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Eating disorder treatment: Know your options

Where to start

Whether you start by seeing your primary healthcare professional or a mental health professional, you'll likely benefit from a referral to a team of professionals who specialize in eating disorder treatment. Members of your treatment team may include:

  • A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or therapist for talk therapy. It's important to choose a mental health professional with specialized training in eating disorder care, as this isn't something all therapists have.
  • A registered dietitian to educate about nutrition and meal planning.
  • Medical specialists to treat health problems due to your eating disorder.
  • Your parents or other family members. For young people still living at home, parents should be involved in treatment and may supervise meals.

Managing an eating disorder can be a long-term challenge. You may need to continue to see members of your treatment team regularly until your eating disorder symptoms have been completely addressed.