Why Teens Need Specialized Eating Disorder Care

Adolescents face unique challenges that make them especially vulnerable to eating disorders. Social pressures, body image concerns, bullying, trauma, and academic stress can all contribute to the development of conditions such as anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, or body dysmorphia.

Early intervention is key. Specialized treatment for teens provides age-appropriate therapy, family involvement, and academic support — helping young people heal without falling behind in life.

5 Signs of Eating Disorders in Adolescents & Teens

Significant Weight Changes

Unexplained weight loss, gain, or noticeable fluctuations may indicate disordered eating patterns. These changes often occur rapidly and are not tied to typical growth or development.

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Preoccupation with Food or Body Image

Obsessive thoughts about dieting, calories, or appearance can dominate daily life. This focus often interferes with concentration, relationships, and overall well-being.

Avoidance of Meals or Social Events

Teens may withdraw from family meals or social gatherings that involve food. This avoidance is often rooted in anxiety, shame, or fear surrounding eating.

Emotional Distress

Irritability, depression, or anxiety tied to food and body image is a common warning sign. These emotions may intensify when eating is discussed or meals are expected.

Unusual Eating Behaviors

Behaviors such as restriction, bingeing, purging, or rigid food rituals may develop. These patterns can quickly become harmful and signal the need for professional support.

Do I Have an Eating Disorder?

If you’re concerned about your symptoms, click below to take our eating disorders quiz.

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Adolescent / Teen Eating Disorder Treatment at Virtue Recovery

Individual Therapy – Teens receive one-on-one support through evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, ACT, ERP, and trauma-informed care. These sessions are tailored to address unique developmental and emotional needs.
Family-Based Therapy (FBT) – Parents and caregivers are actively involved in the recovery process. This approach strengthens the family unit and provides ongoing support at home.
Nutritional Counseling – Teens learn age-appropriate nutritional education to build healthy eating habits. Counseling also includes guided meal support to reduce anxiety around food.

Group Therapy – Peer support helps adolescents feel less isolated and fosters a sense of belonging. Group sessions encourage shared experiences and collaborative healing.
Academic Support – Schoolwork assistance ensures that recovery does not interrupt educational progress. Teens are supported in balancing treatment with their academic responsibilities.
Holistic Therapies – Healing goes beyond traditional methods with options like art, yoga, music, and mindfulness practices. These therapies promote emotional regulation and whole-person wellness.

Client Testimonials

Family Involvement in Teen Eating Disorder Treatment

Family plays a vital role in adolescent recovery, and at Virtue Recovery, we recognize the importance of involving loved ones in the healing process. Parents and caregivers are included in therapy sessions, educational programs, and meal support training to strengthen the recovery environment at home.

Family-Based Therapy (FBT) is central to our program, empowering parents with the tools and confidence to guide their child’s recovery. By working together as a team, families can foster a supportive atmosphere that promotes long-term healing and resilience.

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Our Las Vegas Adolescent / Teen Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Center

Our inpatient program provides 24/7 medical and therapeutic care tailored to adolescents. Teens receive structured daily therapy, supervised meals, academic support, and family involvement.

This immersive setting ensures teens receive intensive care while maintaining connection to their education and family.

Name: Silver State Adolescent Treatment

Address: 8225 W Robindale Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89113

Phone Number: (725) 777-1440

Frequently Asked Questions

What age group is treated in the teen program?

Our adolescent program typically serves ages 11–17, though younger or older clients may be considered depending on developmental needs.

Can my teen keep up with schoolwork during treatment?

Yes. We provide academic support and coordination with schools to help teens stay on track.

Is family involvement required?

Yes. Family participation is a critical part of adolescent eating disorder treatment and is strongly encouraged.

What eating disorders are treated in teens?

We treat anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, OSFED, body dysmorphia, and related conditions.

Do teens receive the same therapies as adults?

Yes, but adapted for their developmental stage. CBT, DBT, ACT, and trauma-informed therapy are all tailored for adolescents.

Glossary of Terms for Teen Eating Disorder Treatment

FBT (Family-Based Therapy)

A therapy that empowers parents to help restore healthy eating.

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

Therapy to change harmful thought and behavior patterns.

DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)

Therapy focused on emotional regulation and coping skills.

ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

Therapy centered on values-based living.

ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention)

Therapy that reduces food fears and rituals.

Nutritional Counseling

Guidance to restore balanced eating and growth.

Inpatient Treatment

24/7 residential care for intensive support.

Outpatient Treatment

Flexible therapy while living at home.

Holistic Therapy

Art, yoga, and mindfulness practices for whole-person healing.

Comprehensive Levels of Care

At Virtue Recovery, we understand that recovery is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we offer a range of programs tailored to each client’s unique needs and stage of healing.