Also referred to as psychotherapy, individual therapy consists of face to face meetings between the therapist and individual. The first few sessions are an assessment period in which the focus is discussing the presenting issue. This will include discussion of any and all maladaptive behaviors that prevent the individual from healthy living, discussion of the individual's relationships, and understanding how the individual has attempted to stop and/or control these behaviors in the past. Treatment will include: processing interpersonal and internal thoughts and feelings related to eating disordered behavior (and/or other issues), exploration of alternative ways to deal with the problems identified, and providing a renewed focus for pursuing life goals.

Today, play therapy refers to a large number of treatment methods, all applying the therapeutic benefits of play. Play therapy differs from regular play in that the therapist helps children to address and resolve their own problems. Play therapy builds on the natural way that children learn about themselves and their relationships in the world around them. Through play therapy, children learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn a variety of ways of relating to others.

The basic concept of family therapy is that the family is a "system".  This means that what is happening to one person in the family system will have an affect on others within the system.  Family therapy provides an opportunity and a place for family members to come together and work through issues that might be affecting the entire family.  Initial meetings will focus on figuring out what is not working and why, and goals for the therapy will be agreed upon.  Often families need some help with conflict mediation, learning how to communicate more clearly, and developing more effective ways of coping with intense emtions, stress and ineffective family roles.

Individuals with eating disorders often need assistance, support, and guidance in making the necessary changes for healthier living. Typically, individuals with more severe eating disorders will need a weekly meeting with a dietitian, in order to feel the necessary support when making difficult changes. Individuals should expect to feel uncomfortable with their bodies and their changing relationship with food as they meet with their dietitian, but as their overall needs change, their needs with food will likely change as well.

Group therapy can be a profound and powerful experience.  It can help people overcome personal difficulties that prevent them from achieving satisfaction and fulfillment from their lives. Groups can help with feelings of alienation and isolation, and a sense that no one else feels the way the individual does. Feedback (not advice-giving) from other group members can be of use in sorting out problems. Process groups help individuals to share openly and honestly in a non-judgmental environment. The goal is for clients to learn new ways of coping without negative or destructive behaviors.

Over time, group members become a valuable resource for each other.  They provide a support network for specific problems or challenges.  In meetings, people are encouraged to talk with each other in a spontaneous and honest manner.  The facilitator, who provides productive examination of the issues or concerns affecting the individuals and the group, guides the discussion.  A group also provides a forum to explore feelings about the other people in the group in a safe setting, and then to think about how these feelings are related to one's life outside the group.  Topics addressed in eating disorder process groups include coping skills, communication, assertiveness, boundaries, art therapy/expression, body image, family/relational change, and emotional regulation.

Adolescent Process Group - For adolescent females who struggle with eating disorders, disordered eating, and other issues related to body image and self-esteem.  Meets every Tuesday 6-7:30.  

Psychotherapy Boot Camp - This 12-week group is for adults who would like to understand how their history has helped lead them to where they are.  This is an intense group that combines basic tools of psychology with Christian principles.  Designed for women (Mondays, 6-7:30) and Couples (TBA).  The next session begins on Monday, January 9, 2012 and is scheduled through April 23, 2012 (two Mondays account for two holidays).  Click here for brochure on group.

DBT (Dialectial Behavior Therapy) - This educationally-based group aids those who struggle with overwhelming emotion to manage their emotions and corresponding behavioral patterns more effectively.  

Dr. Burnett has also created a non-profit, the Manna Fund, which is designed to help those who are in need of inpatient eating disorder treatment to receive the necessary funding for such a costly treatment.  This movement was created because many individuals in their clinical practice were in need of inpatient treatment and could not receive adequate treatment because of insurance limitations or because of lack of financial resources.  If you or someone you know are in need of such funding, please see our website at www.mannafund.org.