EDReferral.com now has over 60,000 hits per DAY! and over 2000 unique visitors per DAY! 

Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center

International Eating Disorder Referral Organization

www.EDReferral.com

EDReferral.com Newsletter - March, 2005: Table of Contents

Introduction

Inspirational!

Professional Trainings/Conferences/Seminars/Study Groups

Online, Interactive Program for Eating Disorders

Eating Disorder Awareness

Research on Eating Disorders

Books, Journals, Videos and Resources

Workshops

Treatment Center News

Support Groups

Employment Opportunities

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.

Introduction: EDReferral.com has become well known for its dedication to the treatment and prevention of eating disorders. We have developed a reputation as the leading resource for those seeking referrals to eating disorders specialists. This month's newsletter contains information on upcoming retreats, workshops, trainings, lectures, outreach, conferences, books, online support, treatment center news, support groups and more!

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!” GODDESS CARDS are endorsed by a growing number of professionals and centers that treat eating and self-image disorders, as promoting "healthy body images." These cards are great as gifts or loving affirmations. Suggestions for new cards are always welcome. 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.

Conferences:

Uniondale, NY Free Public Conference - National Eating Disorders Association of Long Island will hold a free public conference entitled Real Stories: Disordered Eating and Recovery in Today's World. This conference will be held on March 5, 2005 from 9:30-1:00pm. There will be a special guest speaker, singer and songwriter, Jenni Schaefer, author of Life Without ED, will perform and speak about how she beat anorexia and bulimia. Other speakers include Sondra Kronberg, MS, RD, CDN, Executive Director of NEDA-LI, Vicki Paley, LCSW, BCD and Meg Maginn, LCSW. For more information call 516-229-2393.

Montreal, Canada Eating Disorder Conference: The Academy for Eating Disorders International Conference will be held April 27-30, 2005 at Hilton Bonaventure Hotel Montreal, Canada. The 2005 conference program committee is creating a stimulating and innovative program centered on the theme, "Reaching New Frontiers:  Global Advances in Eating Disorders Treatment, Prevention and Research."  For more information visit www.aedweb.org.

Symposium on Eating Disorders:

Dallas, TX: The Elisa Project’s Sixth Annual Professional Symposium for the Prevention and Treatment of Eating Disorders in conjunction with The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. The Symposium is on Friday, March 4, 2005 at the Southern Methodist University (SMU) campus in Dallas, TX. It is designed for professionals who are seeking knowledge in preventing, recognizing, diagnosing, and treating eating disorders. In addition, it provides an opportunity for practitioners to accrue CME’s and CEU’s. The evening before the symposium, The Elisa Project will have the Sixth Annual Community Dinner in Dallas to bring people together in conversation about the prevalence, secrecy, and devastation of eating disorders. This year, The Elisa Project has expanded this idea into the National Community Gathering that involves people hosting their own gatherings all over the world in coffee shops, homes, restaurants, and university campuses. For more information, contact Elizabeth Devine at nationalcommunitygathering@theelisaproject.org visit www.theelisaproject.org or call 214-369-5222.

Professional Trainings:

A Body to Die For - Advanced Training in the Treatment of Eating Disorders and Body Image Disturbance in Women: A Full-Day for Behavioral Health Professionals and Dietitians offering 6 CE Credits. Presented by Adrienne Ressler, MA, CSW, National Training Director at The Renfrew Center. Dates: Saddle Brook, NJ - March 30, 2005; Stamford, CT - April 1, 2005; New Orleans, LA - April 8, 2005; Orlando, FL - May 13, 2005; Ft. Lauderdale, FL - May 20, 2005; San Diego, CA - May 27, 2005.  Sponsored by The Renfrew Center Foundation. A Body to Die for will assist behavioral health professionals and dietitians in understanding the complex issues surrounding body-image development and the problems with boundaries, control and suppressed emotion that almost always accompany dissociation from the body.  Seminar Topics Include: An examination of the etiology of eating disorders from a bio/social/psychological model; The complex issues surrounding body-image development through the life cycle; Implications of cognitive and physiological imprinting on thoughts, language and behavior; The relationship between the mechanics of perception and body-image disturbance; Practical mind/body techniques for use with clients. Please visit www.renfrew.org for more information, or call Debbie Lucker at 1-877-367-3383.

Professionals Needed - Bariatric Surgery Aftercare:  My Self Design announces its 2005 clinician-training schedule along with the opportunity to join its expanding network of certified providers.  Training will take place in Ambler, Pennsylvania on  March 11-12, April 8-9, June 17-18, and August 5-6, and November 4-5.   Become a certified My Self Design provider and be qualified to offer a unique, 18 session, CBT aftercare program for Bariatric surgery patients- a comprehensive program that addresses the numerous special concerns and long term challenges of weight loss surgery recovery.  For more program information visit www.myselfdesign.com.  Licensed clinicians with eating and weight disorder experience and a serious interest in this rewarding population should contact Carol Signore,MAT, MS, LMFT, at CarolASig@comcast.net.

Professional Study Groups:

Southern California - Professional Study Group: Carolyn Costin, MFT invites all treating professionals to her study group. This group takes place the first Thursday of every month from 12:00-1:00pm at her day treatment center, Eating Disorder Center of CA, www.edcca.com. The group covers 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. Please call for more information at 310-457-9958.

Southern California - Professional Study Group: Carolyn Costin, MFT invites all treating professionals to her study group. This group takes place the first Wednesday of every month from 12:00-1:30pm at her residential treatment center, Monte Nido, www.montenido.com. The group covers 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. Please call for more information at 310-457-9958.

Online Interactive Recovery Tools:

New Online Program for Bulimia from MySelfHelp.com: On March 3rd, 2005 MySelfHelp.com will release its new Take Control of Bulimia program, which will replace its existing program for bulimia. Some of the new features include: New tools for monitoring eating habits (daily food log), identifying factors that trigger symptoms, and measuring progress; Strategies for coping with difficult emotions that trigger symptoms; More tips and techniques for changing one's eating habits and creating a healthier eating environment; Exercises designed to enhance the motivation to change; Tools to challenge denial and other beliefs that interfere with behavior change; Numerous coping strategies to prevent bingeing and purging; Revised relapse prevention plan; New user interface; Streamlined navigation scheme. “These changes resulted from valuable feedback from healthcare professionals and their clients who are using the programs,” said Dr. Richard Bedrosian, president and founder of MySelfHelp.com. “We are encouraged by the positive feedback we are receiving from healthcare professionals throughout the world, and by the growing number of members who subscribe to our programs every day. We are continually updating all of our programs to include tools, information, and exercises that enable clients to receive ongoing help and support in between visits, and to help clinicians achieve treatment goals.”

Family of Programs Funded by NIMH: The MySelfHelp.com family of interactive, online, self-help programs includes Defeating Depression, Take Control of Bulimia, Stop Binge Eating, Stress Management, Overcoming Guilt, and Working on Low Self-Esteem, as well as a moderated Discussion Board.  MySelfHelp.com is funded and supported by the National Institute of Mental Health, and programs are designed to complement therapy and reinforce treatment goals.

Complimentary Preview for Healthcare Professionals: Healthcare professionals who have not reviewed their programs, or who would like to see the new Take Control of Bulimia program and other program and design changes, can receive a complimentary review of the programs by contacting info@MySelfHelp.com and identify yourself as a healthcare professional. Your feedback and suggestions are welcome.

10% National Eating Disorders Awareness Week Discount Ends March 7: In honor of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, MySelfHelp.com is offering a discount to anyone subscribing to the family of programs. To receive the discount, individuals simply need to enter “NEDAW” in the account code box when signing up for a membership. For more information, contact info@MySelfHelp.com or call 508-393-5638.

Eating Disorder Awareness:

Santa Barbara, CA: Eating Disorders Awareness Week Events - Santa Barbara Coordinator: Angela R. Wurtzel, MA, MFT, (805) 884-9794.

Tuesday, March 1, 2005: 7:30pm Speaker Presentation sponsored by and at Goleta Valley Athletic Club, 170 Los Carneros Way, Goleta, CA: How Much Exercise is Too Much? Angela R. Wurtzel, MA, MFT.

Wednesday, March 2, 2005: Confidential and Free Eating Disorder Assessments by appointment only at the private practice of Angela R. Wurtzel, MA, MFT, 27 East Victoria Street, Rear Cottage, Santa Barbara, CA (805) 884-9794.

Wednesday, March 2, 2005: 11:30am Speaker Presentation sponsored by and at Cathedral Oaks Athletic Club, 5800 Cathedral Oaks Road, Goleta, CA: Parents and Kids: The Patterns of Eating, Angela R. Wurtzel, MA, MFT and Ian Kaminsky, Ph.D., MFT.

Wednesday, March 2, 2005: 6:30pm Speaker Presentation sponsored by and at Cathedral Oaks Athletic Club, 5800 Cathedral Oaks Road, Goleta, CA: Parents and Kids: The Patterns of Eating, Angela R. Wurtzel, MA, MFT, and Ian Kaminsky, Ph.D., MFT.

Friday, March 4, 2005: 8:00am Information table sponsored by and at Coffee Cat, 1201 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA.

Friday, March 4, 2005: Confidential and Free Eating Disorder Assessments by appointment only at the private practice of Angela R. Wurtzel, MA, MFT, 27 East Victoria Street, Rear Cottage, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101 (805) 884-9794.

Denver, CO - Eating Disorder Awareness Events provided by the Eating Disorder Center of Denver:

March 1, 2005: “Recent Advances in the Treatment of Eating Disorders” by Ken Weiner, MD, Medical Director at Eating Disorder Center of Denver. Location:  Rose Auditorium, Rose Medical Center, Denver, CO at 8am.

March 2, 2005: “Body Image 101” by Carolyn Jones, Outpatient Therapist. Location: University of Wyoming Student Center, Skylight Lounge from 11-12:30pm.

March 2, 2005: University of Colorado Panel Discussion at 3:00pm. Rick Bishop, MD, Outpatient Psychiatrist with EDC-Denver will be one of panelists.

March 3,2005: Montrose Hospital Panel Discussion. Location:  Montrose Hospital – 7:00pm, please RSVP to Chris Bonatti at 970-249-1318.

March 4, 2005: “Recent Advances in the Treatment of Eating Disorder” by Ken Weiner, MD, Medical Director at Eating Disorder Center of Denver. Location:  Mercy Hospital, Durango, CO, 4^th Floor, Classroom A – Noon.

March 4, 2005: “A Day without Dieting” by Robin Colson, RD and Jane Young, MA. Location:  Metropolitan State College, Counseling Center in Tivoli from 11am-1pm.

March 4, 2005: Colorado Springs Networking Lunch, “Exercise Abuse in Women with Eating Disorders”, by Shannon Coyne, RD. Location:  Dale Street Café, 115 East Dale St, Colorado Springs, $10 per person. Please call Melanie at 720-889-4234 to RSVP.

March 11, 2005: School of Mines Health Fair from 10-2pm at Student Center. Location: Golden, CO.

Research on Eating Disorders:

Research on Eating Disorders: Are there subgroups of bulimia nervosa based on comorbid psychiatric disorders? Duncan AE, Neuman RJ, Kramer J, Kuperman S, Hesselbrock V, Reich T, Bucholz KK. Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri. OBJECTIVE: The current study sought to determine whether there are subtypes of bulimia nervosa (BN) differentiated by comorbid psychiatric disorders. METHOD: Data on comorbid psychiatric diagnoses in female relatives of probands and controls in the Collaborative Study of the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) who met criteria for BN (as outlined in the 3rd Rev. ed. of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) were analyzed using latent class analysis. Resulting latent classes were compared on a variety of variables related to impulsive behaviors and psychological functioning. RESULTS: The best-fitting solution, a two-class model, yielded one class (72%) characterized by substance dependence, depression, antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), and anxiety disorders, and another characterized by depression. The highly comorbid class had more suicidality, more daily smokers, sought help for emotional problems, and had lower Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scores compared with those in the comorbid depression only class. DISCUSSION: Latent class findings suggest the existence of two classes of BN differentiated by substance dependence, impulsive behaviors, and poorer psychological functioning. (c) 2004 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord. 2005 Jan;37(1):19-25.

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.

Research – Online Study Investigating Eating Attitudes and Behaviors in Athletes: Tristaca Caldwell, a researcher at McGill University, is presently conducting an online study to investigate eating attitudes and behaviors in Masters Athletes. To participate, please visit https://www.hostedware.com/secure/hs/takesurvey.asp?c=EDPop.

Books, Resources and Media:

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

Help Your Teenager Beat an Eating Disorder by James Lock, MD, PhD and Daniel Le Grange, PhD, 296 pages, paper, 2005. Written by experts on eating disorders treatment, this book encourages parents to take an active role in their teenager's recovery process. The authors demystify the eating-disordered mindset, outline treatment options, clarify parental roles, and provide troubleshooting tools. Whether your child is starting to show signs of the illness or already in the treatment process, this book has answers. This book may be purchased by going to the EDReferral.com books page and clicking on the Gurze banner.

“Parenting a Child with an Eating Disorder” - New Video Offers Parents Strength and Hope. Parenting a Child with an Eating Disorder: Two Parents Speak about Their Journey Through the Process of Recovery. This educational video is the candid, compassionate and gripping story of Mary Ellen and Dan Clausen, parents of two girls who struggle with eating disorders. Among the issues addressed are: facing the seriousness of eating disorders; ways to hold the family up during recovery; coping with family tensions; parents learning to take care of themselves in the wake of an eating disorder; children living away from home while in treatment, and expenses of treatment. “Parenting a Child with an Eating Disorder” was produced by Dr. Cris Haltom, Ph.D. and Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Tompkins County. Dr. Haltom is a licensed psychologist, author of the e-newsletter Eating Disorder Survival Guide for Parents, and author of the book, “A Stranger at the Table: Dealing with the Child’s Eating Disorder” (2004), www.EDsurvivalguide.com. Mary Ellen Clausen is the Founder and Director of Ophelia’s Place, Box 621, Liverpool, NY 13088 www.opheliasplace.org. Ophelia’s Place is a growing resource, education, and support center for all those impacted by eating disorders. Proceeds from this video will go to: Ophelia’s Place and the Parent Partner Program of Tompkins County, both working for the cause of eating disorder treatment and recovery. Copies of the " Parenting a Child with an Eating Disorder" video may be ordered from The Resource Center for $34.95 per unit plus $5.00 shipping (add $1.00 shipping for each additional copy) and applicable sales tax. Orders may be placed at The Resource Center’s online bookstore: www.cce.cornell.edu/store, by email at resctr@cornell.edu by phone at 607-255-2080, or by fax at 607-255-9946.

Workshop - New York, NY:

Manhattan, Midtown location - B.I.T.E. - The Body Image Transformation Experience - Winter 2005 Program: B.I.T.E. provides an intensive therapeutic experience that combines innovative group psychotherapy techniques with body-oriented therapy. B.I.T.E. is designed for those who struggle with weight regulation, weight loss, size, perception of self, and body image. B.I.T.E. is for people who appreciate that one’s psychological/emotional life can get in the way of maintaining a food plan. B.I.T.E. will assist those who have lost weight, yet whose self-perception is not changing. B.I.T.E. is for individuals who are having trouble coming to terms with the new, evolving “you.” B.I.T.E. works well as a complement to ongoing individual psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, and exercise programs. For a complete description of the B.I.T.E. workshops and registration information, contact Fran Weiss, LCSW-R, BCD, DCSW, CGP at 212-362-6019, email BIDDOC@aol.com or visit, www.FranWeiss.com. Fran Weiss is on Faculty at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, NYC and has been the Senior Psychotherapy Consultant to the Obesity Research Center, St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital, NYC for over 25 years.

B.I.T.E. Workshop Schedule: New York, NY:

Workshop: Transforming My Body My Self, “Now I See How To Get Beyond My ‘Fat’ Head!”

Date: April 5 - June 28, 2005. This workshop integrates body movement therapy with body image and motivational work to consolidate a more positive perception of body size and body/self image.

When: Tuesday evenings: 6:00 - 8:00pm, (12 consecutive sessions - monthly fee).

Workshop(s) – WA, PA, RI

Eating Disorders Boot Camp and Counseling Intensive for Nutrition Professionals presented by Jessica Setnick and Molly Kellogg. Workshop(s) will be held in Seattle, WA on March 11 – 13; Philadelphia, PA on May 13 – 15; Providence, RI on June 3 – 5. The Boot Camp provides both therapists and dietitians the medical, nutritional and psychological grounding needed to work with eating disorders. The Counseling Intensive is a practical workshop designed to advance dietitians’ counseling skills for eating disorders, wellness and MNT work. Nine CPE units for Registered Dietitians for each workshop (18 for both workshops; six credits for each workshop in Columbus). Discounted fee if you register for both programs. For more information visit www.mollykellogg.com.

Treatment Center News:

Arizona Treatment Center News: Announcing the Emotional Eating Program at Remuda Ranch: In addition to their treatment of Anorexia and Bulimia, they can also help women and girls struggling with other eating disorders, including: Obesity, Compulsive Overeating, Binge Eating Disorder. Remuda’s Emotional Eating Program offers a healing environment for women to begin their process of recovery. Each resident will be treated by a team of professionals. She will experience a variety of innovative therapy techniques, totaling 20-25 hours per week, to help discover what is at the root of her eating disorder and develop the confidence to overcome it. Their Biblically based programs offer hope and healing to patients of all faiths. For additional information on the Emotional Eating Program or their Intensive Inpatient Programs for Children, Adolescent Girls or Adult Woman call 1-800-445-1900.

Agoura Hills, CA - Eating Disorder Intensive Outpatient Program (EDIOP). Carolyn Costin will be opening a new Eating Disorder Intensive Outpatient Program (EDIOP) in Agoura Hills, CA. This program is for females struggling with an eating disorder who need additional support to their individual therapy, but do not need full day treatment or inpatient care. The group will meet three nights a week and will include a supervised meal. Groups will be co-facilitated by therapists specialized in the treatment of eating disorders. The program will utilize a multi-disciplinary approach including cognitive-behavioral, dialectal-behavioral, psycho-educational, solution-focused, art therapy, attachment theory and process group modalities.  In addition, the group facilitators will introduce and practice specific relaxation techniques useful in reducing anxiety and processing emotion. The group will be open-ended in length and remain open to new members. The program will operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings from 6:30-9:30pm. Groups will be facilitated by Rykia Peterson, IMF  #41796, and will be supervised by Linda Wells, LCSW. The cost for the IOP will be $325 per night, payable two weeks in advance, for a total of $1,950. Insurance may apply and must be worked out on an individual basis with the program director. If you are interested in learning more about this Intensive Outpatient Program, please call 310-457-9958 or email mntc@montenido.com.

Colorado Treatment Center News: The Eating Disorder Center of 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 and 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 http://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 who have completed an intense 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 80206

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 the tools, support, and skills to maintain positive weight goals, deal with issue 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. Please call 303-771-0861 for more information or via the Internet at 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 web site at www.milestonesprogram.net or by calling Milestones at 800-347-2364.

Missouri Treatment Center News: McCallum Place on the Park in St. Louis, Missouri is pleased to announce the opening of our transition house.  This program is designed to help patients transition back to independent living after inpatient or residential treatment.  Accommodations are conveniently located near many colleges and businesses.  Patients are encouraged to return to school or work with the support of a treatment team.  Special features include 3 levels of transitional care, frequent individual meetings with recovery coaches and dietitians, ongoing supported meals and daily group therapies. For more information call 314-863-7700 or visit www.mccallumplace.com.

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.

Beverly Hills, CA - Free Support Group: Tuesday Evenings from 7-8pm at 420 S. Beverly Drive, Suite 100, Beverly Hills, CA. For more information contact Dr. Linda Blakely at 310-286-9171 or email Drlindablakeley@aol.com.

Beverly Hills, CA – Weekly Women’s Therapy Group: Are you struggling with bulimia or binge eating? Dr. Linda Blakeley offers a weekly therapy group for women recovering from bulimia and binge eating. The fee is $250.00 per month with a minimum 3-month commitment. Sessions will be held on Mondays from 7-8:30pm. For more information call Dr. Blakeley at 310-286-9171 or email Drlindablakeley@aol.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 949-499-7270.

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.

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.

West Los Angeles, CA - Ongoing process group for women ages 30 and above. This group provides support for all types of eating disorders and provides a safe place to understand and address the issues behind symptoms. The group is held in West Los Angeles on Wednesday evenings. For more information contact Dr. Janet K. Smith, 310-473-6169 or visit www.weighty-issues.com.

Wilton, CT - Free Eating Disorder Support Group: The Renfrew Center of Southern CT offers a FREE eating disorders support group every Saturday morning at 11:00am (except holidays). This group is professionally facilitated and is designed for people struggling with eating disorders and for their friends and families. For more information about The Renfrew Center of Southern Connecticut call 203-834-5020 or visit www.renfrewcenter.com.

Coconut Creek, FL - Eating Disorders/AABA Support Group: The Renfrew Center of Coconut Creek, FL offers a FREE eating disorder support group every Saturday from 2:00-3:30pm. This weekly support group, sponsored by the American Anorexia/Bulimia Association, is professionally facilitated and designed for individuals suffering from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and/or other disordered eating patterns, as well as their families and friends. For more information about The Renfrew Center of Coconut Creek call 1-800-RENFREW or visit www.renfrewcenter.com.

Miami, FL - College Student Support Group: The Renfrew Center of Miami, FL offers a FREE support group every Friday from 2:30-3:30 pm. This professionally facilitated group is for college students coping with disordered eating or those using food as a way of managing their emotions. For more information about The Renfrew Center of Miami call 1-800-RENFREW or visit www.renfrewcenter.com

North Miami Beach, FL – Eating Disorder Support Group: Ongoing eating disorder support group every 1st and 3rd Tuesday evening at Milestones. The group is open to anyone wishing to attend and is free of charge. For more information call 800-347-2364.  

Duluth, GA - Free ANAD support group sponsored by the Renfrew Center.  The group is held at 1045 Parsons Road at St. Benedict's Church from 10am -1:30am every Saturday. The group is facilitated by Karen Macke, LPC and Page Love, RD, LD. Guests are welcome -- including family members. For more information call 770-365-8644.

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 Massachusetts Eating Disorder Association's Newton office located at 92 Pearl Street. During the hour, a recovered individual shares his or her story of recovery, leaving time for discussion and questions. Please contact MEDA at 617-558-1881x12 for more information.

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 first Monday of every month from 5:00- 6:30pm in the Children's Hospital conference room. This program provides families much needed support to make recovery possible and successful.  For more information or to reserve a seat, please call 402-955-6190.

Manhattan/Union Square, 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. Please call 212-989-3987 to reserve a spot.

Ithaca, NY - Parent Support Group: This group meets every other week, alternating Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:00pm at Cornell Cooperative Extension (meeting dates for 2005: 3/14, 3/28, 4/11, 4/25, 5/9, 5/23, 6/6). 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.

Ithaca, NY - Weekly Eating Disorders Anonymous Meetings: These meeting are held every Wednesday from 7-9pm at 518 W. State St. in Ithaca, NY. For more information contact IthacaEDA@hotmail.com.

Pennsylvania Support Group: Women’s Group on Tuesdays from 4:30- 6:00pm. This group encourages young women to explore thoughts and feelings in a supportive and safe environment. Exploration of family, school and peer relationships will be discussed with special attention to self-esteem, lifestyle choices and future goals. The use of art, creative writing, and dialog in this group uniquely honors each young woman's struggles and triumphs. Two eight week sessions are available:

Session A: March 1 - April 19, 2005; Session B: April 26 - June 14, 2005. The cost is $40 per group for 8 weeks. For more information contact Michelle L. Dean at 215-885-0642. Individual and family counseling is also available.

Benbrook, 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.

For additional Support Group Listings go to: http://www.edreferral.com/members_announcements.htm#new%20groups%20forming

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 ED. The forum can be accessed via a link at Milestones at www.milestonesprogram.net or directly www.groups.yahoo.com/group/milestonesinrecovery.

Employment Opportunities:

Calabasas, CA - Certified nursing assistants, licensed vocational nurses and registered nurses: The Monte Nido Treatment Center is looking for CNAs, LVNs and RNs with eating disorder treatment experience. If interested, please email resume to Carolyn Costin, LMFT at mntc@montenido.com or fax resume to 310-457-8442. Website: www.montenido.com.

Marketing Tips:

Banner Advertising--popular web page becomes available on first-come, first-served basis. We now have an opening for two banners on our high traffic www.edreferral.com/findingatherapist.htm web page. Take advantage of our low rates to effectively promote the service you provide.

Is your profile still listed on EDReferral.com? Many people incorrectly assume that since they are receiving this monthly newsletter, that their information must be listed on the EDReferral.com web site. Your membership lasts for one year and then it expires. Check here to make sure that the thousands of clients who come to our site each day looking for referrals can find you: http://www.edreferral.com/us_search.htm

Also, click here to update your profile: http://www.edreferral.com/membership.htm

Newsletter Protocol: Our newsletter goes out to thousands of professionals and laymen via email, mail and fax. 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.

LEAVING THE NEWSLETTER LIST: Notice - this is not SPAM, you are receiving this newsletter because you have subscribed to it. To unsubscribe to this newsletter, SEE BELOW.

JOINING THE NEWSLETTER LIST: Feel free to pass this email on to other professionals. To subscribe to this newsletter, SEE BELOW.

Take Care. Christine.

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

Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center

www.EDReferral.com