Anorexia Nervosa Treatment in Las Vegas, Nevada

Overcome anorexia nervosa with compassionate, expert care at Virtue Recovery Center in Las Vegas. Our personalized treatment programs are designed to restore your health and support lasting recovery. Start your journey to a healthier life at our luxury location and outpatient facilities in Las Vegas.

Call 866-461-3339 or verify your insurance to get started today.

We Work with Most Insurance Providers

Virtue Recovery Center treatment centers work closely with most major insurance companies across the U.S. Our financial services staff will work with you and your insurance company to determine a financial plan to make treatment possible. Many insurance providers have deemed Virtue Recovery Center treatment centers “centers of excellence.” Virtue Recovery treatment centers are proud to be recognized by multiple insurance providers for our leadership, best practices, research, support, and training in the eating disorder treatment field. Accepted plans include Cigna, Humana, Magellan, MultiPlan, TriWest, Aetna, Anthem, and more. Verify your insurance here.

Our Accreditations

• The Joint Commission
• National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP)
• Better Business Bureau Accredited

What Is Anorexia Nervosa and What Are the Warning Signs?

Anorexia nervosa is a serious and potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image that leads individuals to severely restrict their food intake. Despite being underweight, individuals with anorexia often perceive themselves as overweight and engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or other behaviors to lose weight or prevent weight gain. This disorder not only affects physical health, leading to malnutrition, weakened bones, and organ damage, but also deeply impacts mental well-being, often co-occurring with anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. Anorexia requires comprehensive treatment to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder.

Does Virtue Recovery Center Treat Anorexia Alongside Substance Use Disorder?

At Virtue Recovery Center, we are the only facility in Nevada that treats eating disorders and addiction simultaneously in one integrated program. Our dual diagnosis approach recognizes that many individuals struggling with anorexia nervosa also face co-occurring substance use disorders, and that treating both conditions together leads to significantly better outcomes. Free Assessment — 100% safe & confidential.

Individual Counseling for Anorexia Nervosa

Individual counseling for anorexia nervosa is a critical component of treatment, offering personalized support and therapy tailored to the unique needs of the individual. Through one-on-one sessions with a trained therapist, individuals explore the underlying emotional and psychological issues that contribute to their eating disorder, such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, or trauma. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI) are often used to help individuals challenge distorted thoughts about body image and food, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and build a more positive relationship with themselves. This focused, confidential environment allows for deep self-exploration and the development of practical strategies to support long-term recovery.

Residential Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa

Residential treatment for anorexia nervosa provides a structured and supportive environment where individuals can receive intensive care for their eating disorders. At our luxurious Las Vegas facility, patients have 24/7 access to medical and psychological support, allowing for close monitoring of their physical health and nutritional intake. This level of care is particularly beneficial for those with severe anorexia, as it offers a safe space to stabilize weight, address medical complications, and begin the process of psychological healing. The immersive nature of residential treatment allows individuals to focus entirely on their recovery, away from the stresses and triggers of daily life, and engage fully in therapy, group sessions, and nutritional education.

Family Style Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa

Family-based treatment for anorexia nervosa, also known as the Maudsley Method, involves the active participation of family members in the recovery process. This approach recognizes families’ critical role in supporting their loved one’s recovery and empowers them to help restore healthy eating patterns and improve communication within the household. Through family therapy sessions, parents and other family members learn strategies to support their loved ones, manage challenging behaviors, and address any underlying family dynamics that may contribute to the eating disorder. Family-based treatment aims to create a strong support system at home, fostering a collaborative environment where recovery is a shared goal.

Trauma-Informed Care for Anorexia Nervosa

Trauma-informed care for anorexia nervosa at Virtue Recovery Center involves recognizing and addressing the deep connection between past traumatic experiences and the development or exacerbation of eating disorders. Understanding that trauma can significantly impact an individual’s relationship with food and body image, our approach prioritizes creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. We integrate therapies that not only treat the eating disorder but also focus on healing the underlying trauma, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and mindfulness practices. This holistic approach ensures that treatment is sensitive to each individual’s unique needs, helping them rebuild a sense of safety, control, and self-compassion as they work toward recovery.

Anorexia Nervosa Statistics

• Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness — a death rate approximately 12 times higher than the general population.
• The lifetime prevalence of anorexia nervosa is up to 4% among females and 0.3% among males.
• Anorexia nervosa rates have increased among children under 15 in recent years, highlighting the urgency of early intervention.
• The prevalence of anorexia nervosa among women is 0.9%, while it is 0.3% among men.
• 95% of those who have eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25.
• Females with anorexia nervosa outnumber males on a 10:1 ratio.
• Nearly 1 in 10 people with autism spectrum disorder meet diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa.
• 25% of those who recover from anorexia nervosa after treatment may relapse.
• Patients with anorexia have a risk of suicide 18 times higher than those without an eating disorder.
• Only 1 in 10 individuals with an eating disorder receive treatment.
• Family-based therapy (FBT) has a 50–60% success rate for teenagers with anorexia nervosa, outperforming individual therapy for this age group.
• Up to 44% of those with anorexia nervosa also have OCD.

FAQs About Anorexia Nervosa & Treatment

Can anorexia nervosa affect fertility? Yes, anorexia nervosa can significantly impact fertility, especially in women, due to the disruption of menstrual cycles caused by malnutrition and low body weight. In men, it can affect sperm production and sexual function. Addressing these issues through proper nutrition and recovery can help restore fertility over time.

How does anorexia nervosa affect bone health? Anorexia nervosa can lead to significant bone density loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. This occurs because malnutrition and low body weight disrupt hormone levels, particularly estrogen, which is essential for bone health. Treatment often includes nutritional support and, in some cases, medications to improve bone density.

Is it possible to recover from anorexia nervosa without gaining weight? While mental recovery is a critical aspect of treating anorexia nervosa, weight restoration is often necessary for full recovery. A healthy weight is essential for restoring physical health and cognitive function, and it supports the emotional and psychological healing process.

How does anorexia nervosa affect cognitive function? Anorexia nervosa can impair cognitive function, including concentration, memory, and decision-making abilities. Malnutrition affects brain function, leading to difficulties in thinking clearly. Recovery and proper nutrition are essential for restoring cognitive abilities.

Can anorexia nervosa lead to long-term heart problems? Yes, anorexia nervosa can cause long-term heart problems, including bradycardia (slow heart rate), arrhythmias, and even heart failure due to prolonged malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances. Regular monitoring and medical treatment are necessary to manage these risks during recovery.

How does treatment for anorexia nervosa address body dysmorphia? Treatment for anorexia nervosa often includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address body dysmorphia, a condition where individuals have a distorted view of their body size or shape. Therapy focuses on challenging and changing these distorted thoughts and improving body image perception.

What role does family therapy play in anorexia nervosa treatment? Family therapy is crucial in treating anorexia nervosa, especially for younger individuals. It helps improve communication, address family dynamics that may contribute to the disorder, and involve family members in supporting the individual’s recovery journey.

Are there any specific medications used to treat anorexia nervosa? While there are no medications specifically approved to treat anorexia nervosa, certain medications may be prescribed to address co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These medications can help manage symptoms and support the overall treatment process.

How does anorexia nervosa affect digestion and gastrointestinal health? Anorexia nervosa can cause significant digestive issues, including bloating, constipation, and gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying). These symptoms are often due to malnutrition and slow metabolism. Nutritional rehabilitation and medical treatment are necessary to restore gastrointestinal health.

Can anorexia nervosa relapse after treatment? Yes, relapse is a common concern in anorexia nervosa recovery. Long-term treatment, including ongoing therapy and nutritional support, is essential to help prevent relapse. Recognizing early signs of relapse and seeking immediate help can also be crucial in maintaining recovery.

How is exercise managed in the treatment of anorexia nervosa? In treating anorexia nervosa, exercise is often carefully managed or restricted, particularly if it was previously used as a means of excessive weight control. As recovery progresses, supervised and balanced exercise plans may be introduced to promote a healthy relationship with physical activity.

How does anorexia nervosa impact social relationships? Anorexia nervosa can severely affect social relationships, leading to isolation, strained friendships, and family conflicts due to the individual’s focus on food, body image, and weight. Treatment often includes therapy to rebuild social skills, improve relationships, and foster a supportive social network.

What are the signs that anorexia nervosa treatment is working? Signs that treatment for anorexia nervosa is working include gradual weight restoration, improved eating habits, reduced obsession with food and body image, better mood stability, and enhanced social interactions. Regular check-ins with healthcare providers help monitor progress.

Can anorexia nervosa be treated on an outpatient basis? Yes, anorexia nervosa can be treated on an outpatient basis, especially in cases where the individual is medically stable and has a supportive home environment. Outpatient treatment typically includes regular therapy sessions, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring.

How can mindfulness techniques be used in treating anorexia nervosa? Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and mindful eating, can be effective in treating anorexia nervosa. These practices help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment, reducing anxiety around food and improving their relationship with eating.

Glossary of Key Terms in Anorexia Treatment

Malnutrition — Malnutrition occurs when the body does not receive enough nutrients to function properly. In anorexia nervosa, this is usually caused by extreme calorie restriction, which can damage the heart, brain, and other vital organs.

Body Mass Index (BMI) — BMI is a numerical measure that compares weight to height to categorize body size. While not a perfect tool, it is often used in eating disorder treatment to help assess medical stability and guide nutritional rehabilitation.

Restrictive Eating — Restrictive eating refers to limiting food intake by skipping meals, eating very small portions, or avoiding entire food groups. This behavior is a central feature of anorexia and can lead to dangerous physical and emotional consequences.

Medical Stabilization — Medical stabilization is the first stage of treatment for individuals in critical condition due to anorexia. It focuses on addressing immediate health risks such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or dangerously low heart rate before deeper therapy begins.

Refeeding Syndrome — Refeeding syndrome is a potentially life-threatening complication that can occur when someone who is severely malnourished begins eating again. It involves sudden shifts in electrolytes and fluids, which is why refeeding must be medically supervised.

Co-Occurring Disorders — Many people with anorexia also experience other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). These are known as co-occurring disorders and must be treated alongside anorexia for full recovery.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — CBT is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change unhelpful thought patterns. In anorexia treatment, CBT is used to challenge distorted beliefs about food, weight, and self-worth.

Nutritional Rehabilitation — Nutritional rehabilitation is the process of restoring the body to health through balanced meals and improved eating patterns. Dietitians and clinicians work together to gradually reintroduce nutrients in a safe and supportive way.

Electrolyte Imbalance — Electrolytes — like sodium, potassium, and calcium — are minerals that help regulate essential body functions such as heartbeat and hydration. In anorexia, severe restriction can cause imbalances that may lead to heart problems or seizures.

Relapse Prevention — Relapse prevention is the ongoing process of identifying triggers, building coping skills, and creating a support plan after treatment. Since anorexia can be a chronic condition, relapse prevention is critical for long-term recovery.

Find Hope at Virtue Recovery Center

The staff at Virtue Recovery Center in Las Vegas looks forward to helping you and your loved ones on the road to recovery. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our facilities located throughout the United States. Call 866-461-3339 or verify your insurance here.

Virtue Recovery’s Eating Disorder Treatments

• Anorexia Nervosa — Evidence-based treatment to restore health and overcome restrictive eating and body image struggles.
• Bulimia Nervosa — Compassionate care to break the cycle of bingeing, purging, and harmful eating behaviors.
• Orthorexia Nervosa — Specialized treatment to heal the obsession with “clean” or “pure” eating.
• Binge Eating — Comprehensive therapy to address compulsive overeating and build a healthier relationship with food.
• Compulsive Overeating — Supportive programs to reduce emotional overeating and promote long-term recovery.
• Rumination Disorder — Targeted treatment for chronic regurgitation and re-chewing behaviors.
• OSFED — Personalized care for complex eating disorder symptoms that don’t fit one category.
• ARFID — Treatment designed to help overcome restrictive eating and food avoidance.
• UFED — Compassionate support for eating disorder symptoms that don’t meet specific diagnostic criteria.
• Laxative Abuse — Safe, effective treatment for laxative misuse and its physical and emotional consequences.
• Diabulimia — Integrated care for individuals with Type 1 diabetes who struggle with insulin restriction and eating disorder behaviors.
• Body Dysmorphia — Holistic treatment to address obsessive thoughts and behaviors about perceived physical flaws.

Virtue Recovery’s Therapy Treatments

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — CBT helps clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that fuel addiction or eating disorders, replacing them with healthier coping strategies.
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) — DBT teaches emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness skills, supporting recovery for individuals struggling with substance use and eating disorders.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI) — MI is a client-centered approach that helps individuals explore and strengthen their own motivation for positive change, making it a powerful tool in eating disorder and addiction recovery.
• Psychoeducation Group Therapy — These groups provide education on addiction, mental health, and recovery strategies, empowering clients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain long-term wellness.
• Process Group Therapy — In process groups, clients share experiences and gain support while exploring emotions and behaviors in a safe, therapeutic environment that fosters healing and connection.
• Meditation Therapy — Meditation promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and emotional balance, helping clients manage cravings, anxiety, and triggers throughout recovery.
• Music Therapy — Music therapy uses rhythm, lyrics, and sound to promote self-expression, reduce stress, and support emotional healing in addiction and eating disorder recovery.
• Yoga Therapy — Yoga integrates breathwork, movement, and mindfulness to strengthen the mind-body connection, reduce stress, and support physical and emotional recovery.
• Art Therapy — Through creative expression, art therapy allows clients to process complex emotions, reduce anxiety, and explore nonverbal ways of healing during treatment.
• Family Therapy — Family therapy helps rebuild trust, improve communication, and engage loved ones in the recovery process.
• Therapy & Counseling — Counseling provides a safe, supportive space to address the root causes of addiction and eating disorders through personalized, evidence-based therapy.
• Relapse Prevention Therapy — This therapy teaches clients how to recognize triggers, manage cravings, and maintain long-term recovery from addiction and eating disorders.
• 12-Step Group Therapy — Rooted in the proven 12-Step model, these groups provide structure, accountability, and peer support to guide clients toward long-term sobriety.