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Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center

International Eating Disorder Referral Organization

EDReferral.com Newsletter –June, 2006: Table of Contents

Current Research on Eating Disorders

For Professionals: Conferences/Seminars/Study Groups/Networking/Online Courses

For Public: Workshops

Online Interactive Programs

Advocacy

Treatment Center News

Support Groups

Employment Opportunities

Research Studies on Eating Disorders

Books, Journals, Videos and Media

Marketing Tips

Newsletter Protocol

Instructions on how to unsubscribe to the newsletter

Want something included in the newsletter? –see the protocol listed at the end of this newsletter.

Current Research on Eating Disorders:

Incidence, prevalence and mortality of anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders. PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to evaluate the recent literature on the incidence and prevalence of and mortality associated with eating disorders. RECENT FINDINGS: General-practice studies show that the overall incidence rates of anorexia nervosa remained stable during the 1990s, compared with the 1980s. Some evidence suggests that the occurrence of bulimia nervosa is decreasing. Anorexia nervosa is a common disorder among young white females, but is extremely rare among black females. Recent studies confirm previous findings of the high mortality rate within the anorexia nervosa population. SUMMARY: The incidence of anorexia nervosa is around eight per 100,000 persons per year. An upward trend has been observed in the incidence of anorexia nervosa in the past century till the 1970s. The most substantial increase was among females aged 15-24 years, for whom a significant increase was observed from 1935 to 1999. The average prevalence rates for anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa among young females are 0.3 and 1%, respectively. Only a minority of people with eating disorders, especially with bulimia nervosa, are treated in mental healthcare. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2006 Jul;19(4):389-94.

Features associated with excessive exercise in women with eating disorders. OBJECTIVE: Excessive exercise and motor restlessness are observed in a substantial number of patients with eating disorders. This trait has been studied extensively among animal models of activity anorexia nervosa (AN) and may hold particular interest as an endophenotype for AN. We explored features associated with excessive exercise across subtypes of eating disorders. METHOD: Participants were female probands and affected female relatives from the multi-site international Price Foundation Genetic Studies with diagnoses of AN, bulimia nervosa (BN), and both AN and BN or eating disorder not otherwise specified (ED-NOS) (N = 1,857). Excessive exercise was defined based on responses to the Structured Interview for Anorexic and Bulimic Disorders (SIAB). RESULTS: Among the eating disorder diagnostic groups, excessive exercise was most common among the purging subtype of AN. Individuals who reported excessive exercise also reported lower minimum BMI, younger age at interview, higher scores on anxiety, perfectionism, and eating disorder symptom measures, more obsessions and compulsions, and greater persistence. CONCLUSION:: Excessive exercise may be associated particularly with the purging subtype of AN as well as with a constellation of anxious/obsessional temperament and personality characteristics among women with eating disorders. .Int J Eat Disord. 2006 Apr 24

Conferences for Professionals:

Chicago, IL Conference: iaedp ™ Symposium 2006: Integrating the Body, Brain, and Spirit: New Trends for Eating Disorders Treatment, July 13-16, 2006. Location: Marriott Downtown on the Magnificent Mile - Chicago, IL. For more information or to register visit www.iaedp.com. EDReferral.com members – Christine Hartline, MA, our Founder and Director will be there, we hope you will be there too!

Durham, NC and Los Angeles, CA: Counseling Intensive for Nutrition Professionals and Eating Disorders Boot Camp for Therapists and Dietitians: Durham, NC on 7/28-30, 2006; Los Angeles on 12/1-3, 2006.  Molly Kellogg, RD, LCSW and Jessica Setnick, MS, RD/LD bring you these popular, practical workshops. Register for either or both (total of 18 credits for RDs). Whether eating disorders are already your specialty or you are just beginning to see more ED patients, Boot Camp is rich in content, resources and support. Counseling Intensive has cutting edge techniques for working with all kinds of nutrition clients. For additional information visit www.mollykellogg.com or www.understandingnutrition.com or call 214-221-6510.

Big Sur, CA Skills Enhancing Program: Understanding and Treating Eating Disorders: An Integrative Approach. Facilitators: Judith Ruskay Rabinor PhD and Ann Kearney-Cooke PhD. Date: September 24-29, 2006. This week long training offers a skills enhancing program for mental health professionals working with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and body image disorders. Lecture, clinical case material and experiential exercises will provide a comprehensive framework to understand the multiple factors leading to the development and maintenance of eating and body image disorders. The conference will detail and demonstrate the process of assessment, evaluation and treatment planning. Participants will learn how strategies from psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy and dialectical behavior therapy can be used to treat eating disorders and body image disturbance. The use of guided imagery, journal writing, and group and family therapy will also be discussed. Conference Location: The Esalen Institute, Big Sur, California. Approved for CMEs for physicians, nurses, psychologists, MFTs and LCSWs. Registration Information: Contact Harvard Medical School at 617-998-5028.

Sacramento, CA: Eating Disorders and Body Image Symposium – October 13-14, 2006. Join Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program for the 2006 Eating Disorders and Body Image Symposium, “Empowering The Soul:  Finding Meaning and Purpose In Recovery” on October 13-14, 2006 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Sacramento, CA.  Keynote speakers include Craig Johnson, Ph.D, founder and director of the Laureate Eating Disorders Program in Tulsa, OK and Carolyn Costin, MS, MEd, founder and director of the Monte Nido Treatment Center in Malibu, CA.  Early bird and student rates are available for registration.  Registration includes breakfast and lunch on both days, symposium materials, entrance into the exhibitor hall and a continuing education certificate (Twelve CEUs will be offered). Visit www.sedop.org or call 916-920-5276 for more information.

Professional Study Groups and Training:

Bariatric Surgery Aftercare - My Self Design Provider Training Schedule 2006: Dates: June 23-24, July 15-16, August 4-5, 2006. Join clinicians in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Connecticut, who are certified to offer a unique and effective CBT aftercare program for bariatric surgery patients.  My Self Design provides monthly individual treatment for 2 years post-op.  Patients develop healthy new lifestyle designs while expanding their personal coping strategies, maximizing their surgical weight losses and making them permanent.  To learn more about becoming a My Self Design provider visit www.myselfdesign.com or contact Carol Signore, LMFT, FAED, at 215 540-9675 or email Carol@myselfdesign.com.

Southern California - Professional Study Groups: Carolyn Costin, MFT invites all treating professionals to her study groups. Both groups cover case reviews, treatment strategies, new literature and research, and other areas related to treatment of eating disorders. CEU's are given to MFT's and LCSW's. For more information call 310-457-9958.

Group #1 takes place the first Tuesday of every month from 9:00-10:00am at the Eating Disorder Center of CA, www.edcca.com.

Group #2 takes place the first Wednesday of every month from 12:00-1:30pm at the Monte Nido Treatment Center, www.montenido.com. Bring your own lunch if desired.

For the Public: Support Programs and Workshops

Royal Oak, MI (just outside of Detroit): Reconnect with Food^SM Eating Disorder Support Programs invites participants to express themselves in their mind-body, creative arts experiential programs. Participate in art, music, dance and movement therapy, psychodrama, yoga, meditation and mindfulness training led by Beverly Price, RD, MA, RYT and Specialty Psychotherapists. Learn about scholarships funded programs available at www.prazamana.com or www.prazmana.org.  

Week Intensive: Cost: $895 (may be reimbursable under your health plan or additionally supplemented through our scholarships--please inquire). Dates: June 19 - 23 or July 24 - 28, 2006, 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  Lodging available for out of area participants but is not included in the program cost.

Weekly Series - Yoga and Discussion Group: Cost: $179. Dates: Wednesdays, June 21 - Aug 9, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Monthly Support Program - Creative Arts and Discussion: Cost: $75 per session or $195 for all three sessions, Wednesday, June 28, August 4 and September 27, 2006, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Individual consultations in conscious eating for body, mind and spirit: Consultations can be performed in person or by telephone. For more information call 248-390-4150 or visit www.prazamana.org. 

Online Interactive Recovery Tools:

Improving Eating Disorder Treatment and Outcomes: Comprehensive eating disorder treatment requires a team approach that includes individual therapy, family therapy, nutritional counseling, and working with a primary care physician. Those with eating disorders need access to a set of tools and resources that will reinforce treatment techniques and provide support throughout recovery. These resources may include self-help books and workbooks, support groups, and online resources. Even residential treatment programs, which are staffed around the clock, still need to provide clients with such resources. MySelfHelp.com programs provide online help and support for your clients and their family members 24 hours a day, and can serve as a valuable adjunct to the treatment you provide. These programs encourage and engage your clients with interactive exercises, personalized feedback, and reminders to complete assignments, practice new techniques, and stay in touch and share results with you. A free family support program engages and supports the family in the recovery process – educating them about the illness, the importance of therapy, and how they can help and support their loved one and themselves.

Family of Programs Developed through NIMH Funding: The MySelfHelp.com family of interactive, online, self-help programs includes Defeating Depression, Take Control of Bulimia, Stop Binge Eating, Stress Management, Overcoming Guilt, Working on Low Self-Esteem, Conquer Insomnia, and Hope for HIV and Depression, as well as a moderated member Discussion Board. MySelfHelp.com programs were developed in part through grants from the National Institute of Mental Health, and programs are designed to complement therapy, reinforce treatment goals, and improve treatment outcomes.

Clinical Trials Show Positive Results: MySelfHelp.com just completed clinical outcome studies on the Stop Binge Eating, Take Control of Bulimia, Defeating Depression, and Conquer Insomnia programs, and the results showed a 43% decrease in binge eating and a 51% decrease in purging after three months and a 45% decrease in binge eating and 59% decrease in purging after six months of using the programs. Results are similar for depression symptoms. More detailed results can be found on the individual program pages at www.MySelfHelp.com.

Complimentary Preview for Healthcare Professionals: Healthcare professionals who have not reviewed MySelfHelp.com programs, or who would like to take another look to see recent changes, can receive a complimentary review. Simply email info@MySelfHelp.com and identify yourself as a healthcare professional. As always, they welcome your feedback and suggestions.

Advocacy:

Advocacy - The Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy and Action. The EDC, a Washington, D.C. advocacy organization, is preparing to expand its online information about eating disorders among men and boys and other populations. If you know of high quality resources already online, let them know. The EDC would like to link to those pages, or share the information already available. Send suggestions to manager@eatingdisorderscoalition.org. The Eating Disorders Coalition is your voice in Washington, D.C.! Consider joining the coalition. Individuals can join their email list. Hospitals, treatment programs, non-profits, and other groups can become EDC member organizations. To learn more, visit http://eatingdisorderscoalition.org/involved/involved.html.

Treatment Center News:

Arizona Treatment Center News – Remuda Ranch: Remuda Ranch has treated more than 6,500 women and girls with eating disorders since 1990. Their Christian programs treat patients of all faiths and prepare them for complete recovery when they return home for continued outpatient treatment. They have developed tools to assist outpatient providers such as:

• Professional Network: Visit www.professionals.remudaranch.com for resources and continuing education opportunities.

• Complimentary Educational Consultation Service: Call 1-800-445-1900 ext. 5288 or email consult@remudaranch.com for answers to your eating disorder related questions.

• Educational Luncheons: Visit www.remudaranch.com/register to learn more about locations and dates.

• The Remuda Review: The Christian Journal of Eating Disorders: Call 1-800-445-1900 ext. 5251 to order your complimentary subscription.

When inpatient treatment is needed, call Remuda Ranch at 1-800-445-1900. “By partnering together, we can make recovery a reality.”

Calabasas, CA Treatment Center News – Monte Nido Residential Treatment Center. Monte Nido combines a beautiful natural healing environment with the expertise of the renowned national expert and author, Carolyn Costin, and the treatment professionals from her company, Community Counseling for Individuals and Families, Inc. Monte Nido is a very small, intimate facility. Monte Nido only take 6 clients at a time. Clients treated at Monte Nido are all women suffering from anorexia, bulimia or exercise addiction. The facility has a family-like environment; their unique level system allows each client to gain increasing freedom and responsibility for her own recovery. By the end of her stay, each client is shopping for and preparing her own food and monitoring her own exercise. This will help prepare her for handling these activities upon discharge from Monte Nido. They also have a unique transition program, Bella Mar, which offers various levels of transitional and independent living situations. For more information call 310-457-9958, visit www.montenido.com or email mntc@montenido.com.

Del Mar, CA Treatment Center News - Casa Palmera – Introducing their Professional Program: Working together to treat anorexia, bulimia and compulsive overeating. If you need to refer a client to a higher level of care for his or her struggle with an eating disorder, please consider referring to Casa Palmera. They are unique due to the fact that they are a licensed hospital that incorporates individual and group therapy.  For information visit: http://www.casapalmera.com/tour-casa-palmera.html. They treat anorexia, bulimia and compulsive overeating. At Casa Palmera they recognize the importance of maintaining a close relationship with referring professionals. With your client’s permission, Casa Palmera will call to inform you of a safe arrival and to give you key contact information; weekly phone or email progress reports from the treatment team can be arranged; handover call to return the client to your care upon discharge. Their Admissions and Referrals team is happy to assist referring professionals, your clients, and your client’s families. For additional details call 888-481-4481 or admissions@casapalmera.com.

Sacramento, CA Treatment Center News: Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program. In keeping with their vision of offering comprehensive outpatient services, Summit now offers a day treatment program for clients requiring intensive outpatient treatment for Anorexia or Bulimia Nervosa. Treatment participants engage in a comprehensive treatment program eight hours a day, Monday through Friday. The program is designed for those who require additional structure, support, and supervision in order to sustain or stabilize their recovery process or for individuals who may be transitioning from inpatient or residential treatment. Services offered by the Day Treatment Program include: Individual and Family Psychotherapy; Process Group; Experiential Groups; Psycho-education Groups; Family Support Group; Health Education Group; Grocery Shopping Outing; Nutrition Counseling and Education; Experiential Restaurant Outing; Meal and Menu Planning; Monitored Therapeutic Meals and Snacks; Relapse Prevention; Weekly Psychiatry Appointment. Summit also offers an Intensive Outpatient Program, a Binge Eating program and basic outpatient services. The program seeks to provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where people can heal from the guilt, shame, and destructive thinking that often accompanies anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.  For more information, visit the website at www.sedop.org or call 916-920-5276.

San Diego, CA Treatment Center News: Supporting ME (Moderate Eating): an eating disorder program built on the innovative and highly effective Practical Recovery Services for Addictive Behaviors. Supporting ME offers a sensitive and caring environment where you can become healthy again. During the program, you will learn how to build and maintain motivation; cope with urges and compulsions; identify and overcome emotional and behavioral problems; enhance your relationships; achieve a better lifestyle balance; and build a greater sense of purpose and meaning in life.  Supporting ME is open to men and women eighteen years of age and over. The Therapy Team model starts with identifying challenges that are unique to participants and then customizes the program to help them overcome those challenges. Participants will have the opportunity to work with physicians, psychologists, nutritionists, acupuncturists, body workers, energy healers, art therapists, massage therapists, and yoga instructors.  Supporting ME offers a variety of customizable programs including but not limited to a Visitor Program, designed as a residential program; a Local Intensive Program, designed as an intensive outpatient program; and an Outpatient Program. To learn more about Supporting ME, go to www.pyrysys.com, then click on the Supporting ME menu bar, or call 858-546-1100.

Ventura County, CA Treatment Center News: Pacific Shores Hospital: Pacific Shores Hospital is a 30-bed facility completely dedicated to Rader Programs Eating Disorders Treatment. The facility was specifically designed to provide a warm and nurturing environment. The facility is located five minutes from the ocean in picturesque Ventura County just north of Los Angeles and south of Santa Barbara in Southern California. Rader Programs at Pacific Shores Hospital maintains an outstanding treatment team with extensive experience and training in Rader Program's proven treatment philosophy. The Rader Program is a national treatment center with multiple locations. The Program accepts patients from all across the United States. For more information visit the website at www.raderprograms.com, call 800-841-1515 or email rader@raderprograms.com.

Colorado Treatment Center News – The Eating Disorder Center of Denver (EDC-Denver): The EDC-Denver offers a full spectrum of care from partial hospitalization through outpatient to males and females age 16 and older. The Partial Hospitalization Program operates 11 hours per day, 7 days per week and includes supervised meals and snacks. The Evening Intensive Outpatient Program operates 4 hours per evening, three days per week. Most of the Eating Disorder Center of Denver's program components are available on an outpatient basis. Services include individual and family/couples therapy; group therapy including DBT; aftercare; psychiatric evaluation; therapy and medication monitoring and nutritional counseling. Non-EDC-Denver treatment providers are welcome to utilize these services as adjunct therapies to their own treatment. Visit www.edcdenver.com for details and schedules.

Eating Disorder Center of Denver’s Outpatient Groups: To register call 720-889-4232:

1. Aftercare Group: This group meets Monday evenings from 7:00-8:30pm and Tuesday evenings 5:30-7:00pm. The group is an open group consisting of individuals in recovery, that have completed an eating disorders program at EDC-D or other national programs. Cost: $50 per group.

2. DBT Skills Training: The adult group meets Monday evenings 5:00-6:30pm; the adolescent group meets Tuesday evenings from 4:00-5:30pm. The group consists of didactic and experiential education in four different skill areas: core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Cost: $75 per group.

3. Body Image 101: This group meets Tuesday evening from 5:30-7:30pm. The group is a 12-week ongoing group utilizing cognitive behavioral and experiential techniques to mend the relationship between a woman and her body. Cost: $50 per group.

4. Eating Disorders Anonymous: This group meets every Saturday from 2:00-3:00pm. It is a free, open support group for individuals suffering and recovering from eating disorders. The meetings are held at the Glendale YMCA, 4500 E. Kentucky Avenue Denver, CO.

5. Family and Friends Support Group: This group meets the first and third Thursday of each month from 6:00-8:30pm. The group is for families and friends of individuals suffering with eating disorders to come discuss their problems, concerns and successes. To RSVP or for questions contact Enola Gorham at 720-889-4231. The meetings held at Eating Disorder Foundation of the Rockies, 3003 East Third Ave, Suite 110, Denver, CO.

Denver, CO - Minding the Body Support Group: Minding the Body helps individuals struggling to establish positive lifestyles after Gastric Bypass surgery or other weight loss programs. Weekly groups provide participants with the tools, support, and skills to: maintain positive weight goals, deal with issues that may interfere with weight loss maintenance, and interact with others in various stages of the weight maintenance process. Meeting time: every Thursday from 6:00-8:00pm. Cost: $75 per group. For more information call 303-771-0861 or visit www.bodymindandhealth.com.

Florida Treatment Center News - "Reality Based Treatment for Eating Disorders." Milestones Eating Disorders Program offers residential treatment for anorexia, bulimia, compulsive overeating, and related disorders. The program is unique in so far as offering a supportive and structured environment while providing real world experiences such as preparing meals, grocery shopping, and participating in an array of activities simulating one's at home setting. Participants live within an apartment setting and are afforded opportunities to attend a variety of evening support groups while attending group and individual therapies during the day. The program is part of a facility, which is JCAHO accredited (Joint Commission for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) and licensed by the State of Florida to provide residential treatment as well as intensive outpatient services. The overall philosophy of Milestones is one of providing the treatment within a less restrictive setting than the traditional hospital environment and providing people with ample opportunities to put into practice those skills necessary to maintain their recovery when they return home. Milestones is intended for those who are not in need of a hospital setting and are able to demonstrate a sincere desire to recover from their eating disorder. You can learn more about the program at the Milestones website at www.milestonesprogram.org or by calling 800-347-2364.

Missouri Treatment Center News – Castlewood Treatment Center: Castlewood Treatment Center offers a comprehensive continuum of care for stabilization and long-term recovery from eating disorders. From the residential level through the outpatient services, this program is specifically designed for individualized care, treatment planning and follow up. The residential level of care is designed for stabilization and restoration of healthy eating habits in a comfortable, homelike environment. The residential program has a maximum of 10 clients. Each client sees their primary therapist in four individual sessions per week as well as one weekly session with the psychiatrist and one weekly session with the dietitian. The program week consists of approximately 40 hours of group therapy. Each room is well appointed and uniquely decorated and has its own full bath. There are no more than two clients per room. For more information visit www.castlewoodtc.com.

Oregon Treatment Center News – New Facility to Open this Summer. RainRock: A Residential Treatment Facility for Women, A Monte Nido Affiliate. Due to the success of the Monte Nido Treatment Program in Malibu, California and the limited number of clients they can accept compared to those seeking their services, they are expanding by partnering with a former staff member, Annie Laughlin, and opening RainRock, a Monte Nido Affiliate. This new facility is situated outside of Eugene Oregon, along the McKenzie River on 3.5 acres of lush lawn, gardens and riverfront. RainRock lives up to its name evoking the healing properties of both earth and water combined. The secluded park like setting is private yet expansive with abundant manicured grounds and the constant energy and flow of the river. The combination of Carolyn Costin’s 30 years of eating disorder experience and the uniqueness of this property promises the clients a rare opportunity to deal with and find recovery from these very difficult disorders. For additional information on RainRock and the Monte Nido Treatment Philosophy visit www.rainrock.org or www.montenido.com.

Support for Parents:

Royal Oak, MI - Parent Coaching Program: William Beaumont Hospital's Pediatric Department introduces the Nancy Rambeau Hough Parent Coaching Program for parents of adolescents struggling with eating disorders.  The Parent Coaching Program has been specifically developed to assist parents in effectively supporting their adolescents through the eating disorder recovery process, while simultaneously providing them with encouragement. Dealing with families that are actively struggling with eating disorders can be very stressful and frustrating even for the most skilled treatment providers. Therefore, a goal of this program is to enhance treatment services offered within the community. The Parent Coaching Program is aimed at enhancing parental competence and skill as well as increasing pro-active parental involvement in their adolescent’s recovery. Participant Criteria: parents of adolescents (18 years of age or younger) dealing with active eating disorder issues; a commitment to attend and participate in the 12 week program; adolescent needs to be actively engaged in treatment with a therapist and pediatrician (minimally, through the duration of this program). Time and location: weekly group for 12 weeks, Wednesday from 7:00-8:30pm at Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI. Facilitator: Stephanie B. Milstein, Ph.D., Contact: 248-551-2385.

Support Groups:

Birmingham, AL – Free Eating Disorder Support Group: Sponsored by ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders). This group meets every Tuesday from 6:30-8:00pm at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church Main Building Room on 318 Kentucky Avenue, Vestavia Hills, AL. This group is designed to provide: support and recovery information for those living with any eating disorder; resources and hope to the community regarding eating disorders and recovery; a common ground for sharing experiences and honest feedback in a safe environment. The last Tuesday of each month is Family Night where the focus is on providing support to family and friends of those living with an eating disorder. For more information please contact Angela Camp at 205-871-4443. Information can also be requested via email at anadbham@aol.com.

Berkeley, CA and San Francisco, CA Support Groups. Group therapy is a powerful tool for eating disorder treatment.  Learn alternatives to eating disorder thoughts and behavior and new ways to cope with life's challenges while gaining support and reducing isolation. For more information, contact Alison McCabe, MFT at 510-273-9969 or visit www.alisonmccabe.com.

Beverly Hills, CA Free Weekly Drop-in Support Group meetings sponsored by Linda Blakeley, Ph.D. and ANAD. The group meets every Tuesday at 7:45pm. For more information call 310-286-9171 or visit www.drlindablakeley.com.

Beverly Hills, CA - Feeding the Soul Eating Disorder and Body Image Ongoing Process Group. This is an ongoing process group limited to 6 participants. In addition to general discussion and support, topics include: body image and the media; empowerment without (food) restriction; intuitive eating/mindful eating; food and feelings; gentle nutrition and exercise; hungers and desires; hormones and appetite control; and the fallacy of food addiction. The group meets Monday evenings from 7pm-8:30pm in Beverly Hills, CA. For further information contact erinnaimi@heartofnutrition.com or 310-551-0233.

Del Mar, CA – Free Eating Disorders Anonymous Meeting: Casa Palmera offers free Eating Disorders Anonymous Meetings every Friday evening from 7:30-8:30pm.  Location: 14750 El Camino Real, Del Mar, CA 92014. For more information, please contact Kamran at (858) 775-7752 or Kamran@casapalmera.com.

Laguna Beach, CA -- Free ANAD Support Group. This group is held at the South Coast Medical Center on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month from 6:30-7:30pm. For more information or to RSVP call 949-240-7806.

Laguna Hills, CA - ANAD Support Group. This group meets every Wednesday at 7:00pm. The group is located at 23461 South Pointe Drive, Suite 190, Laguna Hills, CA. For more information please contact Kay Poggi at 949-498-5018.

Los Angeles, CA Support Groups: Two process groups for women, one for those over 30, and one for women 18 to 30, with all types of eating disorders. This is a safe place to talk about the issues behind calories, thinness and obsession with body image. This group will take place in a supportive, confidential setting. Develop understanding and trust with others as you work through the complexities of family, relationships, and self esteem. Groups meet Monday and Wednesday evenings. Contact Dr. Janet K. Smith, 310-473-6169 for further information or visit www.weighty-issues.com.

Oakland and Walnut Creek, CA Support Groups: Facilitator - Rose P. Phelps, MFT, Certified Group Psychotherapist and President of the Northern California Group Psychotherapy Society.  This group offers members an arena in which to find support, deal with challenges and learn to nurture themselves and others. For more information call 510-658-4344 for interview or email rosepmft@aol.com.

Petaluma, CA - Free ANAD Support Group for Eating Disorder Sufferers: This support group is an ongoing, drop-in group for teens and adults concerned about body image and their relationship to food. Meeting location and time: 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month from 10:30am-12:30pm at 320 Western Avenue, Petaluma, CA. Facilitators: Haleh Kashani, PhD and Joan. For more information call 415-898-9772.

Petaluma, CA – Free ANAD Support Group for Friends and Family Members: This support group is an ongoing, drop-in group for friends and family members who have concerns about a loved one with an eating disorder. Meeting location and time: 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month from 10:30am-12:30pm at 320 Western Avenue, Petaluma, CA. Facilitators: Haleh Kashani, PhD and Joan. For more information call 415-898-9772.

San Diego, CA – Free Support Group. Free eating disorders anonymous group in San Diego on Wednesday nights. The group starts at 7:30pm and is located at Harmony Grove. For more information please call 800-990-8052 or visit www.harmony-grove.com.

San Francisco, CA - 12-week Women of Size group: The Eating Disorders Collaborative offers 12-week Women of Size group. For more information, please contact Marcy Dubova at 415-987-4118 or visit www.edcollaborative.com.

San Francisco, CA Support Group: Celebrate Your Body - A Women's Support Group for Transforming Negative Body Image on Tuesday evenings from 7:15 - 9:15pm. Women have few places where they can talk openly about negative and positive feelings about their bodies. They carry these feelings alone, increasing their confusion and shame. Through writing, discussion and meditations they tell their stories, explore how they developed negative body image, share resources and brainstorm how to manage body image experiences. With the support of other women, attendees will learn to nurture, celebrate and honor the wisdom of their body. For information visit www.celebrateyourbody.com. To register call Nomi Dekel, MA, MFT at 415-457-3468 or 510-234-8458.

Brevard County, FL – Free ANAD support group. The group meets every Thursday evening at 7:30 pm. The last Thursday of each month is a multi-family group for support persons to join their loved ones. For more information contact BrevardANAD@aol.com or 321-259-6842.

Florida – Free Support Group: The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders is holding a support group for men and women with anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorders at Florida Hospital Memorial Division, Ormond Beach Campus, Tuesday and Thursday evenings. For additional information regarding times and meeting place, call 386-437-9590 or email janet0409@hotmail.com.

North Miami Beach, FL – Eating Disorder Support Group: This is an ongoing eating disorder support group that takes place on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday evenings starting at 6:30pm at Milestones. The group is open to anyone wishing to attend and is free of charge. For more information call 800-347-2364 or visit www.milestonesprogram.org.

Atlanta, GA - Free ANAD support group sponsored by Peachford Hospital. The group is facilitated by Karen Macke, LPC and Page Love, RD, LD. The group is held at 2151 Peachford Road - Atlanta, GA  30338 at the Peachford Conference Center from 10-11:30 a.m. every Saturday. Guests are welcome - including family members and friends. For more information please call 770-986-1821 or visit the website at www.peachfordhospital.com.

Newton, MA - Free Support Group: Hope and Inspiration is a free drop-in group that takes place the first Saturday of every month from 10-11am at the MEDA (an eating disorder treatment and prevention organization) office in Newton, located at 92 Pearl Street. During the hour, a recovered individual shares his or her story of recovery, leaving time for discussion and questions. Contact MEDA at 617-558-1881 extension 12 for more information or visit www.medainc.org.

Omaha, NE – Family Support Group. The Eating Disorders Program at Children’s Hospital of Omaha, Nebraska offers a family support group to all former, outpatient and inpatient families. The group meets the third Monday of every month from 4:30- 6:00pm in the Children's Hospital Glow conference room. This program provides families much needed support to make recovery possible and successful.  For more information or to reserve a seat call 402-955-6190.

Ithaca, NY - Parent Support Group: This group meets every other week, alternating Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:00pm at Cornell Cooperative Extension. This is a free support group for parents and loved ones of young people with eating disorders. For more information contact Nancy Potter at the Cornell Cooperative Extension at 607-272-2292.

New York, NY - Free Eating Disorder Support Group: This group meets the first Monday of every month from 8:30-9:45pm. The group is free and open to anyone suffering from an eating disorder or body image difficulty. The group is run by therapists who are trained and on staff at The Eating Disorder Resource Center in NYC. Call 212-989-3987 to reserve a spot. Support Group Location: 24 E. 12th St. 

New York, NY – Eating and Body Image Groups: The Women's Therapy Centre Institute is offering six week groups on eating and body image problems. The therapist-led groups will look at the psychological issues behind the meaning of fat and thin, obsessive thinking, how to feed oneself when hungry and stop when full - as well as how to eliminate bingeing.  For more information contact WTCI at 212-721-7005.

New York, NY – Free Friends and Family Monthly Support Group: Friends and Family Support Group for those who are concerned about a friend or family member who may have an eating disorder. The group meets the 1st Tuesday of the month from 6pm - 7:15pm at The Center for the Study of Anorexia and Bulimia at The Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy at 1841 Broadway, 4th floor, NY, NY 10023, phone 212-333-3444.

Ambler, PA: Bariatric Surgery Support/Therapy Groups: For more information about support groups in your area contact Carol Signore, LMFT, at 215-540-9675 or email Carol@myselfdesign.com.

Fort Worth, TX – Eating Disorder Support Group: This group is held at The Frost Bank Building, 4200 South Hulen, Suite 318 Fort Worth, TX 76109. The group meets on Wednesday evenings from 7:00-8:30pm. The cost of the group is $10.00 per session. The group will benefit women, men and teenagers struggling with bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, and/or compulsive overeating (minimum of 14 years of age). This group is not a substitute for professional counseling. The group facilitator is Jacquelyn Ekern. For more information contact Jacquelyn Ekern at jacquelynekern@yahoo.com or 817-602-8727.

Orem, UT Free Support Group: Eating Disorders Anonymous, 12-Step Group. This group meets at 7:00 pm on Thursdays and Sundays. Gain more desire for recovery as you, along with others, share experiences of strength and hope. For more information contact the Center for Change at 1-888-224-8250.

Salt Lake City, UT - New Life Foundation provides two free support groups: (1) The Recovery Support Group is held every Wednesday from 5:30- 6:30 pm. This self-help support group for individuals suffering from an eating disorder offers a chance to gain hope and strength for recovery. (2) The Friends and Family Support Group is held on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month from 5:30-6:30 pm. This self-help support group offers an opportunity to gain insight and awareness about how to support a loved one during his/her recovery. Both self-help support groups are held at New Life Foundation 1255 East 3900 South, Ste 301 (3rd Floor). Visit the website for more information www.newlifefoundation.cc or call Sabrina Martinez at 801-983-6441.

International Support Groups:

Toronto, Canada Support Group: This is an ongoing group for women with body image and eating disorder issues. This is a participatory group where clients can explore deeper issues and feelings in a safe and confidential environment. Clients will learn how to get in touch with and express themselves in ways that are honouring and authentic. $15 per session. For more information contact Yana Hoffman CCDC at 416-534-2816.

Online Support Group:

Milestones Online Support Group: Milestones sponsors an online support forum that is open to anyone who is seeking eating disorder information and support. The group's membership is over 1300 participants, all of whom are either suffering from an eating disorder or are affected by a loved one suffering with an eating disorder. The forum can be accessed from a link on the Milestones website at www.milestonesprogram.org or directly via www.groups.yahoo.com/group/milestonesinrecovery.

Employment Opportunities:

West Point, NY: United States Corps of Cadets Registered Dietician Position. Final Closing: June19, 2006. Location: United States Military Academy, Office of the Commandant of Cadets, S-4 Branch, West Point, New York. Work Schedule: This is a full time appointment in the federal service beginning no later than August 6, 2006.  Summary of Duties: Serves as a Registered Dietitian in support of 4,000 cadets for the United States Corps of Cadets assigned to the S4, USCC Office of the Commandant. Serves as a clinical member of the USMA Eating Disorder Committee (EDC's), the EDC's Education subcommittee, and clinical member of the EDC's Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) offering, as needed, collaborative medical nutrition therapy care through assessment, care planning, education, evaluation, and follow-up. Clinical practice includes nutrition counseling for cadets, both individually and in groups, and development of clinical practice guidelines. Develops a nutrition intervention plan based on the cadet's medical records and the information obtained from the interview. Instructs cadets concerning the plan for nutrition intervention; insures comprehension; provides written guidelines of medical nutrition therapy principles when available. Performs assignments in support of multidisciplinary clinical pathways, wellness initiatives, and branch functions; calculates special diets; attends meetings; attends bi-monthly meetings with MDT to review cases and teaches classes for the Department of Physical Education (DPE) upon request. Qualifications: Successful completion of a full four-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree with a major dietetics, nutrition, food service management, institution management, or related sciences. The curriculum must have been in accordance with the qualifying requirements established by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE) of the American Dietetic Association in effect at the time of graduation. Information on ADA-approved curricula may be obtained from The American Dietetic Association, 430 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60611. (Professional registration as a registered dietitian is evidence of meeting ADA requirements. Master’s degree in Nutrition Education, Public Health Nutrition, Sports Nutrition, or Community Nutrition; additional graduate course work in counseling preferred. Successfully passed national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and licensure eligible as a dietitian in New York. At least 3 years of professional experience. Knowledge and experience in normal and clinical nutrition, exercise physiology, and eating disorders is required. Must meet West Point MEDDAC’s (Keller Army Community Hospital) credential standards for clinical privileges as a dietitian. Salary: Within the General Schedule Scale at a GS-11 (range from $56,799 to $73,842 includes locality). Requests for further information may be submitted to: Lori A. May, United States Corps of Cadets, United States Military Academy, West Point, New York 10996-1995, sl7974@usma.edu, 845-938-3204.

Research Studies on Eating Disorders:

The National Institute of Mental Health - The NIMH is sponsoring a study assessing appetite and reward in eating disorders. Researchers need women who are 18 to 45 years old who are recovered from anorexia and/or bulimia nervosa and who are not taking psychoactive medications. Studies are taking place at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. The study involves the completion of interviews and questionnaires and subjects undergo a non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. There is no X-ray exposure. Travel expenses are covered and participants will be paid upon completion of the study. For more information call 1-866-265 9289, email edresearch@upmc.edu or visit the website www.anbn.org.

The National Institute of Mental Health - Research on Genes and Eating Disorders: The National Institute of Mental Health is sponsoring a multicenter, international study seeking to determine whether a gene or genes might predispose individuals to develop anorexia nervosa. They need families with at least two relatives (e.g., sisters, brothers, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents) who have or had anorexia nervosa, and who would be willing to participate. The study involves the completion of interviews, questionnaires and a blood draw. Participants do not need to travel and will be paid upon completion of the study. For more information call 1-888-895-3886, email EDResearch@upmc.edu or visit www.angenetics.org.

NYU Research Study Participants Needed - Seeking Women who have had Cosmetic Surgery.  Catherine Baker-Pitts is conducting a study as part of her doctoral dissertation at NYU to understand the experience and meaning of cosmetic surgery for women.  Participation involves an audio taped interview and participants will be compensated $100.  If you know a woman who has elected cosmetic surgery and who is at least 18 years old, who might be willing to participate, please ask her to contact the researcher at 917-647-0768 or bakercate@aol.com.

University of Chicago Eating Disorders Program Research Study Participants Needed: Women ages 18 and older who have symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa are invited to take part in a research project. This study is being conducted at The University of Chicago by The University of Chicago Eating Disorders Program. This study provides researchers with information about Anorexia Nervosa –there is no treatment involved.  Participants will be asked to complete a series of interviews and questionnaires, a blood draw, and a brief physical exam.  After completing this portion of the study participants will be asked to carry a PalmPilotTM with them continuously for 2 weeks. During this time the PalmPilotTM will randomly beep you 6 times/day to answer a series of questions on the PalmPilotTM. Participants will also be asked to record certain behaviors on the palm pilot as they occur throughout the day. In addition, participants will be called three times over the 2-week period to report your daily food intake. Eligible participants may earn up to $250 for two weeks of participation. For additional information contact Sarah Fischer, Project Coordinator at 773-702-1547 or Peter Doyle at 773-702-0789.

Eating Disorders and the Perceptions of Sister-Sister Relationships: Are you a female between the ages of 18-25? Do you have a sister between the ages of 18-25? Do either you or your sister have or (have had) bulimia? If you answered yes to all 3 questions then this is your opportunity to make a difference in the field of eating disorders!  Aleksandra Marinovic, a graduate student in Clinical Psychology at California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, San Diego is conducting research on eating disorders and the perceptions of sister-sister relationships. The goal of this research is to add depth to the existing literature on eating disorders and family dynamics and help those treating eating disorders to utilize the closest, but often the most forgotten family subsystem, sister siblings. She is interested in interviewing, individually, 18-25 year old sisters where one of them has or has had a history of an eating disorder while the other has not (the interview to last approximately two hours). Upon the completion of the interview, the participants will be monetarily compensated. For more information on the study please contact Aleksandra Marinovic, MA at 858-349-4496.

Data Collection – Confidential Survey on Weight Histories: Dr. Jan Yager is conducting a confidential survey on weight histories and welcomes participants, both male and female. Participants DON'T have to be overweight, underweight, or have an eating disorder to participate. She is looking to research those who have and do not have weight challenges, even those who are currently doing okay with their weight issues but have had issues in the past. She is finishing up a new book and the surveys are background research for that book. To participate, email jyager@aol.com with your age and return email address. Completed surveys can be returned by email, fax, or mail (information is in the survey). You must be 18 or older to participate. For more information on Jan Yager, PhD visit www.DrJanYager.com.

Inspirational:

GODDESS CARDS - "Because Every Woman is a Goddess!" GODDESS CARDS is a greeting card company whose cards are celebrations of Real Women. Every card tells a story, and carries a loving, inspirational, or fun message. Images are lush, rich in curves, color and feminine diversity. Every card tells a woman “You Are GORGEOUS - Just as you are!” For more information visit www.goddesscards.com call 604-925-4139, fax 604-925-4169, or email the designer Anne Baird at anne@goddesscards.com.

Books, Resources and Media:

To purchase books at discounted rates go to http://www.edreferral.com/books.htm.

Choking on Chocolate by Laura Bucher. This is a story of the trials of a young girl’s transition to womanhood. Shy, alone and afraid, a young girl enters junior high school. Feeling as the walls are closing in around her, she is caught between peer pressure and her own anxieties about becoming a woman. She desperately tries to fit in, but her own perceived inferiority causes her to succumb to neurotic actions. The story unfolds the perilous events of her literal starving for affection. The daily rituals of self-abuse that she conceals slowly destroy her like a fatal disease. The obsession consumes her mind, body and soul. She keeps this dark secret wile secretly crying for help. Will anyone hear her? This book is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and also through Publish America. For more information visit http://chokingonchocolate.net or email Laura Bucher, buchers2@comcast.net.

Marketing Tips:

Increase Referrals with a Second Office Listing on EDReferral.com:

If you have 2 offices, you can list the second office for only $35 for the entire year--that works out to less than $3 a month.  Many therapists have commented that this has worked out well for them in terms of increased referrals.  Also make sure that your listing is up-to-date and covers all areas of the eating disorder field where you provide treatment.  This will help when people are searching for you on our site. For more information visit www.EDReferral.com or email edreferral@aol.com.

Banner Advertising—thanks to all who have supported us with a banner on our site.  We only allowed 2 banners on every page except the home page and in just a few short months, they are almost all taken!  Thank you to everyone for their support. For more information on any advertising space still available email edreferral@aol.com.

Newsletter Protocol: Our newsletter goes out to thousands of professionals and laymen via email (over 10,000 individuals). EDReferral.com receives numerous requests by professionals to have information included in the newsletter. Unfortunately, we have limited space to include information, thus here is the current protocol:

1. All information must be submitted to edreferral@aol.com no later than the 20th of each month. Inclusion in the newsletter will be based on a first come - first serve basis.

2. Information is subject to review and editing for space considerations.

3. If you are a member, send us information on conferences, workshops, support groups and projects and we will list this information on the website for FREE as we have always done. We want to support your work. If you are a member and you would like your event to also be announced in the newsletter the charge is $75.00.

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Take Care. Christine.

Christine A. Hartline, M.A., Executive Director

Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center

www.EDReferral.com