Eating Disorder Therapy

What Are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders (ED) are serious mental illnesses that are characterized by a disturbance of eating patterns that results in impairment of physical health.

Eating disorders include:

• Pica: Eating non-edible substances
• Rumination disorder: Regurgitation of food
• Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder: Restriction of food, usually caused by sensory experience of foods that leads to nutritional deficit
• Anorexia- Restriction of food leading to low body weight, along with a disturbance of how one’s body shape is experienced
• Bulimia- Recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by purging
• Binge eating disorder- Recurrent episodes of binge eating

If you believe you may have an eating disorder it is important to seek a professional. Eating disorders are treatable. Asking for help is the first step.

What Are the Main Treatment Options for Eating Disorders?

The treatment of eating disorders is triadic.

The three important aspects of eating disorders include:

• Therapy– This is the most effective and important aspect of treating an eating disorder. Eating disorders are considered a mental illness, therefore, therapy can help you identify the underlying cause of your eating disorder and develop skills to improve your relationship with food.
• Medication– In some cases, medication can be necessary to treat eating disorders in combination with therapy. Medications can be used to treat co-occurring disorders such as depression and anxiety or to treat symptoms of the eating disorder such as binging or purging.
• Nutritional support– Creating a realistic nutritional plan, that can be incorporated into your lifestyle, and well tolerated can help with an eating disorder.

The type of treatment will depend on the type and severity of the eating disorder. Remember, you are not alone. Eating disorders and common and effective treatment is available.

We understand that every person’s journey to recovery is different. That’s why we take a personalized approach to therapy, tailoring our treatment plans to meet your individual needs and goals. Our goal is to help you develop a healthy relationship with food and your body, and to live a full and productive life.

How Effective Are Medications in Treating Eating Disorder Symptoms?

Medications are not the first line of treatment for eating disorders, however, at times they may be helpful in conjunction with therapy. Typically, the most effective medication for eating disorders are anti-depressants, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft). Other medications such as antipsychotics and mood stabilizers have also been shown to help in the treatment of eating disorders.

What Types of Psychotherapy Are Effective for Treating Eating Disorders?

The most effective types of psychotherapy for treating eating disorders include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)– CBT can help you identify and change negative thoughts and beliefs that lead to eating disorder symptoms. You will also be able to change unwanted behaviors and learn to cope and overcome cravings.
• Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)– IPT is a strongly supported evidence-based treatment for bulimia. IPT focuses on the relationship between the eating disorder and interpersonal relationships. With IPT you can have improved relationships with food, people, and your mood.
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)– DBT can help you learn to manage emotions that may lead to self-harming behaviors.

There are many therapies proven to be effective for eating disorders. Eating disorders are treatable and you can find relief, too.

Can Family-Based Therapy Help Treat Eating Disorders?

“Current published clinical guidelines recommend an ED-specific family therapy as the first-line treatment of adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) and as a recommended treatment of adolescents with bulimia nervosa” according to a recent study published on PubMed. Family therapy involves as many family members as possible in the treatment process. In family therapy, the therapist helps the family unit identify the underlying causes of the eating disorder and create a plan to combat the symptoms.

Family therapy can help clients with ED and their families:

• Improve communication and support
• Reduce ED symptoms
• Improve family relationships and communication
• Improve the quality of life

Family therapy is a safe and effective treatment for ED. With family therapy, you and your family can live healthy and fulfilling lives.

How Long Does Eating Disorder Therapy Typically Take To See Results?

The amount of time it takes to see results from ED therapy depends on the person. For some people, meeting with a therapist and receiving psychoeducation on their disorder is relieving. For others, it may take time and practice of the skills learned in therapy to feel better.

Are There Any Lifestyle Changes That Can Help With Managing Eating Disorder Symptoms?

Some lifestyle changes that can help manage an eating disorder include:

• Eating regular meals and snacks
• Managing stress
• Utilizing coping skills
• Getting enough sleep
• Maintaining a healthy regular diet

Together with your therapist, you can work on lifestyle changes that work and benefit you.

Is It Possible to Fully Recover From an Eating Disorder?

Yes, it is possible to fully recover from an eating disorder. Our therapists specialize in evidence-based therapies for ED including CBT, DBT, and family therapy, and have extensive experience treating eating disorders. With the right support, you can overcome your eating disorder. Your therapist will support you every step of the way.

If you’re ready to start your journey to recovery, contact us today to schedule an appointment for eating disorder therapy in West Palm Beach. We’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that’s right for you and help you achieve your recovery goals.