A Team Approach in the Treatment of Eating Disorders

The University Counseling Center (UCC) and the Thagard Student Health Center (TSHC) use the team approach in helping people with eating disorders. The "team" approach is the most successful way of helping the person who has an eating disorder or is engaged in eating disordered behaviors. Individual counseling, nutrition counseling, and medical attention are all essential aspects of treatment for eating disorders.

The UCC provides individual counseling and a variety of groups. Counseling addresses issues of emotional distress that contribute to eating disorders. When a student comes in for counseling the counselor will ask many questions regarding eating habits, behaviors, lifestyle, and emotions. She or he will refer the person to a physician for a physical exam and to a nutritionist for nutrition counseling. This team of professionals will then work together with the student to provide the most effective treatment possible.