The League does not promote or endorse any of the professionals, services or treatment facilities that are listed, but provides this web page for information purposes only.

Outpatient

Outpatient treatment of an eating disorder is suitable for those who do not require daily medical monitoring, are medically stable, and can function in normal social, educational, or vocational situations while making progress toward recovery. Those suitable for outpatient treatment ideally participate in individual psychotherapy, medical management by a primary care provider and nutrition counseling. The use of support groups, medically supervised psychiatric medication, group therapy, and family therapy may complement the outpatient recovery process.

Inpatient

Inpatient treatment of an eating disorder includes hospitalization and/or residential care in an eating disorders specialty unit or facility.

Hospitalization is necessary for those who are medically unstable, require daily monitoring of vital signs, and have coexisting and even life threatening medical problems. Hospitalization is also necessary for those who are experiencing a rapid deterioration in mental functioning and may be at risk for taking their own life.

Residential care is available for those who are medically stable or require minimal medical monitoring and would benefit from intensive individual, group, and/or family therapy in a supportive environment. Participants agree to reside on site for a specific number of days. The number of residential days is dependent upon initial assessment, facility policy, and monetary resources.

Day Treatment

Day treatment may be provided by a specialty unit or facility. Participants in a day treatment program visit the facility for approximately 4-8 hours a day 4 or 5 times per week. During that time they may receive individual, group, and/or family therapy, and medical monitoring. The individual does not stay overnight in the facility. Requirements for day treatment are similar to those of outpatient.