Eating Disorders

The eating disorder treatment world has changed drastically in the past decade. Older information about how to diagnose and treat eating disorders are out-of-date and dangerous. Additionally, pediatricians and therapists are not trained to recognize or treat eating disorders unless they receive specialized training in this area.

I am Maudsley-trained, practice evidence-based treatment, and advocate for research and education to reduce the suffering associated with eating disorders. I believe that food is medicine, that parents and families are an essential component of recovery and need to be part of the solution. I support full nutrition & weight restoration and/or working toward abstinence from targeted behaviors. I support teamwork and I know that recovery is possible. I value team collaboration, open communication with parents/adolescents/providers, and believe that health & recovery need to be a #1 priority.

See more about my "Creating Healthy Relationships with Food" group

A quote from Dr. Daniel LeGrange*
"As for most illnesses with a significant behavioral component, the sooner a correct diagnosis and treatment begin, the shorter the course of treatment and better the outcome. Given Maudsley's promising results Family-Based Treatment should be the first-line intervention instead of an alternative for adolescents who qualify for outpatient care. To be really honest with families, we should say: 'We only have one treatment. There is a fair amount of evidence, and it's what you should start with.' If clinicians are not willing to do that, then we have to agree we're just improvising."

*Daniel Le Grange Ph.D. Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience and Director of the Eating Disorders Treatment Program at the University of Chicago.

Evidence-Based Reading for Parents and Professionals Treating Eating Disorders

Useful Links for Parents

Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders

Maudsley Parents - family-based treatment for eating disorders, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa

Science Daily Article - Current research comparing Family-Based Therapy to Individual Therapy