The Eating Disorders Treatment Center at River Oaks Hospital is an inpatient ED treatment program. They can address co-occurring addictions, and are unique for offering a specialty trauma track for eating disorder patients at the inpatient level. Any updated reviews? Please post in comments below. You can check out the FAQ and Guidelines for suggested questions. Thank you!
* When were you there? October/November was 2024
* What level(s) of care did you do (e.g., inpatient, residential, PHP, IOP)? Inpatient
* If applicable: Is it wheelchair accessible? Yes
* How many patients are there on average? 10
* What genders does it treat? All
* If applicable: Do they support the gender identities of transgender and nonbinary people? Yes
* How often do you see a medical doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist (therapist), nutritionist, nurse, etc? Psychiatrist & Therapist everyday (m-f). Dietican at least twice but there if you needed more support
* What sort of therapies are used (e.g., DBT, CBT, EMDR, ACT, exposure therapy, somatic experiencing, etc.)? DBT & lots of groups!!
Describe the average day:
* What were meals like? The support wise: some staff are better support than others.
* What sorts of food were available or served? Normal Hospital food
* Did they supplement? How did that system work? Yes, Ensure.
* Are you able to eat vegetarian? Vegan? Yes (don’t recommend)
* What privileges are allowed? Kinda, bathroom privileges & bedroom privileges
* Does it work on a level system? No
* What was your favorite group? Psychodrama!
* If applicable: Is the program trauma-informed? Yes
* What did you like the most? I loved the support the staff gave you.
* What did you like the least? Bedroom rules. (Bedrooms are always locked)
* Would you recommend this program? YES
* What level of activity or exercise was allowed? None
* What did people do on weekends? Color, ceramics, groups.
* Do you get to know your weight? No
* What was the average length of stay? 4 Weeks
* What was the average age range? 20-30
* How do visits/phone calls work? Phone calls at night & visitors at 6.
* What is the electronics policy (e.g., cell phones, iPods, Kindles, laptops, tablets)? Not allowed without therapist permission.
* For adolescents: Did they provide time to do schoolwork or offer academic support? Yes
* For inpatient/residential: Are you able to go on outings/passes? No
* What kind of aftercare do they provide? Do they help you set up an outpatient treatment team? They help you set up an outpatient team!
* Are there any resources for people who come from out of state/country? Yes
* Other? A great program, but hard work!
Hi im considering this program or CFC and I have a significant trauma history that greatly impacts my AN-R , not UW/in super danger but definitely heading that way if I dont get into IP/RTC soonish.
I am motivated to work hard and I think having IT every day of the week would be super helpful for me,
what are the groups like? Is it a “time filler” situation where a tech plays music because there is no program (Fairhaven had an issue with this and nursing groups that were a joke) or are we actually learning skills for the real world/ help with body acceptance, true ED focused programming?
Also how much focus is on CBT (i have basically NO self esteem so CBT has always always just hurt me and not helped) DBT I’m a bit more okay with.
Oh also I’m 35 AFAB and had AN-R since I was 9.. and only a few weeks of inpatient at Fairhaven (during COVID it was a mess) So basically will be starting with NO ED program background/foundation.
Feel free to email me
ccgp05@aol.com
Thank you!
*TW*
Hi do you know how they determine weight restoration range? [redacted*] I discharged early from another program and feel I need more therapy.
*sentence redacted by admin
? Full Review
**When were you there?
I was there in May 2022 and September 2022. Trauma and ED are on the same unit, but have different schedules. Trauma and ED eat separately and rooms are in separate locations on the unit.
**How many patients on average?
The first time I was there, there were 6 of us. The second time, there were 8. At one point, I was the only ED patient for 2 weeks. The unit has the capacity to treat up to 12 ED patients.
**Does it treat both males and females? If so, is treatment separate or combined?
Yes, it’s combined. Typically it’s a majority women.
**How often do you see a medical doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist (therapist), nutritionist, etc?
Medical doctor- once, then as needed
Psychiatrist- 5 times a week
Therapist- 5 times a week
RD- Twice a week (but not sure on that). RDs also run some groups and are always around.
**What is the staff ratio to patients?
Varies. During the day, there’s tons of staff. Typically 1-2 BHCs and 1 nurse overnight.
**What sort of therapies are used? (DBT, CBT, EMDR) etc?
A mix. DBT group twice a week. Educational groups (but that are actually helpful). There’s an expressive therapy everyday (art, psychodrama, music, etc.).
**Describe the average day:
6 am: weights
8:00(?): breakfast
9:00: trauma group
10:00: Compulsive behaviors
10:30: Snack
11:00: Psychodrama
12:00: Lunch
1:00: Education group
2:30(?): snack
3:00: Balanced Living
4:00: Relapse Prevention
5:00: Dinner
6:00: Outside time! (they have a courtyard)
7:00: Phones, hang out, homework, TV, etc.
8:00: Snack
9:00: Meds
They typically like you in bed by 10:30 or so, but most people go to bed before then. It’s A LOT of work and you will have therapy assignments.
**What were meals like?
ED people sat with a BHC (behavioral health counselor) or sometimes RD at a table. It was plated for you.
**What sorts of food were available or served?
There’s 3 entree choices each meal, but they give you a write-in menu that you can use for any meal or snack. Once I learned what was good, what wasn’t, and what to combine, I did just fine with the food. Write in menu includes stuff like baked fish, chicken, sandwiches, pizza, cereal, fruit, carrots, hummus, hamburger, PopTarts, pretzels, Oreos, peanut butter, oatmeal, salads, etc.
**Did they supplement? How did that system work?
They use Ensure+ or they’ll let you supplement with PopTarts. Less than 50% is two ensures or 2 poptarts. 51%-99% is one ensure or one poptart.
**What is the policy of not complying with meals?
If it’s a one time thing, not a huge deal, but if it’s a pattern, it will come up in treatment team and could affect your treatment. The staff will support you, but you have to really want to recover here.
**Are you able to be a vegetarian?
Yes, although some vegetarians complained about lack of choice. I think it just gets repetitive.
**Does it work on a level system? How do you earn privileges?
No. You have to be approved to go on outings (restaurant or grocery store).
**What did you like the most?
Having individual therapy and psychiatrist 5 times a week. It’s the only place I’ve heard of that does that and it makes a huge difference in my individual progress.
**What did you like the least?
They expect a lot from you and push you. It can be exhausting. This was also a really positive thing though. It can be hard to get staff assistance when there’s a lot going on.
**Would you recommend this program?
Yes! Especially if you have a trauma history in addition to ED. They really get into processing trauma and it is the most difficult thing I’ve ever done, but I have made more progress from this program than all the other therapies I’ve done in my life combined. Seriously life-changing.
**What level of activity or exercise was allowed? What privileges are allowed?
You can earn exercise privilege by completing meals and with weight (not sure if you have to be restored or just stable medically).
They have frisbees, football, etc. that you can use outside. Most people do laps around the courtyard.
**What did people do on weekends?
Ceramics on Saturday and Sunday. It was greenware, but still fun.
Meal structure was the same, but groups ended by noon. There’s intentionally more time for relaxing and doing assignments.
Honestly, the weekends felt much needed there because the week’s groups and work was intense.
**Do you get to know your weight?
No
**How fast is the weight gain process?
honestly unsure
**What was the average length of stay?
4-8 weeks
**What was the average age range?
Good mix- I had peers between 18 and 85. Many people in their 20s, but also many in their 40s and above.
**How do visits/phone calls work?
Visits suspended currently. You can use phones essentially whenever there isn’t a group or meal. There are two in the unit.
**What is the electronics policy? (ex: cell phones, iPods, Kindle, laptop, tablets)
No use of cell phones unless related to discharge planning or to pay bills
**Are you able to go out on passes?
No, but you can go on therapeutic outings to eat out and to grocery shop.
**What kind of aftercare do they provide? Do they help you set up an outpatient treatment team?
Yes, but people come from all over the country, so it varies. They will definitely assist as they can. The therapists are great.
**Are there any resources for people who come from out of state/country?
I came from across the country. Many people do. Not sure what resources these would include, but they help as they can.
Also, no bras with wire, blankets or stuffed animals from home, hoodies, or shoelaces are allowed.
Wheelchair accessible?
Yes 🙂
Will they allow different supplement options like nuts, glucerna, or literally anything low sugar?
I have dental issues (cavities and tooth loss caused by bacterial infections from sugar intake) as well as recurrent SIBO infections same cause. I got 1-2 cavities per week from Ensure, impacted teeth that had to be surgically removed, and nearly caused me to be discharged from treatment because I couldn’t swallow or open my mouth to eat or drink until I had I had dental work after being in treatment for less 3 weeks or less.
it is not for ED reasons that I’m asking. It’s to be able to participate without being discharged and incurring $10-15k dental bills again that I can’t afford. That’s one reason I avoid treatment and my family won’t support me in recovering with a program.
**admin note: for those who don’t know, SIBO stands for “Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.” Similar to people with Celiac, SIBO sufferers often must avoid certain types of food to prevent serious complications with long-term consequences. However, most ED treatment centers are unwilling to accommodate people with SIBO because it isn’t an allergy.
*TW*
I have a PEG mic- key button for severe Gastroparesis, as well as CPTSD and Anorexia nervosa, would they accept me with my tube and help me work on meeting tube goals and snack goals? Currently XX%+ tube fed
They don’t accept any types of feeding tubes.
Hi,
Would anyone be able to provide an updated review?
much appreciated!
Hello…the reviews from a year ago were really helpful.
Has anyone been more recently? Would love to know about your experience.
Thank you!
I was there in 2021, if that’s recent enough for you, but I was on the trauma side, not the ED side, and I was only there for a week, because a hurricane happened, so everyone was discharged and sent home because New Orleans was being evacuated, but I can give you my general impressions of the program based on my week there, if you want. I had a very bad experience on the trauma unit, but got the impression the ED program was much better (they no longer combine them- they are two separate programs just on the same unit)
Hi all,
has anyone been recently to ED program? Do you still need to gain 0.5lb per day? Having a lot of anxiety about the food. Can you give examples pls? Helpful program?
I am admitting here the first week of November and I am really happy that people get a lot out of the program and do well. I am so anxious/nervous but looking forward to getting healthier. Anyone have any insight? Would love to hear your stories, the good, the bad, the ugly! I can also supply my email if you’d rather chat that way 🙂 thanks!
The therapy here goes deep. Even the psycho -ed groups are in depth and on things that are actually helpful. In addition to a long day of groups, you will get assignments from your therapist. I definitely never felt bored or like it was a waste of time. Its not a kushy environment- typical hospital, but give it a chance the therapy that you get is worth it.
What happens if a patient here needs to get a tube? Would they be sent to the hospital and allowed to come back?
The River Oaks program does not deal with tubes. You would need to go to a different program.
Hi! Any new updates? Admit on Sunday.
What level(s) of care did you do (e.g., inpatient, residential, PHP, IOP)? River oaks offers inpatient care.
If applicable: Is it wheelchair accessible? It is, we have wheelchairs available if needed. But patients are expected to be able to walk and perform ADL’s.
How many patients are there on average? As of September 2023, we can hold up to 15 patients, but we will soon be remodeling to accommodate for 20 patients. However, this unit is combined with trauma patients and eating disorder patients. They are two separate programs and combine very few groups. ED eats meals/snacks separately as well.
Does it treat both males and females? If so, is treatment separate or combined? Combined! We treat people of all sexes and gender identities. Bedrooms are jack and jill style – having 2 patients per room with a shared bathroom – having the potential to have four patients sharing a bathroom. Males and females do not share bedrooms or bathrooms.
If applicable: Do they support the gender identities of transgender and nonbinary people? Yes!
How often do you see a medical doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist (therapist), nutritionist, nurse, etc? You see a medical doctor within the first 24 hours and again as needed. You will see a psychiatrist 5 days a week. You will see a therapist 5 days a week as well for 3 individual sessions and 2 family sessions. Nurses are on the unit 24/7 – as this is a 24/7 facility. We also have mental health techs available 24/7.
What is the staff-to-patient ratio? A MHT will always be available during meal groups and snacks. As of now, for 15 patients total, there will be two mental health techs and one nurse during the day. Overnight will have one mental health and one nurse. Staff will increase based on acuity and number of patients.
What sort of therapies are used (e.g., DBT, CBT, EMDR, ACT, exposure therapy, somatic experiencing, etc.)? DBT, CBT, EMDR, and exposure therapy are offered.
Describe the average day: Groups start around 830am with morning goals group. Groups then start at 9am to 3pm with breaks for meals and snacks. Breakfast is at 8am, AM snack is at 945am, lunch is at 12pm, PM snack is at 3pm, dinner is at 5pm, and HS snack is at 8pm. Groups vary throughout the day, but Monday-Friday, groups end at 3pm for the day.
What were meals like? For the first day upon arrival, you will be given a “generic menu” which can be a turkey/ham sandwich or what is being served on the line for meal in the cafeteria. After meeting with a nutritionist, you will be given menus where you are able to select foods you will order based on levels of exchanges (number of fats, proteins, fruits, etc) needed. Each patient’s exchanges are different and are determined upon meeting with the nutritionist.
Did they supplement? How did that system work? After meeting with a nutritionist, patients are expected to complete 100% of all meals and snacks. If less than 50% of snack or a meal is eaten a patient will be supplemented with TWO ensure pluses or TWO packs of poptarts (totaling 4 poptarts). You are given this supplement after the meal (after 30 minutes is completed) and given 10 additional minutes for the supplement. If you eat 51%-99% you are given the option of one ensure plus or one pack of poptarts.
What is the policy of not complying with meals? Supplementation will be provided as listed above.
Are you able to eat vegetarian? Vegan? Vegetarian diets are allowed. Vegan is case by case basis depending on needs.
What privileges are allowed? Once you are in treatment for a while, treatment team will discuss privileges to flush (everyone is on BRS bathroom supervision upon admission, which consists of a staff member standing outside the bathroom and flushing for you), restaurant outing (1x a week), and grocery outing (1x a week). Grocery outing is to purchase items that patients will be cooking during cooking activity which is 2x a week.
How do you earn privileges? It varies patient by patient. It would be up to treatment team, but usually upon completing and presenting a relapse prevention plan will earn privileges such as flushing.
What sort of groups do they have? Art therapy, ceramics, education groups/modules, psychodrama, body image group, goals/evening reflections group, and process group are some of the available groups each week.
If applicable: Is the program trauma-informed? Yes.
What level of activity or exercise was allowed? All patients are on exercise restriction upon admission. This can change with the treatment teams approval.
What did people do on weekends? There are still a few groups offered, but much lighter groups, such as ceramics, goals group and educational modules.
Do you get to know your weight? No. You are blind weighed daily at 6am.
If applicable: How fast is the weight gain process? If you are on a weight restoration you are expected to gain .5 pounds daily. If not, the goal will be to maintain weight between two numbers – usually a 10 pound increment.
What was the average length of stay? 3-4 weeks.
What was the average age range? The age ranges between 20s to 50s, sometimes higher.
How do visits/phone calls work? Phone calls can be made daily! We have phones available at all times, but phones are not to be used after 10pm.
What is the electronics policy (e.g., cell phones, iPods, Kindles, laptops, tablets)? Cell phones can be used with therapist for discharge planning or to pay a bill only.
For inpatient/residential: Are you able to go on outings/passes? No. Exposure therapy outings are still with staff.
Would the program be a good fit for someone who has treatment trauma? I have CPTSD from treatment but have not experienced the more commonly talked about traumas. I’ve had experiences in the past where my trauma was minimized by another program that advertises specifically treating trauma because it occurred during treatment
I believe so. As it is housed with trauma patients who also had CPTSD!
But your main treatment and groups would be eating disorder related.
You can talk to the treatment team about expanding into some trauma groups If that interests you, but it wouldn’t be right away. That being said you can certainly.still processes these unfortunate traumas in session with your therapist.
Denver ACUTE denied me. I’m really scared. They told me to contact Sanford and River Oaks and I don’t know if they’re capable. Does anyone have a recent review. Thank you.
I know things at facilities are pretty much consistent but I was wondering if there were any recent reviews
Tw: Do they tube feed or send people out to be tubed still? I admit next week!
No, they don’t.
Thank you!
You’re very welcome!
how often do you meet w the nutritionist?
when do you menu plan?
are the meals based on specific types of foods or an exchange system?
are they strict about menu substitutions?
do the meals come on trays or is it like a buffet?
What happens if you do not complete supplements?
Hi Beth. I just posted a review that should be available shortly. It will answer your questions 🙂
I was there last year, in May and September. Let me know if you have specific questions. The reviews on the program are pretty spot-on. 🙂
Oh, awesome! Thanks for the reply. I have Medicare and trying to decide between River Oaks or Tower Behavioral Health Resiliency inpatient program in PA. It seems like Medicare typically does not cover much, but do you know the average length of stay when you were there?
Do they try to get people weight restored before discharge?
Also, did you find the program to be helpful? The reviews seem to be mixed, and there are not many for the ED unit. Thank you:))
Hi Renee. I also had Medicare. They covered full 30 days. Had I needed it, the treatment team would have appealed for more days. Average length of stay is 3-4 weeks. Weight restoration is pretty important, but I know of several people when I was there that weren’t fully weight restored, but they were doing much better mentally and had a strong outpatient team, or went to a PHP/IOP program where they lived.
I found the program to be very helpful. It’s tough, but it’s good. The staff are amazing!
I am hoping to get acceptance here. I’m just curious if you have roommates or individual rooms. Also are showers supervised? Are you allowed to go to your room during free time?
Hi Beth. Each room has two beds. Depending on unit census, you may have a room to yourself or have a roommate. Showers are not supervised, but bathroom breaks are. You keep the door cracked. Rooms are locked during the day but you can ask to have it unlocked for free time.
Hi Ali, how do they deal with patients who are struggling to complete? Do they have a policy if a patient does not finish their meal?
Hi Anon. The first few meals, they’re not as tough about meal completion. You’ll start off with an smaller portion set by the dietitian, and she’ll increase it along the way. Once meals are increased, they’ll more strict about meal completion. Less than 50% is 2 boosts or 2 poptarts. 50%-99% is one boost or one poptart.
Thank you! (tw) What do they do if patients don’t complete supplements?
Hi, I was just wondering if anyone has been there recently. Hard to find reviews about the ED unit. I have Medicare, so limited options for ED treatment. Any information about the program would be great and if you found it helpful, thank you:).
I was there last year, in May and September. Let me know if you have specific questions. The reviews on the program are pretty spot-on. ?
Can you email me ? Kenny_dawn82@yahoo.com
Any recent reviews within the last year?
The reviews that already exist are accurate. I was there last year, in May and September. The staff are amazing.
What is their policy for not completing?
If you eat 50-99%, you get 1 boost or 1 poptart. Less than 50% is 2 boosts or 2 poptarts.
Does anyone have a more recent review of the program? Was there back in 2021 around Mardi Gras time but I know some of the therapists that had been there for a long time have left and we’re on their way out when I was leaving as well as a new admissions director and was wondering how things are now
Just wanted to let y’all know they recently (I believe 3-ish months ago) reinstated the adolescent ED program. If anyone has been since a full review would be helpful. There was also new director of the ED program that came from Reflections ED treatment center, but it seems she has left after 6 months.
Has anyone been here recently? I might admit here if I get approved because there is no wait. Do they allow you to have your own blankets/pillows/stuffed animals? And they don’t tube if I’m reading correctly? Really hoping I can get in here because I like the idea of trauma and ED, my two biggest issues
I was here in October. You’re not allowed to bring your own blankets, pillows, or stuff animals. Also know that you’ll either be in ED or trauma. They don’t overlap in treatment there. It’s one or the other. They don’t tube feed. And make sure you don’t pack your own art supplies. You’ll have to use what’s on the unit. Pack comfortable clothing that doesn’t have drawstrings (no shoelaces or hoodies are allowed). The staff at River Oaks are really kind, especially Ellen, Claire, and Emily
*admin note: names will be redacted shortly per site policy, but admin will allow these to stay up for a few hours or until Hannah replies, whichever comes first, because of the comfort/safety it may provide in helping to make the brave decision to seek trauma treatment
Thank you so much! This helps a lot. They said most likely I’d start on ED and transfer to trauma when I’m more stabilized.
This is so helpful, thank you Ali! That’s too bad they don’t do the overlap anymore; a friend of mine attended their combined ED-Trauma program back in 2015 and had a really good experience. Do you know if they allow you to start on the ED unit and then once you have completed that program, discharge/transfer to the trauma unit?
Usually they allow for that. It depends on how stabile you are with the eating disorder
I was on the trauma unit several years ago and found it very helpful. The unit is not cushy at all and the hospital looks like a hospital, but the the quality and amount of therapy a client recieves is some of the best I ve seen from any program.
I agree 100%! The unit definitely looks like a
hospital, but the staff are amazing and really care
Ali, did you do trauma or ED track or one then the other?
One then the other 🙂
Would you recommend the ED one first to stabilize/interrupt symptoms?
Definitely. That’s usually what the treatment team recommends, as well
Why aren’t people allowed art supplies? Do they have oil pastels? Can you bring a sketchbook to make your art in like an art journal?
You can’t bring your own art supplies because the unit has its own supplies. I fought them pretty hard on having my own colored pencils and coloring pages. They let me keep the coloring pages, but my pencils stayed locked in admissions. You can bring a sketchbook as long as it’s not spiral bound. The art room (Saturdays and Sundays) has oil pastels.
Is the weekend the only time people can use art supplies like oil pastels and collage since not allowed to bring any?
The weekend is “official” art time, working with clay, etc. in the off-unit art room. You could probably request to have oil pastels sent to the unit. The only supplies on the unit are markers, magazines for collages, coloring pages, and colored pencils. Sometimes there’s drawing paper and watercolors.
Has anyone been through this program recently? I’m being admitted on April 1st, and I’ve read VERY mixed reviews. Now I’m not sure I want to be admitted….
hi. i might be too late as today is april 1st. i went there in december 2020. not that recent but i doubt much has changed. it’s downside is the fact that it’s in a psychiatric hospital but the unit itself is such a different vibe from other units. i don’t know what information to give you because i don’t know what you’re expecting but i found all members of my treatment team to be very helpful
When were you there?
I’ve been 3 times between 2018-2020. I was primarily in the trauma unit, but did some ED therapies as well. Trauma and ED are on the same unit, but have somewhat different schedules. Trauma and ED eat separately and rooms are in separate locations on the unit too.
How many patients on average?
I’ve been there with 1-12 ED patients. Then there’s 3-17 trauma patients, but the amount of interaction between these groups is essentially up to you.
Does it treat both males and females? If so, is treatment separate or combined?
Yes, it’s combined. Typically it’s a majority women, but not always.
How often do you see a medical doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist (therapist), nutritionist, etc?
Medical doctor- once, then as needed
Psychiatrist- 5 times a week
Therapist- 5 times a week
RD- I think twice a week (but not sure on that). She also runs some groups and is always around.
What is the staff ratio to patients?
Varies. During the day, there’s tons of staff. Typically 1 BHC and 1 nurse overnight.
What sort of therapies are used? (DBT, CBT, EMDR) etc?
A mix. DBT group twice a week. Educational groups (but that are actually helpful). There’s an expressive therapy everyday (art, psychodrama, music, etc.). Yoga 1-2 times per week. Then groups like inner child, mind & body, trauma track has sexual healing twice a week, etc.
Describe the average day:
I was doing some trauma and some ED so my schedule will be different than if you’re just going for ED. Schedule also varies on the day, but this is an example day:
6 am: weights
8:00(?): breakfast
9:00: trauma group
10:00: Compulsive behaviors
10:30: Snack
11:00: Psychodrama
12:00: Lunch
1:00: Education group
2:30(?): snack
3:00: Balanced Living
4:00: Relapse Prevention
5:00: Dinner
6:00: Outside time! (they have a courtyard)
7:00: Phones, hang out, homework, TV, ping pong, etc.
8:00: Snack
9:00: Meds
They typically like you in bed by 10:30 or so, but most people go to bed before then. It’s A LOT of work and you will have therapy assignments.
What were meals like?
ED people sat with a BHC (behavioral health counselor) or sometimes RD at a table. It was plated for you.
What sorts of food were available or served?
At first, I was not a fan of the food. There’s 3 entree choices each meal, but they give you a write in menu that you can use for any meal or snack. Once I learned what was good, what wasn’t, and what to combine, I did just fine with the food. Write in menu includes stuff like baked fish, chicken, sandwiches, pizza, cereal, fruit, carrots, hummus, hamburger, PopTarts, pretzels, Oreos, peanut butter, oatmeal, salads, etc.
Did they supplement? How did that system work?
Not 100% sure because I didn’t eat with that group. I know they use Ensure+ or they’ll let you supplement with PopTarts.
What is the policy of not complying with meals?
If it’s a one time thing, not a huge deal, but if it’s a pattern, it will come up in treatment team and could affect your treatment. The staff will support you, but you have to really want to recover here.
Are you able to be a vegetarian?
Yes, although some vegetarians complained about lack of choice. I think it just gets repetitive.
Does it work on a level system? How do you earn privileges?
Nope! Pre-COVID you had to be approved to go to the cafeteria or go on outings (restaurant or grocery store).
What did you like the most?
Having individual therapy and psychiatrist 5 times a week. It’s the only place I’ve heard of that does that and it makes a huge difference in my individual progress.
What did you like the least?
They expect a lot from you and push you. It can be exhausting. This was also a really positive thing though. You will not be babied (especially if **** or **** has a say in it).
It can be hard to get staff assistance when there’s a lot going on. They just need more staff.
Would you recommend this program?
Yes! Especially if you have a trauma history in addition to ED. They really get into processing trauma and it is the most difficult thing I’ve ever done, but I have made more progress from this program than all the other therapies I’ve done in my life combined. Seriously life-changing.
What level of activity or exercise was allowed? What privileges are allowed?
You can earn exercise privilege by completing meals and with weight (not sure if you have to be restored or just stable medically).
They have frisbees, football, etc. that you can use outside. Most people do laps around the courtyard.
Yoga was twice a week, but it was mostly seated.
They also have a ping pong table! Sometimes you can do this without exercise privilege, but it depends on how intensely you’re playing.
What did people do on weekends?
Ceramics on Saturday and Sunday. It was greenware, but still fun.
Meal structure was the same, but groups ended by noon. There’s intentionally more time for relaxing and doing assignments.
Honestly, the weekends felt much needed there because the week’s groups and work was intense.
Do you get to know your weight?
nope!
How fast is the weight gain process?
honestly unsure
What was the average length of stay?
Trauma 3-5 weeks; ED 3-7
What was the average age range?
Good mix- I had peers between 18 and 85. Many people in their 20s, but also many in their 40s, 50s, and above.
How do visits/phone calls work?
Visits suspended currently. They were two or three times a week.
You can use phones essentially whenever there isn’t a group or meal. There are two in the unit.
What is the electronics policy? (ex: cell phones, iPods, Kindle, laptop, tablets)
Forever changing. First time I went, there was a computer you could use for 30 minutes a day, no phones, Second time, no computer, but you could use cell phones some. Third time, cell phones for 20 minutes every evening.
Are you able to go out on passes?
Nope!
What kind of aftercare do they provide? Do they help you set up an outpatient treatment team?
Yes, but people come from all over the country, so it varies. They will definitely assist as they can. The therapists are great.
Are there any resources for people who come from out of state/country?
I came from across the country. Many people do. Not sure what resources these would include, but they help as they can. K**** in admissions is your go-to person for this.
If applicable: Do they support the gender identities of transgender and nonbinary people?
Yes… mostly. Sometimes staff and patients slipped up with pronouns, but staff typically corrected themselves. They have a couple single rooms that could be used if the person felt most comfortable with that.
I’m gay and even talking about sex in sexual healing, I never felt any judgment about that.
Happy to answer any questions!
*Names removed by admin per site policy
Any more news on this program?
Does anybody know if river oaks has a minimum BMI for admission? I was denied at a few places because my BMI was too low and I wanted to see if river oaks had a similar policy before I start going through the admissions process. Thanks!
Hi, Krissy I have the same BMI issue. Were you able to find success anywhere? I need a place quick and any help will help!
I know this is super old, but in case it could help anyone in the future:
I have not heard of a BMI cut off, but you do have to be medically stable. They don’t tube and will send you out to a medical hospital if needed (then typically allow you to come back).
Does anyone have recent info on this program?
I would not recommend this place. Poor food selections, depressing atmosphere, and facility is dirty.
Informative post , I am thankful for the information ! Does someone know where I would be able to get access to a sample a form form to use ?
Any recent updates solely on the ED unit?
How many patients on average? people filter in and out periodically because it went from being just a few patients to having more than 10 patients at once but it can hold up to 14
Does it treat both males and females? Yes. If so, is treatment separate or combined? even though I was never there with a male, there was one right before I came and I was told treatment is mostly combined but they do have a separate group for males at one point on the schedule
How often do you see a medical doc? on admit the medical doc sees you and then after it depends on whether or not it’s medically necessary Psychiatrist? usually once or twice a week you meet Psychologist? 3x for individual and 2x for family Nutritionist? twice a week (most of the staff is always there so they can be pulled aside to talk if they are not busy)
What is the staff ratio to patients? well there are 3 nurses/PCs for more than 8 patients and usually all of the therapists,nutritionists and psychiatrist are there during the day
What sorts of therapies are used? DBT/CBT
Describe average day? 5:45 AM WEIGHTS/VITALS/SHOWERS, 7:45 AM BREAKFAST, 8:15 AM GOALS GROUP, 9 AM GROUP, 9:45 AM SNACK, 10 AM GROUP, 11 AM GROUP, 12 PM LUNCH, 12;30 POST MEAL (talk about how your meal went), 1 PM GROUP , 2 PM GROUP, 2:45 PM SNACK, 3 PM GROUP, 4 PM ASSIGNMENTS/FREE TIME, 5 PM DINNER, 6 PM OUTSIDE TIME, 7 PM GROUP, 8 PM SNACK, 9 PM SHOWERS/SHARPS/PHONE CALLS, 11 PM LIGHTS OUT
What were meals like? I enjoyed meals on the unit more than when you go to the cafeteria to eat with other units that are there (not ED units). On the unit you played games and the conversations were pretty enjoyable. Obviously, a staff member or two depending on how many people watch you but they are fun and add to the conversations. The main thing I dislike about the cafeteria is the noise level.
What sorts of food were available or served? it was typical cafeteria/ hospital food which I personally don’t mind, there were 3 choices on the menu you can pick from for your meals or you can write certain items in like baked chicken, cottage cheese etc., snacks were typical snack foods (yogurt, granola bars, pretzels, chips, cookies etc.) once you get of a menu and onto cafeteria w/o menu you have to eat what is on the line or they usually have one alternative and some things you can ask for from the back like sliced meat and bread etc.
Did they supplement? Yes. How did the system work? if you didn’t eat any or hardly any you are asked to supplement with two ensure +, if you eat like 50% I think it’s one ensure +, 75% or less is usually just one ensure.
What is the policy for not complying with meals? they ask you to supplement and if you refuse it looks bad to your treatment team so your stay will be longer and you won’t get privileges as quickly (THEY DO NOT DO NG TUBES so if you need one they will send you to a local hospital)
Are you able to be vegetarian? yes but you eat a lot of the same meals if you are, the girls who were when I was there were miserable trying to find things to eat
What privileges are allowed? well you get of BRS which means that they watch you while you use the restroom and then flush after also if you are off BRS you can shower at night too and not just in the morning), you get to go to the cafeteria instead of eating on the unit, at the beginning of your stay you have to stay out in the dayroom for 1 hour after snack and 2 hours after meals (basically gives you no chance to go in your room) and you can move down to 1/30 then to 0/0,(most girls stay in the dayroom anyone so there is stuff for you to do) also passes to get off the grounds
Do they work on a level system? NO
How do you earn privileges? you ask for them in treatment team meetings which are twice a week and they give them to you if you are complying with meals and progressing in treatment
What sort of groups do they have? DBT and CBT, Mind, Body Spirit (meditation and mindfullness practicing), body image, psychotherapy, anger management, Relapse Prevention (based on CBT behavioral chain), different types or art therapy or expressive therapy
What was your favorite group? I really like Relapse Prevention and I’m a sucker for art therapy because art really helps me
What did you like the most? the times with the other patients there and the staff were all pretty awesome, I really enjoyed most of my time there.
What did I like the least? the nitpicky rules, the unit was coooooooolllllllllllldddddddd because it’s connected with the pharmacy
Would you recommend this program? yes definitely
What level of exercise was allowed? once you were in your weight range you could walk outside 3x per week or do yoga and then they can move up to 5x a week if you stay there long enough in your weight range
What did people do on the weekends? assignments, played games, journal, went on passes
Do you get to know your weight? no… just if your on projection
How fast is the weight gain process? .5 lbs per day
What is the average length of stay? 30 days
What was the average age-range? 13-50
How do visits/phone calls work? you can call every night during showers and sharps or in the mornings during showers and sharps, visits are on Wednesdays in the evening and on weekends in the evening
Are you able to go on passes? yes, if you receive them in treatment team
Are there any resources for people who come out of state/ country? not sure but there were several people there from out of state and a few from out of the country
I’ve been on that trauma/ed track but never solely on the ed track. Also, do you know if they try to get you to a certain % of IBW? At UNC they kick you out at 75% if lucky 85% IBW. Also, if coming from out of state will they let you stay IP until weight restored?
Again, I know this is old, but in case someone in the future is wondering:
They will not kick you out at a specific weight. Plenty of ED people are weight restored. This is assuming your insurance will pay, but the psychiatrist will fight like hell with the insurance companies on your behalf.
Do they let you have NG tubes? I was there before and didnt need on back in July/August 2012. My ED is very much triggered by my past trauma. I did a month in ED program and a month in Trauma program. But my PTSD is so badly affecting my ability to eat. I’m so desperate I would let my doctor’s put an NG tube back in if allowed to have one at River Oaks and do the trauma therapy
I am supposed to go to River Oaks for an ED in a week. Do you really get to leave the program if you want to if you feel like it isn’t working for you? I am really nervous as I have not been away from my son since he was born for more then a week. Any info about the food is helpful too as I am a vegan and Gluten free.
Does anyone have a recent review of the ED unit? Do they allow you to have hair dryers, straighteners, shoe laces, etc?
I was there this summer and I thought it was very helpful. The therapists were great and so were the nurses and PCs. They do allow you to bring your hair dryer and straightener, they just keep it and you can use it in the morning. You cannot have shoe laces or any strings on your clothes. It is very cold there so I would recommend bringing pants and sweatshirts. You can’t have cell phones or anything electronic but they will give it to you once you can go one pass. I really got a lot out of it. If you have anymore questions, please feel free to ask!
Thank you, ren! How long were you there? Were there phones you could use to call home?
I was there for about 2 and a half weeks inpatient and about two more weeks in partial patient. Yes, there are phones that you can use and they have phone hours every night and I think maybe in the morning too.
ren- could you email me so I can ask a few more questions? My address is lelizrn@gmail.com. Thanks!
I am very interested if anyone has been there recently as I heard this is a geat program and due to have a peg tube already they are willing to take me so they still do tube feeding. Also it was stated that you can have pillows and blankets from home. SO if someone has been there within this pas year please update thanks
I was just at River Oaks this summer (2013). I thought the program was great! I was inpatient for about 3 weeks and then partial-patient for 2 weeks. I was able to bring my own pillows and blankets from home. They didn’t have anyone that needed a feeding tube while I was there so I am not sure about that. The therapist, nursing staff and PCs were amazing and made the experience a lot more enjoyable to be there. I really benefitted from being here!
Hu I would really like to know more about the program as the reviews on here aren’t about the ED unit or aren’t helpful
I too would like updated info. As I’m looking into this program and would be coming from VA. Would hate to come all the way there for a crappy program. Would love to know more about restrictions and rules. Cell phone? iPad?
I was just there this summer (2013) and I thought it was very helpful. I really did get a lot out of it that I am still using today to help me through my eating disorder. The schedule keeps you very busy during the week and is a little more relaxed on the weekend.
You get a psychiatrist, an individual therapist, a family therapist and a nutritionist. You see your individual therapist 3 times a week, your family therapist 2 times a week and your nutritionist 2 or 3 times a week (I don’t remember how many times).
There are group therapies called process group where everyone gets a chance to just talk about anything they are going through, their assignments that they were given in individual therapy and things like that. They also have art therapy, music therapy, movement therapy and many others.
There is a post-meal therapy group after every meal. And cooking activities 2 times a week. In the cooking activity a couple of people volunteer to cook lunch for the rest of the unit (and if no one volunteers they pick people) – you will have to do it at least once while you are there.
When you first get there you will be on BRS and then after you’re there for a few days and doing what you need to be doing you can get off it.
You are not allowed to have your cell phone on the unit but once you are allowed to go on passes they will give it to you for however long your pass is. You might be able to bring your iPad and they will hold it for you until you are able to go on a pass (I am not a hundred percent sure on that though).
After your 3rd day there, they start the 1/2 pound weight gain projection system. If you don’t gain that 1/2 pound for the day then you will be put on warning and will have to gain 1 pound for the next day. You have to eat 100% of your food or you have to supplement with Ensure.
It is very cold in there so I would recommend bringing sweatshirt and pants. You can bring your own pillow and blanket. You can bring all your toiletries, hair dryers, straighteners, etc. They will keep those things in the nursing station until you it is the time that you are allowed to use them.
Once you are at the middle of your weight range you could ask for exercising privileges.
I know this is all over the place and I don’t have everything in here but if you have anymore questions feel free to ask!
ren, how long were you there? Does it take a while to be able to go out on pass? Also, do you know if they try to get you to a certain % of IBW?
I was there for a month, I did about 2 and a half weeks in-patient and then I went to partial patient for about 2 more weeks. It all depends on how you do to go on a pass, it took me about a week a half and then I was able to go. But I was able to do the outings (grocery store and restaurant lunch) within the first week. They give you a weight range to be in, and you need to gain .5 lb a day until you’re at your goal weight and maintain it.
Do they allow iPods or anything like that?
No they did not while I was there. They may let you bring one and you could use it when you go on pass, like they do with your phone, but I am not a hundred percent sure on that one.
Was there for 4 weeks (self pay) in sept 2012. I was on the eating disorders unit. I only completed about a third of my recommended stay as I hated it there. It was freezing . All the time. No blankets allowed only on your bed. The couches were hard as a rock. The beds are awful. The whole experience was generally uncomfortable. On weight gain protocol 0.5 lb a day is expected! With daily weights. They don’t tell you your weight but if you don’t gain the projected amount you lose privileges. There no internet. They keep your phone and if you have privileges you can have it for an hour and a half a day. Personally the place made me worse.meals are increased every 3 days regardless and if you don’t finish 100% you supplement with ensure. It was not what I had hoped for . I personally don’t recommend it to anyone unless you want to feel like you are in prison. It is also rotten and 4 of us had bed bugs. Yes I said bed bugs. Ugh!
I am supposed to go to RO some time in the next few weeks. Did they deal with the bed bugs? That is gross! I certainly don’t want to bring them home to my house. Do they discharge you once you reach your goal weight or do they really deal with the mental part of the eating disorder? Do you get to pick your goal weight or how does that work? I am older and concerned about being in a group of adolescents. Does that seem to work well there? I think this is the only place my insurance will cover, so I don’t have much of a choice. I really don’t want to go in and just gain weight if it’s not going to be helpful. No point in that. I need to learn how to eat without starving or binging. Thanks for any input.
Pre-2012 Reviews
2012
I was just at RO on the Trauma unit. It is an excellent place. You have therapy every day and the therapists are excellent and know what they are doing. The educational groups are also outstanding. To be on the trauma unit, you need to have a history of sexual abuse. The focus is on trauma, not ED, even though there is an ED track. That includes a couple groups and may include supervised meals. There is a separate ED unit if that is your primary struggle, and if you are also dealing with trauma, you may be able to attend some groups on the trauma unit. All of this should be arranged prior to your admission so there aren’t surprises. The food is pretty awful, but at least you get some choices if you are ED or have a special diet (I recommend saying that you are a vegetarian, even if you’re not so that you get to select menus vs. getting stuck with what is offered.). The common space is large – there is a ping pong table, a piano and lots of art supplies. The individual rooms aren’t so nice. There are two persons to a room and a bathroom connects two rooms.
Definitely take your own pillow, a nice blanket, and a big fluffy towel. No shoe strings or strings of any type, so before you go, take yourself out to get a pair or two of really comfortable shoes that you really like and that do not have laces. Make sure there are no strings in your sweats or pants, or you will lose them. No hair dryers, curling irons or hairpins/barrets allowed, so plan ahead.
There are a lot of art supplies, but you might like to come with your own art book (not spiral bound), and your own colors if you are a serious artist/writer.
There are men in the program, but when I was there last month, there were only 3 men and 17 women. The men sleep in a separate area.
There are 3 phones on the unit that you are allowed to use whenever there is no group. At this point, you could make calls for free. They may start requiring a calling card soon, so you should check.
None of the psychiatrists are great – go with a clear plan for your meds and make sure that your home psychiatrist will back you up and call on your behalf if needed.
On that note, it is essential that you maintain contact with your home therapist and that if you run into any issues with your care, that your therapist agree to advocate on your behalf. They were very good about letting me talk to my therapist whenever she was able to call – even if it was outside of the regular phone times. My RO therapist was also in frequent contact with my home therapist and they did a great job coordinating my care.
I don’t know what the ED unit is like. The ED treatment plan on the Trauma unit is pretty flexible and you really are on your own. If you aren’t ready to be on your own for food, then you will be admitted to the ED unit.
I stayed for 2 weeks, which was covered at 70% by my insurance. If you are dealing with major trauma/sexual abuse, this is really the place to go.
When were you there:
2009
What were meals like?
Meals ranged from deathly quiet to laughing so hard that my stomach hurt. It all depends on who’s with you at the table. You start out eating meals on the unit, and then get to go to the cafeteria after usually a week or so. There were 3 meals and 2 snacks each day.
Average Day:
6:00a- weights and vitals
6:30a-8a- showers, etc.
8a-9a- breakfast and morning goals group
9a-12p- groups
12p-1p- lunch and post meal
1p-2:30p- group
2:30p-3p: snack
3p-4p- group
4p-5p- homework, assignments
5p-6p- dinner and post meal
6p-7p- outside time, exercise time
7p-8p- group
8:30p-9p- snack and wrap up group
10p or 11p-lights out
What sorts of food were available or served?
Food was typical hospital food, except on days that there was a cooking activity or restaurant outing. The menus rotated on a 2 week basis, but there were always items you could write in. Sandwiches and veggie burgers were fallback items. There were not many “dense” options available for when you got on a higher meal plan, which was a bit disappointing. You also never had to eat veggies unless you wanted to. They DO accommodate vegetarians, which limits your choices a little, but not by too much since there aren’t too many anyway.
Did they supplement? How did that system work?
They do supplement with Ensure(+). If you don’t finish/do a meal, they will estimate about how much to give you. Absolute refusal may have been 2 E+, but don’t quote me on that. They do not tube at all any more. If you do not gain your half pound for the day (if on weight gain), you have to add 2 E+s on top of what you are already doing, usually one at 10a and the other between dinner and night snack, but these adds were very frustrating since normally your meal plan would be increased as well.
What privileges are allowed?
You can use your cell phone either very early in the morning or in the evening. No television, no internet, unless on pass. We did have movies though. Because what you are allowed to do is based on whether you gained your 1/2 pound for the day, failure to do so would result in you not being able to use the phone, have no visitors that day, lose your pass, and if you failed to gain enough weight for more than one day in a row, you had to eat on unit, ride in a wheelchair, and were not allowed to do any groups off the unit.
Does it work on a level system?
Privileges are based on a system. There is cafeteria privilege, different levels of observation after meals and snacks (2hr+1hr, 1hr+30mins, and 0+0). You also get bathroom privileges (ie-flushing your own toilet, being able to take a shower at night). You also earn privileges to go on passes, grocery outing, and restaurant outing. Once mid weight range, you can get exercise privileges.
What sort of groups do they have?
There are TONS of groups- process, art, movement, body image, DBT, CBT, relaxation, thoughts and feelings, anger management, motivation enhancement, ceramics, ED letter writing, family systems, nutrition, yoga, psychodrama, relapse prevention, males had their own daily group, and more that I’m forgetting
What was your favorite group?
I really liked art and movement. Who led the group had a big influence on whether I liked it.
What did you like the most?
You get 3 individual and 2 family sessions per week here (as an inpatient). Also 2 meetings with the nutritionist. I liked that there was lots and lots of structured time (although weekends could get boring). When I was there, there were anywhere from 4 people to 11 people (on a unit that holds 15 or 16 I think), so it was nice when it was smaller since everyone got a chance to talk in groups.
What did you like the least?
The nutritionists and weight gain philosophy! Having been to other programs, I have done much better with other places that base weights on weekly, not daily requirements. The nutritionists also don’t seem to understand EDs very well.
Would you recommend this program?
I would recommend this program, especially if you are motivated to get better. The groups are usually really good, and the program has quite a bit of structure built in. I would recommend another program if you are looking to step down from IP to PHP to OP gradually–there are much better programs out there.
What level of activity or exercise was allowed?
None unless you had privileges.
What did people do on weekends?
Passes, therapy assignments, and movies. A few groups. Ceramics!
Do you get to know your weight? No, but I did see mine in my chart multiple times.
How fast is the weight gain process?
1/2 pound per DAY.
What was the average length of stay?
For IP, 1-2 months usually.
What was the average age range?
early teens to mid forties
What kind of aftercare do they provide? Do they help you set up an OP treatment team?
Some people do PHP. They do help you set up an OP team and you do transition sessions before you leave.
How many IP beds? How many patients in PHP or IOP?
I think there were 15 or 16 IP beds. We were never filled to capacity. There was maybe one person that did PHP while I was there. I don’t think the program can accommodate more than 12 people (total) at a time due to staffing issues.
When were you there:
I actually have only been home a week and a half December 2008-January 2009Describe the average day:
Wake up between 5:30am or 6:00am depending on the overnight nurse in charge. Weights were done in a hospital gown blind. You had to use the restroom and empty your bladder before being weighed or you were put on warning automatically. If you didn’t gain enough or lost the first day you were put on warning and were supplemented 10am and bedtime snack in addition to meals and if it happened again you were put on R and R (Rest and Recovery) and had to be wheeled in a wheelchair to conserve calories and couldn’t attend groups off the unit. Showers if you weren’t on BRS were 6:30am to 8:00am and if you were on BRS you had to take them at night with the door cracked and staff outside listening. If you were on BRS you couldn’t flush your own toliet and had to have the door cracked at all times
What were meals like? They were decent I guess. Breakfast got borning to me real fast…bagels, english muffins, toast, cereal, milk, eggs, yogert, lunch and dinner were always hard for me and then snacks twice a day unless you were supplemented for not gaining or not finishing 100% of your meal. Once you were eating better you got privleges to go to cafe with a prep tray, cafe with menu, and then on your own. You had your own table and a staff sat with you
Did they supplement? How did that system work? If you were on weight gain you had to eat 100% of your meal or you were supplemented, some had supplements with thier meals regardless, and some who were on maintance only had to eat 90% before they were supplemented…one was on a supplement diet for awhile and day 12 ensure plus a day…i felt so bad for her
What privelages are allowed? You could smoke until New Year’s Day when the psychiatrist stopped all smoking on the Ed Unit because he thought some were using it as an appetite suppressant. It made ppl more depressed irratable if you ask me. Tv only during theaupetic movie times and was wheeled out in a cart. You could listen to music, do assignments, art, write letters, have vistors as long as you weren’t on R and R and you could have your phone during phone times….some got computer privleges for theraupetic reasons only
Does it work on a level system? yeah. SVC (strict visual contact)-you had to stay in the day room all day pretty much two hours after meals and 1 hour after snacks until you moved up a level…bathrooms with staff outside the door MVC (modified visual contact)-day room most of the day and it seemed like the same as the first level to me MVC-CO ) like MVC, but can sleep in own room and go to bathroom by self. CO (close observation)- will remain on unit and be checked on…I was on and off this alot due to asthma issues FTP (full therapeutic privilages)- can go on passes, restraunt outings, grocery outings etc
What sort of groups do they have? CBT, DBT, nutrition, psychodrama, art, relapse prevention, process (with head psych, discuss concerns of the unit), music, ceramics (every sat and sun morning), Yoga, Expressive Therapy, Body Image, Life Skills, Thoughts and Feelings, Cooking Activity, Restraunt Challenge, Mind, Body and Spirit, Motivation Enhancement, Family Communication, and Anger Management.
What was your favorite group? Art Therapy, DBT, and Body Image…they helped me the most
What did you like the most?I liked that we got more individulaized attention vs larger programs…there was 10 at most there at a time, individual therapy three times a week, nutrition twice a week helped alot too
What did you like the least? I didn’t like that some were there and motivated to recover and others didn’t want to be there…why were they there then? I hated family therapy but they may be just an indivial thing for me…and didn’t like early morning wake up
Would you recommend this program? definately. most definately.
What level of activity or exercise was allowed?you could do yoga or walk around the quad five times a week for thirty minutes and they watched you to make sure it didn’t get out of control
What did people do on weekends? Cooking activity, groups, assignments, theraupetic movies, vistors, restraunt outings, it was less intense than the week day
Do you get to know your weight? no, they just told you if you made progression or not…if you were on warning or r and r
How fast is the weight gain process? 1-2lbs a week
What was the average length of stay? It depended on the person and thier insurance. One was there three months…most about a month or so and went into iop went they got home like i did
What was the average age range? 16-43.
other stuff: individual therapy three times a week, nutritionist twice a week, psychiatrist three times a week, I really liked the program and it really helped me I was on the ED track only! Some were from Canada, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, Georiga, and some local
i was in the trauma unit (new orleans institute).
it was purely the trauma unit, but understand that the trauma unit DOES have an ED track, so even if you go to the trauma unit for only trauma work, there may be other people there for mainly trauma work, but working on recovery from an ED on the side (ED table, hunger/fullness checks, eating 100%, a couple ED groups). there also might not be anyone there on the ED track. it just depends. but make sure you are ready for that.
basically, i think the trauma program there is really good. you have individual therapy 5x per week, meet with your psychiatrist 3x per week, have trauma group (smaller group of people-usually like 5- that you share more intimately with) 4x per week, relapse prevention 6x per week, DBT 2x per week, art therapy 1-2x per week, psychodrama 2x per week, ceramics 1x per week, then other groups randomly throughout the week, such as sexual healing, inner child, body image (even for those w/out EDs), scrapbooking group, different modules, process group (brought up issues on the unit w/ the head psych). they also have a compulsive behavior program, so if you had issues with that, you would attend compulsive behavior groups as well (i did for self-injury. they did things like covert sensitization and ammonia aversion therapy).
The day is very busy. not much free time until like after dinner, then most people use that time to do assignments (from their therapists) or journal or call family (cannot have cell phones w/ cameras, but have have regular ones. they also have wall phones- that are not pay phones- that you can use, even to call long distance). most of the people there were from out of town, so there weren’t many visitors. there isn’t any TV, except they wheel one in during the weekend, but most people are busy during the evening anyways. if people didn’t have assignments, they would read, do collages (they had millions of magazines), talk to other people, and i must say we had quite the trivia games and card games going.
they do allow smoking (don’t know if you do). you get 12 breaks a day (10 minutes each usually, but if there are no groups afterwards, like at night, some staff will stay out longer). 2 of the breaks are “fresh-air breaks” and you cannot smoke during them, but all the others you can. no limit on # of cigarettes during each break (if you run out of cigs, you might be able to sweet talk the staff into going to the store for you to get more). if you do not smoke, you are still allowed to go outside during all of the breaks.
they also have people trained in EMDR and an “anger room” where you can go and … be destructive (?) i guess. i never went to the anger room, but the people who went seemed to be helped by it. for meals, if you are not on the ED protocol, you get breakfast on the unit (they have breakfast-y stuff in the unit kitchen), and for lunch and dinner you go to the cafeteria and go through the line and eat there.