Eating Disorders Services at Access Psychiatry

Specialized Psychiatric Support for Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect individuals across all ages, genders and backgrounds. They affect 2% to 5% of the global population. If left unaddressed, these disorders can result in severe medical and psychological complications.

At Access Psychiatry, we offer compassionate, research-supported psychiatric treatment for those with eating disorders. We understand these challenges arise from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Understanding Eating Disorders

Eating disorders include any abnormal eating pattern, usually with weight loss, electrolyte disturbances, bradycardia and reduced bone density. They are linked with high rates of depression, anxiety, and the occurrence of suicide attempts. Mortality rates in anorexia nervosa are nearly six times higher than without the disorder.

Conditions We Treat

At Access Psychiatry, Dr. Mapendo Karen Safari treats patients with the following eating disorders:

Anorexia Nervosa

An eating disorder marked by intense fear of weight gain and a distorted body image.

Bulimia Nervosa

It involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging.

Binge Eating Disorder

It involves eating uncontrolled, large amounts of food more than once a week.

The Complexity of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders often co-occur with mental health issues like depression. Individuals with ADHD are 3.6 times more likely to develop these disorders. Trauma and brain development may also contribute. Many uses disordered eating as a coping mechanism for control or emotional management. At Access Psychiatry, we recognize this complexity and prioritize recovery.

Our Treatment Approach

Treatment for eating disorders requires both psychological and medical involvement. At Access Psychiatry, we are a key part of your recovery team.

Comprehensive Psychiatric Assessment

We perform comprehensive assessments that examine eating disorder symptoms along with related mental health issues. Each symptom has a narrative and we invest time in grasping your narrative.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Research shows that personalized care for eating disorders, considering individual biology and circumstances, is effective.

At Access Psychiatry, Dr. Safari creates tailored treatment plans, including medication, therapy and collaboration with other providers.

Medication Management

Psychological and nutrition-focused treatments are key for eating disorders. However, medications can also be helpful as additional support. We provide medication management for depression, anxiety and OCD. We also help reduce symptoms like binge eating.

Collaborative Team Care

Recovering from an eating disorder requires collaboration. At Access Psychiatry, we actively collaborate with your registered dietitian, primary care physician and outpatient therapists to create a consistent treatment plan.

A Safe, Non-Judgmental Space

Eating disorders flourish in silence and shame. At Access Psychiatry, we provide a safe, non-judgmental space for a person to be honest about their struggles. We know how brave it is to seek assistance and we’re here to help you on your journey to recovery.

Dr. Mapendo Karen Safari’s treatment approach is culturally responsive and encourages active involvement in treatment. She wants to understand you and help find the reasons behind your struggles.

Accessible, Compassionate Care

Access Psychiatry accepts many insurance plans and also offers private-pay options.

Whether you are starting your recovery journey or need extra support with your current treatment, we are here to help.

Begin Your Healing Journey

You do not have to carry the burden of an eating disorder alone. Restoring peace with food, your body and your mind begins with a single step.

Contact Access Psychiatry to schedule a confidential assessment and begin your path toward recovery.