New England Eating Disorders Program (NEED)

Serving families throughout Maine, the New England Eating Disorders Program (NEED) has established itself as a compassionate resource for children and adolescents struggling with eating disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Located in Maine, NEED recognizes that eating disorders often develop during formative years and require specialized, age-appropriate care. The facility's commitment to treating young patients with evidence-based methods and genuine compassion sets it apart in the landscape of Maine addiction treatment and behavioral health services. By focusing exclusively on eating disorders in youth, NEED brings deep expertise and understanding to a population that frequently faces misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment.

NEED offers multiple levels of care designed to meet each patient where they are in their recovery journey, including day treatment, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), standard outpatient services, and virtual or in-home care options. This flexible approach ensures that families can access treatment that fits their schedules and circumstances while maintaining consistent progress. The clinical team integrates evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), nutrition counseling, group therapy, and individual 1-on-1 counseling. NEED places strong emphasis on family involvement, recognizing that parents and siblings play a crucial role in sustainable recovery. The program welcomes all adolescents and children, including LGBTQ+ youth, while addressing co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma that frequently accompany eating disorders.

NEED's comprehensive approach extends beyond active treatment through robust continuing care and thoughtful discharge planning, ensuring patients maintain momentum in their recovery long after initial treatment concludes. By combining specialized eating disorder expertise with trauma-informed, family-centered care, NEED provides a healing environment where young people can rebuild their relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves.