Eating disorder therapy is a specialized approach aimed at assisting those who are grappling with a range of eating disorders. These disorders are significant mental health conditions characterized by irregular or unhealthy eating patterns and an intense focus on body weight and shape. Common conditions addressed in Eating disorder therapy include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).
At Thriveworks, Eating disorder therapy begins with a thorough assessment and personalized treatment plan. Central to eating disorder therapy is psychotherapy, often employing cognitive behavioral therapy and other specialized techniques to target negative thought patterns.
CBT’s remission rate, according to some research, is generally between 50-30% for those seeking assistance for eating disorder symptoms.
The recovery rate for those seeking assistance with eating disorders depends entirely on the individual’s involvement in sessions, the severity of their symptoms, and their willingness to change their eating habits and relationship with food.
Anorexia and Bulimia Counseling in Houston, TX
If you are experiencing symptoms of anorexia, bulimia, or another disorder, you may benefit from working with a mental health professional. Thriveworks Counseling in Houston, TX has eating disorder counselors on our team who can help—simply call or schedule online to get started today.
Causes of Anorexia and Bulimia
Traumatic events have also been linked to eating disorders, especially those involving experiences that resulted in physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, or even experiences that caused guilt, shame, or loss of confidence.
Your genes can influence your likelihood of developing these disorders as well. If you have one or more than one family member suffering from them, you are more likely to develop the disorders.
Other mental health issues can also influence whether you have anorexia or bulimia. One symptom of depression is the drive to eat more or to totally avoid food. However, it should also be mentioned you can have depression not related to an eating disorder at all.
Symptoms of Eating Disorders
Some of the most common signs of eating disorder issues can include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Obsessing over body image
- Obsessing over reaching or maintaining a certain weight
- Experiencing feelings of guilt or shame after eating
- Chronic health problems, including dental issues
Treatment for Eating Disorders
At Thriveworks Houston, our therapists can help you with the following treatment options (among others):
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors related to food, body image, and self-esteem.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to regulate emotions, improve interpersonal skills, and promote healthy coping mechanisms.
- Interpersonal therapy (IPT): Addresses relationship issues and interpersonal conflicts that may contribute to disordered eating behaviors.
- Family-based treatment (FBT): Involves the entire family in the treatment process, aiming to restore normal eating patterns and improve communication within the family unit.
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): Emphasizes acceptance of difficult thoughts and feelings while committing to behavior change aligned with personal values.
- Nutritional counseling: Provides education and support for developing balanced eating habits and addressing nutritional deficiencies.
- Mindfulness-based approaches: Incorporate mindfulness practices to increase awareness of hunger and satiety cues, manage cravings, and reduce stress-related eating behaviors.
Schedule Eating Disorder Counseling at Thriveworks in Houston, TX
At Thriveworks Houston, we have counselors who can guide you with professional support. If you’re experiencing the negative effects of an eating disorder, simply give us a call or book online to be paired with a professional counselor.
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