atypical anorexia treatment
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atypical anorexia treatment for adults and adolescents
Atypical anorexia is a serious eating disorder that shares many behaviors and risks with anorexia nervosa, even if a person’s weight remains within or above a “normal” range. At Galen Hope, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care for adolescents and adults struggling with atypical anorexia. Our programs address both the psychological and physical aspects of the disorder, helping clients restore health, improve their relationship with food, and build long-term recovery.
what is atypical anorexia?
Atypical anorexia involves restrictive eating behaviors, intense fear of weight gain, and distorted body image, similar to anorexia nervosa. However, individuals with atypical anorexia may not appear underweight, which can make the condition harder to recognize. Despite this, the health risks—including malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, heart complications, and psychological distress—are just as serious.
People with atypical anorexia may engage in dieting, excessive exercise, or other behaviors to control weight, often accompanied by high anxiety, perfectionism, or preoccupation with body shape. Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term medical and emotional complications.
our approach to atypical anorexia treatment
At Galen Hope, we use a multidisciplinary approach to treat atypical anorexia, combining therapy, nutrition counseling, and medical oversight. Our team works with clients to identify and address restrictive behaviors, body image concerns, and underlying emotional or psychological factors.
Treatment is highly individualized, focusing on restoring balanced eating patterns, improving emotional resilience, and addressing co-occurring mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. We provide a supportive environment that empowers clients to rebuild their relationship with food, trust their bodies, and develop skills for long-term recovery.
what atypical anorexia 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.
atypical anorexia 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 provide specialized care for adolescents, teens, college students, and adults struggling with atypical anorexia, supporting them in restoring healthy eating patterns and emotional well-being. Our programs are designed to address the unique challenges of this disorder, including restrictive behaviors and body image concerns, regardless of the individual’s current weight.
We also welcome clients from diverse communities, including men and women, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC and Latin/Hispanic communities, and those who have experienced trauma, grief, or other life stressors. By involving families and caregivers when appropriate, we create a supportive environment that fosters long-term recovery and holistic healing.
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.
atypical anorexia faqs
what is the difference between atypical anorexia and anorexia nervosa?
Atypical anorexia shares many of the same behaviors as anorexia nervosa, such as restrictive eating, intense fear of weight gain, and distorted body image. The main difference is that individuals with atypical anorexia may be at a “normal” or above-average weight, whereas anorexia nervosa typically involves being underweight. Despite the difference in weight, the physical and psychological risks can be just as severe.
can someone with atypical anorexia be at a normal weight?
Yes, people with atypical anorexia often maintain a weight that falls within or above the typical range for their age and height. This can make the disorder harder to recognize, both by the individual and by healthcare providers. Even at a normal weight, restrictive behaviors and the emotional toll of the disorder can lead to serious health complications.
how is atypical anorexia diagnosed?
Atypical anorexia is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that considers eating behaviors, psychological symptoms, and medical health. Clinicians assess for restrictive eating patterns, body image concerns, and physical markers such as nutritional deficiencies or hormonal changes. Diagnosis is based on the impact of these behaviors rather than weight alone.
what are the health risks of atypical anorexia?
Even without significant weight loss, atypical anorexia can lead to malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, cardiovascular strain, bone density loss, and hormonal disruptions. Emotional risks include anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Early intervention is critical to reduce both physical and psychological complications.
is treatment different for atypical anorexia compared to anorexia?
Treatment for atypical anorexia is similar to anorexia nervosa and involves a combination of therapy, nutrition counseling, and medical oversight. The key difference is that clinicians may focus less on weight restoration and more on healthy eating patterns, emotional regulation, and addressing restrictive behaviors. Recovery goals are personalized to ensure holistic physical and emotional healing.
what are signs someone might have atypical anorexia?
Signs include restricting food intake, obsessive calorie counting, fear of weight gain, excessive exercise, and preoccupation with body shape. Emotional indicators may include anxiety, perfectionism, or secrecy around eating behaviors. Even if someone appears to be a “healthy” weight, these behaviors can signal a serious eating disorder.
what’s the difference between an inpatient vs outpatient treatment center?
Inpatient treatment centers provide 24/7 supervision in a residential setting, often for individuals with severe symptoms or medical risk. Outpatient centers, like Galen Hope, allow clients to live at home while attending structured therapy, nutritional counseling, and medical check-ins. This flexible approach supports recovery within daily life while still providing comprehensive, professional care.
how can I help a friend or family member with atypical anorexia?
Support starts with empathy and nonjudgmental communication. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer to assist with appointments or other aspects of care. Focus on overall health and emotional well-being rather than weight, and remind them that recovery is possible with the right support.
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 atypical anorexia treatment centers in florida
With two state-of-the-art atypical anorexia treatment centers in Florida, Galen Hope is committed to helping individuals overcome restrictive eating behaviors while addressing co-occurring mental health conditions. Our programs combine therapy, nutritional guidance, and medical monitoring to support both physical and emotional recovery.
Whether you are local or seeking care from out of state, Galen Hope provides a compassionate, structured environment where clients can rebuild their relationship with food, develop coping strategies, and achieve lasting wellness. Treatment focuses not just on symptom management but on creating sustainable change for long-term health and well-being.
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