Center for Discovery - Fairfax

Gender-inclusive care for eating disorders

The program is adapted specifically for teens ages 10 to 18 and serves all genders. Conditions treated include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and orthorexia nervosa. Care for co-occurring disorders, including mental health conditions, is also provided. Teens learn skills based on dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and have plenty of opportunities to practice them throughout their stay.

Treatment approaches

The center follows a model known as CARE-CFD, which stands for “consistent attuned relational eating - Center for Discovery.” A dietary plan is created for each client, and this plan can change and adapt as teens progress through treatment. Nutrition therapy is sensitive to trauma, and teens work closely with the treatment team in therapy sessions to get to the root of the emotional factors behind their eating disorders.

Family involvement and therapeutic movement

Family therapy and participation are woven into the program to give loved ones the skills to support teens in their healing long-term. Parents and caregivers are seen as important members of the treatment team. To make sure teens receive physical activity, yoga is offered twice each week.

Step-down partial hospitalization program (PHP)

Once teens finish residential care, they can step down to the center’s PHP. This program allows teens to receive intensive treatment during the day while returning home in the evenings. The PHP is held 5 to 6 days per week.

How we researched this facility

• Reviewed by: Tanya Rakhmilevich, content editor, behavioral health & recovery, reviewed the research findings and wrote this facility profile on September 26, 2026.
• Facility data research: On June 23, 2026, our research team reviewed the facility’s website and information from public health departments, national accrediting organizations, and SAMHSA to verify facility details.