Therapy is typically necessary to uncover factors underlying fears about eating and gaining weight as well to help individuals work through issues related to body image, self-esteem, control, and perfectionism. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is considered an effective form of therapy for eating disorders. It is time-limited and focused in nature, helping individuals to see the links between their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. CBT also involves building a tolerance for the discomfort and distress surrounding food that is common to anorexia patients. Such therapy helps to normalize eating patterns and encourage behaviors that support gaining healthy weight. CBT can shed light on dysfunctional thought patterns and negative attitudes and beliefs about food and eating that promote body shame and poor esteem.
Family therapy is also considered to be an effective way to treat anorexia nervosa as well as other eating disorders. The "Maudsley Method" is a form of family therapy in which parents become active agents supporting their child’s recovery. Developed at the Maudsley Hospital in London in 1985, the approach emphasizes that parents be calm, supportive, and consistent in the feeding of the child or adolescent with eating disordered behavior.