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It’s not uncommon to be self-conscious about weight and body image, but some children and teens take these concerns to the extreme. Your child may have developed abnormal eating habits or adopted unhealthy weight loss methods, such as starvation, also known as anorexia; binge eating; binging and purging, known as bulimia; and compulsive exercising. These habits constitute serious health problems, but research indicates that the earlier the treatment is started, the better the chance for a full recovery.
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The Eating Disorders Service at the Child Study Center, part of Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone, is dedicated to the prevention, assessment, and treatment of eating disorders through education, research, and therapy. We provide medication interventions, cognitive behavioral treatment programs, and family therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults.
After an initial telephone screening, adolescents with suspected eating disorders and their families are referred to a member of our expert team. This specialist talks with your child to establish an accurate diagnosis. Your child may be sent for blood work, physical examination, and nutritional evaluation.
Upon completion of the evaluation, a feedback session is held to review the findings and discuss treatment recommendations.
Although specific treatment goals are tailored to individuals, they generally focus on re-establishing healthy eating habits, weight, and body image. Treatment goals address self-esteem, school stress, friendships, and family relationships with an emphasis on building adaptive strategies and coping skills. We have expertise in using family-based therapy, known as the Maudsley approach, for the treatment of anorexia.
Eating disorders commonly occur at the same time as other psychiatric disorders, including depression, obsessive–compulsive disorder, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders. Treatment is provided for these and other coexisting psychiatric diagnoses.
As parents, you are considered allies in the treatment of your child. Coordinating care with your child’s primary care physician is also included as needed.
This 4-week group is open to girls age 14 to 18. We focus on enhancing body satisfaction, reducing the risk of developing an eating disorder, and boosting school and social functioning.
To make an appointment, please schedule an intake screening call.