Southern California’s Leading Family Program

Healing from an eating disorder is a lifelong journey, and it involves a person’s entire support system. Montecatini’s Family Program is designed for the family members of patients who are participating in our residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programming. It offers patients’ families the information they need to help them better understand eating disorders and the healing process, as well as resources to support their loved one after they have completed care with us.

Individuals who take part in our Family Program can get:

• Information on our treatment philosophy and program structure
• Professional guidance on the family’s role in the healing process
• A greater understanding of the underlying causes of eating disorders and how they can affect families and relationships
• Crucial peer support from other families who are facing the same challenges

Our stand-alone Family Program is designed to help families feel informed, empowered, and involved as their loved one receives care. Participants in the program can expect:

• Weekly virtual meetings on Microsoft Teams, for a total of six weeks
• Education and guidance from licensed clinicians who specialize in eating disorders
• A supportive, confidential space for family members to share their experiences
• Engaging, interactive sessions and group discussions
• Opportunities to ask questions and connect with other families who are going through similar experiences

Once a patient has entered one of our programs, we encourage their family members to attend our Family Orientation, which offers an introduction to our approach to care. Topics covered in the orientation include:

• Montecatini’s treatment philosophy and program structure
• Understanding eating disorders
• The role of the family in the recovery process
• Our approach to weight restoration and nutrition
• Communication expectations while your loved one is in our care

Our Family Program provides practical information and resources that can help you better

care for yourself and your loved one as they are healing from an eating disorder. Benefits of participating in the program may include:

• Deeper insight into eating disorders: Families can gain insight into what their loved one may be experiencing and what their healing process might look like. This knowledge can help families feel more empowered and better able to offer meaningful support.
• Enhanced communication skills: Family members can learn how to navigate difficult subjects and discover ways to communicate more effectively with a loved one during and after their time with us. Improved communication skills can promote healthier relationship dynamics and encourage open dialogue in the future.
• Peer support: The program offers a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where individuals can speak openly and connect with others who understand what they are going through.
• Convenience and accessibility: Our virtual programming makes it easy for family members to participate, no matter their location.

As part of your loved one’s support system, you have an important role to play in their recovery. Our Family Program was designed to empower and inform you so that your whole family can heal together. If you would like to learn more about this or any of our other services, please reach out to one of our admissions specialists today. Our admissions team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to offer assistance and information.