Family Support: How to Help a Loved One with an Eating Disorder
If you are worried about a family member or friend, this page gives clear next steps and how EDCare can help. For a free clinical assessment, call 866-771-0861 or select a location to the right to begin.
I Think My Loved One Has an Eating Disorder
Contact Admissions to discuss your concerns and the right level of care. Call, start the online form, or schedule a free clinical assessment at a nearby location.
It’s not just the person with the eating disorder who needs support. It’s the whole family.
—
Pick a location to begin a free clinical assessment.
What Happens During an Eating Disorder Assessment
An eating disorder assessment is an important first step in understanding an individual’s needs and identifying the most appropriate level of care. At EDCare, the assessment process is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of each person’s medical history, eating behaviors, and treatment needs while creating a supportive environment for open, honest conversations.
- Assessment Length: Typically lasts approximately one hour and may be conducted over the phone or in person.
- What We’ll Discuss: Our team will review medical history, current eating behaviors, previous treatment experiences, and any immediate health or safety concerns.
- Personalized Recommendations: Based on the information gathered, our clinical team will recommend an appropriate level of care and discuss potential next steps in the admissions process.
- Family Involvement: Family members may be invited to share observations or concerns that provide additional context. Depending on the individual’s preferences, family members may participate in portions of the assessment or wait nearby.
The goal is to help individuals and families better understand their treatment options and feel informed about the next steps toward recovery.

On the Day of Admission
At ED Care, we strive to make the admissions process as comfortable and supportive as possible. Information gathered during the initial assessment helps inform an individualized treatment plan tailored to each person’s needs and recovery goals.
- Family Involvement: Family members may participate in orientation or initial meetings with the treatment team when appropriate.
- Admissions Logistics: Your Admissions Counselor will review schedules, visitation guidelines, and available resources.
- Next Steps: Our team will answer questions and discuss expectations for treatment and ongoing family involvement.
Defining Your Role in Eating Disorder Recovery
Family members and loved ones can play an important role in recovery by creating a supportive, consistent environment that reinforces treatment goals.
- Maintain Routines: Offer practical support with meals, appointments, and daily responsibilities, following the treatment team’s recommendations.
- Communicate Thoughtfully: Avoid comments about weight, calories, or appearance. Focus instead on emotional well-being and encouragement.
- Set Healthy Boundaries: Establish clear, compassionate expectations while respecting your loved one’s autonomy.
- Stay Involved: Collaborate with the treatment team to support recovery goals and navigate challenges at home.
Safe Language Families Can Use
Conversations about eating disorders can be difficult. Approaching your loved one with compassion, curiosity, and concern rather than judgment can help encourage open communication.
- “I’ve noticed some changes in your eating habits and energy, and I’m concerned about you.”
- “Would it be helpful if I supported you in finding someone to talk to?”
- “I care about you and want to understand how I can best support you.”
Family Therapy
Family therapy can help loved ones strengthen communication, navigate challenges, and develop strategies to support eating disorder recovery.
- Individual Family Sessions: Work with clinicians to address family dynamics, strengthen relationships, and develop practical support strategies.
- Recovery-Focused Support: Learn how to reinforce treatment goals and establish consistent expectations at home.
- Flexible Participation: Remote family therapy sessions may be available when needed.
Ask your Admissions Counselor about family therapy options and opportunities for involvement during treatment.
Group Therapy
Multi-family group therapy provides opportunities for families and caregivers to connect with others navigating similar experiences while developing practical skills to support recovery.
- Education and Skill Building: Explore topics such as meal support, communication, and navigating challenges at home.
- Shared Experiences: Connect with other families, reduce feelings of isolation, and learn from different perspectives.
These sessions can help families feel more informed, connected, and confident in their ability to support their loved one’s recovery.

Cost of Care
EDCare is committed to providing the most cost-effective treatment possible so your loved one can afford a healthy life. We accept over 35 insurance plans, including some state-funded programs. We work with each individual to address specific financial issues, including single case agreements and out of network insurance carriers. We are your loved one’s advocates for good health and will work with you and your insurance company to obtain coverage.
Individualized Support You Need
You simply can’t support them without the right team supporting you. We give you the individualized support you need, and the most effective tools to help you heal – individually and together as a family.
Our team is dedicated to helping your loved one achieve eating disorder recovery with our flexible treatment options:
- Residential
- Partial Hospitalization
- Intensive Outpatient
- Virtual Intensive Outpatient
- Outpatient/Aftercare Services
- Housing Options in Denver and Kansas City & Omaha
We treat the full spectrum of eating disorders:
Have a question? Check out our FAQs page.
FAQs for Families
What if my loved one refuses help?
Stay available and nonjudgmental. Continue to offer support and contact Admissions for guidance. If you believe there is immediate medical risk, seek urgent care.
How long is an assessment?
Most assessments take about one hour and can be done by phone or in person.
Will family therapy be included?
Family therapy and multi-family groups are available when appropriate to support recovery and communication.
How do I schedule a free clinical assessment?
Call 866-771-0861, use the online contact form, or choose a location to begin a free clinical assessment.
