Support for Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can be devastating, affecting not only individuals but also their families. They are serious mental illnesses that require professional treatment. I’m Rebecca Ishida, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Beverly Hills, dedicated to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and reclaim their lives.

Understanding Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are not about vanity or a desire to look a certain way; they are complex conditions often rooted in emotional pain, trauma, or a need for control. They can lead to severe physical and psychological consequences if left untreated.

Common Types of Eating Disorders:

• Anorexia Nervosa: Characterized by extreme restriction of food intake, intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image.
• Bulimia Nervosa: Involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise or misuse of laxatives.
• Binge Eating Disorder: Consists of recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of loss of control and guilt.

Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of an eating disorder is the first step toward healing. While these are common indicators, they should not be used for self-diagnosis.

Anorexia Nervosa:

• Refusal to maintain a healthy weight
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Distorted self-image
• Restrictive eating habits
• Excessive exercise
• Social withdrawal
• Physical symptoms like fatigue, dizziness or hair loss

Bulimia Nervosa:

• Frequent episodes of consuming large amounts of food followed by purging
• Preoccupation with body shape and weight
• Feeling a lack of control over eating behaviors
• Damaged teeth and gums
• Swollen salivary glands
• Scars on knuckles from induced vomiting

Binge Eating Disorder:

• Eating unusually large amounts of food in a specific time period
• Eating even when full or not hungry
• Eating rapidly during binge episodes
• Feeling distressed or guilty after overeating
• Frequent dieting without weight loss

The Impact of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can have profound effects on various aspects of life:

Physical Health:

• Malnutrition and dehydration
• Heart complications
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Hormonal imbalances
• Weakened immune system

Mental Health:

• Anxiety and depression
• Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
• Low self-esteem
• Suicidal thoughts

Relationships:

• Strained family dynamics
• Social isolation
• Difficulty maintaining friendships
• Impact on romantic relationships

About Rebecca Ishida, MA, MFT

As a licensed marriage and family therapist in Beverly Hills, I am committed to helping individuals overcome eating disorders. My compassionate approach and extensive experience ensure that you receive personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

My Approach to Eating Disorder Therapy

With over 25 years of experience, I provide a compassionate and personalized approach to therapy. I believe in addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying emotional, psychological, and relational factors contributing to the eating disorder.

Individualized Treatment Plans

• Collaborative Goal Setting: We’ll work together to establish realistic and achievable goals for recovery.
• Evidence-Based Therapies: Utilizing approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Focus on Underlying Issues: Exploring emotional pain, trauma, or control issues that may be driving the disorder.

Family Involvement

When appropriate, involving family members can provide additional support and improve communication within the family system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes eating disorders?

Eating disorders are complex and can result from a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

How do I know if I have an eating disorder?

If you recognize signs and symptoms in yourself or are concerned about your relationship with food and body image, seeking a professional evaluation is important.

Can eating disorders be treated without medication?

While therapy is a primary treatment, some individuals may benefit from medication to address co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.

Taking the First Step Toward Healing

Acknowledging the need for help is a courageous act. Therapy can provide the support and tools necessary to overcome an eating disorder and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Rebecca Ishida, MA, MFT

My therapeutic style combines empathy with a direct, solution-focused approach. Together, we’ll set achievable goals and work collaboratively toward your desired outcomes. I am honored to share in your journey, whether you’re navigating difficulties or striving toward your dreams.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. Licensed since 2000, I am a member of CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists).

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