Eating Disorder Day Treatment Program

The Eating Disorder Day Treatment Program is designed for individuals who need increased support and structure in the process of recovery, but do not need 24-hour supervision. Most kids and teens attend for a minimum of two weeks. The program is available seven days a week and is divided into two sections: extended day treatment (from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and regular day treatment (from 10:45 a.m. to 7 p.m.).Services and activities

Therapeutic activities

The Day Treatment Program focuses on developing healthy coping skills in the process of recovery and gaining insight into the factors contributing to the eating disorder. The program includes groups and activities related to daily goal setting, body image, readiness to change, family and peer relationships, and coping with depression, anxiety and perfectionism. Individual and family therapy, along with psychiatric assessment, continues in all levels of care. The Day Treatment Program also integrates creative arts therapy, such as music, art, dance/movement and yoga therapies.

Medical check-up

When patients arrive each day, they have a medical check-in with the nurse. Medical problems are closely monitored and addressed by the adolescent medicine team.

Nutrition therapy

Parents work closely with our dietician to plan meals; through the program, families learn skills to support their child's nutrition needs during the recovery process and at home. Patients also meet with a dietician to address distortions about nutrition and health that often dominate their thoughts; we involve the patient in providing input into their parents' meal plans.

Because meal time can be difficult for our patients and families, meals and snacks are provided in a therapeutic setting with staff support and supervision. Our nutrition therapy provides opportunities to learn and practice balancing healthy nutrition and exercise.

Physical activity

The Eating Disorder Day Treatment Program also focuses on physical activity. We address healthy leisure skills, appropriate use of exercise, and alternatives to excessive exercise as a coping skill.

Read about our research in the causes and treatment of eating disorders.

Meet Madi O'Dell, a teenager who was treated for an eating disorder at Children's Colorado.