What to expect from eating disorder treatment
If you're suffering from an eating disorder, seeking treatment can seem like an intimidating step to take. However, the sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can enjoy long-term recovery and start leading a happier and healthier life.
Dr. M.K. (Khal) El-Yousef founded Fairwinds Treatment Center over 25 years ago, and pioneered the dual diagnosis method of treatment that is still successful at the center today. Dual diagnosis means that the professionals at Fairwinds heal patients through therapeutic counseling in addition to traditional clinical treatments. This is because Dr. El-Yousef understands that eating disorders are often triggered by underlying psychological pain. To achieve long-term recovery, patients have to work through the emotional issues that led them to the place they're in today. Only through holistic treatment can individuals fully move on from their disease and embrace a new life.
Nationally and internationally renowned eating disorder expert Dr. Pauline Powers leads the eating disorders division of Fairwinds, and has over 40 years of experience as a researcher, educator and leader in the field, so you can rest assured that you will be in the very best of hands when seeking treatment at Fairwinds. She understands the complexities of this disease and the strength that is required to overcome it.
When you arrive at Fairwinds Treatment Center, our staff will be here to guide you through the introductory process and answer any and all of your questions. We have a 24-hour medical staff employed, so you will always have access to help should you need it. Our healthcare professionals will provide you with a complimentary initial assessment, then recommend a treatment option for moving forward.
Treatment involves a structured schedule that incorporates time for meditation, art therapy and group therapy, as well as individual and family-oriented counseling sessions. You'll also have time for personal training and one-on-one care from multidisciplinary team of professionals. We recognize that every patient and situation is different, and that's why we take the time to tailer a treatment plan that's unique to you.
Our plans usually emphasize family support and psychological rehabilitation, because these factors have such a powerful effect on the outcome of any treatment. Treating an eating disorder is not simply about adjusting mealtime habits or portion sizes. Rather, it's about addressing the mental and emotional reasons that a patient might be restricting calories, practicing purging habits or relating to food in an unhealthy way. At Fairwinds, we want to help you fight the problem directly, so you can achieve a renewed sense of self-worth and self-awareness that can assist you in achieving positive and sustainable results.
The people at Fairwinds are a family, and we'll do everything in our power to make you feel comfortable and at home as soon as you arrive. Treatment doesn't have to be a scary and dreaded event. It's really the opportunity for a fresh start and a positive beginning to the rest of your life.
If you are suffering from an eating disorder, just know that you are not alone. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, about 20 million women and 10 million men in the United States will experience a 'clinically significant' eating disorder at some point in their lives. Eating disorders are potentially fatal diseases that can affect anyone at any time. There's no reason, though, why you shouldn't seek treatment for your condition so you can attain full recovery and return to living the life you loved.
