Eating Disorders Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Jotie Mondair, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jotie Mondair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jotie is a licensed professional counselor located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with many years of experience working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Jotie uses an attachment-based model to identify and address distorted thought patterns and improve relationships (between people, with themselves, or with food).
Jotie is a licensed professional counselor located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with many years of experience working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Jotie uses an attachment-based model to identify and address distorted thought patterns and improve relationships (between people, with themselves, or with food).
(215) 974-0190 View (215) 974-0190
Photo of Abby Costello, PsyD, Psychologist
Abby Costello
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I have particular expertise in working with survivors of interpersonal trauma, and specialized training in treating eating disorders and body image concerns.
I believe that healing often occurs best in the context of a safe and trusting relationship between a client and therapist. As a psychotherapist, I strive to create a secure, caring, and collaborative relationship with each of my clients so that therapy is a place they feel fully seen, heard, understood, and respected. I work from an integrative and holistic perspective, meeting each client where they are and working collaboratively with clients to reach their own personal goals and to create lasting, meaningful change and healing in their lives.
I have particular expertise in working with survivors of interpersonal trauma, and specialized training in treating eating disorders and body image concerns.
I believe that healing often occurs best in the context of a safe and trusting relationship between a client and therapist. As a psychotherapist, I strive to create a secure, caring, and collaborative relationship with each of my clients so that therapy is a place they feel fully seen, heard, understood, and respected. I work from an integrative and holistic perspective, meeting each client where they are and working collaboratively with clients to reach their own personal goals and to create lasting, meaningful change and healing in their lives.
(267) 833-2687 View (267) 833-2687
Photo of Salima Shah, Pre-Licensed Professional
Salima Shah
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Specialties: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Body Image Trauma, Developmental Trauma, Complex Trauma, Attachment Issues/Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Stress management, ADHD management.
You’ve gotten this far because your behaviors or beliefs provided a sense of safety and self-regulation at one point. Some of them may not work anymore or they’re no longer serving you in the way you want, so let’s work on meeting your needs in a different way. On top of doing trauma work, reframing negative thoughts, and giving you realistic coping skills, I put a large emphasis on educating you so you better understand why you are struggling with the things that cause you distress. I find that providing you with this type of knowledge is a form of empowerment!
Specialties: Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Body Image Trauma, Developmental Trauma, Complex Trauma, Attachment Issues/Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Stress management, ADHD management.
You’ve gotten this far because your behaviors or beliefs provided a sense of safety and self-regulation at one point. Some of them may not work anymore or they’re no longer serving you in the way you want, so let’s work on meeting your needs in a different way. On top of doing trauma work, reframing negative thoughts, and giving you realistic coping skills, I put a large emphasis on educating you so you better understand why you are struggling with the things that cause you distress. I find that providing you with this type of knowledge is a form of empowerment!
(267) 574-9657 View (267) 574-9657
Photo of Paige Thompson, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I specialize in helping those struggling with eating disorders, body image, trauma, athletes, anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health (pregnancy/postpartum), a life transition or some overlap of these struggles.
Have you been feeling overly self-critical, anxious, unmotivated or just not like yourself? Together, we will make sense of how you feel, what you have experienced and rebuild trust in yourself and resilience for the future. I believe we all need to feel seen and connected to others and ourselves to be truly fulfilled. As you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, you will be able to make meaningful and lasting changes in your life.
I specialize in helping those struggling with eating disorders, body image, trauma, athletes, anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health (pregnancy/postpartum), a life transition or some overlap of these struggles.
Have you been feeling overly self-critical, anxious, unmotivated or just not like yourself? Together, we will make sense of how you feel, what you have experienced and rebuild trust in yourself and resilience for the future. I believe we all need to feel seen and connected to others and ourselves to be truly fulfilled. As you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, you will be able to make meaningful and lasting changes in your life.
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Photo of Brooke Bailer, PhD, Psychologist
Brooke Bailer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Over nearly two decades, pursuing my PhD, serving as a clinician at Penn's Center for Weight and Eating Disorders and building a private practice, I've developed expertise to deliver effective treatments for all eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, night eating and issues around body image), as well as depression and anxiety disorders.
Using science-backed treatments, I help my clients overcome challenges related to disordered eating, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts and being stuck. Taking a cognitive-behavioral approach, I prioritize collaboration - working with my patients to better understand what is getting in the way and how to move forward. My goal is to help you build a toolbox so that you leave our sessions feeling confident in your abilities to tackle anything that arises. I have been told by clients that I have a warm, non-judgmental style that provides a sense of safety and ease as we explore sensitive topics, emotions and behaviors.
Over nearly two decades, pursuing my PhD, serving as a clinician at Penn's Center for Weight and Eating Disorders and building a private practice, I've developed expertise to deliver effective treatments for all eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, night eating and issues around body image), as well as depression and anxiety disorders.
Using science-backed treatments, I help my clients overcome challenges related to disordered eating, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts and being stuck. Taking a cognitive-behavioral approach, I prioritize collaboration - working with my patients to better understand what is getting in the way and how to move forward. My goal is to help you build a toolbox so that you leave our sessions feeling confident in your abilities to tackle anything that arises. I have been told by clients that I have a warm, non-judgmental style that provides a sense of safety and ease as we explore sensitive topics, emotions and behaviors.
(267) 609-8819 View (267) 609-8819
Photo of Deborah Reeves, MGPP, BCPC, DAPA, CGP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MGPP, BCPC, DAPA, CGP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Current "Group for Women with Anorexia/Bulimia Inquiries welcome 215 732 1612.
I work in pursuit of a greater understanding of a persons life and mind, everything-feelings, beliefs, memories, dreams and even seemingly irrelevant passing thoughts. Emotional healing takes place in a safe space through the empathic work of a committed relationship between psychotherapist and patient that is radically individualized/fully confidential. My approach is with the concern of relieving immediate symptoms and resolving current life problems. Patients are encouraged to talk as freely as possible in an environment that can enhance their awareness into how they see themselves and the world around them with increased sense of freedom and validation.
Current "Group for Women with Anorexia/Bulimia Inquiries welcome 215 732 1612.
I work in pursuit of a greater understanding of a persons life and mind, everything-feelings, beliefs, memories, dreams and even seemingly irrelevant passing thoughts. Emotional healing takes place in a safe space through the empathic work of a committed relationship between psychotherapist and patient that is radically individualized/fully confidential. My approach is with the concern of relieving immediate symptoms and resolving current life problems. Patients are encouraged to talk as freely as possible in an environment that can enhance their awareness into how they see themselves and the world around them with increased sense of freedom and validation.
(215) 995-3243 View (215) 995-3243
Photo of Marie Papalia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marie Papalia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
My goal as a therapist is to help you understand yourself better, enabling you to make healthier choices that will improve your life. I’m passionate about helping people gain insight into the unhelpful patterns, beliefs, and fears that hold them back and will collaborate with you to develop a plan to address your concerns that will challenge you to grow, yet meet you where you are today. My areas of expertise include Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Eating Disorders. I also frequently work with individuals experiencing depressive disorders, perfectionism, relationship issues, and grief.
My goal as a therapist is to help you understand yourself better, enabling you to make healthier choices that will improve your life. I’m passionate about helping people gain insight into the unhelpful patterns, beliefs, and fears that hold them back and will collaborate with you to develop a plan to address your concerns that will challenge you to grow, yet meet you where you are today. My areas of expertise include Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, and Eating Disorders. I also frequently work with individuals experiencing depressive disorders, perfectionism, relationship issues, and grief.
(267) 361-0304 View (267) 361-0304
Photo of Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno, PsyD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
(267) 704-8646 View (267) 704-8646
Photo of Kathleen Martinez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
(267) 762-1398 View (267) 762-1398
Photo of Amy S Langsam, PsyD, Psychologist
Amy S Langsam
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19128
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, trauma, addictions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I believe the most important aspect of effective psychotherapy is developing a trusting relationship between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and empathetic. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and often use this approach in my clinical practice. Additionally, I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and client-centered interventions that are empirically supported to provide symptom relief.
I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, trauma, addictions, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression. I believe the most important aspect of effective psychotherapy is developing a trusting relationship between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and empathetic. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and often use this approach in my clinical practice. Additionally, I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and client-centered interventions that are empirically supported to provide symptom relief.
(267) 867-0724 View (267) 867-0724
Photo of Rita Woidislawsky, PhD, Psychologist
Rita Woidislawsky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I can help people suffering from Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorder. I am also capable of assisting patients dealing with anxiety and stress which often lead to these disorders.
I can help people suffering from Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorder. I am also capable of assisting patients dealing with anxiety and stress which often lead to these disorders.
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Photo of Kate D'Amica Hostetter, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate D'Amica Hostetter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
Having worked in various levels of care from inpatient to PHP programs specializing in eating disorder treatment I specialize in working with those struggling with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, and OSFED.
Have you been struggling to understand your emotions, cope with changes or reduce depression, anxiety or guilt? Through encouragement and empowerment, we will work to reduce and heal the challenges you face. Having supported a wide variety of clients, I am passionate about working with both men and women to find and maintain freedom from their eating and co-occurring disorders by gently confronting barriers, building on strengths and challenging unhelpful relational and thought patterns. It is never too late to seek help and make change!
Having worked in various levels of care from inpatient to PHP programs specializing in eating disorder treatment I specialize in working with those struggling with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, and OSFED.
Have you been struggling to understand your emotions, cope with changes or reduce depression, anxiety or guilt? Through encouragement and empowerment, we will work to reduce and heal the challenges you face. Having supported a wide variety of clients, I am passionate about working with both men and women to find and maintain freedom from their eating and co-occurring disorders by gently confronting barriers, building on strengths and challenging unhelpful relational and thought patterns. It is never too late to seek help and make change!
(757) 568-7853 View (757) 568-7853
Photo of Marirose Benedict - The WELL Clinic, LPC, MEd, MPS, Licensed Professional Counselor
The WELL Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, MPS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Welcome to The WELL Clinic. We provide high quality, evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with eating and weight disorders in the Philadelphia area. My name is Marirose Benedict and I am the Acting Director of the clinic and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of PA. Our team has extensive experience in providing scientifically informed treatments to teens and adults having bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and restrictive eating disorders. Our team believes in treating the whole person, including the related difficulties that often result from having a difficult relationship with food and eating.
Welcome to The WELL Clinic. We provide high quality, evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with eating and weight disorders in the Philadelphia area. My name is Marirose Benedict and I am the Acting Director of the clinic and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of PA. Our team has extensive experience in providing scientifically informed treatments to teens and adults having bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and restrictive eating disorders. Our team believes in treating the whole person, including the related difficulties that often result from having a difficult relationship with food and eating.
(215) 598-6632 View (215) 598-6632
Photo of Kim Houghton, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kim Houghton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
As I see it, therapy is all about curiosity and kindness. Whether we’re talking about life-interrupting anxiety, patterns in eating disorders, mind-spinning negative self-talk, or life stressors you no longer want to keep down deep inside, I’m here for that journey with you. With that curiosity and kindness I love getting to hold both the beauty and pain of life with someone until they are ready to hold it all on their own. And, in those moments getting to encourage them as they move towards their feelings, work through their pain, and emerge into life that is full, embodied, and reawakened.
As I see it, therapy is all about curiosity and kindness. Whether we’re talking about life-interrupting anxiety, patterns in eating disorders, mind-spinning negative self-talk, or life stressors you no longer want to keep down deep inside, I’m here for that journey with you. With that curiosity and kindness I love getting to hold both the beauty and pain of life with someone until they are ready to hold it all on their own. And, in those moments getting to encourage them as they move towards their feelings, work through their pain, and emerge into life that is full, embodied, and reawakened.
(484) 851-2938 View (484) 851-2938
Photo of Paromita Kar Haye, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paromita Kar Haye
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 20 years of experience, I specialize in working with anxiety, eating disorders, men's issues, and high functioning multiracial couples and families.
Despite your best intentions and efforts, do you feel stuck in your personal life, intimate relationships, family relationships or workplace? You may be faced with challenges that are deeply rooted in your early life experiences, your primary attachments, in how you view the world, or due to misunderstanding between you and significant others. Challenges can arise during stressful life transitions, such as divorce or death of loved ones. But they can also arise from positive life experiences, such as marriage or the birth of a child. Left untreated, these challenges can grow into chronic problems that can corrode your sense of self and your relationships.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 20 years of experience, I specialize in working with anxiety, eating disorders, men's issues, and high functioning multiracial couples and families.
Despite your best intentions and efforts, do you feel stuck in your personal life, intimate relationships, family relationships or workplace? You may be faced with challenges that are deeply rooted in your early life experiences, your primary attachments, in how you view the world, or due to misunderstanding between you and significant others. Challenges can arise during stressful life transitions, such as divorce or death of loved ones. But they can also arise from positive life experiences, such as marriage or the birth of a child. Left untreated, these challenges can grow into chronic problems that can corrode your sense of self and your relationships.
(267) 519-1318 View (267) 519-1318
Photo of Jennifer Granozio, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Granozio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I understand that facing the complexities of life & challenges like eating disorders, anxiety, or depression, can feel like an uphill battle.
Do you struggle with an eating disorder, anxiety, or depression? Are you facing life transitions & want to regain control over your life, develop a positive relationship with yourself, and find inner peace and fulfillment? I will teach you coping skills, relaxation techniques, & mindfulness exercises to manage your symptoms and break free from the cycle of distress. Our goals would be achieving greater self-awareness, building resilience, fostering a sense of empowerment, and interrupting symptoms. We'll work together to develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve self-esteem, and cultivate meaningful connections with others.
I understand that facing the complexities of life & challenges like eating disorders, anxiety, or depression, can feel like an uphill battle.
Do you struggle with an eating disorder, anxiety, or depression? Are you facing life transitions & want to regain control over your life, develop a positive relationship with yourself, and find inner peace and fulfillment? I will teach you coping skills, relaxation techniques, & mindfulness exercises to manage your symptoms and break free from the cycle of distress. Our goals would be achieving greater self-awareness, building resilience, fostering a sense of empowerment, and interrupting symptoms. We'll work together to develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve self-esteem, and cultivate meaningful connections with others.
(267) 360-7938 View (267) 360-7938
Photo of Liz Nolan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Nolan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Hello! I'm an LMFT who is passionate about helping people establish and maintain meaningful connections in their lives through familial, peer, and intimate relationships. I’m trained systemically and enjoy helping people explore how various aspects of their lives (e.g., family upbringing, societal influences, personal experiences) influence the way they make meaning of their lives. I take a collaborative approach with clients to identify sustainable solutions to old and new problems, and I specialize in eating disorders (HAES-informed), sexual orientation, trauma, and ADHD.
Hello! I'm an LMFT who is passionate about helping people establish and maintain meaningful connections in their lives through familial, peer, and intimate relationships. I’m trained systemically and enjoy helping people explore how various aspects of their lives (e.g., family upbringing, societal influences, personal experiences) influence the way they make meaning of their lives. I take a collaborative approach with clients to identify sustainable solutions to old and new problems, and I specialize in eating disorders (HAES-informed), sexual orientation, trauma, and ADHD.
(267) 573-8212 View (267) 573-8212
Photo of Rachel Braun, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Art Therapist
Rachel Braun
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Do you ever feel stuck in some way, even shut down or have difficulty getting out of bed? Are there times when you turn to food or diet as a way to manage strong emotions? I specialize in working with women who experience anxiety, depression and eating disorders. I will help you engage in the creative process to explore underlying issues and reveal hidden strengths. Art therapy offers a profound way of transforming and healing images stuck just beneath the surface and this can lead to more satisfying connections, greater confidence, renewed energy, and an ability to thrive in both work and home environments.
Do you ever feel stuck in some way, even shut down or have difficulty getting out of bed? Are there times when you turn to food or diet as a way to manage strong emotions? I specialize in working with women who experience anxiety, depression and eating disorders. I will help you engage in the creative process to explore underlying issues and reveal hidden strengths. Art therapy offers a profound way of transforming and healing images stuck just beneath the surface and this can lead to more satisfying connections, greater confidence, renewed energy, and an ability to thrive in both work and home environments.
(215) 791-8077 View (215) 791-8077
Photo of Megan Bousquet, MA, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Bousquet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123  (Online Only)
Throughout a woman’s life there are many emotional shifts and it takes strength to reach out for support. I understand the many challenges and stress that sometimes might have you not feeling like yourself. Do you feel alone, anxious, tired, sad, angry, irritable, or stressed? I work with women who are experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, grief and loss, fertility, miscarriage, transition to motherhood, and other life changing events. I have specialized training in anxiety, maternal mental health (pregnancy, birth, postpartum, motherhood), child development, and eating disorders.
Throughout a woman’s life there are many emotional shifts and it takes strength to reach out for support. I understand the many challenges and stress that sometimes might have you not feeling like yourself. Do you feel alone, anxious, tired, sad, angry, irritable, or stressed? I work with women who are experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, grief and loss, fertility, miscarriage, transition to motherhood, and other life changing events. I have specialized training in anxiety, maternal mental health (pregnancy, birth, postpartum, motherhood), child development, and eating disorders.
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Photo of Jane K Shure, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane K Shure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
I'm cofounder of The Resilience Group, nationally recognized for my expertise in bolstering resilience & self-confidence & in helping people break negative patterns to achieve positive change. My TEDx Talk, BOLSTER RESILIENCE, addresses fear-based thinking & offers strategies for building emotional courage & confidence. Named a “Top Doc for Women” by Philadelphia Magazine, I'm a published author on issues of shame, trauma, body-image, eating disorders & lead workshops on Strengthen an Inner Coach more Powerful than Your Inner Critic. For more see: http://theresiliencegroup.com/ http://huffingtonpost.com/jane-shure/
I'm cofounder of The Resilience Group, nationally recognized for my expertise in bolstering resilience & self-confidence & in helping people break negative patterns to achieve positive change. My TEDx Talk, BOLSTER RESILIENCE, addresses fear-based thinking & offers strategies for building emotional courage & confidence. Named a “Top Doc for Women” by Philadelphia Magazine, I'm a published author on issues of shame, trauma, body-image, eating disorders & lead workshops on Strengthen an Inner Coach more Powerful than Your Inner Critic. For more see: http://theresiliencegroup.com/ http://huffingtonpost.com/jane-shure/
(215) 995-1198 View (215) 995-1198
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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.