Living Stone Christian Counseling

Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, eating disorders not otherwise specified and emotional eating) often develop for a myriad of reasons. Eating disorders (ED) are often a coping mechanism for handling difficult emotions and life circumstances. This disorder is not about food; simply telling a person who is struggling with an ED to “just eat more” does not help the person struggling with this complex disorder. It oversimplifies the problem. The fertile soil that allows an ED to flourish can take months or years to develop. Contributing factors to the development of an ED include: a history of sexual abuse, a history of emotional or physical abuse, having a sense that life is unpredictable, a tendency towards perfectionism, unrealistic expectations from important others (or the media) on what an “ideal” body looks likeand not being able to discuss feelings with others (or being told to only express “happy” emotions). Having an ED may give a sense of self, or a sense of importance to a client that she has not been able to find elsewhere or an ED may give the ct a sense of control in her life when boundaries are too porous or lacking. Well-entrenched distorted thought patterns that the ct believes to be truth (i.e. – If I gain weight, I will be ridiculed and no one will like me) can also help to establish and perpetuate ED struggles. These are but a few of the many causes that may underlie the development of an ED.

If you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder – help and hope is available. I am happy to discuss how outpatient therapy services at Living Stone Christian Counseling, PLLC can help you.

Blessings,

Tiffany Porche, MA NCC LPC

480-244-6794

tiffany@livingstonecounseling.com