Teen Eating Disorder Treatment

At Discovery Ranch South, we believe in empowering teens to thrive. Our teen eating disorder treatment program offers compassionate and comprehensive care to help your teenager address their struggles with eating disorders. With a team of experienced therapists, clinicians, and support staff, we provide expert guidance and personalized treatment plans.

Enroll your teenager at Discovery Ranch South today and give them the tools they need to thrive.

Discovery Ranch South provides individualized treatment for teens in recovery from eating disorders, including:

  • Anorexia Nervosa
  • Bulimia Nervosa
  • Binge Eating Disorder
  • Orthorexia
  • Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
  • Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)
  • Body Image-Related Struggles
  • Other Disorded Eating Behaviors
  • Eating Disorders & Co-occurring Disorders, including:
    • Anxiety and Eating Disorders
    • Depression and Eating Disorders
    • Trauma and Eating Disorders
    • ADHD and Eating Disorders
    • Autism and Eating Disorders
    • Substance Abuse and Eating Disorders

Does Your Teen Need Eating Disorder Treatment? Learn Who Can Benefit from Our Program

If your teenager is struggling with an eating disorder, we understand the challenges you may be facing as a parent. Depending on the severity of their condition, they may require more medical support than what is available at a traditional residential treatment center. At Discovery Ranch South, we provide adolescent eating disorder treatment for teenagers who meet certain criteria:

  • Medical stability: Your teen should be medically stable to the extent that intravenous fluids, nasogastric tube feedings, or multiple daily laboratory tests are not needed. We prioritize their physical health and well-being.
  • Body weight: Your teen's body weight should be at or above 85% of the healthy range.
  • Desire and motivation to recover: It's important for your teen to have some level of motivation and willingness to engage in the recovery process. Our team at Discovery Ranch South is here to support and empower them on their journey to healing.
  • Cooperation with treatment: Your teen should be willing to participate in a highly structured treatment program and cooperate with our team. We provide a supportive and compassionate environment where they can feel safe and respected.
  • Use of cognitive and behavioral skills: Your teen should be able to ask for and use support from others, as well as utilize cognitive and behavioral skills to inhibit purging behaviors. We provide evidence-based therapies to help them further develop these coping strategies.
  • Need for external structure: Your teen may require external structure beyond self-control to prevent compulsive exercising. Our program at Discovery Ranch South offers a structured environment to help them establish healthy routines.
  • Meal supervision: If your teen needs supervision at meals or is at risk of restricting meals, our team can provide the necessary support and monitoring to ensure they receive proper nutrition.

Benefits of Eating Disorder Treatment for Teens

Our eating disorder treatment at Discovery Ranch South offers a range of benefits for your teenager. With personalized care and expert guidance from licensed therapists and mental health professionals, your teenager can develop effective strategies to manage their eating disorder symptoms and thrive in various aspects of their life.

Eating disorder treatment brings many benefits to both teens and their families. These benefits include:

Improved Physical and Emotional Health

Eating disorders can have detrimental effects on both physical and emotional health. With treatment, teenagers can learn healthy eating habits, develop coping mechanisms, and gain tools to manage their emotions in a healthy way. This can lead to improved physical health, reduced risk of complications, and enhanced emotional well-being.

Enhanced Self-Esteem and Body Image

Eating disorders often take a toll on a teenager's self-esteem and body image. Through therapy and other treatment approaches, teenagers can improve their self-esteem, develop a positive body image, and foster a healthy relationship with food and their body. This can lead to increased self-confidence, improved self-worth, and a better quality of life.

Empowerment and Self-Awareness

Treatment for eating disorders helps teenagers gain insight into their condition, understand their triggers and coping mechanisms, and develop self-awareness. This self-awareness empowers them to take charge of their eating disorder and make positive changes in their life, such as building healthy coping skills, improving their self-advocacy, setting and achieving goals, and building resilience.

Supportive Community

At our eating disorder treatment center, your teenager will be surrounded by a supportive community of peers, staff, and therapists who understand their struggles with eating disorders. This community provides a nurturing and understanding environment where teenagers can feel supported, motivated, and empowered to address their challenges and reach their full potential.

Your teenager's eating disorder should not define their life or prevent them from living a fulfilling life. With our eating disorder treatment program, you can provide your teenager with the necessary tools to manage their symptoms, thrive, and achieve lasting recovery.

Choosing the Right Treatment for Teen Eating Disorder Recovery

Navigating through the different options for teen eating disorder treatment can be overwhelming, but finding a treatment center that offers the right care for your teenager is crucial. At Discovery Ranch South's Residential Treatment Center, we recognize that every family has a unique set of experiences, strengths, and treatment goals. That's why we offer a personalized program that's tailored to meet your specific needs.

Our residential program offers round-the-clock care in scenic lodges that provide a comfortable and home-like environment. Our individualized approach is informed by the latest research on eating disorders and incorporates a variety of therapeutic modalities to provide the best care possible for your teenager's recovery.

Our residential program provides a safe and nurturing environment for your teen to work on developing coping and processing skills through personalized treatment plans and therapeutic interventions led by our experienced staff. Our ultimate goal is to empower them to address their eating disorder challenges and live a life that is full of success and fulfillment.

A girl attends a therapeutic school while attending Discovery Ranch South's residential treatment for girls and teens assigned female at birth

You Are Not Alone

Discovery Ranch South is there for you and your family.

Get Confidential Help Today, Call Us Anytime: 855-667-9388

How We Treat Teenage Eating Disorders

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As a parent, finding the right treatment center for your teenager with an eating disorder can be an overwhelming experience. You want to ensure that your child is receiving the best possible care, in a supportive and nurturing environment that will help them address their challenges and move towards a brighter future. That's why Discovery Ranch South is the ideal choice for your teenager's eating disorder treatment.

Individual Therapy

Our team of skilled therapists prioritize developing close therapeutic relationships with your child to ensure that they feel safe enough for meaningful and lasting change to take place.

Using evidence-based therapies, a trained professional will aid your child in recognizing and challenging negative and irrational thoughts and behaviors that may have arisen from their eating disorder challenges. We will guide your teenager as they learn effective coping mechanisms to handle situations that could potentially trigger their eating disorder symptoms.

Group Therapy

Group therapy creates a supportive environment where participants can learn from one another and provide mutual support as they navigate the healing journey. These sessions are led by a highly trained therapist with a master's degree to ensure a safe and nurturing space for growth.

Discovery Ranch’s on-site nurse and head chef ensure that our students are eating balanced diets and are learning how to continue healthy eating once they return home. We help our students function better mentally and emotionally by addressing their physical needs, which is one of the crucial foundations of health.

24/7 Support

At Discovery Ranch South, our ultimate goal is to empower your teenager to address their eating disorder challenges and live a fulfilling life. We understand the impact that eating disorders can have on your child's life, and we are here to help them work through it in a safe and supportive environment.

Our residential program offers round-the-clock care in scenic lodges that provide a comfortable and home-like environment. We understand that the journey to eating disorder recovery is not always easy, and that's why our approach is informed by the latest research on eating disorders and incorporates a variety of therapeutic modalities to provide the best care possible for your teenager's recovery.

Our treatment team includes clinical, residential, academic, experiential, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle services team members who are fully integrated into your teenager's daily life, ensuring that they receive the highest level of care possible.

Some of the unique therapies & therapeutic activities we offer include:

We understand that managing an eating disorder can be challenging, but we are dedicated to helping your teenager confront and address their challenges in a way that empowers them to live a life that is full of success and fulfillment.

By choosing Discovery Ranch South, you can be confident that your teenager will receive the comprehensive care they need to manage their eating disorder and lead a fulfilling life.

Why Choose Discovery Ranch South for Your Teen's Eating Disorder Treatment?

Restoring Choice

When an eating disorder dominates a teen's life, it can feel like choices are limited and out of reach.

Teenagers struggling with an eating disorder may feel overwhelmed, trapped, and disconnected from their loved ones. Your child deserves the opportunity to explore their own interests and make choices that align with their unique identity, free from the limitations of an eating disorder.

Rediscover your teenager's boundless potential and empower your family to take back control of its future, free from the grip of an eating disorder. Take charge of your teen's eating disorder treatment by focusing on what you can control and finding a treatment approach that blends clinical expertise with time-tested values and practices.

A teenage girl looks through a microscope while attending a residential anxiety treatment center | Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth
Teens having fun while at in treatment for teenage anxiety | Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth

Through Nurturing Relationships...

Relationships are the foundation of our most meaningful experiences. Whether it's a family member, friend, or mentor, the people we care about shape our lives in profound ways.

At Discovery Ranch South, we recognize that relationships - with our staff, with you, with other family members, and with peers - are the most essential agents of change in your teen's life. We understand that no other aspect of their care is as powerful in shaping their future success as the connections they make while managing their eating disorder.

...And Challenging Experiences...

"Experiential" can have a variety of meanings in the world of eating disorder treatment. At Discovery Ranch South, experiential treatment is not just an activity we do; it's who we are. It is the foundation of our approach.

Learning comes from doing. Therapy can be a powerful tool for developing insights and building coping skills, but by itself, it's not enough. Our experiential therapy program challenges teens with eating disorders to practice what they've learned in a supportive, real-world setting.

Every part of the "Discovery Ranch Experience" - whether it's engaging in activities such as animal care, exploring the local arts and culture, or engaging in adventure-based activities with our staff and peers - is carefully selected and designed to enhance your child's therapeutic progress and transform experiences into understanding.

Teens rock climbing while at an anxiety treatment center | Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth
A beautiful waterfall on the campus of a teen anxiety residential treatment center | Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment program for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth

...In a Healing Environment

Surrounded by the breathtaking sandstone cliffs of southern Utah, we offer a healing environment that mirrors our surroundings - both expansive and embracing. Discovery Ranch South is nestled comfortably into the surrounding desert and mountains, drawing on its quiet beauty, inherent strength, and enduring ability to inspire a sense of peace and renewal.

What Makes Discovery Ranch South Different?

Family Program

We believe that families play a critical role in their teenager's journey towards recovery from an eating disorder. At Discovery Ranch South, we offer various opportunities for family participation, including weekly family therapy sessions, on-campus visits, and Parent Seminars. We prioritize the development of healthy, supportive family relationships through fundamental communication, life, and social & emotional learning skills.

A teenage girl is hugged by her mom while at residential anxiety treatment center | Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth
Girls having fun while in residential treatment for teenage anxiety | Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth

Student Life

At Discovery Ranch South, your teenager will have the chance to thrive in a small, nurturing community surrounded by the breathtaking beauty and adventure of southern Utah. From engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding to attending the famous Utah Shakespeare Festival, there are abundant opportunities for growth and exploration. With compassionate staff members and a focus on fostering lasting change, Discovery Ranch South is the ideal place for your teenager to embark on their healing journey and flourish.

Empower Your Teen's Recovery: Why Discovery Ranch South is the Right Choice for Eating Disorder Treatment

We understand the challenges and emotions that parents face when their teenager is struggling with an eating disorder. We want you to know that you are not alone, and we are here to help. Our evidence-based eating disorder treatment program, led by our compassionate and experienced team, is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for your teenager to heal and grow.

We believe that every teenager has the potential to thrive, and we are honored to be a part of their healing journey. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for support and guidance. We are committed to listening, understanding, and helping you and your family through this difficult time. Your teenager's well-being is our top priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can create a brighter and healthier future for your teenager.

Learn More About Our CARE Model

Residential Therapy for Teens | Discovery Ranch South - a Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female At Birth

Clinical

Individualized therapeutic approach customized for each girl’s unique needs

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Therapeutic School for Teens - a Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female At Birth

Academics

A therapeutic school ideal for helping girls with mental health issues

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Residential Program for Teens | Discovery Ranch South - A Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female at Birth

Residential

A healing environment where girls can build lasting relationships with staff, mentors, and peers

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Experiential Therapy for Teens | Discovery Ranch South - A Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female at Birth

Experiential

Experiential therapy creates opportunities to apply therapeutic skills and lessons to real-life situations

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Our Research & Outcomes Show Adolescent Girls Can Live a Life Free From Mental Health Issues

75%

75% of students report they are more comfortable sharing feelings with their parents.

75% of students & parents report significantly better family functioning

90%

90% of parents report teen is much better compared to the beginning of treatment

96%

96% of both parents and students showed consistent improvement on problem behavior (Y-OQ) and emotional problems tests (BPFS-C)

100%

100% of students report their problems are much better than when they began

100%

Six months after graduation, 100% of parents and students say that their problems are much better than when they began

Don't Take Our Word For it

(all testimonials were taken from reviews left by alumni families on our google profile)

to protect the privacy of our clients, this is a photoillustration of a parent who gave an authentic review of our anxiety treatment program for teens | Discovery Ranch South - a Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female at Birth

This place was wonderful for our daughter, who was suffering from severe depression and anxiety. She loved bonding with the animals and the other girls in the program. The staff was very caring and top-notch. Thanks to their teachings, our daughter is a much better communicator and is better equipped to cope with whatever life throws her way.

Julie C.

Mother of an alumna
To protect the privacy of our clients, this is a photoillustration of a parent who gave an authentic review of our Residential anxiety treatment program for teens | Discovery Ranch South - a Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female at Birth

Discovery Ranch was amazing for our 16-year-old daughter. She struggled with severe anxiety, OCD, depression and avoidance. She had stopped going to school despite being incredibly smart. She had essentially stopped doing anything, preferring to isolate in her room. She came out a different person - or I should say, the girl we had not seen for a long time. We would highly recommend DRG to anybody whose daughter is struggling. It is a well-run, safe, amazing program.

Carla C.

Mother of an alumna
To protect the privacy of our clients, this is a photoillustration of a parent who gave an authentic review on our google profile of our Residential treatment program for anxiety in teens | Discovery Ranch South - a Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female at Birth

DRS saved our daughter's life. Sounds dramatic, right? Maybe so but it's absolutely the truth and we've heard our daughter say the same thing countless times. The programs are astonishingly diverse and effective. Bovine, equine, rec., performing arts, group, RO-DBT, brain spotting and traditional talk therapy all focus on your daughter's healing and recovery. I can't speak to everyone's experience but I can speak to ours: DRG is filled with talented, loving, caring professionals. Amazing, simply amazing. Our family has hope again and I could not be more thankful. My succinct definition of DRS is this: DRS is an oasis of love and healing in the high desert of southern Utah. Writing this review is my way of paying forward my thanks for what DRG has done for our daughter and our family. I wish you luck. Don't give up. Call DRS.

Richard F.

Father of an alumna
To protect the privacy of our clients, this is a photoillustration of a parent who gave an authentic review of our Residential anxiety treatment program for teens | Discovery Ranch South - a Residential Treatment Center for Adolescent Girls and Teens Assigned Female at Birth

Our daughter attended DRG and we could not have been more proud of her growth during her time there and after. The Ranch is beautiful and the work with the animals was so important to her. The staff and her therapist were absolutely wonderful. Since returning home, she has completed high school early and just completed her cosmetology program. Our relationships in the family are extremely strong as a result of everyone's openness and willingness to put in the work. She is so excited to begin her career and we are excited to see where she takes it. We certainly would not be at this point if it were not for her hard work and the support of those at the Ranch.

Debbie C.

Mother of an alumna

Have Questions? Ready to Get Started?

Our Trusted Admissions Specialists Are Here to Serve You

We understand that reaching out for help can be incredibly difficult, especially when your family is in crisis. It takes immense strength and courage to take that first step towards seeking professional help for your teenager struggling with an eating disorder. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where your teenager can heal and grow. We believe that every teenager has the potential to thrive, and we are honored to be a part of their healing journey.

We recognize the challenges and fears that families face when navigating the world of mental health treatment. That's why we're here to provide support and guidance through every step of the process. Our compassionate and experienced team is dedicated to helping families find the right treatment option that meets their unique needs.

Here is a brief overview of what to expect when starting your teen's eating disorder treatment journey with us:

  • Speak with one of our friendly admissions team members who'll conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify your teen’s unique treatment needs.
  • Upon arrival, your teen and family will tour our facility and meet our compassionate staff.
  • We'll then create a personalized eating disorder treatment plan tailored to your teenager's individual needs.

Let us help you begin transforming your life through our evidence-based eating disorder treatment program. Remember, all calls are always confidential, and we are here to listen and provide guidance. Don't hesitate to reach out to us - we're here to help you and your family through this difficult time.

Meet One of Our Admissions Specialists Answering Your Call

Sarah Yardley, Admissions Director at Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment center for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth
Sarah Yardley, Admissions Director at Discovery Ranch South

You don’t need to provide anything if you hit have some questions about how to help your teenager. If you decide Discovery Ranch South is right for your family, we’ll send you a student profile sheet in order to get more detailed information about your family’s situation.

It's common to feel overwhelmed by the various eating disorder treatment options available. That's why it's vital to consult a treatment professional who can guide you through the process and ensure that you make the best decision for your teen and family.

We’re happy to spend as much or as little time as you need to answer your questions. If you wish to complete your initial enrollment, typically we can do that in just under 60 minutes.

Marks of Quality Care

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Backed by The Joint Commission which ensures programs adhere to the highest quality of clinical and medical practices.

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Designated as a NATSAP Research Program, showing our commitment to well-researched practices in our program.

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Full member of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP), which ensure regulation of programs that serve children and adolescents.

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Discovery Ranch South is fully licensed in the state of Utah.

Natural Lifemanship Accredited Residential Treatment Center for Teens | Discovery Ranch South - a residential treatment program for adolescent girls and teens assigned female at birth

An approach to Equine Assisted Services based on the science of relationships

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This program is proud to be Cognia Accredited.

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Founding member of Choose Mental Health, guiding families with questions about mental health.