Mending the Eating Disorder Fence: Neither This nor That
Research in Attachment Theory provides evidence for contributing factors in EDs Research on Attachment Theory in understanding causal factors in eating disorders is increasingly available, outcomes of studies found valid and treatment protocols stemming from the research are respected as “evidence” based. Although specific treatment recommendations remain tailored to the needs of each patient individually, […]
When Sex Is the Issue and When Sex Is the Symptom
Sexual matters and sexuality are always present in the consultation room, particularly if you practice from a psychodynamic (insight-oriented) framework. Whether the patient seeks help specifically for sexual problems, for other relationship issues, or for anxiety or depression, sexuality is omnipresent. And yet, many individuals and couples never discuss and are never asked by their therapist about sex or their […]
How the Language of Therapy Is Changing
Key points Therapy may be here to stay, but our language is changing about how we approach it. In the empowerment of the word “client,” we may have lost essential tenets of the therapy process. Mental health issues, in general, are rife with labels, classifications, and pop-psychology definitions. Adding to the mix are divergent theoretical […]
Ethical Considerations for Patients With Eating Disorders
From the mid-1990s until 2014, I founded and was the Executive Director of Cedar Associates, an outpatient treatment center for eating disorders with two locations in Westchester County, New York. We were a group of qualified eating disorder specialists joined together for a common cause—to provide coordinated and expert care to our patients. One ethical issue we […]
Ageism and Sex Among Older Adults
Key points Ageism is trending now and will likely be the last of the “isms” to end Sex is common among adults over age 75. Isms are based in fear of what will be taken or what is perceived as already taken. We face many “isms” in society. Sexism and racism, to name a couple, have […]
When Social Media Is Used to Harm
Setting boundaries in a treatment setting is no different than the boundaries we set in relationships; after all, the patient and therapist are in a relationship. Consider your current relationships either with a partner or close friend. Imagine, or perhaps remember, when that person did something to repeatedly break the rules of what you agreed upon. Affairs […]
Authenticity in Sexual Expression and Communication
Authenticity connects us to a state of purpose, an internal imperative with boundless capability. It enables and reflects the courage to pursue and express our emotional truth with all its pain, passion, and brutality without a motivation to harm. Authenticity is a space of honesty, integrity, the desire for creativity, and responsibility for one’s actions. It is one’s truth […]
Has Porn Prompted a Return to Relationships?
Key points Heavy reliance on porn is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction, some studies find. Technology may seduce, but we are human beings who require physical touch. Men seeking help for overconsumption of porn has become less stigmatized, guilt-ridden, or shameful. There is little agreement among researchers, sex therapists, and physicians that watching a […]
Pleasure and Joy: Trusting in a Culture Opposed to Play
Key points Some people struggle for a lifetime to find a sense of wonder and joy. Our culture can trick us into thinking that play and freedom come through external means. The “freedom” we give ourselves often stretches only as far as what fits the culture’s definition of acceptable. Can you remember being curious as […]
Relational Origins of Eating Disorders
Key points Holidays can trigger vulnerable and negative emotions for all people, especially those with eating disorders. Relationship problems can contribute to eating disorders. Empathy, compassion, and not taking the bait are tools for the family members of those struggling with an eating disorder. Holidays often trigger an increase in eating disorder symptoms. In addition, family members […]