Different Levels of Eating Disorder Care and How to Know What is Right For You

When addressing eating disorder care, it's important to recognize that individuals have unique needs. This is why there are varying levels of eating disorder care— what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Individuals often require different levels of care at various stages of their recovery journey.

Understanding the different levels of care can make the healing journey feel less intimidating. I like what the National Alliance of Eating Disorders says about the level of care: “This continuum of care exists on a spectrum and is meant to slowly provide more autonomy for patients as they progress on their recovery journey.”

Everyone is on their own unique journey, and these care levels are intended to be steps in the recovery process.

What are the primary levels of eating disorder care?

The most common levels of eating disorder care are routine outpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization program, residential care, and inpatient care.

 In this blog, I’ll share about the distinctions between these levels of care.

 What is routine outpatient care?

 Routine outpatient care typically involves clients meeting weekly or bi-weekly with a therapist and/or registered dietitian (RD). They may also be attending support groups.

 Additionally, people in routine outpatient care may receive oversight from a doctor specializing in eating disorders or continue follow-ups with their primary care physician (PCP).

 What is intensive outpatient?

With intensive outpatient (IOP) care, clients often participate in a program several days a week, typically engaging in both group and individual therapy sessions.

The clients may also eat a few meals at their program.

What is a partial hospitalization program?

In a partial hospitalization program (PHP), clients spend most days of the week for several hours at the program, engaging in intensive individual, family, and group therapy, and typically eat most meals at their program.

What is residential care?

In Residential care, clients receive round-the-clock care within a supportive and "home-like" environment tailored to their specific needs.

This setting offers a comprehensive approach to addressing the complexities of eating disorders, providing the client with consistent supervision and support to promote their healing and recovery.

What is inpatient care?

Inpatient treatment is where clients stay in a specialized facility to stabilize their condition before progressing to the next level of care.

During this phase, individuals receive closely monitored medical and psychiatric support to address immediate health concerns and establish a foundation for ongoing treatment. This structured environment promotes safety and stabilization, facilitating a smoother transition to further stages of recovery.

How do I find an eating disorder treatment near me that fits my needs?

Finding the right level of care can be intimidating. If you’re eager to get the support you need but don’t know where to start, I can help. I offer one-time 90-minute consultations to help individuals determine what level of care they would benefit from. Book a call today!

I provide support with eating disorder treatment for RI, MA, VT, and VA. I want to help you feel connected, empowered, and confident. Visit my page to learn more about how I can help.