Photo of Larissa Valentino, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Larissa Valentino
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, and OCD in adolescents and young adults. After establishing a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I work with clients to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, explore and connect with values, and change behaviors by building distress tolerance through approaching anxiety in a supported environment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, and OCD in adolescents and young adults. After establishing a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I work with clients to identify and challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, explore and connect with values, and change behaviors by building distress tolerance through approaching anxiety in a supported environment.
(847) 232-6722 View (847) 232-6722
Photo of Jennie Ozan, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Jennie Ozan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I treat a range of presenting problems including: relationship challenges, life transitions, school and work-related issues, low self-esteem, identity development, postpartum depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and parenting challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in mental health and wellness. My passion stems from wanting to help others learn new ways of coping with their environment and garnering new skills to help manage current life stressors and hurdles. My belief is that from early childhood we learn healthy, and sometimes unhealthy, strategies to manage challenges. Coping styles, especially maladaptive ones, work for a period of time, but may become ineffective. When this occurs, people often seek therapy. My job as a therapist is to help you learn, and implement, healthier coping strategies.
I treat a range of presenting problems including: relationship challenges, life transitions, school and work-related issues, low self-esteem, identity development, postpartum depression/anxiety, eating disorders, and parenting challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years of experience in mental health and wellness. My passion stems from wanting to help others learn new ways of coping with their environment and garnering new skills to help manage current life stressors and hurdles. My belief is that from early childhood we learn healthy, and sometimes unhealthy, strategies to manage challenges. Coping styles, especially maladaptive ones, work for a period of time, but may become ineffective. When this occurs, people often seek therapy. My job as a therapist is to help you learn, and implement, healthier coping strategies.
(847) 744-8046 View (847) 744-8046
Photo of Nicole Gerber, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Nicole Gerber
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I help those who have experienced physical, sexual, emotional abuse, self harm, substance abuse, eating disorders, chronic/acute physical illness, grief, and loss.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice since 1998. I am the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click on the website link to learn more). I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with a range of issues. I provide a safe environment to help people feel at ease discussing their thoughts and feelings. My style of therapy is interactive, engaging and direct. I have been described as genuine, accessible, caring, empathic, and an advocate for my clients. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them find the necessary tools to grow, develop, and achieve their goals.
I help those who have experienced physical, sexual, emotional abuse, self harm, substance abuse, eating disorders, chronic/acute physical illness, grief, and loss.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice since 1998. I am the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click on the website link to learn more). I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families struggling with a range of issues. I provide a safe environment to help people feel at ease discussing their thoughts and feelings. My style of therapy is interactive, engaging and direct. I have been described as genuine, accessible, caring, empathic, and an advocate for my clients. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them find the necessary tools to grow, develop, and achieve their goals.
(847) 266-2717 View (847) 266-2717
Photo of Elissa Geier, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Elissa Geier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I work with individuals with relationship and family problems, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, emotional abuse, social, career and academic stress, life transitions, self-harm, low self-esteem, eating disorders and addiction.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working in private practice since 1998 and the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click website). I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, as well as treatment, for couples. I am very active in the therapy relationship and work to help clients uncover patterns, which become barriers to healthy relationships, career goals and personal happiness by learning more effective ways of coping and gaining greater insight into their problems. My clients describe me as accessible, authentic, empathic and supportive. My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit the unique needs and desires of each client
I work with individuals with relationship and family problems, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, emotional abuse, social, career and academic stress, life transitions, self-harm, low self-esteem, eating disorders and addiction.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working in private practice since 1998 and the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click website). I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, as well as treatment, for couples. I am very active in the therapy relationship and work to help clients uncover patterns, which become barriers to healthy relationships, career goals and personal happiness by learning more effective ways of coping and gaining greater insight into their problems. My clients describe me as accessible, authentic, empathic and supportive. My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit the unique needs and desires of each client
(847) 380-8665 View (847) 380-8665
Photo of Stephanie Mantelman, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Stephanie Mantelman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I further specialize in working with sexual abuse survivors, eating disorders, self-harm and suicidal ideation.
I am a trauma-informed psychotherapist with 8 years of experience in many settings. One of the most important things is to make a connection, create a safe space, and build a course of treatment based on each individual needs. I offer compassion and also direction to my clients.
I further specialize in working with sexual abuse survivors, eating disorders, self-harm and suicidal ideation.
I am a trauma-informed psychotherapist with 8 years of experience in many settings. One of the most important things is to make a connection, create a safe space, and build a course of treatment based on each individual needs. I offer compassion and also direction to my clients.
(847) 744-9432 View (847) 744-9432
Photo of Trish Flaherty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deerfield, IL
Trish Flaherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
Is addiction, an eating disorder, body image issues or trauma getting in the way of living your best life? Do you feel like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh? Your outlook on life is gloomy at best. Perhaps your food/exercise obsession is out of control. Maybe you’re attracted to risk and, as such, using drugs/alcohol to the point where it's derailing your life. Is shame what controls you? It could be fear getting in your way. Does your stomach ache, your palms sweat, or your anxiety give you that sinking feeling in the bottom of your belly that stops you in your tracks? With all this madness, there’s no time to thrive; merely survive.
Is addiction, an eating disorder, body image issues or trauma getting in the way of living your best life? Do you feel like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh? Your outlook on life is gloomy at best. Perhaps your food/exercise obsession is out of control. Maybe you’re attracted to risk and, as such, using drugs/alcohol to the point where it's derailing your life. Is shame what controls you? It could be fear getting in your way. Does your stomach ache, your palms sweat, or your anxiety give you that sinking feeling in the bottom of your belly that stops you in your tracks? With all this madness, there’s no time to thrive; merely survive.
(872) 204-2435 View (872) 204-2435
Photo of Associates In Psychotherapy in Deerfield, IL
Associates In Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Associates in Psychotherapy is multidisciplinary team of talented therapists dedicated to providing counseling services to individuals of all ages. We provide affordable quality treatment for those struggling with relationships, transitions, work/life balance, or clinical conditions. We also have expertise in treating serious mental health conditions. Our practice accepts many insurances plans and works with clients to seek reimbursement for out of network benefits. Our primary goal is to help you seek solutions for your problems, find ways to navigate through any hardship you may face, or support you as you create a more fulfilling lifestyle. Please contact us at (866) 220-8371
Associates in Psychotherapy is multidisciplinary team of talented therapists dedicated to providing counseling services to individuals of all ages. We provide affordable quality treatment for those struggling with relationships, transitions, work/life balance, or clinical conditions. We also have expertise in treating serious mental health conditions. Our practice accepts many insurances plans and works with clients to seek reimbursement for out of network benefits. Our primary goal is to help you seek solutions for your problems, find ways to navigate through any hardship you may face, or support you as you create a more fulfilling lifestyle. Please contact us at (866) 220-8371
(847) 906-2691 View (847) 906-2691
Photo of Attention to Wellness, LTD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deerfield, IL
Attention to Wellness, LTD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
James Ogle, LCSW, is a highly skilled therapist who works with adolescents, families, and couples. He has over 15 years of clinical work experience in various settings. James has a gift of being able to quickly identify effective behavioral strategies that resolve problems for adolescents in trouble, couples in conflict, and those struggling with depression, anxiety, and stress. James uses motivational therapies to help people with addictions, substance use problems, and anger management issues implement behavior change in order to stop struggling and get their lives back on track.
James Ogle, LCSW, is a highly skilled therapist who works with adolescents, families, and couples. He has over 15 years of clinical work experience in various settings. James has a gift of being able to quickly identify effective behavioral strategies that resolve problems for adolescents in trouble, couples in conflict, and those struggling with depression, anxiety, and stress. James uses motivational therapies to help people with addictions, substance use problems, and anger management issues implement behavior change in order to stop struggling and get their lives back on track.
(224) 300-7810 View (224) 300-7810
Photo of Dennis A Lubchenko, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Dennis A Lubchenko
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, PCGC
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping people overcome their life stressors, past hurts, and to function in a healthier way. I help clients who suffer from mental health disorders, current problems, substance related addictions along with process related addictions (i.e. sex, gambling, shopping). I most frequently use Insight Oriented Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches; as well as CBT and DBT when appropriate. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and family members.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping people overcome their life stressors, past hurts, and to function in a healthier way. I help clients who suffer from mental health disorders, current problems, substance related addictions along with process related addictions (i.e. sex, gambling, shopping). I most frequently use Insight Oriented Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches; as well as CBT and DBT when appropriate. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and family members.
(224) 935-4535 View (224) 935-4535
Photo of Center for Psychology & Wellness, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Center for Psychology & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
We are a North Shore group of psychologists and counselors that are committed to providing quality therapeutic services for clients through the lifespan. We are licensed specialists who work with infants, toddlers, children, teens, adults, couples,and families. Services are provided in English and Polish. Each client will be listened to in a newly renovated office that promotes comfort and privacy. Individualized treatment is developed for each client to increase positive outcomes and success. We use evidence-based treatments that have been researched and found to reduce barriers that interfere with positive and healthy functioning.
We are a North Shore group of psychologists and counselors that are committed to providing quality therapeutic services for clients through the lifespan. We are licensed specialists who work with infants, toddlers, children, teens, adults, couples,and families. Services are provided in English and Polish. Each client will be listened to in a newly renovated office that promotes comfort and privacy. Individualized treatment is developed for each client to increase positive outcomes and success. We use evidence-based treatments that have been researched and found to reduce barriers that interfere with positive and healthy functioning.
(847) 603-4073 View (847) 603-4073
Photo of Gary B Kamen, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Gary B Kamen
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience emotional and physical difficulties from time to time. Often we are able to deal with these life experiences ourselves. Sometimes, however, it is not possible for us to resolve these challenges alone. In these situations professional help is appropriate. Until fifty years ago anyone experiencing psychological and/or physical stress was treated individually. Family therapy grew out of a simple but profound idea: People in crisis can often be best understood and treated within their own famiies. As a certified family therapist, as well as a certified psychoanalyst, I have the education necessary to see both famiies and individuals.
We all experience emotional and physical difficulties from time to time. Often we are able to deal with these life experiences ourselves. Sometimes, however, it is not possible for us to resolve these challenges alone. In these situations professional help is appropriate. Until fifty years ago anyone experiencing psychological and/or physical stress was treated individually. Family therapy grew out of a simple but profound idea: People in crisis can often be best understood and treated within their own famiies. As a certified family therapist, as well as a certified psychoanalyst, I have the education necessary to see both famiies and individuals.
(847) 984-0292 View (847) 984-0292
Photo of Adriane L Szackamer, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Adriane L Szackamer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice since 2001. My practice is geared toward working with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, and family settings with a range of issues. My style of therapy is very interactive and dynamic, as well as insight oriented. I firmly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as helping to create the greatest change. Clients describe me as genuine, empathic, and easy to connect with. I believe in setting mutual goals with my clients as well as maintaining a long term relationship with them.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in private practice since 2001. My practice is geared toward working with adolescents and adults in individual, couples, and family settings with a range of issues. My style of therapy is very interactive and dynamic, as well as insight oriented. I firmly believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as helping to create the greatest change. Clients describe me as genuine, empathic, and easy to connect with. I believe in setting mutual goals with my clients as well as maintaining a long term relationship with them.
(847) 892-1306 View (847) 892-1306
Photo of Paul Nevin, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Paul Nevin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural psychological process that fundamentally belongs to you, not to us. Some mental health professionals seem to imagine themselves as mental and emotional surgeons, whose goal is to identify problems and then fix them for you. We envision ourselves as more akin to doctors that deliver babies. We are ready to intervene as and when needed, but our primary role is to facilitate a natural process that belongs, first and foremost, to you. Our goal is to guide and encourage your growth by helping you to empower yourself.
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural psychological process that fundamentally belongs to you, not to us. Some mental health professionals seem to imagine themselves as mental and emotional surgeons, whose goal is to identify problems and then fix them for you. We envision ourselves as more akin to doctors that deliver babies. We are ready to intervene as and when needed, but our primary role is to facilitate a natural process that belongs, first and foremost, to you. Our goal is to guide and encourage your growth by helping you to empower yourself.
(847) 886-9462 View (847) 886-9462
Photo of Jan Gosselin, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Jan Gosselin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
(847) 750-4421 View (847) 750-4421
Photo of Dr. Anna Basov, Psychologist in Deerfield, IL
Dr. Anna Basov
Psychologist, PsyD, ADHD-CP, MBCT
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years of experience & am the owner of the Center for Psychology & Wellness (est. in 2014, click website link!). I'm passionate about helping people manage symptoms and get lives back on track. I help people feel safe/comfortable as they work through difficulties. I've helped many people overcome their struggles, feel empowered, and learn life-long skills for emotions & behaviors. I specialize in comprehensive psychological assessments for youth & adults. I accept most insurances and testing referrals from parents, teachers, psychiatrists, pediatricians, schools, physicians, and more!
I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years of experience & am the owner of the Center for Psychology & Wellness (est. in 2014, click website link!). I'm passionate about helping people manage symptoms and get lives back on track. I help people feel safe/comfortable as they work through difficulties. I've helped many people overcome their struggles, feel empowered, and learn life-long skills for emotions & behaviors. I specialize in comprehensive psychological assessments for youth & adults. I accept most insurances and testing referrals from parents, teachers, psychiatrists, pediatricians, schools, physicians, and more!
(847) 379-1054 View (847) 379-1054
Photo of Jean Rock, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Jean Rock
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
(847) 321-7325 View (847) 321-7325
Photo of Rachel Fischer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deerfield, IL
Rachel Fischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am passionate about working closely with clients across the lifespan struggling with a range of personal issues. I strive to provide a safe emotional environment to help clients feel at ease discussing their concerns. My therapeutic work is interactive and engaging, with the goal of meeting clients where they are ready to do some of their hardest and most meaningful emotional work. I have been described as authentic, direct, empathic, and pride myself on being a strong advocate for my clients. I often work collaboratively with parents & schools to help my clients attain the necessary tools to grow, heal, and achieve their goals.
I am passionate about working closely with clients across the lifespan struggling with a range of personal issues. I strive to provide a safe emotional environment to help clients feel at ease discussing their concerns. My therapeutic work is interactive and engaging, with the goal of meeting clients where they are ready to do some of their hardest and most meaningful emotional work. I have been described as authentic, direct, empathic, and pride myself on being a strong advocate for my clients. I often work collaboratively with parents & schools to help my clients attain the necessary tools to grow, heal, and achieve their goals.
(847) 325-5569 View (847) 325-5569
Photo of Dr. Princess Gabor, Counselor in Deerfield, IL
Dr. Princess Gabor
Counselor, EdD, LCPC , CCTP
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I hold a Doctorate Degree and a license as a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have extensive professional experience, training, & skill supporting children & adults with concerns including relationship & family conflict, trauma, autism, intellectual disabilities, behavior issues, ADHD, & parent coaching. I worked in residential, hospitals, private practice, & in-house counseling. I facilitated group & individual supervision, parenting education, couples, groups, family, & substance use therapy. I have taught counseling courses and developed training curriculum.
I hold a Doctorate Degree and a license as a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have extensive professional experience, training, & skill supporting children & adults with concerns including relationship & family conflict, trauma, autism, intellectual disabilities, behavior issues, ADHD, & parent coaching. I worked in residential, hospitals, private practice, & in-house counseling. I facilitated group & individual supervision, parenting education, couples, groups, family, & substance use therapy. I have taught counseling courses and developed training curriculum.
(224) 412-5378 View (224) 412-5378
Photo of The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology in Deerfield, IL
The Chicago Integrative Center for Psychology
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
When it comes to mental health treatment, our approach is simple and unique: our accomplished team of physicians and therapists work together to diagnose and treat your body, mind and spirit as a whole. We are one of the few practices combining traditional treatment with evidence-based alternative therapies, all under one roof. We are privileged to have changed the lives of many families in Chicago's North Shore, as well as out-of-state and foreign visitors. Our "whole body" approach to treating mental health conditions is supported by clinical studies. These include but are not limited to: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), diet and exercise, spiritual/social evaluation, yoga and art therapy. Many still focus only on the brain, treating symptoms, not causes. In many cases they over-prescribe medications. While our physicians do prescribe medications as needed, what sets us apart is our commitment to explore all options. We search for root causes and provide the most appropriate treatment, not merely the most convenient one. When we do prescribe, we go the extra mile to customize a plan that minimizes side effects. You and your family deserve the best in healthcare!
(224) 427-6245 View (224) 427-6245
Photo of Brighter Pathways, PLLC in Deerfield, IL
Brighter Pathways, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
In-person & telehealth available: Brighter Pathways, PLLC is a small group practice currently offering individual, couples, family, and group therapies. Our therapists value collaboration, education, and transparency because treatment should make sense to you. In order to best meet your needs, your therapist will strive to understand your unique circumstances. We believe in a team approach to treatment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your personal goals and struggles. We offer a safe, supportive, and open environment for you to explore your struggles and strive for personal growth.
In-person & telehealth available: Brighter Pathways, PLLC is a small group practice currently offering individual, couples, family, and group therapies. Our therapists value collaboration, education, and transparency because treatment should make sense to you. In order to best meet your needs, your therapist will strive to understand your unique circumstances. We believe in a team approach to treatment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your personal goals and struggles. We offer a safe, supportive, and open environment for you to explore your struggles and strive for personal growth.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
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.