, and a member of the American Psychological Association and Portland Mindfulness and Psychotherapy Collective.
Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Are you feeling stuck? Is your life out of balance? I can help you regain a sense of purpose and meaning by providing a safe and caring environment for you to explore your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to create a plan to meet your specific needs. I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with a wide range of issues.
I trained at the Menninger Clinic, am active locally in the Oregon Psychological Association, on the Board of the Columbia Rivers Eating Disorders Network, and a member of the American Psychological Association and Portland Mindfulness and Psychotherapy Collective.
Feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious? Are you feeling stuck? Is your life out of balance? I can help you regain a sense of purpose and meaning by providing a safe and caring environment for you to explore your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to create a plan to meet your specific needs. I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with a wide range of issues.
![Photo of Kate Meredith, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c236ede-905c-4478-9cd2-d822627a46d5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Meredith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068
Not accepting new clients
I work with anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, trauma, relationship and family, marital, parenting, children, adolescents, elderly and caregiving, women's issues, men's issues, eating disorders, anger management, spiritual development including Christian counseling, personal growth and more.
Live your life more fully while enjoying better health with balance and focus. You can learn to experience relief from worry, fear and unhealthy relationships. I believe that positive growth is possible through awareness and attention to small changes in your thinking and actions. Together we can help promote healing and recovery by addressing your emotional, social, physical and spiritual needs.
Most people who come in to my office wonder why they waited so long to become more healthy. My goal for you is to have a life changing and fulfilling experience and to reach your fullest potential.
I work with anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, trauma, relationship and family, marital, parenting, children, adolescents, elderly and caregiving, women's issues, men's issues, eating disorders, anger management, spiritual development including Christian counseling, personal growth and more.
Live your life more fully while enjoying better health with balance and focus. You can learn to experience relief from worry, fear and unhealthy relationships. I believe that positive growth is possible through awareness and attention to small changes in your thinking and actions. Together we can help promote healing and recovery by addressing your emotional, social, physical and spiritual needs.
Most people who come in to my office wonder why they waited so long to become more healthy. My goal for you is to have a life changing and fulfilling experience and to reach your fullest potential.
![Photo of Gwen Welch-Slaff - The Healing Haven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e4d7d64-89c4-49a9-8655-bf3ffa7f3167/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
Our approach to therapy is tailored toward each unique person, family or couple. We see people with difficulties in relationships, depression, anxiety, recovery from trauma, parenting issues, grief and loss issues, eating disorders and weight issues, chronic pain, career decisions and addictions. Our approach is a combination of traditional techniques and heart centered deep healing. Our approach geared toward finding the source of overwhelming feelings and making connections with current difficulties. Within this process we encourage healthy release of feelings which leads to healthier relationships and positive self esteem.
![Photo of Sarah Curts, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cca6c14c-3594-44a5-8a0e-6f92a07d5655/2/320x400.jpeg)
“Just when the caterpillar thought its life was over, it became a butterfly.” – Zhuangzi. I specialize in Trauma Recovery, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, coping with Miscarriage and Infertility, Life Transitions, Self Esteem, and helping those who still feel stuck even though they’ve “tried everything”. No matter how dark your life has been, there is a light inside you that can guide you to peace. I help you listen to it.
“Just when the caterpillar thought its life was over, it became a butterfly.” – Zhuangzi. I specialize in Trauma Recovery, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Grief and Loss, coping with Miscarriage and Infertility, Life Transitions, Self Esteem, and helping those who still feel stuck even though they’ve “tried everything”. No matter how dark your life has been, there is a light inside you that can guide you to peace. I help you listen to it.
![Photo of Rochelle Rakowski, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac8e8ef5-aab0-4059-9eec-7c70d8411737/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rochelle Rakowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068 (Online Only)
Everyone has the ability to overcome life’s challenges. Through building a trusting therapeutic relationship in our work together, you'll have the opportunity to focus on growth, fulfillment, and well-being. Clients have reported feeling accepted, safe, and free to be fully themselves in a supportive, non-judgmental person-centered approach to overcoming depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders.
Everyone has the ability to overcome life’s challenges. Through building a trusting therapeutic relationship in our work together, you'll have the opportunity to focus on growth, fulfillment, and well-being. Clients have reported feeling accepted, safe, and free to be fully themselves in a supportive, non-judgmental person-centered approach to overcoming depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Samantha Sessamen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f82a1cb6-a83e-49ff-aa52-39a04c0cb1ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trauma specialist providing virtual appointments throughout Oregon, Florida and NY. You would probably seek out a cardiologist if you had a heart issue, right? Well, if you have the opportunity, I suggest you seek out a therapist who specializes in your unique issues. I am not a generalist; I specialize in Trauma, Dissociation, Eating Disorders, Body Dysmorphia and anxiety. I work with these issues because they're what I'm most passionate about and I've dedicated my life's work to combatting the systemic issues that cause or exacerbate those issues.
I am a trauma specialist providing virtual appointments throughout Oregon, Florida and NY. You would probably seek out a cardiologist if you had a heart issue, right? Well, if you have the opportunity, I suggest you seek out a therapist who specializes in your unique issues. I am not a generalist; I specialize in Trauma, Dissociation, Eating Disorders, Body Dysmorphia and anxiety. I work with these issues because they're what I'm most passionate about and I've dedicated my life's work to combatting the systemic issues that cause or exacerbate those issues.
See more therapy options for Canby
Nearby Eating Disorders Therapists Searches for Canby
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Happy Valley
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Newberg
- Oregon City
- Sherwood
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
- Wilsonville
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.