A New Path to Wellness: UTHealth Houston Center for Eating Disorders

Dr. Zachary S. Appenzeller professional photo

Zachary S. Appenzeller, PsyD

In the heart of Houston, a new beacon of hope has emerged for those struggling with eating disorders. The UTHealth Houston Center for Eating Disorders, nestled within the John S. Dunn Behavioral Sciences Center and affiliated with McGovern Medical School, is more than just a treatment facility—it’s a place where lives are transformed.

Zachary S. Appenzeller, PsyD, a compassionate and dedicated clinical psychologist, leads the center. His vision is clear: to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care that addresses the unique needs of each patient. Under his guidance, the center has become a sanctuary for individuals seeking recovery.

The center offers a wide range of services designed to support patients on their journey to recovery:

  • Outpatient Therapy: Individual, family, and group therapy sessions tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Structured support combining therapy, medical monitoring, and nutrition counseling, allowing patients to continue daily activities while receiving intensive treatment.
  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Comprehensive treatment plan with therapy, medical monitoring, and nutritional support for patients needing intensive care but not 24-hour supervision.
  • Inpatient Medical Stabilization: Immediate medical care for adolescents at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital to address acute health concerns related to eating disorders.
  • Nutrition Counseling: Personalized meal plans and education on healthy eating habits provided by registered dietitians to help patients restore and maintain a healthy relationship with food.
  • Medication Management: Assessment and prescription of appropriate medications to support patients’ mental health and recovery.

Nutrition counseling is a critical component of the treatment program at the UTHealth Houston Center for Eating Disorders. Registered dietitians work closely with patients to develop individualized meal plans and provide education on healthy eating habits. This support helps patients restore and maintain a healthy relationship with food. Additionally, the center offers medication management services to support patients’ mental health and well-being. Medical providers carefully assess each patient’s needs and prescribe appropriate medications to help manage symptoms and support recovery.

The UTHealth Houston Center for Eating Disorders is committed to a holistic approach to recovery, addressing the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of eating disorders. The interdisciplinary team works together to provide comprehensive care that empowers patients to achieve lasting recovery and improve their overall quality of life.

For more information about the UTHealth Houston Center for Eating Disorders, you can visit them at https://med.uth.edu/psychiatry/uthealth-houston-center-for-eating-disorders/ or call 713-500-4500.