Christian Treatment Center Faith Based Programs
Remuda Ranch Offers Inpatient and Outpatient plans for Recovery
Dec 21, 2006
Remuda Ranch in Arizona is a Christian treatment center that offers faith based programs. It has both inpatient and outpatient plans for those recovering from eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia.
Faith based programs for recovery from an eating disorder can be a scary term for some and a Godsend for others. But even though the core of the programs are based on Christian beliefs, both believers and non-believers are treated in the way that suits their own individual needs.
Dr. David Wall, Director of Psychology Services at Remuda Ranch, tells me that incorporating religion into treatment is more about focusing on the importance and infinite worth of individuals, rather than specifically using the bible.
If women are not comfortable directly integrating Christianity or are of another belief system, therapy sessions proceed with the care that works best for the patient regardless. Conversely, if faith is a large part of a patient’s life, then sessions will incorporate the bible to aid in healing.
The staff members at this Christian treatment center don’t believe the young girls or women are broken or need to be “fixed,” nor do they believe in telling them what’s wrong or right. Their function is to help each patient figure out how they got to where they’re at and go from there.
The largest way that all staff members incorporate faith based programs is by modeling the things that Christianity is based on: truth, love and, above all, self love, which most patients lack. One of the things people with eating disorders have a hard time doing is not beating themselves up.
By therapists and care workers modeling grace and respect for themselves at Remuda Ranch, the women can begin to form a commitment to their own well-being and to the well-being of those around them. The bonds that form between patients can sometimes shape the strength they need to believe in their recovery.
Another aspect of religion in treatment is the girls’ daily chapel. Even those who aren’t religious must attend, although participation isn’t mandatory. After much singing and, often clapping and swaying, someone will do a 10-20 minute talk on an uplifting topic that reflects on a Biblical theme. Although some patients don’t take part in chapel, most enjoy the inspiration very much, whether religious or not.
Although Remuda Ranch is a Christian treatment center, you do not have to be of the Christian faith to be admitted to their faith based programs. With a very high recovery rate, they succeed by providing individualized care in a safe and nurturing environment.
Read the next article in this series titled Equine Assisted Therapy for Anorexia & Bulimia.
Read the overview of the programs at Remuda Ranch Arizona Christian Treatment Center.
