"Research shows that eating disorders can be successfully overcome with adequate and appropriate treatment. Bulimia nervosa can be successfully treated with cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal and drug therapies. Anorexia nervosa can be successfully treated with structured programs and therapies, which aim to reverse the malnutrition. Such treatments are typically extensive and long-term. For patients with anorexia, only once weight is restored to within 95% of normal can treatment typically make a difference.¹ "

 PRIMARY CARE PHYSICAN: Monitors and treats physical ailments. Your family doctor should be your first stop in the process of treatment. Your appointment should include: physical checkups, weight checks, lab work with the following tests - mineral, glucose, vitamins, white blood cells, and cholesterol levels, gynecological exams to check for menstrual irregularities, blood pressure tests, and echocardiograms to check for irregular heart beat.
To find a physician in your area www.ama-assn.org

THERAPIST: (Psychologists, Mental Health Counselor, Social Worker, Addictions Professional). The therapist focuses on unwrapping and solving eating disorder symptoms, as well as underlying issues that caused and continue to maintain the eating disorder. The therapist will also work on steps for recovery and new coping skills. Types of therapy include Individual Therapy (Cognitive-Behavioral, 12 Step, Interpersonal or Insight Oriented, Feminist Model, etc), Group Therapy, Family Therapy, Art Therapy, Movement Therapy, and Equine Therapy.
To find a Certified Eating Disorders Specialists in your area, www.iaedp.com or visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org, www.edreferral.com, and www.something-fishy.org. Also contact your insurance carrier for contacts in your area.

NUTRITIONIST: "Nutritional counseling will provide the individual with needed information and retraining about food and the physical aspects of life; education regarding healthy weight management techniques will also be useful. Guided experiences in eating out, grocery shopping, cooking, and entertaining, prepare adolescents to manage food in the environment without overfocusing on it."
(Taken from: Eating Disorders during Adolescence:  Nutritional Problems and Interventions by Jane Mitchell Rees, PhD, RD, CD)

PSYCHIATRIST: (If necessary). The psychiatrist will prescribe medicine to help correct mood disturbances (i.e. depression and anxiety). Several medications may help cub obsessive and compulsive thoughts and rituals.

DENTIST: Physical changes in the mouth are usually one of the first signs an eating disorder is present. Studies show that up to 89% of bulimics show signs of tooth erosion, and 28% of all bulimic cases are first diagnosed by dental professionals. When on the path to recovery, it is imperative to see a dentist to check for any erosion, bone loss, and/or damage done.

EATING DISORDERS COACH: A major goal of eating disorders coaching is to do more than help you move beyond a difficult and counterproductive behavior. It also provides you with an experienced mentor who can work with you on all the issues that affect your daily success and sense of well-being. In addition, eating disorders coaching develops your awareness and self-confidence giving you a reliable inner-strength that enables you to handle yourself more effectively no matter what the circumstance is.

1. How much experience have you had working with eating disorders?
2. What are your professional credentials, licenses, training, and education?
3. How much do your sessions cost?
4. Do you take insurance? If yes, what types? If no, do you offer sliding scale fees?
5. What is your therapeutic approach?
6. What can I expect during therapy sessions?
7. What are your goals for treatment?
8. What is my expected length for treatment?