The Center for Change treatment program is based on cutting-edge research into eating disorders. The Center also conducts and publishes its own research on eating disorders, including on-going treatment outcome research. As new innovations in treating disorders are proven effective in research, they are implemented to enhance the Center for Change treatment program.
In keeping with current research findings and clinical guidelines, and in order to provide the best possible services in the most cost-effective manner, Center for Change offers a multi-dimensional, multi-disciplinary, stepped-care treatment program. Each client who comes to the Center for treatment participates in an ongoing comprehensive assessment which begins with an evaluation of their physical status, eating disorder history, associated psychiatric disturbances, substance use patterns, developmental history, family history, and a thorough family interview. Based on this assessment, one or more levels of care will be recommended, depending on the severity of the client's symptoms and eating disorder.
About Eating Disorders and Treatment
Eating disorders are characterized by severe disturbances in eating behavior. Bulimia Nervosa is characterized by repeated episodes of binge eating followed by unhealthy compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications, fasting, or excessive exercise. Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by a refusal to maintain a minimally normal body weight. An unhealthy and inaccurate self-view of body shape and weight is an essential feature of both Bulimia Nervosa, Anorexia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder.
Experience and research show that individual, group, and family therapy in a warm and loving setting is superior to the sterile, impersonal atmosphere found in many hospitals. The Center for Change facility contains semi-private rooms with baths, a family-style dining room, kitchen, comfortable common living areas, individual and group therapy rooms, family visiting rooms and professional offices. The design of the Center provides patients with privacy while the residential decor and attitude of the Center's specialized staff creates a warm, caring atmosphere.
The Center is situated on private property to afford maximum privacy and a magnificent view of the mountains. Grounds are beautifully landscaped to produce a peaceful, tranquil setting our clients can enjoy. Recreation areas are shielded by our building and offer adequate space to provide outside activities.
The Center's primary focus is the treatment of women suffering from anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. Related characteristics treated include mal-nourishment, poor self-esteem, feelings of helplessness, family conflicts, and traumatic life events such as abuse and sexual trauma. Other co-existing disorders such as depression, substance abuse, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder are also treated. Center for Change specializes in the treatment of women because they represent 90 - 95% of the population suffering from eating disorders. Many of the women treated have conditions that have progressed to the point where they are unable to function independently or effectively in their family, work, school or social settings.
