Eating Disorder Treatment for Adults
While adults in midlife may face many of the same eating disorder struggles as adolescents and younger individuals—such as body dissatisfaction, body image distortions and issues around eating—these issues are often exacerbated by the aging process.
Within the last few years, Renfrew has seen an increasing number of individuals in their thirties, forties, fifties, and sixties seeking treatment for their eating disorder. In response, we have designed specialized programming to help meet this population’s unique needs, available at our Residential level of care.
What Does the Midlife Program Include?
Our team of psychotherapists, psychologists, nurses, dietitians, psychiatrists, and physicians utilize an evidence-based, emotion-focused treatment approach to help adults move towards better emotional well-being, health and recovery.
- A multidisciplinary team
- Groups specific to midlife stressors
- A community of peers
- Services that recognize family and work responsibilities
The Renfrew Center’s Midlife Program
The Midlife Program was developed with the belief that eating disorder treatment warrants the creation of individualized goals and expectations. Each patient presents with a unique set of circumstances and, therefore, receives a unique and personalized treatment plan.
Individual Therapy
Patients in midlife often endure stressors associated with parenting, marital or relational discord, divorce, “empty-nest” syndrome, aging, chronic illness, or career changes. Therapists who specialize in the treatment of these issues are matched-up to work with this population.
Group Therapy
Renfrew encourages individuals thirty and older to address their specific issues in a community of peers struggling with similar challenges around nutrition, wellness, relationships, exercise, and self-care. Thirty Something and Beyond, also known as TSAB, is a separate group space that allows for discussion of midlife issues and concerns.
Family Therapy
Those in midlife may find it more difficult to seek treatment and may develop feelings of guilt due to leaving behind family members or jobs that rely on their presence every day. Family therapy is tailored to the unique needs of this population and can include spouses, partners and family members.
Alumna Testimonial
The Renfrew Center quite literally saved my life and since my time there, I have had another little boy (making my total 3!). There is no way I could have navigated pregnancy and postpartum anxiety and body changes without the skills I learned from Renfrew. On top of that, honestly, there is no way physically that I could have even conceived and held a pregnancy physically, without what Renfrew did for me.
Katye • Alumna, The Renfrew Center of Baltimore
The Renfrew Center’s Free Virtual Thirty Something and Beyond Support Group
The Renfrew Center is pleased to offer a weekly virtual support group for individuals 30 years and older, available across the country.
Eating Disorders in Middle Age: Types, Risks & Treatment Options
Midlife eating disorders present unique risks and symptoms for aging adults. Here’s a basic introduction to what you need to know.
I Think My Partner Has an Eating Disorder: What Should I Do?
Approaching a partner or loved one who exhibits symptoms of an eating disorder is a delicate task. Here’s how to do it effectively.
Reach Out to Us
Talk with a Program Information Specialist at the number above to learn more about our
services and to schedule an assessment. Or, fill out the information below and we will contact you.