At Layers Counseling Specialists, we understand that Anorexia Nervosa is a complex and life-impacting eating disorder. With the right therapeutic support, individuals can overcome the challenges of anorexia and develop a healthier relationship with food, body image, and themselves. Our compassionate, evidence-based treatment is designed to help clients regain control over their health and well-being.

What Is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and extreme food restriction, often leading to severe malnutrition. Individuals with anorexia typically see themselves as overweight, even when they are dangerously underweight. This disorder affects physical health, mental well-being, and relationships.

Anorexia can result in serious medical complications, including heart problems, weakened bones, and organ damage. At Layers Counseling Specialists, we take an integrated approach to address both the physical and emotional aspects of anorexia, supporting long-term recovery.

Signs and Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

Common signs and symptoms of anorexia include:

• Severe food restriction: Limiting calorie intake to extremely low levels.

• Intense fear of weight gain: Even when significantly underweight.

• Distorted body image: Seeing oneself as overweight despite being underweight.

• Preoccupation with food and dieting: Including obsessive counting of calories, food rituals, and avoiding meals.

• Excessive exercise: Engaging in extreme physical activity to burn calories.

• Physical symptoms: Such as fatigue, dizziness, hair loss, brittle nails, and missed menstrual periods in women.

If left untreated, anorexia can have life-threatening consequences. Our team at Layers Counseling Specialists is here to provide the specialized care needed to address the underlying causes of anorexia and promote lasting recovery.

Our Approach to Anorexia Therapy

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we use evidence-based therapies tailored to each individual’s unique experience with Anorexia Nervosa. Our comprehensive approach includes:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most effective treatments for eating disorders, helping individuals challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns around food, weight, and body image. Through CBT, clients learn to replace restrictive behaviors with healthier coping mechanisms.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT helps individuals accept their negative thoughts and feelings without letting them control their actions. By focusing on personal values and goals, clients learn to make healthier choices and build a life that is aligned with their true values, rather than being dictated by their fears of weight gain.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills: DBT skills focus on helping individuals regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, and manage relationships more effectively. These skills are particularly helpful for clients with anorexia who may experience intense anxiety or emotional dysregulation around food and body image.

• Family-Based Therapy (FBT): For younger clients, family involvement can play a critical role in recovery. We offer family-based therapy that empowers parents to take an active role in helping their child recover from anorexia. By providing support at home, families can create a positive and encouraging environment for recovery.

• Nutritional Counseling: We work closely with dietitians to ensure clients receive comprehensive nutritional counseling. This includes developing healthy eating habits, understanding nutritional needs, and addressing the fears and anxieties around food.

Who We Work With

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we offer specialized treatment for:

• Adolescents: Helping teens navigate the challenges of anorexia during a critical time in their development.

• Adults: Supporting adults in breaking free from the cycle of food restriction, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and distorted body image.

• Parents of Children with Anorexia: Providing parents with the education and tools needed to support their child’s recovery and create a positive, food-friendly environment at home.

Our individualized treatment plans are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client and family, ensuring the best chance for a full and lasting recovery.

Anorexia and Co-Occurring Conditions

Anorexia Nervosa often occurs alongside other mental health conditions, such as:

• Anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic)

• Depression

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

• PTSD or complex trauma

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we take a whole-person approach, addressing not only the eating disorder but also any co-occurring mental health issues to ensure comprehensive care.

Why Choose Layers Counseling Specialists for Anorexia Therapy?

• Specialized Expertise: Our therapists are highly trained in treating eating disorders like Anorexia Nervosa, using evidence-based approaches to support recovery.

• Individualized Treatment Plans: We create customized treatment plans that meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring the best outcomes.

• Compassionate, Holistic Care: We treat the whole person—emotionally, mentally, and physically—ensuring that clients feel supported at every stage of their recovery.

Ready to Start Your Recovery Journey?

If you or a loved one is struggling with Anorexia Nervosa, we are here to help. At Layers Counseling Specialists, we provide compassionate, expert care to guide you on the path to recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free 15-minute consultation and learn more about how anorexia therapy can help you regain control of your life and health.