Adolescent Eating Disorder Treatment in Chevy Chase, MD
Real Recovery Starts with Family: Evidence-Based Treatment for Teens
When an eating disorder takes hold of a teen, it doesn’t just affect them—it shakes the foundation of the entire family. At The Smith Counseling Group, we specialize in adolescent eating disorder treatment that puts family at the center of the healing process.
We know that early intervention can be lifesaving. Our approach is rooted in Family-Based Treatment (FBT), the only evidence-based outpatient therapy designed specifically for adolescents struggling with eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), and other disordered eating behaviors.
If your child is struggling with food, body image, or sudden changes in mood, you don’t have to face it alone.
We’re here to guide your family through recovery, one bite at a time.
Why Specialized Treatment for Teens Matters
Adolescence is a vulnerable, high-risk time for the onset of eating disorders. What may start as a diet, a shift in exercise habits, or even a new interest in "clean eating" can escalate into life-threatening behavior before parents or even doctors notice the signs.
Eating disorders are not a phase. They are serious mental health conditions with the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. And yet, many adolescents are underdiagnosed, misunderstood, or shuffled into generic therapy models that fail to address the unique interplay of brain development, family dynamics, and nutrition.
At our practice, we see the whole picture: the medical, psychological, and relational aspects of these illnesses. We take it seriously, and we act with urgency—because the earlier treatment begins, the better the chance of full recovery.
What We Treat
Anorexia Nervosa
ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)
Bulimia Nervosa
Orthorexia (an unhealthy obsession with "healthy" eating)
Binge Eating Disorder
Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)
We recognize that eating disorders often don't fit neatly into categories. Our approach meets your adolescent where they are, with a tailored plan that addresses their specific symptoms, needs, and family circumstances.
Our Primary Approach: Family-Based Treatment (FBT)
At Friendship Heights Therapy Group, we lead with Family-Based Treatment (FBT) because it's the most effective outpatient method for adolescents with eating disorders.
FBT operates on a fundamental truth: when a child is in the grip of an eating disorder, parents and caregivers are the first and best line of defense. We teach parents to take back control of their child’s nutrition and create a home environment where recovery isn't just encouraged—it's expected.
The Three Phases of FBT
Phase One: Weight Restoration and Medical Stabilization
Parents assume responsibility for ensuring their teen is eating adequately and consistently.
Our team provides coaching and support for parents to navigate meal planning, supervision, and managing distress around eating.
The goal: urgent and steady weight restoration, typically aiming for 1-2 lbs per week.
Phase Three: Focus on Adolescent Development and Preventing Relapse
Once eating is normalized, we address developmental milestones, social pressures, and any psychological issues that may have emerged or intensified.
We work to solidify recovery skills and prevent relapse as the teen returns to more typical independence.
Phase Two: Returning Control to the Teen
As the adolescent reaches a healthier weight and medical stability, we gradually hand back control over eating.
We help teens re-learn to listen to internal hunger and fullness cues that may have been disrupted.
Why Choose Our Practice?
Expertise You Can Trust
Our clinicians, led by Dr. Ann Jacob Smith, PhD, LCPC, specialize in adolescent mental health and eating disorders. We bring not just clinical training, but deep, lived experience supporting families through these difficult journeys.
Local and Personalized Care
We are a Chevy Chase-based practice serving Maryland, D.C., and surrounding areas. We understand the pressures local teens face—from academic stress to social media influences—and tailor care accordingly.
Local and Personalized Care
Eating disorders don’t just affect the individual. Our work extends to siblings and caregivers, ensuring the entire family system is supported and unified in recovery.
Collaboration with Medical Providers
We collaborate with pediatricians, nutritionists, and psychiatrists to provide an integrated care plan that covers all medical and psychological bases.
Anti-Diet, Pro-Health
We reject diet culture and the notion that thinness equals health. Our approach is rooted in body neutrality, intuitive eating principles, and holistic wellness.
When to Seek Help
You might be wondering: Is this serious enough? Is this an eating disorder?
If your adolescent is exhibiting any of these signs, it’s time to reach out:
Rapid or noticeable weight loss
Skipping meals or eating rituals
Excessive focus on "healthy" eating or eliminating food groups
Frequent bathroom visits after meals
Withdrawing socially, especially around meals
Mood changes, anxiety, or increased irritability
Preoccupation with weight, body image, or fitness
Even if you're unsure, it is always better to consult early. Eating disorders are insidious—the sooner we intervene, the greater the chance of a full and lasting recovery.
What to Expect When You Call Us
Your first step is a conversation. When you reach out, we'll schedule an initial consultation to assess your teen's needs, medical history, and family situation.
From there, we develop a personalized treatment plan that may include:
Weekly or bi-weekly family therapy sessions
Coordination with medical providers and nutritionists
Individual therapy for adolescents if appropriate in later phases
Parent coaching and education
Support resources for siblings and caregivers
Recovery is not linear. But with persistence, structure, and compassionate guidance, we believe that full recovery is possible.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If your child is struggling, waiting won’t help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can support your family.
📞 Call us: 301‑291‑9044
📧 Email: contact@thesmithcounselinggroup.com
💻 Schedule a confidential consultation online here
You don't have to do this alone. We’re here to help your family reclaim health, hope, and connection.