Eating Disorder Treatment in Arkansas

Virtual Eating Disorder Treatment

If you live outside of a city, it can be hard to access in-person care for eating disorders. Even if you're close to places like Little Rock or Jonesboro, you may encounter issues with transportation or mobility, or complicated schedules that make it hard to attend these sessions.

In these cases, virtual eating disorder treatment can be an excellent choice. These programs have become a popular way to pursue eating disorder recovery for people struggling with body image concerns, a poor relationship with food, disordered eating patterns, and other common symptoms of eating disorders.

Best of all, studies have shown that virtual eating disorder treatment can be just as effective as in-person care in many cases.²

Other Arkansas Eating Disorder Resources

Finding eating disorder treatment through a private practice may not be possible for everyone. But there are a few options outside of the doctor's office for seeking help in Arkansas.

The state's Department of Health can provide general behavioral health assistance to everyone. The program may offer referrals to nutrition counseling or other types of specialized care, help patients coordinate care between different programs, or provide additional resources and information.

Certain residents will also qualify for help from the Arkansas Medicaid Behavioral Health Services. This state program can provide more direct assistance, offering services such as outpatient therapy with a therapist, medication consultations, and referrals to specialized care, including nutritional counseling. The department also handles other mental health concerns, such as mood disorders and substance abuse, making it a good option for those with co-occurring diagnoses.

Finding the Top Arkansas Eating Disorder Therapists & Dietitians for You

Finding the best Arkansas eating disorder therapists and dietitians for you or your loved one may feel like an overwhelming task. Asking these questions can help you streamline the process and get a better idea of what you're looking for out of treatment:³

• How long has the program been licensed? What is the doctor's particular interest when it comes to eating disorders?
• Is there an overarching treatment philosophy?
• Which measurable data are used to determine recovery progress?
• Does the program provide medical nutrition therapy, sports nutrition, or other specialized care you're looking for?
• Will the program work with your insurance company? Will it work with your school or workplace to help make treatment as accessible as possible?

Disordered eating can be difficult and even frightening to deal with, but recovery from these behaviors is always possible. With the right kind of care and support, you or your loved one can find yourself on the road to recovery.

Reference List

1. Social & Economic Costs of Eating Disorders in Arkansas. (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.