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Dr. Meredith Barber Psychotherapy

Eating Disorders

Tackling an eating disorder requires approaching it from a variety of perspectives. To begin, we will examine the symptoms themselves in order to minimize them. I will work with you to devise a plan that predicts and avoids triggers, or—when a trigger cannot be avoided—to determine options for dealing with difficult feelings other than symptom use. We can also determine achievable goals around calories, exercise, and so on. When necessary, we’ll work with other professionals, including your primary-care physician, a nutritionist, and a psychiatrist.

People often come to treatment with a limited understanding of why they are restricting their calories so much, or why they are over-exercising, or binging or purging. They know only that they want to be thin. In therapy, we’ll start to tease apart the unconscious meaning of the symptoms. I’ll help you to determine what the “positive intentions” of your symptoms are, so that we can identify creative ways to address what they’re trying to tell you.

If you are the parent of a young person struggling with symptoms, we’ll work on maximizing your influence over your child while recognizing the areas where you have no control. I’ll help you find the appropriate support, a search that can feel like a marathon. We’ll get you out of the role of police and private investigator of cupboards and refrigerators, and into a more empowered position of support for your child.