Eating Disorder Psychologist
At different points in life it is normal to struggle with our eating habits. For example, you may engage in strict dieting that lasts only a few weeks and results in eating more than usual. It can be difficult to know when a difficulty with eating has crossed the line to an eating disorder. If you feel you or a loved one has crossed that line, it may be time to seek help.
At Peaceful Mind Psychology, we offer eating disorder help in the Melbourne area. We know just how difficult it can be to seek treatment, but we also know that professional help is a way to move forward.
While there is no such thing as a psychologist specialising in eating disorders, as no postgraduate training programs exist, our psychology practice is the next best thing. Our psychologists have focused their professional development and experience working with clients with eating disorders. We understand and know how to treat eating disorders.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to give us a call:
Excessive Worry or Obsession with Appearance
Everyone has certain things they don’t like about their physical appearance or things they wish were different. These types of body image concerns are not unusual. However, if you find concern for your appearance dominates your thoughts, you may need help.
You may experience these body image thoughts as intrusive. They may disrupt your daily life by keeping you preoccupied and distracted. These thoughts vary in their body focus. Some people obsess over their weight or muscle tone, others pinpoint exact parts of their body they feel need correcting. While other people wish to reduce their overall size. If you feel your life is being negatively impacted by how often you worry about your appearance, then you should consider seeking treatment.
Is Food Planning Ruling Your Life?
Worrying about appearance is often the first phase of developing an eating disorder. Beginning to exercise extreme methods of control over eating is often the next step. This can take many forms, such as:
- Calorie counting and unhealthy restriction of caloric intake
- Banning specific food groups or foods from your diet
- Skipping meals or preparing meals for others without eating
- Strict monitoring of what food is consumed every day
These are a few ways food planning can become problematic for an individual. If you or someone you know is constantly worried about what they eat, it may be time to get help.
Are Your Relationships Suffering from Your Eating Difficulty?
Sometimes, an eating difficulty can progress to the point where relationships suffer. This can manifest as an inability to go out because you are unhappy with your appearance or skipping family meals because of your strict diet. Other times it shows as an inability to focus while spending time with others, because your thoughts are preoccupied with dietary control.
Peaceful Mind Psychology is Here for You
If you recognise yourself or anyone you know with these signs, it may be time to consult a professional. Sometimes you need a little help to overcome an obstacle, even if you’re trying your best. Our practice provides treatment for those dealing with eating disorders in the Melbourne area and our staff are professionally trained to help you redefine your relationship with body image and food.
At Peaceful Mind Psychology our services are confidential. Symptoms do not have to be severe for you to seek help. If you feel you may be developing unhealthy thoughts and habits that are affecting your wellbeing, please consider setting an appointment with our friendly reception staff.
Find an Eating Disorder Treatment that Fits
Mental health is the single-most important factor when it comes to your ability to enjoy life. Those who find themselves struggling with mental health issues often feel alone. Eating disorders can be especially isolating, because they’re often associated with intense feelings of shame and guilt. This keeps people from reaching out and seeking help when they may need it the most.
Our team at Peaceful Mind Psychology takes a special interest in eating disorders. Our eating disorder treatment programs are evidence-based, which means they have been proven to work in a clinical setting. Our psychologists are well trained and experienced in eating disorder therapy, and understand just how complicated life can become with an eating disorder.
Eating Disorders Can be Caused by Many Factors
Eating disorders can arise from multiple sources. Often they start with poor body image and strict dieting. It is not uncommon for people with eating disorders to experience a life issue or difficulty in their relationships prior to becoming unwell. Research also shows that eating disorders are more likely to arise if there is a family history. However, there is no one single cause that explains why an eating disorder develops.
At Peaceful Mind Psychology we are well acquainted with the various factors that contribute to an unhealthy relationship with body image and food. It’s never exactly the same for any two people. However, there is tremendous comfort in knowing that others do feel the same as you. We have helped many clients who suffer from eating difficulties overcome their troubles and get back to living life on their terms.
Our Psychologists are Warm, Caring and Invested in Your Wellbeing
Peaceful Mind Psychology is comprised of psychologists who are warm, caring and invested in your wellbeing. We have been in practise since 2015 and we have grown quickly in that time. Our devotion to kindness, honesty and empathy has contributed to this success. If you’re looking for a kind and warm-hearted approach to eating disorder treatment in Melbourne, we’re here for you.
You will always find a comforting and relaxing environment within our walls. Our psychologists are friendly and relatable. While they are well trained in eating disorder therapy, they also take the time to adapt their approach to the individual. We know that every person is unique and we collaborate with you to achieve your goals and hopes.
Eating Disorders Treatments that are Evidence-Based and Comprehensive
As eating disorders are complex, we make sure that our psychologists are well educated and experienced in specialised therapies for eating disorders. This ensures you get the best possible treatment. We believe in setting goals that will help you move through the different phases of recovery, but we also understand that this must happen at your pace.
As part of our comprehensive treatment approach to eating disorders we collaborate within a multidisciplinary team, including dieticians and GP’s. We are well connected with like-minded health professionals who are educated in eating disorder treatment. We work hard within these multidisciplinary teams to achieve your therapy goals
A Better Life is Just Around the Corner
We know how difficult it can be to ask for help, but it is an important step in recovery. Even if you don’t talk with a professional, opening up to a trusted family member or friend can bring immense relief. No matter what, remember you are worth the time and effort it takes to get better.
If you feel you’re ready to speak with a professional, please contact our practice today.
It can be difficult to Find a Psychologist that is right for you. However, our Melbourne Psychology Clinic makes it easy for you: We personally match you with with one of our lovely and professional Melbourne Psychologists based on your needs and personality. We also offer psychologists who are professionally trained in Clinical Psychology and Child and Adolescents.