Anorexia nervosa (self-starvation) and bulimia (the binge-purge syndrome) are eating disorders that require a comprehensive treatment approach to address the range of biological, psychological and cultural issues influencing their development. Appropriate psychological, medical, and nutritional interventions can be targeted at bringing relief from symptoms associated with these disorders, as well as preparing the individual to have a healthier and more functional lifestyle.

Monmouth Psychological Associates is a multi-modal, multidisciplinary practice in Central New Jersey. The Eating Disorders Program, under the clinical supervision of Donald E. Erwin, Ph.D., provides comprehensive psychological and nutritional care for eating disorder patients. All services are provided by individuals experienced and trained in the treatment of eating disorders. Involvement in the Eating Disorder Program begins with an evaluation with Dr. Erwin to assess the individual needs of the patient. Depending on medical, psychological, social, familial, and occupational factors, an individual treatment plan is developed.

Many patients begin with individual psychological and nutritional counseling and then begin to utilize groups as they become ready. For those patients who may be in urgent need of the structure and medical intervention available through inpatient care, Dr. Erwin, formerly the Associate Director of the Eating Disorders Unit at Somerset Medical Center, can help patients determine if this level of care is appropriate. Admission to inpatient care can be arranged immediately, if needed.

Referrals from individual therapists for adjunctive services are welcomed. Often, patients in individual therapy elsewhere will come to the Eating Disorder Program for groups, nutritional counseling, or special activities, such as conferences or family and friends workshops.

In addition to providing help to individuals seeking recovery from eating disorder in our offices, the staff at Monmouth Psychological is dedicated to community outreach and education. We are always in the hospitals, schools, and community agencies doing educational conferences and running support groups.