Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a medical condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. During these episodes, individuals feel a loss of control while eating, which is often followed by guilt, shame, or distress.

Some children, teens, and adults who struggle with binge eating may exhibit some of these common signs associated with BED:

• Eat unusually large amounts of food in a specific period of time

• Eat even when not physically hungry

• Eat rapidly during binge episodes

• Eat until uncomfortably full

• Eat alone due to embarrassment about the amount of food consumed

• Feel disgusted, depressed, or guilty after overeating

BED is the most common but often undiagnosed eating disorder. Many people do not seek help due to shame, or symptoms may be overlooked by providers who focus only on weight or physical complications like heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Importantly, BED can affect individuals of all body sizes.

Effective treatment does not focus on weight management or loss. Instead, it addresses the underlying emotional, behavioral, and psychological factors that drive binge eating—helping clients build healthier and more sustainable patterns.

Dr. Jessica Tomasula provides evidence-based treatment for youth and adults experiencing BED and other eating disorders, using Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E)—the leading treatment for eating disorders.

In therapy, you or your child will find:

• A safe and supportive space to explore emotions, triggers, and your relationship with food

• Guidance in addressing underlying issues such as low self-esteem and body image struggles

• Support for co-occurring conditions often linked to BED, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and suicidality

• Practical strategies to change unhelpful thought patterns and build healthier coping skills

For individuals interested in self-help resources, Dr. Tomasula also recommends Overcoming Binge Eating, Second Edition by Dr. Christopher G. Fairburn, a trusted book that complements therapy.

Eating disorders often require a team-based approach. When helpful, Dr. Tomasula collaborates with physicians, dietitians, psychiatrists, and other care providers to ensure that treatment addresses the whole person—mind and body. This collaborative care model helps clients receive consistent support across different areas of health and provides the best chance for long-term recovery.

In addition to working with individuals struggling with binge eating, Dr. Tomasula also supports youth and adults facing other eating disorders, including bulimia nervosa and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Dr. Tomasula uses evidence-based therapies that are tailored to each individual’s unique needs, with a focus on restoring balance, building resilience, and creating a healthier relationship with food and body.

Eating disorders can feel isolating, but you do not have to face them alone. At LiveWell Psychology, we are here to support you or your child with evidence-based care, collaboration with other providers, and practical tools for long-term healing. Contact us today to learn more about treatment options and begin the path toward recovery.

Additional Resources

Alongside therapy, trusted resources can be a valuable part of the journey toward emotional well-being. We recommend exploring:

CBT-E: Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy — an overview of CBT-E, the leading evidence-based treatment for eating disorders, including its goals and how it works in practice.