Frequently Asked Questions

• When will I complete the program?
• What happens once I complete the program
• How can I get the most out of group therapy?
• What role does my insurance play?
• How will my family members be involved in my treatment?
• Am I expected to get better as soon as I start treatment?
• How can I help support my loved one during treatment?
• How often will I talk to the treatment providers about my loved one's progress?
• What if my loved one doesn't want to participate in therapy?
• What do all the letters mean behind the clinicians' names?

When will I complete the program?

The Intensive Outpatient Program lasts about four months and the Day Treatment Program lasts about 2 months. During that time, there will be specific criteria to assess when to decrease the amount of treatment you receive each week. It is our attempt to decrease your treatment gradually to help you through the transition of exiting the program. You are encouraged to discuss your step-down goals that you must meet to graduate from the program. It is a good idea to know what your goals are, so you can have a clear idea of what to expect as you progress.

What happens once I complete the program?

Once you meet your treatment discharge goals, you will graduate from the program. This is simply the end of the first phase of treatment. You will need to continue to work with your individual therapist and be monitored medically by your primary care physician. Your individual therapist will discuss your treatment options as you get closer to graduating.

How can I get the most out of group therapy?

Each person has a unique experience within the group setting. It is frequently the first place people who are suffering from an eating disorder feel understood and able to share their experiences without guilt or shame. It is important to remember that what you get out of the groups is what you put into them. The most rewarding group experiences happen when you can take risks and be an active part of the group.

What role does my insurance play?

If you are using your insurance as a form of payment for treatment, you will be assigned a care manager from the insurance company who will be receiving up-to-date information regarding your treatment. This information includes our summary of your progress, current symptoms, issues being addressed and goals of treatment. You should be aware that insurance does not always cover the entire cost of your treatment. At some point you may discuss other payment options with your individual therapist. Please keep in mind that co-pays are due each week.

How will my family members be involved in my treatment?

Our treatment philosophy is that everyone involved with someone suffering from an eating disorder is affected, particularly those closest to you. Our goal is to provide services to the entire family. First, we hope to provide support to the family and education regarding eating disorders. Secondly, we recognize the need to address the important relationships in your life as part of your recovery. Your family may be asked to attend the weekly Family Support Group. You may have family and/or couples therapy sessions throughout your treatment. The role of your family and loved ones is crucial to your recovery.

Am I expected to get better as soon as I start treatment?

Recovery from an eating disorder is a lengthy process and we recognize that changes can be slow. In the beginning of treatment, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and confused. This is normal. We provide a great deal of support and opportunity for you to work through this phase. As you learn new ways of coping, along with greater insight into your eating disorder, behavioral changes will begin to happen.

How can I help support my loved one during treatment?

The best way is to be honest and compassionate. The family members are directly affected by this disease and need a great deal of support and education themselves. Ask questions of the treatment team and inform them if there are any major problems. We STRONGLY recommend that you actively participate in their treatment. This can be done by attending the weekly Family Support Group and participating in family counseling sessions.

How often will I talk to the treatment providers about my loved one's progress?

In order to respect a client's confidentiality and to promote a safe, therapeutic environment, specific information about your loved one's treatment will not be shared. Any information or concerns about your loved one's health or safety will ALWAYS be communicated directly to you. We will also be speaking with you frequently about your loved one's medical condition.

What if my loved one doesn't want to participate in therapy?

Participation in treatment is a scary, difficult process for most people. It is natural for there to be some resistance against attending, particularly if the schedule feels overwhelming or useless. Encourage your loved one to talk to the treatment providers about their feelings and reinforce the importance of maintaining commitment to coming. It is also recommended that you do your best to model and reinforce the importance of treatment.

What do all the letters mean behind the clinicians. names?

All of the Summit clinical staff have master's degrees in psychology, social work or a related field. In addition, each clinician is supervised by the Executive Director and receives specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders. The following are common titles you will see at Summit.