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EDReferral.com Newsletter – March 2008: Table of Contents

Current Research on Eating Disorders click here
For Professionals: Conferences/Seminars/Online Courses/Study Groups click here
Advocacy click here
Treatment Center Spotlight click here
Support Groups led by professionals click here
Free Support Groups click here
Employment Opportunities click here
Ongoing Research Studies on Eating Disorders click here
Books, Journals, Videos, Media click here
Marketing Ideas click here
Newsletter Protocol click here
Instructions on how to unsubscribe to the newsletter click here
Want something included in the newsletter? –see the protocol listed at the end of this newsletter. click here  

Current Research on Eating Disorders:  

Study Shows Inadequate Diagnostic Criteria for Eating Disorders: A new study by Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University suggests that the DSM-IV criteria for eating disorders have limited clinical utility. Researchers recommend a broadening of the criteria for bulimia, anorexia and binge eating disorder. "Researchers noted that in treatment center programs for eating disorders more than half of the patients are diagnosed with an eating disorder “not otherwise specified” (NOS)." Mark Zimmerman, M.D., Director of Outpatient Psychiatry at Rhode Island Hospital and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, said, “The NOS category of the DSM-IV was intended to be a residual category of diagnosis to provide a diagnostic option for relatively infrequent cases. This study has shown that eating disorder NOS cases predominate and suggests a problem with the DSM-IV nomenclature for this class of disorders.” Zimmerman also noted, “Our study and its results are consistent with other studies suggesting that the criteria for anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder should be broadened to include subthreshold variants.” For more information on this study visit http://www.huliq.com/49611/study-shows-inadequate-diagnostic-criteria-eating-disorders.

Suicide Attempts in Anorexia Nervosa. Objective: To explore prevalence and patterns of suicidal attempts in persons with anorexia nervosa (AN). Methods: Participants were the first 432 persons (22 male, 410 female) enrolled in the NIH funded Genetics of Anorexia Nervosa Collaborative Study. All participants had current or lifetime AN. The participants ranged in age from 16 to 76 (mean = 30.4, SD = 11.3). Suicidal behavior and intent was assessed via the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies. We compared frequency and severity of attempts across diagnostic subtypes and comorbidity, and personality features associated with the presence of suicide attempts in persons with AN. Results: About 16.9% of those with AN attempted suicide. Significantly fewer persons with the restricting subtype (7.4%) reported at least one attempt than those with purging AN (26.1%), AN with binge eating (29.3%), and a mixed picture of AN and bulimia nervosa (21.2%). After controlling for major depression, suicide attempts were associated with substance abuse, impulsive behaviors and traits, Cluster B personality disorders, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder as well as low self-directedness and eating disorder severity. Conclusions: Suicide attempts in AN are not uncommon, are frequently associated with the intention to die, occur less frequently in persons with the restricting subtype of the illness, and after controlling for depression are associated with a constellation of behaviors and traits associated with behavioral and affective dyscontrol. Source: PMID: 18256339, Psychosom Med. 2008 Feb 6.

Stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination of women with anorexia nervosa. Limited research indicates that public attitudes toward individuals with eating disorders are moderately negative. The present study examined specific forms of stigmatisation attributed to individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN). Eighty female participants recruited from an undergraduate institution completed questionnaires assessing stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination of four target individuals: a woman with AN, depression, schizophrenia and mononucleosis. AN was considered to result more from lack of social support and biological factors than poor living habits. Characteristics attributed to targets were less positive for AN than the targets with schizophrenia and mononucleosis; participants reported greater discomfort interacting with the target with AN compared to the targets with depression and mononucleosis. Having actual contact with an individual with AN related to a positive predicted outcome of and comfort in interacting with the target with AN. Findings support the existence of stigma toward individuals with AN. Future research should examine means of reducing stigma.  Eur Eat Disord Rev. 2008 Jan 31.

For Professionals - Conferences/Seminars/Online Courses/Study Groups:  

The Renfrew Center Foundation, the nation's leader in eating disorders training, presents an Online Seminar for Healthcare Professionals. This seminar offers 1 CEU and provides a variety of perspectives, tools and tactics to help treat eating disorders effectively. Cost: $25. Space is limited. For more information or to register visit http://renfrew.org/news-events/event.asp?id=98 or contact Loren Heywood at 1-877-367-3383. Date: March 21, 2008. Countertransference in the Psychotherapy of Patients with Eating Disorders. Presented by Doug Bunnell, PhD, Vice President and Director of Outpatient Clinical Services, The Renfrew Centers.

The Renfrew Center Foundation Presents The 2008 Seminars For Professionals (offering 6 CEUs). This year, The Renfrew Center Foundation has planned a series of three advanced, day-long training seminars addressing core issues in the treatment of eating disorders.  Refer to the schedule below to determine which eating disorder expert will be in your city and what specific topic will be covered.  For more information or to register, visit http://renfrew.org/news-events/event.asp?id=107 or contact Loren Heywood at 1-877-367-3383.

Insatiable Hungers: Eating Disorders, Chemical Dependency and Depression in Women. Presented by: Adrienne Ressler, MA, LMSW, CEDS, National Training Director, The Renfrew Center Foundation. Dates and locations: Hartford, CT – March 14; Louisville, KY—March 28; Columbia, SC – April 11; Milwaukee, WI – April 16; Ann Arbor, MI – April 18; Houston, TX – May 2; Harrisburg, PA – May 9; New York City, NY – May 30.

The Self of the Therapist: Exploring the Therapeutic Relationship. Presented by: Doug Bunnell, PhD, Vice President & Director of Outpatient Clinical Services, The Renfrew Centers. Dates and locations: Alexandria, VA –April 18 and Princeton, NJ – May 9.

Awakening the Silent Soul: Treating Eating Disorders From The Inside Out. Presented by: Jennifer Nardozzi, PsyD, Assistant Clinical Director, The Renfrew Center of Florida; Date and Location: Atlanta, GA – May 2.

Orlando, FL: IAEDP Symposium 2008 from April 3-6, 2008. It Takes Two to Tango: The Dance between Therapist and Patient.

Jessica Setnick’s Eating Disorders Boot Camp and Molly Kellogg’s Counseling Intensive for Nutrition Professionals. 2008. Cities: New York, NY: April 11 - 13; Billings, MT: May 2 – 4; Colorado Springs, CO: July 25 – 27; Los Angeles, CA: September 26 – 28; Chicago, IL: October 24 (Counseling Intensive only); Dallas, TX: December 6 – 8.  A full weekend of training. These are practical workshops designed to advance dietitians’ proficiency with eating disorders and nutrition counseling skills.  Nine (9) credits (RDs and DTRs) for each workshop (18 for the whole weekend).  Discounted fee if you register for both programs. Details available at www.mollykellogg.com.

Uniondale, NY: National Eating Disorders Association-Long Island (NEDA-LI) Out on a Limb Series IX” Case Discussion Workshop. Special Topic: What Do I Do Now: Chronic and Severe Cases. Facilitators: Joann Carcaterra, DO-Physician, Vivian Delman, MPS, RD, CDN, Jeffrey DeSarbo, DO-Psychiatrist and Meg Maginn, LCSW. Practitioners working with eating disordered patients will inevitably encounter barriers, intractable issues and personal reactions that may create an impasse in treatment. Skill enhancement and collaboration techniques will allow professionals to better manage eating disorder cases. Contact hours for professionals. Continental breakfast included. Location: 50 Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Uniondale, NY from 9:30am-12:00pm (registration: 9:00am). Dates: May 2, 2008. Seats are limited and advanced registration is suggested. For more information call NEDA-LI at 516-794-0415 or visit www.neda-li.org.

Nashville, TN: Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee’s Annual Forum, Coping with Trauma: Feeding the Injured Self with Margo Maine, PhD., Keynote Speaker. The full day conference for behavioral health professionals is hosted by Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN on April 5, 2008 from 8am - 4 pm. Registrants are offered a choice of two breakout sessions from the following topics: Restoration and Healing: The Importance of a Spiritual Focus When Addressing Eating and Trauma Related Disorders; The Role of Spirituality in the Treatment of Trauma and Eating Disorders: Recommendations for Clinical Practice; From Diet Trauma to Body and Mind-fullness: The Healing Power of Group; Understanding the Eating Disorder/Self Injury Link; Unlocking the Frozen Silence of Trauma Survivors Using Psychodrama; Vicarious Trauma and Burnout in Professionals: Working with Survivors of Trauma and Eating Disorders; How Relief From Trauma with EMDR Can Positively Impact Eating Behavior and Body Image. Continuing education offered. Visit www.edct.net to register or call 877-526-EDCT. (PAID)

Now Accepting Call for Proposals for the 18th Annual Renfrew Center Foundation Conference - Feminist Perspectives and Beyond: The Power of Therapeutic Relationships in the Treatment of Eating Disorders.  Both clinical experience and empirical research emphasize the crucial importance of the treatment relationship during the course of psychotherapy. In order to further theoretical understanding and effective practice in eating disorders, the 2008 Renfrew Center Foundation Conference is devoted to an examination of therapeutic relationships. The Conference Committee invites proposals for workshops and posters on all aspects of this relationship. Quantitative and qualitative studies, conceptual formulations and clinical observations are welcome. Selected proposals will explore topics such as: Therapeutic Relationships Across the Continuum of Care; Effective Use of Counter-transference; Psychoneurology and Attachment; Therapeutic Impasses and Repair; Creating a Sense of Safety; Family and Friends as Therapeutic Agents; Engaging Reluctant Patients; Limit Setting; Expressions of Caring During Treatment; Therapist Self-Disclosure: Advantages and Disadvantages; Psychoeducation; Temperament and Genetic Factors; The Therapeutic Alliance in Group and Family Therapy; Building a Therapeutic Relationship in the Context of Trauma; Ending Therapy; Therapist Self-Care. For more information on submitting a proposal visit www.renfrew.org.

Southern California - Professional Study Groups: Carolyn Costin, MFT invites all treating professionals to her study groups. These groups cover case reviews, treatment strategies, new literature, research, and other areas related to the treatment of eating disorders. CEU's are given to MFT's and LCSW's. For more information call 310-457-9958. Group #1 takes place the first Tuesday of every month from 12:00 - 1:00pm at the Eating Disorder Center of CA, www.edcca.com. Group #2 takes place the first Wednesday of every month from 12:00-1:30pm at the Monte Nido Treatment Center, www.montenido.com.

Advocacy:  

Advocacy - The Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy and Action. The EDC, a Washington, D.C. advocacy organization, is preparing to expand its online information about eating disorders among men and boys and other populations. If you know of high quality resources already online, let them know. The EDC would like to link to those pages, or share the information already available. Send suggestions to manager@eatingdisorderscoalition.org. Individuals can join their email list. Hospitals, treatment programs, non-profits, and other groups can become EDC member organizations. For more information visit http://eatingdisorderscoalition.org/involved/involved.html.

Treatment Center Spotlight:  

California:

California Adolescent Residential Treatment News - Center for Discovery: Center for Discovery's Eating Disorder Program is a comprehensive residential treatment program dedicated solely to the treatment of adolescent males and females suffering with eating disorders. Discovery offers a professional, structured environment with the comfort and nurturing of a serene home-style setting with several locations in California. The individualized and intensive treatment experience and twenty-four hour supervision is particularly effective in identifying and addressing the destructive behaviors and underlying emotional issues of the eating disorder. The Discovery program includes an integrated family approach with one to two private family sessions weekly, a weekly family education and support group and therapeutic family meals. Treatment also includes individual therapy, group education, narratives, expressive art therapy, emotion-management skills training, family support development, medical assessment, psychiatric consultations, and nutritional components. Discovery is a preferred provider to many insurance plans and they will assist families in verifying their insurance benefits as well as creating a financial plan for continued care. For more information call at 800-760-3934 or visit www.centerfordiscovery.com. 

Calabasas, CA: Treatment Center News – Monte Nido Residential Treatment Center: Monte Nido combines a beautiful natural healing environment with the expertise of the renowned national expert and author, Carolyn Costin, and the treatment professionals from her company, Community Counseling for Individuals and Families, Inc.  Monte Nido is a very small, intimate facility. Monte Nido only takes six clients at a time. Clients treated at Monte Nido are all women suffering from anorexia, bulimia or exercise addiction. The facility has a family-like environment; their unique level system allows each client to gain increasing freedom and responsibility for her own recovery. By the end of her stay, each client is shopping for and preparing her own food and monitoring her own exercise. This will help prepare her for handling these activities upon discharge from Monte Nido. They also have a unique transition program, Bella Mar, which offers various levels of transitional and independent living situations. For more information call 310-457-9958, visit www.montenido.com or email mntc@montenido.com. 

Malibu, CA: Treatment Center News - Monte Nido Vista: Carolyn Costin and the Monte Nido Treatment Center are pleased to announce a new 10 bed residential facility for anorexia, bulimia and exercise addiction. Monte Nido Vista is located in the foothills of Malibu, CA. The residential program is designed to meet the individual needs of clients and their families in a way that gives them an increasingly higher level of responsibility and "teaches" them how to recover and sustain it. The atmosphere is professional and structured, but is is also warm, friendly and family-like. The staff members are highly dedicated professionals, many of who are recovered themselves, thus serving as excellent role models. For more information on The Monte Nido Treatment Center of its affiliates visit www.montenido.com, call 310-457-9956, or email mntc@montenido.com. 

Ventura County, CA: Treatment Center News - Pacific Shores Hospital: Pacific Shores Hospital is a 30-bed facility completely dedicated to Rader Programs Eating Disorders Treatment. The facility was specifically designed to provide a warm and nurturing environment. The facility is located five minutes from the ocean in picturesque Ventura County just North of Los Angeles and South of Santa Barbara in Southern California. Rader Programs at Pacific Shores Hospital maintains an outstanding treatment team with extensive experience and training in Rader Program's proven treatment philosophy. The Rader Program is a national treatment center with multiple locations. The facility accepts patients from all across the United States. For more information visit www.raderprograms.com, call 800-841-1515 or email rader@raderprograms.com. 

Colorado:

Colorado Treatment Center News – The Eating Disorder Center of Denver (EDC-Denver): The EDC-Denver offers a full spectrum of care from partial hospitalization through outpatient to males and females age 16 and older. The Partial Hospitalization Program operates 11 hours per day, 7 days per week and includes supervised meals and snacks. Lodging is provided at a nearby apartment building for PHP patients from out of town. The Evening Intensive Outpatient Program operates 4 hours per evening, three days per week and includes one meal. Most of the Eating Disorder Center of Denver's group/program components are available on an outpatient basis. Services include individual and family/couples therapy; DBT; aftercare; psychiatric evaluation; therapy and medication monitoring; and nutritional counseling by a registered dietitian. EDC-Denver accepts most insurances. Treatment providers are welcome to utilize EDC-Denver’s outpatient services as adjunct therapies to their own treatment. Visit www.edcdenver.com for details and schedules.

Eating Disorder Center of Denver’s Support Groups: Call 303-771-0861 to register for any of the groups, except for the Family & Friends Support Group.

Aftercare Outpatient Process Group: Monday 5:30-7:00 pm—An open group consisting of individuals in recovery who have completed an intense eating disorders program at EDC-D or other national programs. Cost is $50 per group.

DBT Skills Training: Monday 5:00-6:15 pm—12-week course focusing on the skill sets of core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance. This interactive educational group is open and ongoing, allowing one to join at any time. Cost is $75 per group.

Minding the Body: Monday 6:30-8:00 pm—12-week course for those struggling with weight loss and/or maintenance. The group is split into an educational hour followed by a group process hour. The educational topics include body image, food and feelings, mindful eating and how to manage hunger and interpersonal relationships. This group is open and ongoing allowing one to join at any time. Cost is $75 per group.

Body Image 101: Tuesday 5:30-7:00 pm—12-week ongoing group designed to facilitate the connection between a woman and her body. A variety of cognitive, behavioral and experiential techniques are utilized to foster acceptance of the body in all its uniqueness. Cost is $50 per group.

Art Therapy Group: Thursday 6:30-8:00 pm—Ongoing weekly group which utilizes art and creativity by incorporating various types of art media to facilitate a connection with others and the self. The group will emphasize mindfulness, self-discovery and the actions needed to maintain a recovery focus. While this group is open and ongoing, it is recommended that prospective members make a 6 week commitment to establish continuity and purpose in the group. Cost is $50 per group.

Family & Friends Support Group: First and third Thursday of each month 6-8:30 pm—A group for families and friends of individuals suffering with eating disorders to discuss their problems, concerns and successes. RSVP & questions to Eating Disorder Foundation at 303-322-3373.**Meetings are held at The Eating Disorder Foundation, 3003 East Third Ave, Suite 110, basement level, Denver, CO 80206

Eating Disorders Anonymous: Saturday 1:30-2:30 pm—A free, open support group for individuals suffering and recovering from eating disorders. ** Meetings are held at the Eating Disorder Center of Denver, 950 S. Cherry St., Ste. 1010, Denver, CO 80246.

Florida:

Miami, FL: Oliver-Pyatt Centers Announce New Miami Location: The Oliver-Pyatt Center of Miami is opening in June 2008 and is currently accepting CVs/resumes for various positions, from clinical staff to general office and administrative positions. The Center will offer high quality, comprehensive Day Treatment and Intensive Outpatient programs for the treatment of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and exercise addiction. A maximum of eight clients in each of their two programs will be supported by a multidisciplinary team. The Center’s programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, addressing the core issues driving the eating disorder while providing the tools needed to live a meaningful life, free from food and weight preoccupation. They believe that one-to-one therapy is the cornerstone of effective eating disorder treatment. Each client receives a minimum of six individual therapy sessions per week. The highly individualized approach to treatment is provided in an intimate environment with a high staff to client ratio. The Center’s innovative protocols are grounded in a thorough understanding of eating disorders, incorporating state of the art approaches, outcome data, research, and current medical knowledge. They believe that full recovery from eating disorders is possible when the individual is provided with effective treatment. The program is founded by Dr. Wendy Oliver-Pyatt, a board certified psychiatrist. Dr. Oliver-Pyatt has created programs which are known for integrating compassionate treatment with scientifically sound, effective protocols. For more information, visit www.oliverpyattcenters.com. If interested in employment, email Vicki Kroviak at vkroviak@oliverpyattcenters.com.

Oregon:

Oregon Treatment Center News – RainRock: A Residential Treatment Facility for Women, A Monte Nido Affiliate. Executive Director: Carolyn Costin, LMFT. RainRock is located in a former bed and breakfast along the McKenzie River on 3.5 acres of lush lawn, gardens and riverfront. RainRock lives up to its name, evoking the healing properties of both earth and water combined. The secluded park-like setting is private yet expansive with abundant manicured grounds and the constant energy and flow of the river. This facility is an important addition to the Pacific Northwest where there are no residential treatment facilities. Carolyn Costin’s 30 years of eating disorder experience and the uniqueness of this property promises the clients a rare opportunity to deal with and find recovery from these very difficult disorders. Carolyn serves as Executive Director of RainRock and The Eating Disorder Center of California and as Clinical Director of the original program, Monte Nido Treatment Center, located in Malibu, California. For additional information on RainRock and The Monte Nido Treatment philosophy, visit their websites at www.rainrock.org or www.montenido.com or call 310-457-9958.

Virginia:

Richmond, VA - Treatment Center News – Remuda Ranch East: Since 1990, Remuda Ranch has treated more than 7,500 women and girls suffering from eating disorders. Now, in order to make their programs more available to other parts of the nation, they are opening a second campus in Virginia in September 2007. Remuda East, located 45 minutes from Richmond, has 48 beds in separate adult, adolescent and children's programs. Patients receive the same Christian-based treatment and specialized therapies as the Remuda Programs in Arizona. For more information, contact Remuda Programs for Eating Disorders at 1-800-445-1900. 

Wisconsin:

Rogers Memorial Hospital, a nationally recognized leader in eating disorders treatment, is growing! The nonprofit hospital’s Eating Disorder Center expansion broadens their nationally recognized eating disorders facility and features evidence-based treatment for adults with co-occurring anxiety disorders. The expansion decreases waitlists, improves patient privacy and provides treatment in an intimate, home-like setting. Highlights include: individualized care from several psychiatrists; an experienced multidisciplinary treatment team; a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan; emphasis on patient and family education; a comprehensive case management/coordination of continuing care; and access to on-site experts for additional clinical consultations. Rogers Memorial has separate programs for males, females, adolescents, and individuals with co-occurring anxiety disorders. The primary goals of treatment are to achieve nutritional stability, to identify and correct errors in thinking (such as body image distortions and perfectionism), and to address other obstacles to maintaining recovery. Inpatient, partial hospitalization, and residential treatment services are available, meaning the level of care can be adjusted dynamically without major relocation. Treatment components include: family, group and individual therapy; experiential therapy; substance abuse counseling; consulting psychologists; spiritual counseling; one-to-one support; a family and friends program; community outings and therapeutic passes. Rogers Memorial Hospital-Delafield will open soon and is now accepting referrals. Early intervention is the key to improving the quality of your patients’ lives. Call Leah Schwechel at 800-767-4411 ext. 310 or visit www.rogerseatingdisorders.org.

Support Groups Led by Professionals:

Winter Park, FL - Family and Friends of People with Eating Disorders: Information and Support Workshop. Includes presentation by Sandee Nebel, MS, Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Topics covered include: What is an eating disorder?;  Where does the eating disorder come from?; How is an eating disorder treated?; How to be helpful to a family member, loved one, or friend. Topics covered: medical consequences; healthy nutrition; the “refeeding process” and mealtime issues. Additional material: how to take care of yourself in the process of recovery; support groups and recommended reading list. When: Saturday, March 29th 10:00am - 12:30pm. Where: White Picket Fence Counseling Center, 1345 Clay Street Winter Park, FL 32789.  Fee: $45 (check or cash). Register: seating is limited, call 407-622-0202 or email WtPicketFence@aol.com to register.

Manassas, VA: March 31 to May 24th - Crossroads Counseling implementing a 8-week multi-disciplinary Intensive Outpatient Program for women and teens suffering with anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder. It is geared for individuals who are ready for a step down structured program after hospitalization or for those looking for more than weekly therapy. Treatment modalities include a wide variety of group therapies, with both a cognitive behavioral and Biblical perspective. Participants utilize their creativity to heal through music, art and experiential writing. Clients will be actively involved in groups for anxiety, body image, codependency, meal processing, nutrition, positive thinking, and spirituality. Inner strength and beauty, media imagery, and the development of healthy and constructive coping skills will be discussed and explored. The goal of treatment is to gain a deeper understanding for how recovery from an eating disorder can contribute to a richer life experience and be part of the exciting discovery of a more purposeful life. For more information contact mannhardt@comcast.net or call 703-743-1253.

Oakland, CA: Compulsive Eating Support Groups - 10 Week Afternoon Group to begin April 3rd, 2008 and Ongoing Monday Evening Group. The groups integrate a psychodynamic orientation with a non-diet approach to help clients explore the underlying emotional, familial and cultural issues that lie at the heart of compulsive eating and body hatred. Clients learn to recognize their body's cues of hunger and satisfaction and develop a positive body image. For more information, email danaschwartz510@email.com or call Dana Schwartz, MFT at 510-663-8783.

For more listings of professionally led support groups, follow this link: http://www.edreferral.com/Professional_Support_Groups_and_Workshops.htm 

Free Support Groups (scan down):

Beverly Hills, CA Free Eating Disorder Support Group: This group meets Monday evenings at 7:30pm. For additional information contact Dr. Linda Blakeley at Drlindablakeley@aol.com or call 310-286-9171.

For additional listings of Free Support Groups follow this link: http://www.edreferral.com/Support_Groups_for_Eating_Disorders.htm 

Employment Opportunities:

Wickenburg, AZ – Psychiatrist, Counselor, Registered Nurse: Rosewood Ranch, an expanding residential eating disorder treatment facility has outstanding employment opportunities available during this period of amazing growth. Their treatment programs focus on helping individuals achieve understanding of the underlying issues that create imbalance in their lives. They do this by treating each person as a unique individual and creating treatment and recovery plans designed to meet each resident’s needs. Rosewood, located in the high Sonoran Desert and surrounded by the Bradshaw Mountains, covers approximately 13 acres about 60 miles Northwest of Phoenix. For more information visit www.rosewoodranch.com, resumes may be emailed to judys@rosewoodranch.com.

Malibu, CA: Eating Disorder Treatment Program Job Positions Available. Carolyn Costin and the Monte Nido Treatment Center is pleased to announce their new 6-bed residential eating disorder facility, Monte Nido Vista which opened close to their original location. Monte Nido Vista is an important addition to their family of facilities in their continuing efforts to expand services and reduce wait times for clients entering their programs. They are looking for applicants for all positions, at various facilities including; Clinical Director, Asst. Clinical Director, Primary Therapists, Nurses, CNAs and support staff. Send resume to mntc@montenido.com or fax to 310-457-8442. Monte Nido Vista is in a private park-like setting, with multiple inviting gardens for outside private sessions. Please visit www.montenido.com to visit campuses. For further information, contact the administrative office at 310-457-9958.

Miami, FL–  The Oliver-Pyatt Center of Miami will be opening in June 2008. They offer high quality, comprehensive Day Treatment and Intensive Outpatient programs for the treatment of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and exercise addiction. Their treatment settings are intimate, with a high staff to client ratio. They have a maximum of 8 clients in each of the two programs (Day Treatment and Intensive Outpatient), with a multidisciplinary team approach to treatment. They are currently accepting CV’s/Resumes for a variety of positions, from clinical staff to general office and administrative positions. They will begin interviewing in February, 2008 for their Miami location. If you are interested in any of the above positions, email Vicki Kroviak at vkroviak@oliverpyattcenters.com or call her directly at 914-330-2144.

Chattanooga, TN - Clinical Director Position available at Eating Disorder Center at Focus Health of TN. The Center is seeking a Clinical Director to over see an established 24 bed substance abuse treatment program and new 16 bed residential treatment program for women struggling with eating disorders, opening 03/10/08 in Chattanooga, TN. The program is based on a wellness and whole person approach to include education, cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, experiential therapies, yoga, meditation, nutritional wellness and process therapies. Candidates will have extensive experience with anorexia, bulimia, compulsive overeating, exercise addiction, mental health issues, family systems, emotional trauma, team management, program development, intake, aftercare, business development, case management, utilization review and dual diagnosis. Knowledge of substance abuse and the interaction with eating disorders required and must be a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist. Those trained in EMDR, psychodrama, art therapies and DBT will be given special consideration. The Clinical Director will be responsible for managing the clinical, intake and utilization review departments and will work directly with the Administrator, Executive Director, Director of Nursing and the Director of Marketing and must be a team player. Salary is negotiable and depends on experience. Send cover letter and resume to Amy Lashway-Cisneros, MA, LPC, NCC at amycis7@gmail.com.

Research Studies on Eating Disorders:  

Researchers evaluate therapies for anorexia nervosa: Therapists and eating disorders specialists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis are joining investigators at a handful of sites around North America to evaluate anorexia nervosa treatments. Only 25 percent of anorexia patients recover completely, and the goal of this study is to improve those odds.  Funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the study will look at therapeutic approaches that involve families and also test whether antidepressant medication can enhance the results. The researchers will compare two types of family therapy. Participants will come to 16 one-hour family therapy sessions over a nine-month period. In addition, half of the patients with anorexia nervosa will receive the drug fluoxetine (Prozac). The rest will take an inactive placebo. "We're examining whether one type of family therapy is superior to another and whether or not there is an added benefit from medication, both in terms of initial improvements and long-term health," says Denise E. Wilfley, Ph.D., professor of psychiatry, medicine, pediatrics and psychology and principal investigator at the Washington University study site. "Anorexia nervosa is the eating disorder that we've been aware of the longest, but very few large-scale studies have been conducted, so it's virtually impossible to provide good evidence-based recommendations for care." Anorexia nervosa is associated with serious medical complications, including cardiovascular, dermatological, gastrointestinal and osteoporosis problems. "Many teenagers with anorexia nervosa also do poorly in school because starvation interferes with their cognitive function as well as multiple other systems in the body," Wilfley says. "This disorder affects both physical and psychological health, and it has among the highest suicide rates of any psychiatric illness. In fact, while anorexia nervosa is rare it has the highest death rate of any mental disorder." The investigators will recruit 240 anorexia patients and their families at six sites in North America, making this the largest NIH-funded treatment study of the disorder. Some 40 patient families will receive treatment at Washington University School of Medicine. The families will be divided into four groups: Behavioral Family Therapy (BFT), an intervention that focuses on changing the affected child's eating behavior; BFT and the antidepressant drug fluoxetine; Systems Family Therapy (SFT), an intervention that explores family issues that may influence the development of the eating disorder; and SFT plus fluoxetine for the affected adolescent. The researchers are seeking families with a child between the ages of 12 and 18 who has anorexia nervosa. Adolescents of both genders with the disorder are eligible for the study because although anorexia nervosa is more commonly diagnosed in females, 10 percent of anorexia nervosa patients are male. Families who qualify will be randomly assigned to one of the four study groups. Those in the BFT groups primarily will be taught what the medical literature calls "re-feeding." Dorothy Van Buren, Ph.D., research assistant professor of psychiatry, will be involved in BFT therapy. She says among the unique aspects of the treatment is the session at which the counselor observes a family meal.

"We observe how effective they are at being able to encourage their child to eat an adequate amount," she says. "That gives us information about how best to coach the family, what their strengths are and some areas they might need to work on." Van Buren describes BFT as encouraging and structuring the family situation so that eating is expected. Often, she says, parents are so fearful of anorexia nervosa that they stop expecting their child to eat normally, and as the child becomes sicker, the expectations get lower as the family accommodates the eating disorder. "The behavioral therapy is designed to help families find ways to break that cycle," she says. Families randomly selected for the SFT treatment also will come in for family therapy sessions, but those sessions have a different philosophical approach, according to Robinson Welch, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychiatry. "We assume families have a 'set point' where they function best, and we intervene via a series of questions and reflections to help them make changes in the ways they operate," Welch explains. "Whereas the behavioral approach provides something like a map for the family, the systems approach is like holding up a mirror. The therapist helps the family reflect on how they are different and how the family dynamic may have changed as a result of anorexia nervosa. Going through that process, we hope they will be able to self-correct." Both behavioral and systems family therapy have been demonstrated to be effective treatments for anorexia nervosa, but there has been little research about which approach works best. There also is some evidence that antidepressant drugs like fluoxetine may help this patient population. "Fluoxetine could help anorexia nervosa patients deal more effectively with the anxiety and the depressive features of the disorder," Wilfley explains. "Controlling those symptoms could make therapy more effective. That's important because when patients do recover, there still is a 40 percent relapse rate." Divorced and nontraditional families are welcome to participate, and all family members living in a household are expected to participate in behavioral or systems family therapy sessions. Screenings, family treatment, medication and medical monitoring are provided at no cost. For more information or to volunteer for the study, call project coordinator Nichole Cecil at 314-286-0076.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is set to conduct a new long-term study of anorexia nervosa in 240 teens, ages 12 to 18. Six research facilities in the United States and Canada will work together with the NIMH on a new study which will focus on early-intervention treatments. Experts believe that a combination of factors leads to anorexia. American society's worship of ultra-thinness places immense pressure on women - and on men. Research has found that a woman with an anorexic mother or sister is more likely to become anorexic herself. Also, parents who are highly focused on appearance, frequently go on diets, or make negative comments about their children's bodies, are more likely to have a child who develops anorexia. Other factors which may lead to anorexia include trauma, a perfectionistic personality, and a genetic predisposition to the disorder. Getting help early on is crucial to effective treatment. For more information visit: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/199143/anorexia_news_nimh_to_start_longterm.html.

San Diego, CA: UCSD Researchers Seek Males and Females with Anorexia Nervosa: The UCSD researchers are currently seeking adolescents and adults currently suffering from Anorexia Nervosa to participate in one of our three current studies. To qualify for any of the studies one must be at least 15% below ideal body weight and be fearful of weight gain, despite being underweight. Both adults and adolescents between the ages of 14-45 are needed to participate in a taste study and would be compensated for up to $70 for completing the assessments, taste tests and interview. Adults 18 years of age and older are needed to participate in a randomized control trial of the medication Quetiapine, in which they will receive either the study medication or a placebo. Subjects will be compensated up to $360 for completing study related assessments and the medication treatment. In addition, we are offering several months of family therapy treatment for families with adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18 at no cost. The adolescents in this study will also be randomly assigned to receive either the medication Fluoxetine or a placebo. For more information, contact UCSD Eating Disorder Treatment and Research Program at 858-366-2525 or email edresearch@ucsd.edu.

San Diego, CA: UCSD Researchers Seek Women Recovered From an Eating Disorder: Help UCSD researchers understand what causes eating disorders! We are seeking female participants between 18 and 45 years of age who are recovered from Anorexia or Bulimia Nervosa. By participating in the study, subjects will be assisting physicians and researchers in developing new treatments for these complex and serious disorders. Subjects will be compensated for your participation in this study. For more information, contact the UCSD Eating Disorder Research and Treatment Program at 858-366-2525 or by email at edresearch@ucsd.edu.

Books, Resources, Media, Blogs:

To purchase books at discounted rates visit http://www.edreferral.com/books.htm.

Why She Feels Fat: Understanding Your Loved One's Eating Disorder and How You Can Help. Authors: Johanna Marie McShane, Tony Paulson. Eating disorders are serious, life-threatening illnesses that often make no sense to family and friends. But to the person involved, they make a lot of sense and are, in fact, a way of coping with life. Why She Feels Fat defines and explores eating disorders “from the inside out” to convey the emotional experiences and perspectives of those who are suffering. Decoding the deeper meaning of the statement, “I feel fat” is at the heart of this simple and straightforward book and is crucial for not only the person in recovery, but her caregivers as well. This book includes basic information, such as signs, symptoms, medical complications, causes, approaches to treatment, stages of recovery, and quotes from individuals woven throughout. To purchase Why She Feels Fat http://www.edreferral.com/books.htm.

Documentary Film - America the Beautiful: America the Beautiful is a powerful film about the impact that the beauty industry has upon our culture.  This file examines how the self-image of American women is affected by the beauty industry and how the net effect is that everyone feels worse about themselves! www.americathebeautifuldoc.com. Carolyn Costin the founder and executive director of The Monte Nido Treatment Center and its affiliates contributed to this documentary.  Visit  http://www.montenido.com/montenido/index.php?fa=video_americabeautiful to view a clip of the film.

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Take Care. Christine.
Christine A. Hartline, M.A., Executive Director
Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center
www.EDReferral.com