Binge Eating Therapy in Midtown Toronto

What is Binge Eating disorder (BED)?

Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in Canada, affecting up to 3.5% of the population. It is characterized by frequent episodes of overeating, which can feel out of control, and is typically followed by feelings of guilt, shame, and distress. Many individuals with binge eating disorder will also compensate for these episodes by restricting food intake the next day or for a period of time following the binge eating. 

There are many different factors that can contribute to the development of BED, including stress, anxiety, depression, body image concerns, and genetics. Research shows that there is a strong connection between binge eating disorder and depression, and often BED develops as a way to manage difficult feelings. There is also a strong connection between dieting (restricting food intake) and the development of binge eating.

At Orchid Psychotherapy, our experienced therapists offer a comprehensive approach to binge eating therapy. We believe that the most effective treatment is one that addresses the underlying causes of BED, as well as the behavioural and emotional aspects of the disorder.

Our therapy program includes:

• Individual therapy: During individual therapy, you will work with a therapist to understand the root of your binge eating, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and learn how to manage your emotions in a healthy way.
• Dietitian services: Meeting with our dietitian will help you understand you calorie and nutritional needs and develop a meal plan that is individualized for you. Your dietitian will help you learn about urges and cravings and how to manage these with specific strategies. 

If you are struggling with binge eating, we encourage you to reach out to us for help. We are here to support you on your journey to recovery.

Binge Eating Therapy: Our Treatment Approach

At Orchid Psychotherapy, our experienced therapists will help create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable learning about their eating symptoms and finding strategies to help them overcome these unhealthy habits. We use various modalities to help you overcome your eating disorder, in keeping with the following philosphy:

• we do not promote dieting and other forms of weight manipulation
• we respect individual differences in weight, shape and size
• we respect an individual’s timeline and readiness to make changes in their recovery
• we believe that recovery from an eating disorder is possible no matter how long you’ve been struggling 
• we believe that sometimes a team approach works best – this might require collaboration with your doctor, therapist, dietitian
• we work alongside you and at your pace to find strategies that benefit you and get your life back on track
• we believe that in order to recover one needs to normalize eating and gain control of symptoms
• we support you in relapse prevention once recovery from an eating disorder is attained
• we believe that family and friends can play an important role in recovery
• we help you understand the issues that might be driving the eating disorder so that you maintain your recovery after treatment is over

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Binge Eating

CBT is a widely recognized treatment for binge eating. It helps individuals recognize and change dysfunctional thought patterns that lead to harmful behaviours. Through CBT, you’ll learn to identify triggers and develop healthier coping strategies.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) in Binge Eating Treatment

DBT, another effective treatment approach, is often used in tandem with CBT. This approach teaches you skills to tolerate stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships, ultimately addressing the emotional instability that often triggers binge episodes.unoPhil