Phases

­Phase I

During this initial phase, which lasts approximately eight weeks, participants attend three group sessions per week where they will be introduced to nutrition education, journal keeping, and the life skills we believe are essential to recovery from disordered eating. Additionally, they will begin to explore their hunger and fullness cues, the connection between their feelings and eating behavior, and will be given an opportunity to explore and express their feelings and thoughts related to eating and body image in a supportive environment. It will include one family session where family members are invited to ask questions about treatment and how best to support their loved ones.

Phase II

In this phase, typically another eight weeks in length, participants attend two sessions per week with a focus on the application of the necessary life skills, development of awareness of hunger and satiety levels, and an exploration of the connection between emotions and food through metaphor. Participants gain additional insight into their eating behavior to help promote long-lasting recovery.

Phase III

In preparation for discharge, participants attend one session per week where they will work on fine-tuning the application of life skills, deepening their awareness of food and feeling connections, and addressing the issues that arise out of new life style changes. This phase includes further exploration of interpersonal relationships as related to recovery from disordered eating.