Eating Disorder Center

I am trying one last thing before I consent to go under the knife with a RNY...Sheppard Pratt Eating Disorder Center. Anyone have any experience at this center and/or another program along these lines? You work with a psychologist who does individual as well as group sessions. There is a nutritionist and psychiatrist. It starts off very involved (meetings every day or every other day) then as you progress the meetings are less frequent. Anyone have any input? Sue

Sue, I have no knowledge of the Center, but at a quick glance I would say that if later you decided to have WLS, the counseling and guidance you receive there would most likely be very useful. Best wishes, RAE

Hi Rae, That's kinda what I thought too...what's the worst that can come out of this? Maybe some insight into why I've eaten myself this large (I'm being kind to myself tonight!), maybe some coping tools? I hope so! Thanks, Sue

Sue, that center is for serious eating disorders like anorexia/bulemia. I don't think that's what you are looking for. You probably want to find nutrition classes or a nutritionist. Check with your PCP or your insurance for nutritionist and you can check your local comunity college for non-credit nutrition classes. Good luck Roni

Hi Roni, They've revamped this program and now they also treat "Compulsive Overeaters". There is a nutritionist that also works with the people participating in this Eating Disorder Program. I'm just in the initial phase, had my first interview with the psychiatrist who devises a treatment plan. That's as far as I've gotten. Next step...see a nutritionist then a psychologist that has individual & group sessions. This is my plan, each individual has their own plan, as I understand it. Since I am so obese I would consider myself as having a serious eating disorder, I'm just killing myself slower than the anorexics and bulemics!!! Thanks for your input, I appreciate any comments! Best wishes in your journey, Sue

You're absolutely right Sue. I'm glad to know that the center is finally recognizing overeating as a disorder. It's great that they redesigned the program to include that. Best of luck to you and let us know how it goes. Roni

Sue - I went through this program in 1990, quite awhile ago! I'd be more than glad to talk to you offline. The comments here have been right about it at that time. It was focussed on anorexia/bulemia. They did not have much experience with morbid obesity. I do agree that the psych approach will help you in your decision about WLS. The program I did was in-patient and and a very serious consideration. Please email me and we can talk more if it would help. Good luck with your decision.

I think there is a similar program at hopkins. My husband's cousin went through it and lost 150 lbs.

Hi Arnie1269, Wow, 150 lbs without surgery! It seems like everything related to weight loss support and eating disorders is in Baltimore! If it would work for me tho, I'd travel! Thanks, Sue

Here's the one I was talking about. http://www.hopkinsbayview.org/weight/index.html