Therapy for Eating Disorder Recovery
in Huntersville and virtually across NC
Develop a newfound acceptance for yourself.
Eating disorders are about more than just food.
Often times, there’s underlying fears and anxiety around eating, weight gain, body shape, and self-worth. You may notice that you’re hyperaware of how your body looks and are preoccupied with thoughts about eating, exercise or food. Maybe you’ve even had friends or family comment on the amount you eat or the way you look. This can further increase feelings of shame and guilt, and lead to being secretive around your eating habits. Whether you’re struggling with your relationship with food, experiencing disordered eating behaviors, or you’re stepping down from an in-patient program, having the right support is crucial to your recovery.
Disordered eating and an eating disorder: what’s the difference?
Disordered eating is an umbrella term that can be applied to several types of unhealthy behaviors or thoughts surrounding food. This can look like skipping a meal to “save calories” for later, labeling certain foods as “good or bad”, and following strict food rules. All of these behaviors can lead to distress or anxiety around food and eating. The main difference between disordered eating and an eating disorder lies in the frequency, duration and severity of symptoms. While disordered eating isn’t an official diagnosis, it still can affect overall physical and mental wellbeing. Not everyone fits into a box with their symptoms, but having the right tools and support is still a vital part of building a healthier relationship with food and yourself. Learn more about lesser known types of eating disorders and disordered eating patterns here.
Common Types of Eating Disorders
Involves frequent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. Unlike bulimia, people with binge eating disorder do not regularly engage in compensatory behaviors.
Binge Eating
Behaviors include over-exercising, eating little amounts of food, and preoccupation or fear with food and weight gain.
Anorexia
Bulimia
Characterized by episodes of binge eating—consuming large amounts of food in a short period—followed by compensatory behaviors to avoid weight gain, such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or using laxatives.
How therapy can help
Healing from eating disorders isn’t something you need to do alone. I will help connect you with a dietician and physician so all aspects of your recovery are being taken care of. Therapy will focus on learning and practicing coping skills to manage distressing emotions and situations. Together we’ll work to heal your relationship with food and your body by learning to trust yourself and building a network of support. Beyond just treating the symptoms, we’ll work together to identify the root cause of the eating disorder so you can fully heal.
You’re at a medically stable level and not in need of more intensive care
You’re unsure if you need a higher level of care and want to be assessed by a professional
You’ve been assessed and didn’t receive a diagnosis for an eating disorder but are still experiencing distressing symptoms
You’ve stepped down from an in-patient (PHP or IOP) program and want continued support
Certain aspects of your eating disorder weren’t thoroughly addressed in treatment
This may be a good fit for you if…
FAQs about therapy for eating disorders
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In our first session, we’ll assess the frequency, severity, and duration of your symptoms. If it is determined a higher level of care needed, I will help you through the referral process. Learn more about the different levels of care here.
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From an emotional standpoint, this can look like feeling less distress around your body, food, and eating. This can also look like engaging in healthy coping skills.
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I can provide a list of referrals and will work collaboratively to ensure all aspects of your care are being taken care of.
