The EDCA is a partial hospitalization program which provides an intensive outpatient alternative to inpatient care. The length of treatment is based on the individual needs of each patient, lasting from 6-8 weeks. The program meets Monday through Friday from 9:00am until 4:00pm. The patients participate in a variety of individual and group therapies. Individual sessions are conducted with a program psychiatrist, a primary therapist, nutritionist, clinical psychologist and and an advanced practice registered nurse. Patients are encouraged to participate in family therapy and family education.

Discharge planning begins at the time the patient enters the program. Program staff will communicate with the referring provider during treatment and in preparation for discharge to ensure continuation of treatment and discharge goals.
The EDCA is equipped to videoconference with those referring therapists who have access to this technology.  Patients who do not have a referring provider will be referred to a qualified psychiatrist, therapist and nutritionist for continued treatment following discharge.

A multi-disciplinary approach to treatment is used at the EDCA. We recognize the complexity of eating disorders and understand the associated medical, physical, psychological, and nutritional needs of each patient. Our goal is to meet the special/unique needs of each individual to help them achieve recovery.

Assessment and Evaluation
Patients entering the Eating Disorder Center of Alabama receive an intensive admission assessment and ongoing observation. Clinical assessments include a psychiatric evaluation, a comprehensive review of the patient's medical history, an educational assessment and family assessment.  A thorough nutritional assessment is also conducted, which includes a review of the patient's weight and food-related history and past treatment.

Medical and Psychiatric Care
Each patient receives an initial evaluation with the program psychiatrist. During the treatment process the psychiatrist may feel that it is necessary for the patient to receive a consultation with an internist specializing in nutrition. Patients are seen weekly by the psychiatrist.  Medications may be prescribed based on individual needs of the patient.

Nutritional Assessment
Each patient receives a comprehensive nutritional evaluation by a Registered/Licensed Nutritionist.  The evaluation consists of a thorough review of the patient's medical history including medication usage, body weight, nutrition and fluid intake. Also reviewed are the eating habits and body size of both the patient and their immediate family members. Food, fluid choices, exercise habits and eating behavior are all assessed and used to formulate an individualized meal plan for each patient.