Eating Disorder Therapy

Clinically Reviewed By: Corey Pitts, MA, LCMHC

What are the most common types of eating disorders?

There are several kinds of eating disorders. For many, eating disorders are a way to achieve a desired look or body image. Different disorders have their own specific characteristics, but general eating disorder symptoms to be aware of include:

• Eating very little

• Eating large amounts, and then making yourself vomit afterwards also known as purging

• Creating strict habits or rules about food and eating

• Avoiding social situations that you know will involve food or eating in front of others

• Constantly worrying about your weight and body’s appearance

Anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa, causes people to fear gaining weight, so they control their weight and body shape by eating very little and restricting the kinds of foods they eat. Onset usually starts between 12 and 25 years old.

Anorexia can cause a variety of health problems due to low weight and a lack of nutrition. Anorexia's effect on health can correlate with prevalence of heart conditions that, in severe cases, can result in fatality. Conversely, suicidal ideation can often coincide with these varieties of physical and mental health disparities.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Text or call 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. Support is available 24/7.

Bulimia nervosa

Bulimia nervosa involves eating large amounts of food in a short time, which is called binge eating. While binging, people with bulimia feel they have no control over their eating or that they can’t stop, and then they feel bad or guilty about it afterward. To compensate, they then purge the food by vomiting or using laxatives or diuretics.

Many people with bulimia also have compulsive behaviors, like fasting for periods of time, using medications to control their weight, or exercising excessively.

Binge eating disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) causes people to eat large amounts of food at once. People often feel like they can’t control themselves or stop eating during a binge, and will eat even though they’re already full or not hungry.

People with BED often feel disgust, shame, or guilt about their eating behaviors. Unlike with bulimia, people with BED don’t purge, but they may restrict or diet between binges. BED is the most common eating disorder in the United States.

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder 

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is caused by fear and anxiety around food. People with ARFID are selective about what they eat, but aren’t driven by weight or body image. ARFID is more common in children, but it can persist into adulthood. 

What does eating disorder treatment typically involve?

A medical professional can assess a person's physical and mental health and determine the appropriate treatment. Many resources are available for people with eating disorders, including eating disorder therapy, both online and in person. The goal of treatment is to help people return to a healthy weight and eliminate symptoms of their eating disorder.

If you're seeking support, an eating disorder recovery program can connect you with licensed professionals who specialize in treating these conditions. 

Talk therapy

Many eating disorders are treated with talk therapy. Eating disorder therapy can include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reshape how you think about food and help you adopt healthy behaviors when it comes to eating. A therapist can help address distorted thoughts and eating disorder behaviors. Psychodynamic or family therapy may also be options, depending on the disorder.

Nutrition support

Registered dietitians may work alongside therapists to support healthy eating patterns. The goal isn’t always focused on weight, as a large part of recovery is learning to have a balanced and healthy relationship with food.

Medical monitoring

Eating disorders can have serious health complications, so medical professionals may be involved for intensive treatment. If a hospital stay is necessary, the purpose is to stabilize the symptoms of the eating disorder.

Medication

Medications, like antidepressants, can help people with eating disorders when used together with talk therapy. They are often most effective for people with bulimia or BED, as many medications aren't shown to be effective in people who are very underweight.

Can online therapy help with eating disorders?

It can be challenging to break free of an eating disorder on your own. Support from a therapist can help. Research shows that online therapy can help to improve the symptoms of eating disorders, including those with anorexia. This type of eating disorder treatment provides access to licensed professionals who have experience helping those with eating disorders. 

Online therapy can provide a sense of distance between the individual and the therapist, making eating disorder therapy more accessible and comfortable.

How BetterHelp may support those with eating disorders

BetterHelp connects people to licensed therapists via phone, messenger, video, and live chat. This flexible format makes it easy to get consistent, ongoing support. Therapists on the BetterHelp platform help people address the mental health symptoms of eating disorders through talk therapy to improve the thoughts and behaviors around food.

Note: BetterHelp is not a crisis service or a substitute for higher levels of care, like inpatient or medical care.

When should someone seek help for an eating disorder?

While eating disorders can have unfavorable outcomes if left untreated, early interventions can improve outcomes. Getting started with a therapist, like a BetterHelp professional, or a physician may be a good choice if you recognize these symptoms:

• Preoccupation with food, weight, or body image

• Restrictive or compulsive eating behaviors

• Physical symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or hair loss

• Emotional distress around meals

Eating disorder treatment is most effective with the help and guidance of a professional. Find care that fits your life with a BetterHelp therapist who has experience in eating disorders. If you need immediate support and resources, reach out to the National Eating Disorders Association at 1-800-931-2237.

FAQs

Can therapy help with eating disorders?

Talk therapy, particularly CBT, is often a key component of eating disorder treatment and may help address underlying thoughts and behaviors.

Is online therapy effective for eating disorders?

Research suggests online therapy can help improve symptoms for some people with eating disorders, though it may not be appropriate as a standalone treatment for all cases.

Does BetterHelp offer eating disorder therapy?

BetterHelp connects individuals with licensed therapists who may provide support for the mental health dimensions of eating disorders through virtual sessions.

Are eating disorders a mental health condition?

Yes, eating disorders are recognized mental health conditions that can also have serious physical health consequences if left unaddressed.

Can eating disorders be treated without inpatient care?

In some cases, outpatient therapy and support may be sufficient, though a healthcare professional can best determine the appropriate level of care based on individual needs.