Eating Disorder Treatment in Pennsylvania

Virtual Eating Disorder Treatment

The top Pennsylvania eating disorder centers are wonderful options for combating unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, but they're not the only avenue patients can take. Virtual eating disorder treatment exists for patients looking to complete their treatment from home. The method is especially good for those in outpatient therapy or an intensive outpatient program, but may be acceptable for patients at other levels of care.

Aside from making it easier to attend sessions for those with difficulty around transportation or mobility, virtual eating disorder therapy is just as effective as in-person care in many cases.²

Other Pennsylvania Eating Disorder Resources

Other than the top Pennsylvania eating disorder centers, there are other options residents of the state can check out for help.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide assistance with general health-related services, including guidance on finding coverage for behavioral health and other relevant information and resources.

Some residents will also qualify for the Pennsylvania Medicaid Behavioral Health Services. This program can offer evidence-based treatment directly, including individual and group therapy services, and may also assist with medication consultations and other types of care.

Finding the Top Pennsylvania Eating Disorder Centers for You

Even when looking over the list of top Pennsylvania eating disorder centers, it may be difficult to find the best option for you or your loved one.

It's important to first keep in mind the level of care you're looking for:

• Inpatient services
• Partial hospitalization program
• Outpatient treatment

This will narrow down the options and, hopefully, make the choice easier. Additionally, these questions may help you get a better understanding of what you're expecting out of treatment and prioritize your choices:³

• What is the treatment style like? Is there an overall philosophy for treatment?
• Does the program utilize evidence-based therapies and comprehensive care, which will involve treatment for mental, physical, and emotional concerns?
• Will the program create an individualized treatment plan for each patient?
• Does the program work with schools or employers to help streamline any issues that may arise with treatment?
• What type of benchmarks does the program use to define progress or recovery?

Taking a closer look at each program is a good way to ensure you'll receive the kind of care that helps you heal. Battling an eating disorder can be difficult, but remember: Recovery and a better future is always possible.

Reference List

1. Social & Economic Cost of Eating Disorders in Pennsylvania. (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.