Priory Althea Park House

Priory Althea Park House Review

Priory Hospitals Althea Park is an inpatient eating disorder facility for young adults ages 17 to 24. Treatment consists of a full group program and a high staff-to-client ratio. Clients have an individualized treatment plan that includes evidence-based protocols. The approach is based on each client’s desire for independence and transitioning back into their communities.

Accommodation and Food

Althea Park House is a seven bed facility. The residence is a Victorian style home with period accents. Each client has their own bedrooms with en suite bathrooms that are fully furnished and comfortable. Similar to other Priory facilities, the common areas include a spacious lounge with TV, kitchen, dining room and ample backyard space with seating.

Uniquely, the residence is strictly a home. Clients go off campus for treatment and medical services.

Life skills is a big part of the eating disorder treatment. As a result, clients have classes that teach food shopping and preparation. The facility provides all ingredients. Clients take turns making meals for each other sometimes, and staff making their food in other instances. The staff dietitian designs the menus.

Treatment and Staff

Clients have frequent medical monitoring. This entails regular blood draws, pelvic exams and bone testing. Therapeutic approaches are the Maudsley Model, CBT, DBT, Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) Family Systems and art therapy.

The days are very structured with group therapy, skills building and education. There is an occupational therapist who works closely with each client during every phase of treatment. Clients also have life skills coaching and weekly meetings with the clinical staff.

Clients have several real world experiences as a part of treatment. Some examples are joining a social club, getting a job, going to school, and volunteering locally. Other focuses are relapse prevention, symptom management and communication.

Clients dealing with a co-occurring disorder have medication management options.

The treatment team consists of dietitians, psychiatrists, psychologist, nursing staff and qualified support workers who are on hand 24 hours a day.

Extras

The campus contains the step-down residential facility The Anchor.

In Summary

Althea Park House teaches their clients how to live independently and handle their disease elegantly. They encourage daily interaction in a social setting where clients can try out their newly acquired skills. Clients step down with empowerment and a heightened sense of self esteem and worth.