How Does Outpatient Treatment for Eating Disorders Work?
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect every part of a person’s life. At Sanford Behavioral Health, we’re here to help. Our outpatient eating disorder treatment programs offer the support you need to heal with flexible, personalized care that fits into your life. Empower your recovery while staying connected to the routines that matter most. Call 616.202.3326 and learn more about how our outpatient treatment programs can help you find lasting recovery.
What Is Outpatient Treatment for Eating Disorders?
Outpatient treatment for eating disorders is a structured program that provides medical, nutritional, and therapeutic support to patients without requiring them to stay overnight in a treatment center. It’s an excellent option for people with mild to moderate symptoms or those transitioning from a more intensive program, such as inpatient or residential care.
Key features of outpatient treatment include:
- Therapy sessions – Both individual and group therapy sessions address underlying issues and teach coping strategies.
- Nutritional counseling – Dietitians work with patients to develop healthy eating habits and repair their relationship with food.
- Flexibility – Patients can continue attending school, work, or fulfilling family obligations while receiving treatment.
Outpatient programs offer a personalized approach, more flexibility in scheduling, and often a lower cost than residential treatment.
How Does Outpatient Treatment for Eating Disorders Work?
Understanding how outpatient treatment for eating disorders works can help people and families feel more confident about taking the first step. Outpatient treatment can typically include the following:
Comprehensive Assessment
The process begins with thoroughly assessing the patient’s physical and mental health, eating behaviors, and personal goals. This evaluation helps create a customized treatment plan that addresses immediate needs and long-term recovery objectives.
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy serves as a fundamental pillar of outpatient treatment, offering patients the opportunity to engage in proven, evidence-based approaches such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – Helps identify and change harmful thought patterns.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) – Focuses on emotion regulation and mindfulness.
- Family therapy – Involves loved ones in the recovery process to improve communication and create a supportive environment.
Nutritional Guidance
Dietitians provide education on balanced eating and meal planning. Patients learn how to develop a healthier relationship with food, reduce fear around eating, and achieve nutritional stability.
Group Support
Group therapy sessions connect patients with others who share similar struggles. They foster community, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide a supportive environment for sharing experiences.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments
Regular check-ins with medical and mental health professionals help keep treatment plans effective. Adjustments provide continuous support and promote growth as patients progress through recovery.
What to Expect in Outpatient Treatment for Eating Disorders
Knowing what to expect in outpatient treatment for eating disorders can ease uncertainty and help patients prepare for the process. Here’s a glimpse into a typical experience:
- Structured schedule – Patients attend therapy and counseling sessions weekly, depending on their treatment plan.
- Collaborative care – A team of professionals, including therapists, dietitians, and medical staff, works together to provide whole-person care.
- Goal setting – Patients set achievable goals for recovery, such as reducing disordered eating behaviors or improving body image.
- Skill development – Treatment focuses on building life skills, such as managing stress, enhancing communication, and developing resilience.
It can be intimidating starting a treatment program, but with a supportive team and the right tools, recovery is possible.
Why Choose Sanford Behavioral Health?
Sanford Behavioral Health supports people of all genders on their path to recovery through compassionate, evidence-based care. Our outpatient eating disorder treatment programs focus on each patient’s journey and provide the tools and resources for lasting success.
What sets us apart:
- Trauma-informed care – Addressing the root causes of disordered eating with empathy.
- Comprehensive team – Our clinical-led team includes therapists, dietitians, and medical professionals.
- Holistic approach – Therapies like mindfulness, yoga, nature therapy, and art therapy complement traditional treatments.
- Private chef – Our in-house chef creates nutritious and delicious meals for patients.
- Community focus – Group therapy and family involvement provide a strong support system.
- Family education and alumni support – We offer resources for families and continued support for alumni to aid in lasting recovery.
- A full continuum of care – From outpatient to residential treatment, we provide a seamless transition for those needing different levels of support.
Each patient’s care is unique, and we are committed to helping people live their best lives through recovery. Reach out to Sanford Behavioral Health today and get help finding a treatment program that suits your healing needs and goals.
Find the Care You Need: Call Sanford Behavioral Health Today!
Taking the first step toward recovery is an act of courage. Let Sanford Behavioral Health guide you with the care and compassion you deserve. Call 616.202.3326 or contact us online today to learn more about our outpatient treatment programs or other programs that can support your journey to well-being and recovery.
