Eating Disorder Day Program

Waloom Ngitj – “Stepping Together”*

The Eating Disorder Day Program (EDDP) is a voluntary 8-week program offering a more intensive level of support for young people aged 0-25 years experiencing an eating disorder, as well as for their family/supports. EDDP offers a holistic, person-centred approach with group therapy, meal support, and family involvement.

*’Waloom Ngitj’ is local Wadawurrung language that means ‘step together’ – symbolising the courage and energy it takes to move towards recovery and the unknown. This process is made easier by taking it together, as we walk alongside you on this journey.

The program might be appropriate if you:

  • Are a young adult aged 16-25 years (SHINE program)
  • An adolescent under 18-years participating with a parent or carer (CONNECT Family program)
  • Live in the Barwon catchment
  • Have a primary diagnosis of an Eating Disorder (excluding ARFID)
  • Are medically stable (confirmed by your doctor)
  • Are open to having a loved one, carer, or support person involved in the program. If you’re in the CONNECT program, a parent or carer must participate with you
  • Are ready to engage fully in therapy, meal support and goal-setting, with ongoing outside care from a GP and mental health professional
  • Agree to allow communication with your primary care team

EDDP offers two therapeutic group programs.

  • SHINE Program: 3 x days per week (Mon, Weds, Thurs)
  • CONNECT Family Program: 1 x day per week with parent/carer (Fri)

These programs are held at Barwon Health Central Geelong Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub at 181 Moorabool Street, Geelong.

The program is free.

  • Group and individual therapy sessions
  • Supported meal times
  • Family involvement and support
  • Safe, supportive environment encouraging recovery

We have professionals from a variety of disciplines, including:

  • Mental health clinicians (psychologists and mental health nurse)
  • Dietitians
  • Peer workers with lived experience
  • Exercise physiologist
  • Psychiatrist
  • Medical professionals (i.e. paediatricians)
  • Occupational therapist

How to join

Referrals can be made by Barwon Health Mental Health teams, your GP, or private mental health professional.

For more information or to refer, contact Child & Youth Triage on 1300 094 187.