Therapy for Eating Disorders and Trauma in Maryland and Virginia

If you’re looking for help and are struggling with an eating disorder and the impact of trauma, you have come to the right place.

We offer therapy for eating disorders and trauma in Rockville, Maryland and provide online therapy in Maryland and Virginia. Many of us therapists have seen that there is a big overlap between individuals struggling with eating disorders and also being a survivor of trauma.

What is Trauma?

It’s important to note that we define trauma as anything that dysregulates your nervous system. 

And — while certainly, physical abuse, sexual trauma, and traumatic grief are all forms of trauma — individuals may also have experienced other forms of trauma that could include relational trauma or medical trauma.

Whatever form of  trauma you went through, it is valid and the symptoms you may be experiencing as a result can be painful. 

Healing From An Eating Disorder and Trauma is Possible

We know it’s hard to find someone who truly specializes in both eating disorders and trauma.

We have a therapist on our team who really knows her stuff when it comes to treating both and helping individuals to find healing.

You can work on both recovering from your eating disorder and healing from the impact of trauma.

Types of Trauma Therapy We Provide

Our trauma therapist is trained in a few different treatments, including EMDR therapy, which is a powerful, highly evidence-based trauma treatment. EMDR therapy can also be used in the treatment of eating disorders. She has also received training in dialectical behavioral therapy skills, polyvagal theory, and ego state therapy.

She can help you to work through symptoms that could include dissociation, hypervigilance, always feeling like you are “waiting for the other shoe to drop,” difficulty with trusting others or in the world around you, struggles with feeling safe in your body, flashbacks and/or nightmares, etc. It’s important to note that trauma survivors may experience different symptoms and this is not an exhaustive list.

We'd love to help you heal from trauma while also helping you mend your relationship with food, body, and your whole self.

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​Frequently Asked Questions

What is the connection between trauma and eating disorders?

Trauma can affect how safe someone feels in their body and in the world. Eating disorder behaviors may develop as ways to cope with overwhelming emotions, regain a sense of control, or feel numb or protected. 

Can trauma cause an eating disorder?

Trauma doesn’t automatically lead to an eating disorder, but it can increase vulnerability. For some people, eating behaviors become survival strategies during or after traumatic experiences. This is not a personal failure, it’s a response to distress.

How does trauma show up in eating disorder behaviors?

Trauma may show up as restriction, bingeing, purging, rigidity, or avoidance of body sensations. These behaviors can help manage fear, numb emotions, or create a sense of safety. Therapy helps address the underlying pain, not just the external behaviors.

How do I know if trauma is impacting my eating disorder?

You might notice strong emotional reactions, dissociation, body-based triggers, or eating behaviors that intensify during stress or reminders of past experiences. You don’t need to be certain, exploring this with a trauma-informed therapist can help clarify.

Should trauma and an eating disorder be treated at the same time?

Often, yes but thoughtfully and at your pace. Treatment usually focuses first on safety and stabilization, then gradually addresses trauma in ways that feel manageable. You are never forced to move faster than you’re ready for.

Do I need to talk about my trauma in detail to heal?

No. Healing does not require sharing graphic details. Trauma-informed therapy, such as EMDR therapy, focuses on safety, choice, and building coping skills. You stay in control of what you share and when.

Can someone recover from an eating disorder rooted in trauma?

Yes. Recovery is possible, even when trauma is part of the story. With compassionate, trauma-informed care, many people experience significant relief, improved relationships with food and their bodies, and a renewed sense of safety.

What does healing look like when trauma is involved?

Healing often includes feeling more present in your body, having greater flexibility around food, and developing safer ways to cope with emotions. Progress is not linear—and it doesn’t require reliving the trauma to move forward.

How can I reach out for help?

There are a few ways to reach out to us: complete the contact form on our website, email us, or call our office to be connected with an eating disorder specialist and trauma specialist.

What should I do if I’m worried about a loved one struggling with an eating disorder and trauma?

Approach them with empathy rather than urgency. Let them know you care and that support is available. You can also reach out to us for guidance—supporting someone else can be challenging, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Therapy for an eating disorder and trauma in Rockville, Maryland. Serving individuals for eating disorder and trauma therapy in Rockville, Potomac, Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Olney, and virtually throughout Maryland and Virginia.