Frequently Asked Questions About Eating Disorders

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered for admission to Selah House?

Selah House provides free evaluations over the phone. We do recommend a full assessment before entering any program, which includes an evaluation of labs and EKG to provide each person individual consideration based on her circumstances and medical state. If a primary diagnosis is not an eating disorder, Selah House will make appropriate referrals.

What are the cost of the programs at Selah House?

Selah House provides a thorough benefit analysis to understand insurance coverage. Our financial team diligently works on a patients behalf to create a clear individualized financial strategy prior to admission.

What types of services does Selah House provide during treatment?

A variety of modern treatment modalities are incorporated into the treatment of eating disorders and co-morbid diagnoses. Treatment modalities include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), experiential therapy, family therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, art therapy, body image therapy, equine assisted curriculum, family education, intensive family days, nutritional education, therapeutic challenges, and medication management. Our therapeutic framework has a Christian-based focus.

Does the Selah House program provide 24-hour medical supervision and care?

Yes. A Medical Director or a Nurse Practitioner is on-call 24-hours-a-day and on site during the week to provide direct care. Medical care is available 24 hours a day by Registered Nurses with Recovery Care Specialists providing constant monitoring of the clients. Our client to staff ratios are always very low, but may vary depending on the time of day, activity, and acuity level, and needs of each client.

What is the nutritional approach at Selah House? Is tube feeding used for weight restoration?

The nutritional approach at Selah House is based on the premise that ALL FOODS CAN FIT. No food is labeled good or bad, but all are acceptable in a nutritionally-sound meal plan that includes balance and variety. Selah House facilitates supportive and supervised group meals in a “real life,” family-style setting around the table, teaching habits of fun, fellowship, and intuitive eating. Nutrient intake is individualized to each clients needs and delivered through “normal” foods as much as possible. Tube feeding may be used in extremely rare instances when a client cannot consume regular meals or supplements. Clients have twice weekly nutritional appointments, education, and counseling with a registered dietitian.

How does spirituality play a role in care and treatment at Selah House? What does it mean that Selah House is a “Christian-based” treatment center?

Selah House treatment is grounded on the belief that one’s faith is a central force in their healing process. Selah House’s Mission Statement is, “Just as Christ first loved us, Selah House actively serves the needs of those who battle eating disorders, their families, and those committed to their care.” A chaplain is available to meet with clients to discuss issues of a spiritual nature, and a community chapel is scheduled weekly, along with other spiritual reflection opportunities and a faith-based group called Selah Group. Although our treatment is Christian-based, clients from a variety of faiths and backgrounds have been through our Selah House Adult and Adolescent programs and have felt respected and comfortable while participating in the program.
Selah House does respect those who do not wish to make faith/religion/spirituality/Christianity a part of their treatment process. This can be discussed with an intake coordinator and the primary therapist. Our highest priority is to provide an environment for healing that is judgment-free, full of grace, and where we meet clients where they are.

How often does schooling take place?

Adolescent schooling takes place Monday- Thursday 6-8pm EST by a licensed educator/teacher. We obtain curriculum from school/teachers. Once completed we send it back for the teachers to grade. We cannot proctor standardized testing.

How often does schooling take place?

Phone times for adults and adolescents is Monday- Sunday 7-9pm EST

Adult IP/RTC and adolescent clients are not able to use their cell phones/electronics, they may use MP3 players, Ipod shuffles, or any music device that does not include internet, video, or camera functions to listen to music
Adult PHP clients are able to use electronics/cell phones outside of programming hours

How often does schooling take place?

Average length of stay in the residential level of care is 4-6 weeks (if using insurance). Ideal understanding of at least 30 days.