Eating Disorder Treatment in South Dakota

Virtual Eating Disorder Treatment

It may be difficult to find in-person treatment in South Dakota or to access robust programs with nutrition counseling, individual and family therapy, and other types of specialized care. If you're struggling to find the type of care you need nearby, you should explore the option of virtual eating disorder treatment.

Requiring only an internet connection, these programs are much more accessible than in-person treatment centers. Although they take place entirely online, they still offer a supportive environment, with many programs including group therapy sessions, support groups, and other options to bolster support.

Studies have even shown that virtual eating disorder treatment is just as effective as in-person care in many cases.² Still, those with severe eating disorder symptoms may require more thorough treatment, such as a residential treatment or a partial hospitalization program. It's best to complete all intake procedures and speak with a doctor before enrolling in any eating disorder treatment regimen.

Other South Dakota Eating Disorder Resources

If you can't access South Dakota eating disorder therapists and dietitians directly, you may still be able to find some help through the state.

South Dakota's Department of Health can help with general mental health inquiries, providing information and further resources on finding or coordinating care. They may also be able to refer you or a loved one to nearby treatment centers or specialists.

Certain residents will also qualify for South Dakota's Medicaid Behavioral Services. This state program can offer direct help through outpatient care, like therapy sessions, and also refer patients to a nearby eating disorder program or specialized care, such as nutritional counseling.

Finding the Best South Dakota Eating Disorder Therapists & Dietitians for You

The best South Dakota eating disorder therapists and dietitians are usually part of a full treatment team, working together with other doctors, nurses, and support staff to create an individual eating disorder recovery plan for each patient.

Finding the right center to work through disordered eating patterns can be difficult. You may want to start by contacting your health insurance company to ask which South Dakota eating disorder therapists and dietitians they work with, in order to streamline your choices to those you’ll be able to afford.

You can also do your own research on treatment programs. Just make sure to keep in mind issues like:³

• How much treatment costs, or how much will be covered by your insurance.
• Whether the center has any overriding spiritual or religious philosophies.
• How the center defines progress or healing.
• Whether the center will work with your school or place of employment to help facilitate treatment.
• Whether the center allows family members to participate in treatment.

Sustainable changes take time, especially when dealing with something as difficult as an eating disorder. But with the right treatment team behind you, it's much easier to walk the road to recovery.

Reference List

1. Social and Economic Cost of Eating Disorders in South Dakota. (2018). Harvard University. Accessed May 2025.
2. Steiger H, Booij L, Crescenzi O, Oliverio S, Singer I, Thaler L, St-Hilaire A, Israel M. (2022). In-person versus virtual therapy in outpatient eating-disorder treatment: A COVID-19 inspired study. International Journal of Eating Disorders; 55(1):145-150.
3. Questions to Ask Treatment Providers. (n.d.) National Eating Disorders Association. Accessed May 2025.