UCSD’s Eating Disorders Center is a university-based, non-profit, Center of Excellence that serves as an international leader in research, treatment, and teaching. Our mission is to improve the lives of sufferers and their families—both at our facilities and around the world--through the creation, dissemination, and practice of cost-effective, evidence-based treatment.
The UCSD Eating Disorders Center was founded in 2005 by Dr. Walter Kaye, MD. Dr. Kaye is a world-renowned pioneer in the field of eating disorders, whose research has focused on the relationship between brain and behavior using brain imaging and genetics, and using that knowledge to develop more effective treatment. His vision has guided and inspired in our tripartite mission of research, treatment and teaching.
At UCSD, our research examines the neurobiological underpinnings of eating disorders using the latest technologies in neuroimaging and genetics. We translate our findings into data-driven innovative treatments. These treatments are then tested within our clinic to ensure patient acceptability and satisfaction.
Our treatment programs include three separate clinics: Pediatric, Adolescent, and Adult, offering 10- and 6-hour Day Treatment and Intensive Outpatient programs. All programs have a foundation of Family Based Therapy (FBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Additionally, we have one of the nation’s only inpatient Medical Behavioral Units specializing in eating disorders for children through young adults. Staffed with expert physicians and psychologists, the inpatient unit provides medical stabilization of abnormal cardiovascular function and helps those who are severely underweight and require nutritional restoration under expert care. Finally, our one-week intensive family therapy (IFT) programs for adolescents and adults provide 40 hours of psychoeducation, DBT skills, and family based treatment. Ideal for families who are transitioning between levels of care, or are lacking evidence-based practitioners where they live, or are just simply “stuck”--our intensive programs are both effective and well-liked by families from San Diego to Shanghai.
Teaching is our passion. We want to ensure that all individuals and families have access to quality, cost-effective, evidence-based treatments wherever they live. The best way to achieve our goal is through teaching. As part of UCSD’s world class training environment, we train dozens of future researchers and clinicians. Our students have gone on to staff positions at UCLA, University of Chicago, and many other wonderful programs. We also host annual clinical and research conferences and offer several clinical trainings throughout the year.