food addiction treatment
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food addiction treatment for adults and adolescents
Food addiction can feel overwhelming, leaving individuals stuck in cycles of craving, loss of control, and guilt. At Galen Hope, we understand that food addiction is not about lack of willpower—it’s about the complex interplay between emotions, behaviors, and the brain. We offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment for adults and adolescents, helping them break free from harmful cycles and create a healthier relationship with food.
what is food addiction?
Food addiction is characterized by compulsive eating behaviors that resemble patterns seen in substance use disorders. People may experience intense cravings, loss of control when eating, and feelings of guilt or shame afterward. Unlike occasional overeating, food addiction often involves persistent preoccupation with food and difficulty stopping even when negative consequences occur.
While not yet an official diagnosis in the DSM-5, many people struggle with symptoms that mirror addiction, particularly around highly palatable foods like those high in sugar, fat, or salt. Understanding food addiction through a compassionate lens is key to creating effective strategies for healing and recovery.
our approach to food addiction treatment
At Galen Hope, our approach focuses on addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of food addiction. Treatment may include individual therapy, group support, and nutrition counseling to help clients understand triggers, reduce cravings, and build healthier habits.
We emphasize personalized care, recognizing that food addiction is deeply connected to stress, trauma, and mental health. By providing an integrative and supportive environment, we empower clients to not only manage cravings but also strengthen coping skills, improve self-esteem, and create lasting change in their relationship with food.
what food addiction treatment might look like at galen hope
1. connect
Connect with us: A compassionate care coordinator will listen and help you take the first step towards healing and moving forward with your life.
2. Collaborate
Collaborate on your treatment plan: Our expert clinical team will design a personalized roadmap based on your goals, needs, and life circumstances.
3. Engage
Engage in our healing community: Participate in a structured, supportive treatment program alongside peers and professionals who understand trauma.
4. Healing
Begin your journey toward lasting healing: As symptoms ease, you will develop skills, insight, and a renewed sense of self to carry with you long after treatment ends.
typical food addiction clients we work with
Galen Hope serves clients from across the United States and beyond, offering compassionate, expert care to individuals from states like: Florida, New York, Texas, California, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Illinois, Wisconsin, Montana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Arizona, Tennessee, Washington, Maryland, Virginia, and more. Many clients travel nationally and internationally to receive personalized treatment in our welcoming, supportive environment. Our programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of those seeking deeper healing—no matter where they’re coming from.
At Galen Hope, we recognize that food addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. We work with adolescents, teens, college students, and adults who are navigating complex relationships with food and emotions. Our inclusive care also extends to professionals managing high-pressure careers, athletes balancing performance demands, and neurodivergent individuals who may face unique challenges with eating behaviors.
We are proud to serve clients from diverse communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, Jewish families, BIPOC and Latin/Hispanic communities, and survivors of trauma or grief. By creating a compassionate and culturally aware environment, we help each client feel seen and supported while developing healthier, more sustainable connections with food and themselves.
we invite you here to heal in your own very special way
At Galen Hope, every client is immediately acknowledged as an individual whose story may not be represented by traditional diagnostic criteria. We seek to fully understand their life experience and to provide them with an affirming environment where they feel accepted and supported.
For someone struggling with an eating disorder or mental illness, finding a place in the world, forming connections, developing meaning and purpose in life, and having day-to-day support is vital to better outcomes, long-term health, and well-being. We create a sense of community inside our doors, where we facilitate a commitment to recovery. We find tremendous meaning in bringing someone into our circle and helping them recognize the importance they play in it. It is through these relationships that healing takes place and clients begin to develop the skills to live both independently and in relation to others.
food addiction faqs
how do I know if I have a food addiction?
You may have a food addiction if you find yourself frequently craving certain foods, eating more than you intended, or feeling powerless to stop despite negative consequences. Many people also notice a cycle of guilt, shame, or secrecy around their eating habits. If food feels like it has control over you rather than the other way around, it may be time to seek professional support.
what are the signs and symptoms of food addiction?
Common signs include intense cravings, loss of control when eating, and continuing to eat despite feeling full or experiencing negative emotions afterward. Emotional distress, preoccupation with food, and repeated failed attempts to cut back are also typical. These symptoms can interfere with daily life and relationships, making professional help important for recovery.
how is food addiction different from binge eating disorder?
While food addiction and binge eating disorder share similarities, they are not the same. Binge eating disorder is a recognized clinical diagnosis in which individuals eat large quantities of food in a short period while feeling out of control. Food addiction, on the other hand, refers to compulsive behaviors around certain foods (often sugary or high-fat) that mirror addictive patterns, though it is not an official DSM-5 diagnosis.
how can I stop my food cravings?
Cravings can be managed by identifying emotional triggers, practicing mindful eating, and building healthier coping strategies for stress. Balanced nutrition, regular meals, and staying hydrated also help reduce the intensity of cravings. Counseling or support groups can provide structure and accountability while addressing the underlying emotional and behavioral patterns.
how long does recovery from food addiction take?
Recovery looks different for everyone and depends on the severity of symptoms, co-occurring mental health conditions, and personal goals. Some people notice improvements within weeks of treatment, while others need months or longer to fully heal. At Galen Hope, we focus on sustainable progress, equipping clients with tools to maintain long-term recovery.
what’s the difference between an inpatient vs outpatient treatment center?
Inpatient treatment provides 24/7 structured care in a residential setting, often for individuals with more severe symptoms or medical concerns. Outpatient treatment, like the programs at Galen Hope, allows clients to live at home while receiving intensive therapy and support. This flexible model makes it possible to address food addiction within the context of everyday life, while still benefiting from expert, integrative care.
how can I help a friend or family member with food addiction?
Supporting a loved one starts with compassion and understanding, not judgment. Encourage them to talk about their struggles, listen without criticism, and offer help in finding professional support. Remind them that recovery is possible and that they don’t have to face it alone—resources like Galen Hope provide a safe, supportive environment for healing.
does galen hope take insurance?
Yes. Galen Hope accepts insurance for mental health and eating disorder treatment. We are in-network with ComPsych, Claritev (formerly called Multiplan), Aetna, and Optum/UnitedHealthcare plans. We also work with many out-of-network insurance providers and offer benefit verification to help you understand your options.
What insurance plans does Galen Hope accept for eating disorder and mental health treatment?
Galen Hope is currently in-network with ComPsych, Multiplan, Aetna, and select Optum/UnitedHealthcare plans. Through our Optum contract, we may also be able to work with commercial plans such as UnitedHealthcare, AvMed, and Oscar. We also support many clients through out-of-network benefits with providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Cigna, First Health, and others. To determine how your specific plan may apply to treatment, please contact us for a complimentary insurance verification.
Can I use out-of-network insurance to pay for treatment at Galen Hope?
In some instances, we can accept out-of-network (OON) as full payment while in others, we provide a scaled partial payment. This may also be connected with your out or pocket max, as well as co-pays and co-insurance. The degree to which out of network benefits cover the full cost of treatment varies greatly from policy to policy. In some instances it can serve as full payment, while others may cover a portion. In all cases, individuals using out of network benefits will be subject to paying their out-of-network deductible and other fees such as the out of pocket max, co-insurance or co-pays as dictated by your insurance policy.
Does Galen Hope help verify insurance benefits for treatment?
Absolutely. We offer free insurance benefit verification to help you understand what your policy may cover before you begin treatment. We aim to provide full transparency around coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Can I get a Single Case Agreement (SCA) for treatment at Galen Hope?
When clinically indicated and appropriate, we pursue Single Case Agreements (SCAs) to help families access in-network-level coverage with an out-of-network provider. Our team advocates on your behalf and provides clinical documentation to support the request. We encourage you to call us so that we can determine if a SCA is warranted.
What happens if my insurance stops covering treatment early?
If your insurance coverage ends unexpectedly and we believe the denial of care is not in your best clinical interest, our team will work directly with your insurance carrier to appeal the decision. You will receive timely notification of any changes in authorizations for care in order to explore financial options and clinical recommendations to help minimize any disruption in care.
How can I find out what my insurance covers for eating disorder or mental health treatment?
Our admissions team will assess your insurance policy, the recommended level of care, and your treatment location to give you a clear understanding of what your plan is likely to cover. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
Are insurance benefits different depending on where I live?
Yes. Insurance coverage may vary by state and plan type. We consider your plan’s regional requirements when evaluating your benefits.
Will I know my treatment costs before starting at Galen Hope?
Yes. Before admission, we’ll walk you through all anticipated costs, including what insurance is likely to cover and any out-of-pocket expenses, so there are no surprises.
Can Galen Hope help me understand my insurance coverage?
Yes. Our experienced admissions team will break down your policy, explain your mental health or eating disorder benefits, and help you make the most informed decision possible.
our food addiction treatment centers in florida
With two state-of-the-art food addiction treatment centers in Florida, Galen Hope is dedicated to guiding individuals toward lasting recovery from food addiction and related mental health conditions. Our programs combine therapy, nutritional support, and holistic care to address the root causes of addictive eating behaviors, not just the symptoms.
Whether you live nearby or are seeking treatment from out of state, Galen Hope provides a welcoming and supportive environment where meaningful change is possible. Our goal is to empower clients to build healthier habits, heal emotionally, and cultivate peace in their relationship with food.
Galen Hope proudly serves clients across South Florida through our two conveniently located treatment centers. Our Coral Gables location, just south of Miami and ~30 miles south of Fort Lauderdale, offers accessible care in a vibrant, culturally rich setting. In Delray Beach—just south of Palm Beach—clients will find a serene and supportive environment ideal for healing and growth. Whether you’re local to Florida or traveling from out of state, our programs offer a safe, welcoming space for true healing and growth.
coral gables
Address: 806 Douglas Road, Suite 625
Coral Gables, FL 33445
delray beach
Address: 4600 Linton Blvd.
Delray Beach, FL 33445