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Aster Springs

Empowering Students in Eating Disorder Recovery

Aster Springs

Empowering Students in Eating Disorder Recovery

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Eating disorders affect individuals of all ages and genders, but the risk is exceptionally high during adolescence and early adulthood.

Eating Disorders in Students

High school and college students facing eating disorders need support and resources to navigate recovery. Academic pressure, social influences, and underlying mental health conditions can contribute to these illnesses, affecting family life, mental well-being, and academics. Aster Springs understands these challenges and provides compassionate, specialized treatment tailored to each student’s needs. No matter where they are in their journey, we help them find a path to lasting recovery.

Key Signs + Symptoms of Eating Disorders

Early detection of an eating disorder dramatically improves the chances of recovery, making it essential to recognize the warning signs. While not everyone will display all symptoms — and they can vary between disorders — the list below serves as a general guide to help identify potential concerns. Understanding these behaviors is the first step in seeking the right support for recovery.

Emotional + behavioral signs

  • Preoccupation with weight, food, calories, + dieting
  • Intense concern about body size + shape
  • Withdrawal from social activities + relationships
  • Increased secrecy + isolation
  • Frequently mirror-checking for perceived flaws
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Avoiding mealtimes or food-related situations

Physical signs + symptoms

  • Noticeable fluctuations in weight
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Constantly feeling cold
  • Dizziness, especially when standing
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Dry skin, hair, + brittle nails
  • Muscle weakness
  • Weakened immune system

Eating Disorders in Students

Understanding the Root Causes

While the exact cause of an eating disorder may be unclear, various triggers and factors can contribute to disordered eating behaviors.

These triggers include:

1.

Academic stress

Academic pressure, tight deadlines, and exam stress can elevate anxiety levels, leading some students to develop disordered eating patterns as a coping mechanism.

2.

Body image concerns

New social environments and peer comparisons can amplify body image concerns, fueled by unrealistic beauty standards and increased focus on appearance, potentially leading to disordered eating behaviors.

3.

Transitions + life changes

Moving away from home, adjusting to a new environment, and managing newfound independence can be overwhelming, often intensifying emotional struggles with food and body image.

4.

Perfectionism

The drive for perfection — whether in academics, extracurriculars, or appearance — can lead to rigid eating habits and a distorted body image.

5.

Peer pressure

School social dynamics can shape eating behaviors, as peer pressure to fit certain body ideals, follow dieting trends, or adopt group eating habits may contribute to disordered eating.

6.

Cultural influences

Unrealistic body standards in media, dieting trends, and social media’s emphasis on appearance can influence students’ eating habits and body perception.

7.

Social isolation

Feelings of loneliness, isolation, or difficulty forming connections in school may lead some students to use disordered eating as a way to cope or regain control.

Understanding the Impact: Eating Disorders in College Students

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Eating disorder risk among US college students rose 13% from 2013 to 2020-2021.

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Only 22% of colleges offer year-round eating disorder screenings, and just 45% provide screenings once per year or semester.

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Only 20% of students who screened positive for an eating disorder reported receiving treatment.

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An estimated 10-20% of college women and 4-10% of college men may have an eating disorder.

Student Resources

Click the links below for educational and treatment resources on eating disorders in students.

Self-Advocacy

Don't weigh me.

In recovery, understanding your triggers — such as avoiding weight checks — allows you to communicate your needs confidently at medical appointments. Self-advocacy through assertive communication empowers you to:

  • Communicate your triggers
  • Set boundaries
  • Stand up for yourself
  • Ask for help
  • Build + maintain healthy relationships
  • Stay engaged in recovery

Screenshot or print a “Don’t Weigh Me” card to advocate for yourself at your next medical appointment.

Aster Springs - Don't Weigh Me Card 2025

National Organizations

Taking a Leave of Absence

Taking a break from school for eating disorder treatment requires thoughtful preparation to balance academic responsibilities with your privacy and well-being. Here are some tips to navigate the process:

Review your specific school’s policies on leave of absence and consult the administration.

Submit a formal request for a leave of absence.

  • Notify your professors
  • Discuss options for withdrawing from courses or receiving incomplete grades.
  • Seek advice and support from your academic advisor.
  • Follow your treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare providers.
  • Prioritize self-care activities that promote your physical and mental well-being.
  • Work with your academic advisor to develop a reintegration plan, including a reduced course load or additional support services.
  • Maintain any ongoing therapy or support group sessions to help you transition back to school while continuing your recovery.

Further Reading

Treatment

Anorexia

Bulimia

Binge eating disorder

FAQs

For Students

How can friends and family support a student struggling with an eating disorder?

Here are some ways friends and family can offer meaningful support to a student with an eating disorder:

  • Listen without judgment – Offer empathy and patience, allowing them to express their feelings.
  • Encourage open communication – Create a safe space for them to talk about their struggles and progress.
  • Remind them recovery is a journey – Offer reassurance that healing takes time and setbacks are normal.
  • Assist with stress management – Help with day-to-day stressors to alleviate emotional strain.
  • Avoid commenting on food, weight, or appearance – Focus on their emotional well-being instead.
  • Encourage professional support – Help them seek the necessary treatment and therapy.
  • Provide consistent, loving support – Stay involved in their recovery process with care and compassion.

Schools can take several steps to promote a supportive environment for students struggling with eating disorders:

  • Education + awareness – Provide training for staff, faculty, and students on recognizing eating disorder signs, promoting body positivity, and encouraging healthy relationships with food.
  • Screening + early intervention – Offer regular, confidential screenings and mental health check-ins to identify at-risk students early.
  • Accessible counseling + support services – Ensure students can access on-campus or partnered mental health professionals specializing in eating disorders.
  • Accommodations for recovery – Develop academic flexibility for students undergoing treatment, such as adjusted schedules or meal support plans.
  • Peer support + advocacy groups – Create student-led organizations focused on body acceptance, mental health, and eating disorder recovery.
  • Mindful dining + nutrition support – Offer inclusive, dietitian-backed meal options and create a judgment-free dining environment.
  • Address harmful norms – Discourage diet culture, weight-based stigma, and social pressures that contribute to disordered eating behaviors.

By implementing these steps, schools can create a safer, more understanding space for students navigating eating disorders.

Students struggling with eating disorders have access to a variety of resources designed to support their recovery:

  • Campus counseling services – Many colleges offer free or low-cost counseling and therapy services to help students manage emotional struggles and mental health issues like eating disorders.

  • National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – NEDA offers a helpline, online resources, and a treatment finder tool to connect students with specialized care.

  • Eating disorder support groups – Peer support groups, both in-person and online, provide a space for students to connect with others going through similar experiences.

  • Medical professionals – Primary care physicians, psychiatrists, and dietitians can offer personalized care and treatment options, including medical and nutritional support.

  • Hotlines – Resources like the National Eating Disorders Helpline (800.931.2237) provide confidential support and guidance.

These resources can be crucial in connecting students with the care they need on their recovery journey.

Eating disorders can significantly affect a student’s ability to succeed academically. Physical health issues, such as fatigue, dizziness, and nutritional deficiencies, can interfere with energy levels and overall well-being. Additionally, concentration, memory, and decision-making difficulties can impair focus, hinder learning, and impact academic performance.

The emotional and psychological toll of an eating disorder — including anxiety and depression — can further affect a student’s motivation, self-esteem, and ability to engage in classroom activities. Recognizing these challenges is essential in providing proper support for students.

Levels of Care

Comprehensive treatment options for every stage of eating disorder recovery

Take the next step at Aster Springs.

Whether you’re seeking treatment for the first time or returning after previous care, the team at Aster Springs is here to help you navigate this stage in your recovery journey. 

Your privacy is our priority. All communication is completely confidential.

Complete our contact form.

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Aster Springs is a proud part of the Odyssey Behavioral Health network.

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Let’s be honest about eating disorders.

Alycia Aldieri, Head of Admissions for Aster Springs, has firsthand experience with eating disorder recovery, as well as years of experience working directly with individuals struggling with eating disorders. In this video series, Aldieri explores some of the most common and powerful barriers to seeking treatment.

Explore the Barriers

Let’s be honest about financial concerns.

The cost of treatment can feel overwhelming — but your recovery is priceless.

Let’s be honest about being close to home.

Being close to home feels comfortable — but is it what’s best for recovery? Eating disorders thrive on routine and familiarity, making the idea of traveling for treatment feel overwhelming. But staying close to home can also make it easier to leave treatment when things get tough.

Let’s be honest about denial.

Denial keeps eating disorders alive. Eating disorders thrive in secrecy and denial. If you don’t believe you’re sick, why would you seek help? That’s precisely how eating disorders stay in control.

Let’s be honest about denial in parents.

Denial is a natural response — but delaying the proper care can prolong suffering. For many parents, accepting that their child needs eating disorder treatment is an overwhelming and emotional experience. But early, appropriate intervention is key to lasting recovery.

Let’s be honest about isolation.

Eating disorders thrive in isolation, convincing you that you’re better off alone. But the truth is, isolation only makes things worse. It shrinks your world and traps you in a cycle of self-doubt and despair.

Let’s be honest about change.

Change is hard, but so is staying stuck. Living with an eating disorder can feel like the only way to survive. Even when it causes chaos, it becomes familiar — making change feel overwhelming.

Let’s be honest about guilt + shame in parents.

As a parent, it’s heart-wrenching to make the decision to send your child to treatment, especially when that child doesn’t want to go.

Let’s be honest about guilt + shame.

Guilt and shame can trap you in the cycle of an eating disorder, making it challenging to seek the treatment you need.

Let’s be honest about fear in parents.

Deciding to seek treatment for your child is scary — but doing nothing is scarier.

Let’s be honest about fear.

You are stronger than your fears. Treatment is hard, but so is staying stuck in the cycle of an eating disorder. You can do hard things. And on the other side of fear? A life worth living.

Executive Director, Outpatient Columbus

Kim LaBarge MS, NCC, LPCC-S

As Executive Director of Aster Springs Outpatient Columbus, Kim is dedicated to providing exceptional clinical care through group, individual, and family therapy.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. After several years at a Baltimore-based nonprofit, she transitioned to counseling to make a more profound impact. Kim earned her master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Johns Hopkins University, focusing on helping individuals achieve lasting positive change.

Executive Director, Outpatient Cincinnati

Natalie Fausey RD, LD

As the Executive Director of Aster Springs Outpatient Cincinnati, Natalie provides both clinical and operational leadership to the team.

She holds a bachelor’s in human nutrition from The Ohio State University and has been a registered and licensed dietitian since 2018. Previously, Natalie served as the clinical dietitian at Aster Springs for three years. She is passionate about food’s multifaceted role in life, from nourishment and enjoyment to fostering connection, culture, and tradition.

Dedicated to empowering her team, Natalie ensures the highest standards of care for every client. Outside work, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, exploring new destinations, and discovering unique coffee shops and restaurants.

Executive Director, Aster Springs VA & Outpatient Richmond

Sara Berry LMHC, MBA

Sara joined Aster Springs Outpatient Jeffersonville as Executive Director in August 2023, bringing nearly 20 years of clinical and operational experience. She has worked in community mental health, inpatient and residential psychiatric treatment, and child welfare services.

She earned a bachelor of arts in psychology and a master’s of education in counseling psychology from the University of Louisville, followed by a master’s in healthcare management from the University of Southern Indiana. Since 2005, she has worked in behavioral health across Jeffersonville and surrounding communities.

In leadership since 2009, Sara has held key roles blending clinical and operational expertise. Her clinical interests include eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and family systems. Passionate about helping others reach their full potential, she enjoys reading, family time, and the outdoors.

Executive Director, Aster Springs VA & Outpatient Richmond

Melanie Vann MA, LPC, NCC

Melanie holds a master’s in counseling psychology from Regent University and is a licensed mental health provider in Virginia.

She began her career treating eating disorders and specializes in trauma-based therapy, DBT, and experiential therapies. She became a certified equine-assisted therapist through EAGALA and a certified life coach through AACC to deepen her expertise. Melanie has worked in various mental health settings, including program development, nonprofits, podcasting, consulting, outreach, and education. She has held roles such as primary therapist, program director, clinical director, and executive director.

Melanie’s client-centered, strengths-focused approach reflects her belief that full recovery from an eating disorder is possible. Passionate about fostering hope, she helps individuals live confident, empowered, and authentic lives.

Executive Director, Aster Springs TN & Outpatient Nashville

Amber Lucchino LCSW, LADAC

Amber is a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in the behavioral health field. With 22 years of recovery from an eating disorder, she brings a unique understanding and perspective to her role as a leader at Aster Springs.

Amber earned her bachelor’s in social work from Union University and her master’s from Columbia University in New York City. She has experience in outpatient and residential treatment settings, where she has held positions ranging from direct client care to program management and director roles focusing on staff development and organizational wellness. In addition to eating disorders, she has clinical experience in trauma and co-occurring disorders. She enjoys providing training within the community and has served as an adjunct professor in the department of social work for Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Amber is married and has four children. In her spare time, she can be found at the barn with horses or hiking on nearby trails. She loves cake decorating, spontaneous dance parties, and anything outdoors. Her motto is: “Pay attention to what brings you joy and do more of that.”

AVP of Eating Disorder Admissions

Stefan Glamp

Stefan is the National Director of Alum Services for Odyssey Behavioral Health, leading Aster Springs’ efforts to build compassionate, connected alum communities.

With extensive experience in addiction and mental health recovery, he specializes in fostering community partnerships and supporting clients in their unique recovery journeys, believing long-term recovery is achievable.

Stefan’s approach enhances treatment effectiveness by providing structured, ongoing support for all Aster Springs alums.

AVP of Eating Disorder Admissions

Alycia Aldieri LPC

As AVP of Admissions for Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s Eating Disorder Network, Alycia ensures a compassionate, responsive, and seamless admissions experience.

With a background in residential treatment for adults and adolescents with co-occurring disorders, Alycia holds a master’s in clinical psychology from Benedictine University and a bachelor’s in music therapy from East Carolina University. Her approach integrates clinical expertise, spiritual beliefs, and 12-step principles.

Committed to integrity, compassion, and ethics, Alycia believes recovery is possible for anyone willing to pursue it. She finds deep fulfillment in serving others and is dedicated to guiding clients and families with care and support through every step of the admissions journey.

National Director of Nutrition Programming

Tammy Beasley MS, RDN, CEDS-C

Tammy has over 35 years of experience in eating disorder recovery. She was the first dietitian certified as an eating disorder specialist (CEDS) by iaedp in 1993 and played a key role in securing certification approval for dietitians.

Tammy co-authored the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Standards of Practice for eating disorder RDNs and has developed nutrition programs nationwide. She mentors clinicians, serves as a media resource, and runs a private practice supporting clients and organizations.

Passionate about full recovery, Tammy’s guiding principle is “Do no shame.”

AVP of Clinical Operations

Kate Fisch LCSW, CEDS

As AVP of Clinical Operations for the Odyssey Behavioral Health Eating Disorder Network, Kate plays a key role in shaping Aster Springs’ exceptional clinical care across all levels.

With nearly two decades of experience in eating disorder treatment, Kate has provided direct client care at every level and is deeply committed to clinical supervision. Her passion lies in supporting and developing fellow treatment providers to enhance the quality of care in the field.

Kate earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Indiana University and a master’s in social work from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Medical Director

Dr. Tom Scales

Dr. Scales is the network medical director for Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s eating disorder network, including Aster Springs, where he provides psychiatric and medical care to clients.

He earned his undergraduate degree from Wheaton College, attended medical school at the University of Tennessee, Memphis, and completed his internal medicine and psychiatry residency at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. An advocate for eating disorder awareness, Dr. Scales has delivered community presentations, made media appearances, and hosted the web-based radio show Understanding Eating Disorders.

He is a diplomat on the American Board of Internal Medicine, the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and addiction medicine through the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Most importantly, he is a husband and proud father of two children. 

Chief Executive Officer

Chrissy Hall LCSW

As Group CEO, Chrissy oversees operations, the executive leadership team, and clinical service delivery at Aster Springs.

With over 25 years in behavioral healthcare, she began as a direct care staff member and has since held executive roles in clinical and business development. Her experience spans residential treatment centers, acute care hospitals, outpatient centers, and military treatment programs. Chrissy specializes in clinical best practices, program development, staff education, and quality and compliance for startups.

Passionate about leading teams to provide exceptional care in safe, therapeutic environments, Chrissy holds a master’s in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a licensed clinical social worker.

Connect with the Aster Springs admissions team to start the referral process.

Connect with admissions at Aster Springs Outpatient Jeffersonville/Louisville.

Connect with admissions at Aster Springs Outpatient Columbus.

Connect with admissions at Aster Springs Outpatient Cincinnati.

Connect today with the Aster Springs Virginia admissions team.

Connect with admissions at Aster Springs Outpatient Nashville.

Connect today with the Aster Springs Tennessee admissions team.

Connect today with the Aster Springs admissions team.

Aster Springs Richmond

Located in the heart of Richmond’s West End in Glen Allen, VA, Aster Springs Outpatient specializes in treating adults of all genders, ages 18 and older, who struggle with eating disorders.

Location

3957 Westerre Pkwy., Ste. 208, Richmond, VA 23233

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) of all genders

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP)

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Nashville

Located near the heart of downtown Nashville, Aster Springs Outpatient specializes in treating adults of all genders who are struggling with eating disorders. Our programs are LGBTQIA+-affirming and inclusive of all religious preferences.

Location

2900 Vanderbilt Pl., Ste. 200B, Nashville, TN 37212

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP)

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) of all genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Columbus

Located in the heart of Dublin, Aster Springs Outpatient Columbus offers a warm, sunlit environment that feels like home. We specialize in treating adolescents and adults of all genders — ages 12 and older — who struggle with eating disorders and co-occurring conditions.

Location

3530 Irwin Simpson Rd., Ste. B, Mason, OH 45040

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), evening virtual IOP

Who We Treat

Adults + adolescents (ages 16 & older) of all genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Cincinnati

Located just northeast of Cincinnati in Mason, Ohio, Aster Springs Outpatient in Cincinnati specializes in treating adolescents and adults of all genders, ages 16 and older, struggling with eating disorders.

Location

3530 Irwin Simpson Rd., Ste. B, Mason, OH 45040

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), evening virtual IOP

Who We Treat

Adults + adolescents (ages 16 & older) of all genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Outpatient Jeffersonville

Minutes away from the heart of the Ohio River Valley, Aster Springs Outpatient in Jeffersonville provides compassionate, innovative eating disorder treatment that is inclusive of diverse populations and cultures.

Location

4500 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 103, Jeffersonville, IN 47130

Levels of Care

Partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), evening virtual IOP

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) | Adolescents (ages 13-17)

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, OSFED

Aster Springs Virginia

Aster Springs Virginia is composed of two locations in Richmond, each offering exceptional, compassionate eating disorder treatment within peaceful, comforting environments.

Locations

Manakin-Sabot & Glen Allen

Levels of Care

Residential treatment, partial hospitalization program (PHP) with housing, intensive outpatient program (IOP)

Who We Treat

Adult women (Residential) | Adults of all genders (PHP + IOP)

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, bulimia, OSFED

Aster Springs Tennessee

Located just minutes away from downtown Music City, our multidisciplinary treatment team provides tailored treatment plans designed to meet the unique needs of each client. 

Location

7544 Old Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37221

Levels of Care

Residential treatment, partial hospitalization program (PHP) with housing

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) | All genders

What We Treat

Anorexia, ARFID, binge eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, bulimia, OSFED

Aster Springs Ohio

Located near a winding creek on a peaceful, private stretch of land in Toledo, Aster Springs Ohio combines evidence-based, whole-person eating disorder treatment with a tranquil, home-like setting. 

Location

5465 Main St, Sylvania, OH 43560

Levels of Care

Residential treatment, partial hospitalization program (PHP) with housing

Who We Treat

Adults (ages 18+) | Adolescents (ages 10-17)

What We Treat

Anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, purging disorder, ARFID, co-occurring mental health conditions