UnityPoint Health – Robert Young Center is expanding its care for specialized eating disorders in the Quad Cities with the region’s first Intensive Outpatient Program.
The new program supports adults struggling with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating. It provides a higher level of support than traditional therapy without requiring inpatient or residential treatment.
“Eating disorders affect both a person’s mental and physical health and can significantly impact relationships, work and daily functioning,” Stephanie Burrough, community relations specialist at UnityPoint Health – Robert Young Center and program director of Amy’s Gift, the Quad Cities Eating Disorders Consortium.
“We want people to know there is help and there is hope. Recovery is possible, and no one should feel shame or stigma when seeking care,” Ms. Burrough said in a news release Monday, June 8.
Citing statistics from the National Eating Disorders Association, the release said nearly 29 million Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime, and these conditions have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness. Early and specialized treatment plays a critical role in recovery outcomes.
Amy’s Gift is a resource provider focused on educating the public and providing information on eating disorder resources. It is guided by the Amy Helpenstell Foundation’s message of help, hope and healing by promoting awareness, understanding, diagnosis and treatment.
Amy’s Gift also offers the Quad Cities Eating Disorders Support Group, which meets in-person from 6-7 p.m., every Wednesday at the RYC Outpatient Clinic in Davenport.
Scope of services
The Intensive Outpatient Program for eating disorders offers a comprehensive range of therapeutic services delivered by a team of licensed mental health professionals and certified
Dietitians. Services include individual, group and family therapy sessions, with programming focused on mental health support, nutrition education and relaxation techniques.
“The purpose of this program is to support individuals as they work toward reclaiming their health,” Ms. Burrough added. “By combining evidence-based therapies, we’re able to provide structured care and accountability while still allowing people to return home and stay connected to their support systems.”
The new program is offered at Robert Young Center – Davenport at 1704 E. 54th St. For more information, call (309) 779-3000 or visit unitypoint.org.
