Therapy for Eating Disorders

Understanding Eating Disorders

There are several types of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Each disorder presents differently, but they all involve a preoccupation with food, weight, or body shape. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by extreme food restriction and a fear of gaining weight, often leading to dangerous weight loss. Bulimia nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise. Binge eating disorder, the most common eating disorder in the U.S., involves episodes of consuming large amounts of food, often in secret, without purging.

Eating disorders can result from a variety of factors, including genetics, societal pressures, and emotional trauma. They are not simply about food; they often stem from underlying psychological issues, such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Without proper treatment, eating disorders can lead to serious health complications, including heart problems, digestive issues, and in severe cases, death.

Recognizing the Signs of Eating Disorders

Identifying the signs of an eating disorder can be challenging, especially since many individuals go to great lengths to hide their behaviors. Common signs include:

• Drastic changes in weight, either up or down
• Obsession with counting calories, dieting, or food restrictions
• Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, which may indicate purging
• Excessive exercise or a compulsion to burn off calories
• Skipping meals or refusing to eat certain foods
• Complaining about feeling “fat” despite being underweight
• Withdrawing from social activities, particularly those involving food
• Hoarding or hiding food
• Feeling out of control when eating, often leading to binge episodes
• Mood swings, irritability, or increased anxiety related to food or body image

If these behaviors persist, it’s important to seek professional help. While occasional concerns about body image are normal, persistent and extreme behaviors can signal a deeper issue that requires intervention.

Therapies for Treating Eating Disorders

At Kona Counseling, we work with individuals experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of eating disorders. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where clients can explore the emotional and psychological aspects of their condition and develop healthier coping strategies. For individuals with more severe symptoms, we refer them to specialized eating disorder treatment programs that provide the intensive care necessary for recovery.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most effective treatments for eating disorders. It helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns about food, body image, and self-worth. By replacing these thoughts with healthier perspectives, clients can reduce disordered eating behaviors.
2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT teaches emotional regulation and coping skills, which can be particularly helpful for individuals who use food as a way to manage difficult emotions. DBT also focuses on mindfulness and distress tolerance, helping clients develop healthier relationships with food.
3. Family-Based Therapy (FBT): For younger individuals or those still living at home, FBT involves family members in the treatment process. This therapy helps families support their loved one’s recovery and addresses any family dynamics that may contribute to the disorder.

Getting Help for Eating Disorders

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, Kona Counseling can provide the support needed to address mild to moderate symptoms. For more severe cases, we will guide you toward specialized treatment. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.