Eating Disorder Therapy for Children and Teens | Calgary Psychologists
As a parent, watching your child or teen struggle with an eating disorder can be overwhelming and heartbreaking. At Creative Sky Psychology in Calgary, we understand the unique challenges families face when navigating these complex mental health conditions. Our compassionate psychologists provide specialized eating disorder therapy tailored to support both your child and your family on the path to healing.
Understanding Eating Disorders in Children and Teens
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, can impact both physical health and emotional well-being. They often occur alongside other mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Contributing factors can include:
Societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards
Traumatic experiences
Perfectionism or low self-esteem
Genetics and family history
Early intervention is key. The sooner therapy and support begin, the better the chances for long-term recovery.
Our Evidence-Based Approach
At Creative Sky Psychology, we use a range of therapies to meet each child’s unique needs, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Restructures unhelpful thoughts and behaviors.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Builds emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages self-acceptance and mindfulness.
Positive Psychology: Focuses on strengths and resilience.
These therapies work together to help children develop a healthier relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves.
Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating
We emphasize the principles of Health at Every Size (HAES®) and intuitive eating, promoting body respect and self-compassion. Instead of focusing on weight, our approach encourages teens to:
Reconnect with natural hunger and fullness cues
Build balanced eating habits
Develop body confidence and self-acceptance
This approach fosters sustainable, lifelong health rather than temporary changes.
Embodiment and Holistic Care
Our therapy integrates mind and body, helping children become more attuned to their physical and emotional experiences. By addressing the underlying causes of eating disorders—not just the symptoms—we empower children and teens to build resilience, self-awareness, and long-term well-being.
Family Involvement in Recovery
Parents and caregivers play a critical role in recovery. We partner with families to:
Provide education about eating disorders
Offer strategies for creating a supportive home environment
Build communication and trust within the family system
When families are involved, children feel more supported, which can greatly improve treatment outcomes.
Common Myths About Eating Disorders
Myth: Eating disorders are a choice.
Fact: They are serious mental health conditions with biological, psychological, and social causes.Myth: Only girls develop eating disorders.
Fact: Eating disorders affect boys, girls, and individuals of all genders.Myth: You can always “see” an eating disorder.
Fact: Eating disorders can affect people of all body types and may not always be visible.
Final Thoughts
Supporting a child or teen with an eating disorder is not easy—but recovery is possible. With the right therapy, a supportive family environment, and compassionate care, children and teens can heal and rebuild their relationship with food and themselves.
At Creative Sky Psychology in Calgary, our team of psychologists provides evidence-based, holistic care for children and teens. We’re here to guide families through recovery with expertise, empathy, and hope.
📍 Visit us: #5, 2005 37 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3E 3A5
📞 Call: 587-331-4464 ext. 1
✉️ Email: info@creativeskypsychology.com
🌐 Book an appointment online to support your child’s journey to recovery.
Looking for therapy for older teens, post-secondary students, or adults? Visit our sister clinic, NU Psychology in Calgary, where mental health support is available at every stage of life.
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Signs may include drastic changes in weight, frequent dieting, preoccupation with food or body image, withdrawal from friends and activities, or rigid eating patterns. If you notice these, seek support from a Calgary psychologist experienced in eating disorders.
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Yes. While recovery is a process, eating disorder therapy helps children and teens build healthier coping strategies, improve self-esteem, and heal their relationship with food. Ongoing support often plays a role in long-term success.
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Stay patient, provide unconditional emotional support, and encourage professional treatment. Educating yourself about eating disorders and maintaining open communication are also key. In Calgary, family-based therapy can give parents tools to help their child thrive.
