Philosophy

Helping Patients Reclaim Their Lives

Walden Behavioral Care's goal is to achieve lasting recovery for every patient. To reach that goal, we have developed what we believe is the most effective philosophy of patient care in our industry.

Our philosophy is based on the following principles:

1. The "Whole Health" Approach. Treating symptoms is not enough. Walden cares for the whole person and considers treatment of the body and mind to be inseparable. We believe that treating the whole person is the best way to achieve lasting recovery.

2. Multi-Disciplinary Treatment. Eating disorders and psychiatric disorders are complex illnesses. Successful treatment requires the cooperative efforts and talents of professionals from many different disciplines. Our team develops a customized treatment plan for each patient. Each plan typically incorporates many types of treatment, ranging from drug therapy to exercise. This multi-disciplinary approach is used for every Walden patient. Virtually everyone the patient comes in contact with is part of the treatment process and will work with the patient toward a meaningful, long-term recovery.

3. A "Continuum of Care." A single approach does not work for treating eating disorders or mental illnesses, because:

• Treatment needs change as the patient makes progress toward recovery.
• Treatment that is effective for one illness is not necessarily effective for another illness.
• Patients begin treatment at different stages of their illness.
• Patients respond differently to treatment. What works for one person may not work for another.

Our progressive "continuum of care" matches the patient's needs at any point in time. It adjusts to relapses, as well as breakthroughs. Treatment always adjusts to the patient's needs so the patient can progress gradually toward full recovery.

4. Treating Co-Occurring Disorders. Patients with eating disorders or psychiatric disorders frequently have more than one disorder that requires treatment. Focusing medical attention on one disorder can result in other disorders worsening. Treating multiple disorders concurrently is part of Walden's "whole health" approach.

5. Family Involvement. Family involvement can play a key role in the recovery of a patient with an eating disorder or psychiatric disorder. We not only encourage family involvement, we set up special group and individual counseling sessions to help families deal with the disorders we treat.

6. Respect For Patients. Our staff recognizes that their attitude toward patients can have a profound impact on how patients respond to treatment. Treating patients with respect and understanding gives them hope. Encouraging and supporting patients empowers them. We understand that the recovery process works best when patients are involved in directing their care.

7. Lifelong Learning. Even after recovery, a person who has an eating disorder or a psychiatric disorder must remain aware of the illness and how it affects them. Lifelong learning keeps the patient informed of new treatment developments as our knowledge evolves and keeps the patient aware of factors that trigger disordered behavior.