As an eating disorder specialist, I often field questions from individuals and loved ones regarding “level of care.” How often should they be seen? Are they too sick for weekly sessions? Should we get them to a hospital? For eating disorder treatment, there are a few options including outpatient, intensive outpatient (IOP), partial hospitalization (PHP), residential treatment, and inpatient. Now, if you are seeking resources for yourself or a loved one with an eating disorder, take a deep breath. You do not need to navigate this process alone. A skilled eating disorder therapist can help you identify the right level of care. This post is intended to provide information, not prescribe a level of treatment. I encourage you to call myself or another eating disorder specialist for more information.
Here is a brief overview of each of the levels of care, ordered from least to most intensive:
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment for eating disorders is the most flexible and least intensive option. It typically involves regular therapy sessions with a therapist or counselor, usually once or twice a week. Outpatient treatment can be a good option for individuals with mild to moderate eating disorders who are able to manage their symptoms while continuing to go to school or work.
In an outpatient program, individuals will typically receive individual therapy, group therapy, and nutritional counseling. The focus is on building skills to manage symptoms, developing a healthy relationship with food, and addressing any co-occurring mental health conditions.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) are a step up from outpatient treatment. IOP is designed for individuals who require more structure and support than traditional outpatient care. IOP typically involves several hours of therapy per day, several days per week. This can include individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and nutritional counseling. IOP programs are typically tailored to the individual’s needs and can be a good option for those who have a more severe eating disorder or have not responded well to outpatient treatment. IOP programs provide more support and structure than outpatient care but do not require individuals to stay overnight.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) are the most intensive form of treatment for eating disorders outside of inpatient care. PHP typically involves 6-8 hours of treatment per day, 5-7 days per week. PHP provides a higher level of support and structure than IOP or outpatient care. In a PHP program, individuals receive individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and nutritional counseling. Medical monitoring is also provided, as needed. PHP is a good option for individuals with severe eating disorder symptoms or those who have not responded well to IOP or outpatient treatment.
Residential Treatment
In residential treatment, patients live at a specialized treatment center and receive around-the-clock care and support. Residential treatment typically includes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring. Residential treatment is a good option for individuals with severe eating disorders who need a high level of structure and support to recover.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment is most appropriate for individuals who are not responding to treatment in a less intensive setting. The individual requires treatment in a structured 24-hour medical or psychiatric inpatient unit. Services include medical management and intensive treatment of physically harmful eating disorder behaviors, medical complications, and co-occurring disorders, along with a focus on weight restoration, if needed.
When seeking treatment for an eating disorder, it is important to consider the level of care that is right for you. Outpatient treatment can be a good option for those with mild to moderate symptoms, while IOP and PHP are more intensive and provide more structure and support. When eating disorder symptoms are at their most severe and an individual needs around-the-clock care, residential or inpatient treatment may be required. It is important to work with a qualified therapist or treatment team who specialize in eating disorders to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Here is a list of some Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) Eating Disorder Programs in Florida:
- Rogers Behavioral Health: Rogers Behavioral Health offers a Residential Treatment, PHP, and IOP program for adults in Tampa, Florida.
- Oliver-Pyatt Centers: Located in Miami, Florida, Oliver-Pyatt Centers offers both Residential and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) treatment for individuals struggling with eating disorders.
- Center for Discovery: With multiple locations throughout Florida, Center for Discovery provides Residential Treatment, PHP, and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs for those with eating disorders.
- The Renfrew Center: The Renfrew Center offers a Residential Treatment, PHP, and IOP program in Coconut Creek, Florida.
- Clementine: Clementine, located in Miami, offers a Residential Treatment program for adolescent girls with eating disorders.
It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list and there may be other programs available in Florida. It is recommended to do additional research and speak with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs.
