Eating Disorder Treatment

My research on the causes and prevention of eating disorders has been published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders and the Journal of Addictive Behaviors. My outreach and prevention efforts have targeted young children, high school and college students, parents, coaches, and teachers and school administrators.

My treatment of anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating takes many forms. Depending upon the client's age, living situation, and duration of illness, our individual therapy may incorporate elements of Family Based Therapy (the Maudsley method of refeeding), Dialectical Behavior Therapy for the exploration of relationships, emotions, and coping strategies, and psychodynamic depth work to uncover the layers of meaning associated with client's disordered eating and sense of her/his/their body. Together, these approaches will target symptom reduction, relapse prevention, and the development of healthier coping skills.

Parents do not cause eating disorders. Parents (along with other family members and partners) can be essential to recovery. When appropriate, I provide family therapy, couples therapy, along with frequent phone updates in order to ensure that clients have as much support as they need while working towards recovery. Family members frequently need support themselves, which is why I offer a systems approach to treatment.

I often refer clients for adjunctive group therapies for recovery support. These groups provide personal challenge in a safe and supportive environment. While many clients experience the greatest anxiety about the prospect of group therapy, these same clients often describe their relationships with fellow group members as one of the most important pieces in their recovery.