Eating Disorder Therapy in Bend, Oregon

Meet Elise Miller: 2024's Trailblazing Therapist Making a Difference

Elise Miller is like a wellness wizard, blending her magical mix of nutrition knowledge and mental health know-how. Starting as a health coach, she's spent over 8 years whipping up wellness in the fitness world. Now, she's a therapy superhero, helping folks with eating disorders and those aiming to be athletic aces. Think of her as a mind-body relationship guru, using cool tools like mindfulness, body-aware chats, and intuitive eating tricks to help people vibe with their bodies. Outside the therapy realm, she's an adventure junkie, often spotted hiking, running, or skiing with her furry sidekick, Lenny!

Updated 12/20/24

Eating disorders are complex and often misunderstood illnesses, impacting millions of lives around the globe. They're not just about food or weight; they're intricate mental health conditions that require compassion, understanding, and professional intervention. If you're in Bend, Oregon, or its surrounding areas and are grappling with an eating disorder, or know someone who is, this blog is a beacon of hope and guidance.

The new year is coming up quick, do yourself a favor and get a helping hand!

Understanding Eating Disorders

Eating disorders, including Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder, are not just phases or choices. They are serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that affect a person's emotional and physical health. They stem from a mix of behavioral, biological, emotional, psychological, and social factors. Recognizing the signs—extreme weight loss or gain, obsession with food and dieting, withdrawal from social activities—can be the first step to getting help.

Therapy and Counseling for Eating Disorders in Bend, Oregon

In Bend, there's a compassionate community of therapists and counselors specialized in eating disorder treatment. These professionals often use approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which helps in identifying and altering negative thought patterns and behaviors. Another effective approach is Family-Based Therapy, which involves family members in the recovery process. The key lies in a tailored treatment plan, as each individual's journey is unique.

Local Treatment Centers and Specialists

Bend boasts several reputable treatment centers and specialists. These centers provide a safe environment for recovery, offering both inpatient and outpatient programs. Local therapists and counselors are equipped with the expertise and understanding needed to guide you or your loved one through this challenging journey.


In Bend, OR, there are several reputable services and counselors specializing in eating disorder treatment that you might consider featuring in your blog. Here's a brief overview of some options:

1. Elise Miller at Wilder Wellness

Learn More About Elise Miller

  • Specialty: Integrative therapy combining nutrition and mental health counseling.

  • Focus: Assists clients with eating disorders and optimizing athletic performance.

  • Methods: Mindfulness techniques, somatic exercises, and intuitive eating to improve the client’s relationship with food and body.

  • Unique Aspect: Emphasizes emotional awareness and self-compassion in healing.

2. Within

Visit Within

  • Specialty: Comprehensive care tailored to individual needs.

  • Approach: Evidence-based methods addressing the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of eating disorders.

  • Team: Includes therapists, nutritionists, and medical staff focused on holistic recovery.

  • Why Choose Them: Provides a supportive environment for long-term wellness.

3. Oregon Counseling

Learn About Oregon Counseling

  • Specialty: Therapy for eating disorders with a family-oriented approach.

  • Focus: Addresses the underlying reasons for disordered eating and its impact on relationships.

  • Team Expertise: Treats a range of mental health conditions while involving families in the recovery process.

4. Eating Disorder Hope

Visit Eating Disorder Hope

  • Specialty: Resources and support for individuals struggling with eating disorders.

  • Features: Offers treatment options, therapist directories, and self-help tips.

  • Mission: Dedicated to promoting recovery and providing educational materials for individuals and their families.

5. Bend Family Therapy

Visit Bend Family Therapy

  • Specialty: Comprehensive therapy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.

  • Approach: Focuses on the whole person, addressing emotional, behavioral, and relational factors.

  • Services: Develops personalized treatment plans aimed at sustainable recovery.

6. St. Charles Health System

Learn About St. Charles Health

  • Specialty: Comprehensive medical care, nutritional support, and counseling.

  • Team Approach: Involves primary care doctors, dietitians, and therapists working collaboratively.

  • Focus: Manages physical symptoms, promotes healthy eating habits, and creates individualized care plans.

7. Bend Oregon Dietitian

Learn About Bend Oregon Dietitian

  • Specialty: Nutrition counseling and support for individuals with eating disorders.

  • Focus: Develops personalized eating plans, addresses nutrition issues, and fosters healthy habits.

  • Why Choose Them: Collaborative approach to achieving optimal physical and mental health through balanced nutrition.

8. Crystal Leavitt, LPC

Contact Crystal Leavitt

  • Specialty: Tailored support for children, teens, women, and couples struggling with eating disorders.

  • Approach: Creates a non-judgmental, safe space that facilitates healing and personal growth.

  • Contact: Call (541) 292-9977 for appointments and inquiries.

9. Nancy J Curfman, LCSW

Contact Nancy Curfman

  • Experience: Over 30 years specializing in depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, and addictions.

  • Focus: Provides personalized, effective care for complex conditions.

  • Contact: Call (541) 504-6581 to learn more about her therapeutic services.

10. Spanos Psychological Clinic LLC

Contact Spanos Psychological Clinic

  • Specialty: Focused on eating disorders and anxiety disorders using evidence-based practices.

  • Approach: Tailors treatments to the individual’s needs for the most effective care.

  • Contact: Call (458) 214-8656 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

11. Buena Vida Counseling

Visit Buena Vida Counseling

  • Specialty: Trauma-informed therapy, including treatment for eating disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.

  • Approach: Uses evidence-based practices such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and CBT to support recovery.

  • Why Choose Them: Focuses on fostering resilience and long-term healing in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

12. BCB Therapy

Visit BCB Therapy

  • Specialty: Individualized therapy for eating disorders, anxiety, and trauma.

  • Approach: Integrates mindfulness, somatic therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to create personalized care plans.

  • Unique Aspect: Emphasizes a holistic approach that nurtures mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

13. Ruby Health & Wellness

Visit Ruby Health & Wellness

  • Specialty: Specializes in treating eating disorders, body image issues, and women’s health.

  • Approach: Offers a collaborative model that includes therapy, nutritional counseling, and health coaching.

  • Why Choose Them: Focuses on empowering clients to rebuild a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.

14. Peace of Mind Counseling

Visit Peace of Mind Counseling

  • Specialty: Therapy for eating disorders, trauma, and family-related challenges.

  • Approach: Employs compassion-focused therapy, mindfulness practices, and relational approaches to support recovery.

  • Unique Aspect: Provides support for families and caregivers as part of the treatment process.

15. Vista Psychotherapy (Eugene and Portland)

Visit Vista Psychotherapy

  • Specialty: Offers individual counseling for eating disorders, tailored to meet the needs of adolescents and adults.

  • Approach: Utilizes evidence-based methods such as CBT and DBT to treat eating disorders and associated mental health challenges.

  • Why Include Them: While not based in Bend, they offer teletherapy options, making their services accessible to Bend residents.

inside of eating disorder therapist office

Bend, Oregon, is home to an exceptional network of eating disorder counselors known for their compassionate and skilled approach to care. These professionals specialize in creating individualized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs. They combine evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of the complexities of eating disorders, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of recovery.

These counselors also prioritize creating a serene and supportive environment to foster healing. Their commitment to staying current with the latest research and techniques ensures they provide cutting-edge care. By integrating various therapeutic modalities, they help clients navigate the path to recovery with confidence and hope. This dedication makes the eating disorder counselors in Bend a trusted resource for those seeking effective and compassionate treatment.

Support Systems and Community Resources

Recovery is not a solitary journey. Bend offers various support groups and community resources. These groups provide a platform for sharing experiences and offer emotional support from those who understand. Additionally, online resources and helplines can be invaluable, especially when in-person meetings are not possible.

Integrative and Holistic Approaches

Apart from traditional therapy, Bend embraces integrative treatments like nutrition therapy, mindfulness practices, and yoga. These holistic approaches can significantly aid in healing the mind and body, complementing traditional therapies effectively.

Success Stories and Recovery Journeys

In Bend, many have successfully overcome their eating disorders, and their stories are a testament to the effectiveness of therapy and counseling. These personal accounts not only inspire but also shed light on the crucial role of professional help in the recovery process.

Navigating Insurance and Financial Considerations

Understanding insurance coverage and managing the financial aspects of treatment can be daunting. It’s important to communicate with your insurance provider and seek out local resources that offer financial assistance or sliding scale payment options.

Recognizing and addressing an eating disorder is a crucial step towards a healthier, happier life. In Bend, Oregon, you're not alone in this journey. With the right help and support, recovery is not just a possibility; it's within reach.

Get eating disorder help in other ways in Bend

Incorporating holistic and community-based approaches can significantly enhance recovery from eating disorders. Support groups, such as those offered by local organizations or national networks like Eating Disorders Anonymous (EDA), provide individuals with a sense of connection and understanding. These groups allow participants to share their experiences and learn coping strategies in a judgment-free environment. For those unable to attend in person, many virtual support groups are readily available, ensuring accessibility for everyone.

Another valuable resource is the integration of physical activities that focus on body positivity rather than appearance or performance. Yoga studios in Bend, for example, often emphasize mindfulness and self-acceptance, offering classes tailored to individuals recovering from eating disorders. Nutrition education and cooking classes can also play a crucial role in rebuilding a healthy relationship with food. By combining therapy, community resources, and holistic practices, individuals can develop the tools they need for long-term recovery and emotional well-being.

Common Types of Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by extreme restriction of food intake, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.

  • Symptoms: Significant weight loss, refusal to maintain a healthy weight, and obsessive behaviors around food and exercise.

  • Risks: Severe medical complications such as heart issues, bone density loss, and organ failure.

  • Treatment: A combination of medical care, nutritional counseling, and therapies such as CBT and Family-Based Therapy (FBT).
    Learn more about Anorexia Nervosa from NEDA.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, excessive exercise, or fasting to prevent weight gain.

  • Symptoms: Frequent episodes of overeating, followed by vomiting, laxative use, or extreme dieting.

  • Risks: Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, and dental problems.

  • Treatment: Therapies like CBT and DBT, combined with medical monitoring.
    Read about Bulimia Nervosa at Mayo Clinic.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

Binge Eating Disorder is marked by episodes of consuming large amounts of food without subsequent purging behaviors.

  • Symptoms: Eating beyond fullness, feelings of guilt or shame after episodes, and frequent dieting without long-term success.

  • Risks: Increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

  • Treatment: Nutritional counseling, mindfulness practices, and therapies such as CBT.
    Learn more about Binge Eating Disorder from NEDA.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

ARFID is an eating disorder where individuals avoid certain foods due to sensory issues, fear of choking, or lack of interest in eating.

  • Symptoms: Limited food variety, difficulty meeting nutritional needs, and significant weight loss or nutritional deficiencies.

  • Risks: Developmental delays in children, weakened immune systems, and chronic fatigue.

  • Treatment: Sensory-focused therapy, nutritional counseling, and addressing any underlying anxiety or trauma.
    Explore ARFID details at Verywell Mind.

Comprehensive Treatment Modalities

Eating disorder recovery involves multiple layers of treatment to address the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects. Below are the key therapeutic modalities used in treatment:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for eating disorders.

  • How It Works: Helps clients identify and challenge distorted thoughts about food, body image, and self-worth.

  • Effectiveness: Especially beneficial for Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorder.
    Explore CBT for Eating Disorders.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT helps individuals develop coping skills to manage intense emotions and reduce disordered eating behaviors.

  • How It Works: Focuses on emotional regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance.

  • Best For: Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, and co-occurring mood disorders.

Family-Based Therapy (FBT)

FBT, also known as the Maudsley Method, is particularly effective for adolescents with eating disorders.

  • How It Works: Involves the family in treatment, empowering parents to support their child’s recovery.

  • Best For: Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa.
    Learn About FBT from the Eating Disorders Institute.

Nutritional Counseling

Nutritionists and dietitians play a vital role in recovery by helping individuals rebuild a healthy relationship with food.

  • Focus: Creating balanced meal plans, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and establishing sustainable eating habits.

  • Collaborative Care: Often works in tandem with therapists and medical professionals.

Art and Expressive Therapies

Creative therapies provide a non-verbal outlet for emotions and a way to explore body image and self-expression.

  • How It Works: Uses activities like drawing, painting, or music to process feelings and reduce anxiety.

  • Best For: Complementing traditional therapies for a holistic approach.

Stories of Personal Growth and Recovery

Recovery from an eating disorder is a deeply personal journey, and hearing about others' experiences can provide comfort and motivation. Below are testimonials from individuals who have found hope, healing, and strength through various approaches and resources.

“Finding My Inner Strength”
"When I first started my journey to recovery, I felt completely lost and overwhelmed. I learned that healing isn’t just about eating habits—it’s about discovering self-worth and addressing the emotional pain that fueled my disorder. By joining a local support group and working through mindfulness practices like journaling and yoga, I began to feel more in control of my life. Every small step felt like a victory, and now I see recovery as a series of small wins that lead to something bigger."
— Anonymous

“The Power of a Support System”
"I struggled with shame and isolation for years, believing no one would understand what I was going through. Everything changed when I found a community that shared similar experiences. Through group meetings and online forums, I connected with people who showed me that recovery is possible. Their encouragement gave me the courage to seek professional help and stick with it. Today, I am grateful for the friends and mentors who reminded me that I didn’t have to face this alone."
— Laura, Central Oregon

“Rediscovering My Relationship with Food”
"I used to see food as an enemy, something I had to control to feel okay about myself. With guidance from nutritional counseling and compassionate care, I began to shift my perspective. I learned to embrace the idea that food is fuel and self-care, not something to fear. It wasn’t easy, but focusing on the joy of preparing and sharing meals helped me build a healthier relationship with eating. Now, cooking is one of my favorite ways to express love and creativity."
— Michelle

“Rebuilding Confidence and Self-Compassion”
"Recovery taught me that it’s okay to be imperfect. I spent years trying to live up to unrealistic standards, only to realize they were unattainable. Through therapy and self-reflection, I learned to challenge those negative beliefs and replace them with self-compassion. It’s a process, and there are still hard days, but I’ve come to accept myself in a way I never thought possible."
— Jake

FAQs

What types of eating disorders are treated in Bend?

Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating are commonly treated in Bend. Treatment centers often provide comprehensive care that includes medical, nutritional, and psychological support.

How does virtual eating disorder treatment work?

Virtual programs like those offered by Within Health provide treatment remotely. Patients can connect with a team of professionals, including therapists and dietitians, through an app. This method allows for treatment in the comfort of your own environment, which can be beneficial in managing triggers.

Are family members involved in the treatment process?

Family involvement is often a key component of eating disorder treatment. Therapists at centers like Oregon Counseling understand that family dynamics can play a significant role in the development and treatment of eating disorders.

What does treatment typically include?

Treatment usually involves a combination of medical care, nutritional counseling, and therapy. Teams at facilities like St. Charles Health System often include primary care doctors, dietitians, and counselors who work together to address the physical and psychological aspects of eating disorders.

Does health insurance cover eating disorder treatment?

Coverage depends on your specific health insurance plan. It's important to discuss insurance coverage with the treatment center to understand your options. Facilities like Within Health work directly with insurance carriers to determine coverage.

What can be expected from the treatment process?

The treatment process involves regular sessions with health professionals, personalized eating plans, and therapy to address underlying issues and promote healthy eating habits.

How to start the treatment process in Bend?

You can begin by contacting local treatment centers or therapists specializing in eating disorders. Facilities like Oregon Counseling in Bend offer appointments for eating disorder treatment, and you can request an appointment through their website or by phone.

What kind of support is available after treatment?

Post-treatment support, such as ongoing therapy or support groups, is crucial. Many centers in Bend offer aftercare planning to help maintain recovery.

Can treatment be personalized to individual needs?

Yes, treatment is often tailored to each person's unique situation. Centers like Spanos Psychological Clinic LLC customize their approach based on individual needs.

Are there specialized treatments for different age groups?

Yes, some centers offer specialized programs for different age groups, including adolescents and adults, to address age-specific concerns and developmental stages.

How long does treatment typically last?

The duration of treatment varies depending on the individual's needs and progress. It can range from a few months to longer periods.

Is nutritional education a part of the treatment?

Nutritional education is a key component, with dietitians often part of the treatment team, especially in centers like St. Charles Health System.

What role does mental health counseling play in treatment?

Mental health counseling is central to treatment, addressing underlying issues and helping develop healthier coping mechanisms.