Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the U.S. The illness is defined as being a severe, even life-threatening eating disorder characterized by the over-consumption of large quantities of food. Unlike bulimia, no purging is done after binging. Abby Bernstein LMHC offers Boca Raton binge eating disorder therapy to help people manage their caloric intake in a healthy way.
Binge Eating Disorder
Since 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has formally recognized binge eating disorder as just that – an eating disorder. Previously it had been characterized as a subtype of EDNOS (eating disorders not otherwise specified), and therefore treatment was not covered by most insurance companies.
One of the most telling symptoms of binge eating disorder is the consumption of large amounts of food within a two-hour span of time. The amount of food consumed during this episode is considered larger than what average people would eat within the same time period. During this consumption, the sufferer may also feel a lack of control of their eating habits throughout the duration of the episode.
The DSMR-5 also associates binge eating episodes with a number of associated behaviors, including eating faster than normal; eating until the person feels uncomfortably full; binging on large quantities of food even when not physically hungry; and feelings of embarrassment, disgust and guilt.
On average, these binge eating episodes will occur at least once a week for at least three months prior to diagnosis. The disorder is also unique because unlike bulimia nervosa, no purging or compensatory behaviors occur after binge eating.
Diagnosing Binge Eating Disorder
It’s not always easy to spot people who are suffering from binge eating disorder, despite it being the most common eating disorder in the country. Most often, those suffering from the disease will steal and hoard food, become obsessed with food and fad diets, develop food rituals and may develop a fear of eating in public.
Physically, binge eating can cause great stress on the body beyond noticeable fluctuations in weight. Up to two-thirds of those diagnosed with binge eating disorder are considered clinically obese. Binge eating can cause the stomach to rupture and create a very serious emergency. Habitually overeating can also increase the body’s resistance to insulin, leading to Type 2 Diabetes.
Boca Raton Binge Eating Disorder Therapy
South Floridians suffering from this eating disorder can receive effective, personalized Boca Raton binge eating disorder therapy from licensed mental health counselor Abby Bernstein. Abby possesses valuable insight into eating disorder management and treatment, and has years of experience helping adults and adolescents overcoming their issues with food and body image.
While studying for her master’s degree, Abby focused on etiology and treatment of eating disorders. Through her utilization of integrative therapy, she is able to identify core issues behind the motivation to binge eat and establishes a supportive team to help clients succeed in their treatment plans.
Abby takes a unique approach to Boca Raton binge eating disorder therapy by focusing specifically on applying integrative therapeutic approaches that focus on personal exploration and self-awareness. Because she believes that productive therapy can only occur when the client and therapist work together, she spends time establishing an open method of communication built on mutual respect and trust.
Eating disorders are often rooted in self-esteem and body image issues. Which is why Abby is intentional about creating a safe space for clients to experience personal growth and empowerment throughout the therapy process. She offers a nonjudgmental and supportive space for clients to freely explore their emotions, behaviors and thoughts to bring about positive shifts in their life.
In addition to her completed training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Abby is also an active member of the National Eating Disorder Association and the Alliance for Eating Disorders. She is passionate about assisting others explore the core issues rooted in their diseases and helping them to overcome their disorder.
For personalized and intentional Boca Raton binge eating disorder therapy, schedule an appointment with Abby Bernstein today. Call 561-826-4401 or fill out this form to get started.