Eating Disorders
Treatment Center
WHAT ARE EATING DISORDERS?
What Eating Disorders We Treat
Here at Virtue Recovery Center in Las Vegas, our expert team is prepared to provide quality care for all eating disorders, including:
Our eating disorder program focuses on healing the mind-body disconnection through compassion, education, shame reduction, and understanding. Exploring the root causes such as:
- Family dynamics
- Societal influences
- Traumatic experiences
- Genetic predispositions
And other origins unique to the individual’s personal experience.
Nutritional Program
Virtue Recovery Center’s nutritional philosophy of “all foods fit” is the foundation of our dietary program that helps patients repair their relationship with food and their bodies. Our program supports and guides patients of all shapes and sizes through our weigh-inclusive approach. The goals of our nutritional program include the following:
- Stabilizing eating patterns
- Listening to their body’s cues and signals that have been silenced
- Decreasing distress related to food and their body through exposure exercises
- Ability to follow their meal plan outside of the structure of a residential setting
- Increasing education to support the teaching of recovery and dispute cognitive distortions
- Honoring their bodies’ wants and needs
Individualized care is our specialty!
FREE ASSESSMENT
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TYPES OF EATING DISORDERS
ANOREXIA NERVOSA
Anorexia nervosa is defined by severe food restriction and significant weight loss, which is usually associated with an intense fear of weight gain, even when being underweight. People with anorexia often have a distorted body image; they think that they are bigger than they are.
BULIMIA NERVOSA
Bulimia nervosa is characterized by binge eating, which is consuming a large amount of food in a short period, and purging, which includes vomiting and using laxatives. Like anorexia, bulimia is characterized by an obsession with weight and body shape. The binge-purge cycle results in feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety that are associated with the eating disorder.
BINGE EATING DISORDER
Binge eating disorder (BED) is defined by the occurrence of ‘binges,’ which are episodes of eating a large amount of food in a short period. In these binges, there is a feeling of being out of control and unable to stop eating even when one feels that one has eaten enough. While the BED is similar to bulimia nervosa, the BED episodes are not followed by purging. However, people with BED may try to control their food intake after a binge and thus develop a pattern of restriction and binge eating.
Avoidant / Restrictive food intake disorder
ARFID is defined as the persistent avoidance or restriction of food or a significant decrease in food intake. This can look like a lack of interest in food, not wanting to eat specific items, or having a very negative reaction to food due to sensitivity, fear of choking, or past trauma. Consequently, ARFID may cause malnutrition, which may impact growth and development.
RUMINATION DISORDER
Rumination syndrome is a rare behavioral disorder that can be seen in children as well as some adults. It causes the passive expulsion of food that has been eaten recently. A person with rumination syndrome will eat a normal meal, and then after 10 to 15 minutes, food that has not been digested will be regurgitated into the mouth. This process may take 1 to 2 hours and may be done after every meal. The individual may chew the food again and swallow it, or he/she may spit it out. This is an involuntary action and not done purposely.
OTHER SPECIFIED FEEDING OR EATING DISORDER
OSFED is a category of eating disorders that cause substantial distress and impairment but do not fully meet the criteria for a particular eating disorder diagnosis.
Dual DIagnosis Disorder
Dual diagnosis, in the context of eating disorders, refers to the presence of both an eating disorder and a co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This combination can complicate treatment, as the two conditions often interact in ways that exacerbate each other. For instance, someone with an eating disorder may use substance abuse to cope with negative emotions, or their anxiety may fuel disordered eating behaviors. Effective treatment for dual diagnosis involves addressing both the eating disorder and the accompanying mental health issue simultaneously, often through a combination of therapy, medication, and holistic support. This integrated approach is essential for achieving long-term recovery and improving overall well-being.
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.
Click the button below to see if your insurance covers treatment of eating disorders.
Related Mental Health Issues
RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT
This is the beauty of residential care. Many facilities throughout the United States offer eating disorder treatment for those suffering from this problem. Some offer a ranch-style setting. Others are simply a spacious homelike environment. Some resemble an institution-like setting, but the more the environment resembles “normal” life, the less the patient will resist recovery. The staff at Virtue Recovery is predictable and welcoming, and they feel like a healing family member with their supportive care and knowledge about navigating the difficulties of early recovery. Many staff have walked a similar path and can be a comfort during a difficult time of surrender.
Inpatient Eating Disorders Recovery Treatment
Inpatient eating disorders recovery treatment is a comprehensive, structured program that provides 24-hour care and support for individuals struggling with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder. This type of treatment typically includes medical supervision, individual and group therapy, nutritional counseling, meal planning, family involvement, and various therapeutic activities. The goal of inpatient treatment is to stabilize the patient's physical and mental health, address underlying issues related to the eating disorder, and provide tools for long-term recovery.
Outpatient Eating Disorders Recovery Treatment
Outpatient eating disorders recovery treatment is a flexible and less intensive program that allows individuals to receive support and therapy while living at home and maintaining daily responsibilities, such as work or school. This type of treatment typically includes regular individual and group therapy sessions, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring. The goal of outpatient treatment is to help patients develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve their relationship with food, and address underlying issues related to the eating disorder, all while allowing them to maintain a sense of normalcy in their daily lives.
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Start your recovery right away. Contact Virtue Recovery Center at 866-828-7521 to find a treatment program near you.
FAMILY STYLE TREATMENT
Let’s discuss the kind of therapy an individual would receive once accepted into a facility. Most facilities require that the patients living at the “home” live together in a “family style.” They share rooms, eat together, have social time, and even participate in outside events. All of this is intended to break through the isolation barrier that those with this disorder tend to develop and often cling to with great determination. The group atmosphere is one of the best aspects of residential care that leads to recovery. Groups are formed around everything from simply talking about the issues surrounding this to processing the pain, fear, and anger that precipitates an eating disorder.
Veteran Specific Eating Disorder Conditions
Eating disorders are not uncommon among Veterans and are frequently related to physiological and psychological consequences of service in the armed forces. Trauma, PTSD, and the stressful nature of military service can exacerbate bulimia, anorexia, and binge eating disorders. Armed forces culture is also a barrier, as military personnel are often encouraged not to seek assistance and thus, do not seek treatment when necessary. Physical service requirements and readjustment to civilian life may exacerbate body image concerns. Thus, treatment strategies for Veterans should be personalized and include trauma-sensitive care, linkage, and peer support to mental health services for comorbid conditions. Holistic approaches like CBT, nutritional intervention, and veterans’ support groups could assist in the management of the condition in the long run.
The warning signs and symptoms of eating disorders may differ with the type of eating disorder, but they include both physical and behavioral changes. Some symptoms are sudden change in weight, excessive thinking about food, calories, or body shape, and avoiding food or certain types of food. People may also have compulsive behaviors such as exercising excessively, going to the bathroom after meals, or using laxatives or diuretics. Some of the psychological symptoms include; anxiety or guilt when eating, avoiding social events and activities, and mood changes. Some symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, and gastrointestinal problems, while others are more severe and include hair loss, weakened immune system, and heart complications. Thus, it’s important to identify these signs early so that appropriate measures can be taken to avoid future complications
FAQs About Eating Disorder Treatment at Virtue Recovery
Eating disorders affect nearly 30 million Americans during their lifetime, making them among the most common mental illnesses.
Treatment involves therapy, medical care, nutritional counseling, and often family involvement.
It varies by individual, but residential stays often last 30–90 days, with ongoing outpatient care afterward.
Yes—many eating disorders are rooted in trauma, and our programs prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment.
Most insurance plans cover treatment. We provide free verification to confirm your benefits.
Yes—though our Las Vegas program primarily treats adults, we have resources and referrals for adolescents.
Yes—our programs are affirming and inclusive for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Access is limited and supervised to support recovery, but communication with family is maintained.
ring comfortable clothing, personal care items, and any prescribed medications.
We combine evidence-based therapy, holistic healing, trauma-informed care, and compassionate support in a safe, inclusive environment.
Success means freedom from obsessive food thoughts, improved health, and living a fuller life.
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.
Glossary of Terms for Eating Disorder Treatment
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder where individuals restrict food intake, leading to extreme weight loss and an intense fear of gaining weight. It often involves a distorted body image and can cause severe health complications if untreated.
Bulimia nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives. People with bulimia often struggle with shame and secrecy around their eating behaviors.
Binge eating disorder is characterized by regularly eating unusually large amounts of food in a short period while feeling a loss of control. Unlike bulimia, it does not typically involve purging behaviors, but it can lead to serious physical and emotional health challenges.
Orthorexia refers to an unhealthy obsession with eating only “pure” or “clean” foods. While not officially recognized as a clinical diagnosis, it can significantly disrupt daily life and lead to malnutrition.
ARFID is an eating disorder where individuals limit the types or amounts of food they eat, not due to body image concerns but often from fear of choking, sensory sensitivities, or lack of interest in food. This can cause nutritional deficiencies and interfere with growth or overall health.
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition where individuals obsess over perceived flaws in their appearance. In the context of eating disorders, it often fuels unhealthy behaviors related to food and weight.
Purging is the act of trying to eliminate calories from the body through methods like vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of medications. It is a dangerous behavior that can cause long-term health damage, including electrolyte imbalances and heart complications.
Restrictive eating means severely limiting food intake, often tied to weight loss goals or fear of certain foods. Over time, this pattern can cause malnutrition, fatigue, and serious medical risks.
Co-occurring disorders describe when an eating disorder exists alongside another mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse. Treating both conditions together is essential for lasting recovery.
Residential treatment is a structured, live-in program where individuals receive 24/7 care for eating disorders. It combines medical supervision, therapy, and nutritional support in a safe and supportive environment.
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.
Eating DIsorder Statistics
Start Your Recovery Today
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.
