When a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, it's common to feel helpless, worried, and even afraid.

Family support and consultation is often a helpful first step when families are unsure whether eating disorder therapy or disordered eating therapy in Atlanta, GA is appropriate for their loved one. Consultation provides space to talk through concerns, better understand available treatment options, and clarify what level of support or treatment may be most helpful—without pressure or urgency.

There are many effective treatment options for eating disorders, including outpatient therapy, intensive hospitalization programs (IOP), partial hospitalization programs (PHP) (or day programs), residential treatment, and inpatient care. Navigating which level of care and specific program is best for your loved one can be confusing and overwhelming.

I have extensive training and experience in assessing and treating eating disorders, having worked in inpatient hospitals, PHP, and IOP programs specifically focused on these issues. I can provide the knowledge and expertise needed to help you identify the appropriate level of support for your loved one.

During our family support session, I will offer tailored recommendations and actionable steps for both your loved one and your family to begin the healing process.

When You Begin to Feel Concerned

Friends and family often sense that something isn’t right with a loved one long before they know what to call it. Changes around food, increased anxiety at meals, rigid eating patterns, withdrawal from social situations, or shifts in mood and energy can quietly add up over time.

When it comes to disordered eating therapy, you don’t need a clear diagnosis or a crisis to seek support for a loved one. Whether it’s your daughter or son, niece or nephew, granddaughter or grandson, or anyone else close to you, feeling concerned is reason enough to reach out to a professional.

The disordered eating therapy in Atlanta, GA that I offer can be helpful at any stage of an eating disorder, especially when families are unsure how serious the situation may be or what steps to take next.

Talking About Eating Concerns Without Causing Harm

It’s common to worry about saying the wrong thing or making the situation worse when a loved one is struggling with disordered eating. How these conversations unfold matters. Approaching concerns with care can help reduce misunderstandings and prevent unnecessary harm.

Family support sessions focus on how to approach these conversations gently, without blame or pressure. This often means leading with curiosity, avoiding comments about weight or appearance, and expressing concern in a way that keeps connection at the center.

Learning how to talk about eating concerns in a calm, supportive way can reduce conflict and help your loved one feel safer opening up.

When a Loved One Isn’t Ready for Eating Disorder Therapy

It’s not uncommon for someone struggling with disordered eating to feel unsure about therapy, or to believe they don’t need help. For many individuals, the idea of eating disorder therapy can feel overwhelming, threatening, or simply premature.

Family support and consultation offers a place to begin, even when your loved one is not ready to participate in therapy themselves. These sessions focus on helping families understand what may be getting in the way, how to respond in supportive ways, and how to reduce unintentional pressure or conflict around food and care.

Rather than pushing for immediate change, consultation helps families approach concerns with patience and consistency. Small shifts in how support is offered can make a meaningful difference over time, helping a loved one feel safer and more open to considering support when they are ready.

Family consultation is not about forcing treatment. It’s about creating steadiness, understanding, and a path forward at a pace that respects everyone involved.

Reach Out Today

As an eating disorder therapist in Atlanta, GA, I work with families to clarify next steps, assess appropriate levels of care, and provide practical guidance tailored to your situation. This includes education about eating disorders, support for caregiver stress, and recommendations that align with your loved one’s needs and readiness for treatment.

Services are provided through virtual eating disorder therapy in Atlanta, GA and throughout the state of Georgia. Family support is available through consultation, even if your loved one is not ready for individual therapy.

Consultation provides a space to talk through concerns, ask questions, and better understand what level of support may be appropriate. Together, we look at what you’re noticing, what feels most concerning, and what next steps may be helpful.

Reach out today to get started with family support for eating disorders. Virtually serving individuals in Atlanta, GA, and across the state.