Disordered Eating

Bulimia and Binge Eating

• Restricting food intake
• Noticing large fluctuations in weight
• Dividing foods into good foods and bad foods
• Eating large quantities of food in a single setting
• Eating only at certain times, certain places, or with certain people
• Spending a disproportionate amount of time thinking about food
• Feeling like eating is out of control
• Needing to exercise in order to feel “normal”
• Purging food

If you or someone you love is experiencing two or more of these warning signs please Call 301.984.9791 to contact us, discuss your needs and schedule an appointment.

Our Approach

We begin treatment with a complete assessment of our client’s current functioning and relevant history. In particular, we will focus on understanding eating behavior, body image concerns, exercise habits, family history, and any other important information which may help her develop a treatment plan. Some clients need a more psycho-educational and behavioral approach to therapy, which helps target symptoms surrounding disordered eating patterns. This focused style can also assist in promoting the client’s self-management of eating habits. Other clients may feel comfortable managing some of their symptoms, and may want to spend more time in therapy understanding the meaning of food in their life and the underlying causes of the disordered eating. We will work with each client as a unique individual seeking therapy, and we will aim to tailor our therapeutic style to best meet each client’s needs.

What is an eating disorder?

Eating disorders (and disordered eating) are characterized by disrupted eating behavior and unhealthy thinking about food. These behaviors and attitudes can lead to both emotional and physical problems. Eating disorders can affect both males and females and can result in life threatening consequences.

Types of Eating Disorders

• Bulimia
• Recurrent episodes of binge eating
• Recurrent behavior in order to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting; misuse of laxatives, diuretics, enemas, or other medications; fasting; or excessive exercise.

• Eating Disorder NOS
  • This category is for disorders of eating that do not meet the criteria for any specific Eating Disorder.
  • Binge eating disorder falls into this category

• Anorexia
  • Refusal to maintain a minimally normal body weight (below 85% of what is considered normal based upon height & age).
  • Intensely fearful of gaining weight.
  • Exhibits a significant disturbance in the perception of the shape or size of his or her body.
  • Loss of menstrual periods (missed at least 3 consecutive periods)

Learn More about Eating Disorder Treatments at Potomac Psychiatry

Call 301.984.9791 to contact us, discuss your needs and schedule an appointment. Our experienced professionals look forward to meeting you.