anorexia nervosa treatment
whole-person care to identify and treat anorexia nervosa and co-occurring disorders
Restoring a healthy relationship to eating and developing self-compassion are key goals of anorexia nervosa treatment at Galen Hope. We are here for clients every step of the way, guiding you or your loved one through a comprehensive care program that provides the skills to overcome such difficult times.
what is anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa, often called simply anorexia, is a severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, even at an unhealthy weight. People with anorexia restrict their food intake drastically, often resorting to extreme calorie counting, skipping meals, and excessive exercise. This distorted body image and obsession with thinness lead to malnutrition, weak muscles, and fatigue. Anorexia can damage the heart, bones, and other organs. It’s a complex mental illness, but with treatment that includes therapy, nutrition counseling, and sometimes medication, recovery is possible.
identifying anorexia nervosa symptoms
Anorexia nervosa is the least-prevalent eating disorder, despite perhaps being the most recognized, which is why recognizing symptoms early is crucial. Symptoms of anorexia nervosa include extreme food restriction, a preoccupation with thinness, and a distorted body image. Excessive exercise, or exercise addiction, can also accompany anorexia nervosa.
understanding atypical anorexia
Atypical anorexia is a more recent diagnosis and is used to diagnose those who exhibit all the criteria for anorexia nervosa, but are not visibly “underweight.” Often, atypical anorexia develops when someone is excessively exercising and dieting and rapidly dropping weight, putting enormous strain on the body, regardless of the body shape or size that an individual may have started with or ended up with.
Atypical anorexia is often a missed feature of those who have struggled at times with binge eating disorder, and many of those who suffer receive late diagnoses due to weight bias in the medical community, a misunderstanding of what it means to be underweight, and a lack of understanding of the medical and psychological risks associated with rapid and excessive weight loss.
At Galen Hope, we refer to all forms of anorexia nervosa as simply “anorexia” but understand that some individuals may find the “atypical” label to be helpful in communicating to others about their diagnosis.
importance of treatment for anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any eating disorder and the second highest mortality rate of any mental health diagnosis after opiate addiction. Suicidal ideation is all too common among those with anorexia, and contributes to the high mortality rate. If left untreated, anorexia can lead to serious physiological complications that can harm all body systems.
Studies show the majority of those with anorexia nervosa will experience a co-occurring disorder during their lifetime. Disorders that often co-occur with anorexia include anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PSTD, and substance use disorders. To fully recover from an eating disorder, it’s also crucial to identify and treat co-occurring disorders as well.
The staff at Galen Hope are experienced in identifying eating disorders as well as co-occurring issues. We work with clients and family alike to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address the whole person.
what anorexia nervosa 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 anorexia clients we work with
At Galen Hope, we recognize that anorexia can affect individuals from all walks of life. Our clients include adolescents, college students, and adults who are navigating the complex challenges of disordered eating within the context of their unique identities, experiences, and communities. Many of our clients come to us after struggling in silence, feeling unseen or misunderstood—and we are here to change that narrative with compassionate, evidence-based care.
We are especially attuned to the needs of populations often underserved in eating disorder treatment, including LGBTQ+ individuals, Jewish clients, neurodivergent individuals, professionals, dancers and athletes, and those processing trauma, grief, or cultural stigma around mental health. Our diverse, bilingual team also welcomes clients from Latin and Hispanic communities and works with families to create a supportive environment for healing. Wherever you are in your journey, you are welcome here.
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.
anorexia nervosa faqs
What are the early signs of anorexia nervosa?
Early signs of anorexia may include dramatic weight loss, a preoccupation with food, dieting, or body image, and an intense fear of gaining weight. Individuals might avoid meals, develop rigid eating rituals, or engage in excessive exercise. Emotional changes like withdrawal, irritability, or perfectionism are also common. These signs can be subtle at first but tend to intensify over time.
Can you recover from anorexia?
Yes, recovery from anorexia is absolutely possible, though it often requires time, support, and comprehensive treatment. With the right care, individuals can rebuild a healthy relationship with food and their bodies. Recovery includes not just physical restoration, but also emotional and psychological healing. Many people go on to live full, meaningful lives after anorexia.
How long does it take to recover from anorexia?
The recovery process varies for each person and can take months to several years. It often depends on the severity of the illness, the support system, and access to appropriate treatment. While physical health can improve more quickly, emotional and behavioral recovery often takes longer. Ongoing care and support are key to sustained recovery.
What happens to your body when you have anorexia?
Anorexia can cause the body to go into starvation mode, slowing down essential functions to conserve energy. This may lead to issues like
- fatigue
- hair thinning
- dry skin
- low heart rate
- weakened bones
Over time, it can affect nearly every system in the body, including the heart, brain, digestive tract, and reproductive organs. These changes can become severe or life-threatening if left untreated.
can anorexia cause permanent damage to the body?
Yes, anorexia can lead to long-term or even permanent damage, especially if the disorder is prolonged. Bone density loss (osteopenia or osteoporosis), fertility issues, and heart complications are among the more serious risks. However, early intervention can reduce the chances of lasting damage. Many physical effects can improve or even reverse with sustained recovery.
what is the best treatment for anorexia?
The most effective treatment for anorexia typically includes a multidisciplinary approach involving medical care, nutritional support, and psychotherapy. Evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and family-based treatment are commonly used. It’s important that treatment also address co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Personalized, compassionate care in a supportive setting can make a significant difference.
what’s the difference between an inpatient vs outpatient treatment center?
Inpatient treatment involves 24/7 care in a structured environment, often necessary for individuals who are medically unstable or need intensive support. Outpatient treatment allows individuals to live at home while attending scheduled therapy, medical appointments, and nutrition counseling. Galen Hope offers a unique experience that combines clinical excellence with personalized care and a strong therapeutic community. Our levels of care include Residential, Partial Hospitalization, and Intensive Outpatient care, depending on the needs of our clients
how can I help a friend or family member with anorexia?
Start by expressing your concern gently and without judgment—let them know you’re there to support them. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer to assist in finding resources or attending appointments. Avoid commenting on their appearance or food choices; instead, focus on how they’re feeling. Patience, empathy, and ongoing support can make a powerful impact.
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 anorexia treatment centers in florida
With two state-of-the-art anorexia treatment centers in Florida, Galen Hope is committed to transforming the lives of individuals facing anorexia and co-occurring mental health challenges. Our approach goes beyond surface-level symptom management—we offer deeply personalized, integrative care that supports lasting recovery of both body and mind.
Whether you’re located in Florida or traveling from out of state, our welcoming programs provide a safe, empowering environment where healing is possible and sustainable. At Galen Hope, we meet you where you are—and walk with you toward hope, resilience, and lasting change.
coral gables
Address: 806 Douglas Road, Suite 625
Coral Gables, FL 33445
delray beach
Address: 4600 Linton Blvd.
Delray Beach, FL 33445