I Have Sought Support for my Eating Disorder... Now What?
Starting Eating Disorder Recovery: What to Expect
Congratulations! Taking the first step toward recovery is no small feat. It’s courageous, and you deserve recognition for showing up for yourself in this way. Recovery won’t always be easy, but with the right support and a solid treatment team, it is absolutely possible. Here’s what you can expect as you begin this journey:
Your Treatment Team
It’s highly recommended that you work with a full team of professionals to support your recovery. This typically includes:
A therapist (and a family therapist if you're an adolescent)
A dietitian who specializes in eating disorders
A psychiatrist for medication management, if needed
These professionals will ideally collaborate to provide a comprehensive treatment plan. Expect to meet with your therapist and dietitian weekly at first. If a psychiatrist is involved, appointments might be monthly or based on medication adjustments.
Navigating the Food Piece
For many, this is the scariest part. Your dietitian will likely place you on a structured meal plan to ensure your body and brain are properly nourished. This is essential for physical and emotional healing.
You may also be asked to:
Track meals or snacks in a food record
Monitor your weight in a supportive, non-shaming way
The goal isn’t control—it’s healing. These steps help your care team understand your needs and progress.
What to Expect in Therapy
There’s a saying in therapy: you don’t feel better until you feel worse. And while that might sound discouraging, it just means that emotional growth often comes after confronting difficult truths.
In therapy, you’ll:
Identify triggers and origins of your eating disorder
Set meaningful goals
Develop healthier coping tools
Challenge harmful beliefs about food, your body, and yourself
This is where the deep work happens—and where true change begins.
Other Medical and Support Appointments
Depending on your treatment plan, you may also need:
Medical check-ins (blood work, EKGs, physical exams)
Family therapy (especially if you're a teen or live with a partner or family)
Eating disorders often thrive in secrecy. Involving trusted loved ones in the process helps reduce shame and increases support. Education and communication are powerful tools in your recovery.
It May Feel Like A Lot—And You Can Do This
We won’t sugarcoat it: the beginning of recovery can feel overwhelming. There will be hard days, but there will also be moments of strength, insight, and joy. Lean on your support system, stay connected to your team, and remind yourself daily that you are worth the effort it takes to heal.
You’ve already taken the first step. Keep going.
We’re Here to Support You
If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a free phone consultation and take the next step toward healing.
