Birmingham-based eating disorder treatment center looks back with pride on an inaugural year full of accomplishments and makes plans for future growth.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (4/17/08) - On April 22, Magnolia Creek Residential Treatment Center for Eating Disorders marks its one-year anniversary. In the year since its opening, the center has treated dozens of patients, earned a highly sought-after accreditation from The Joint Commission (formerly known as JCAHO), and even made an appearance on the Dr. Phil show.
"I feel so proud of everything Magnolia Creek has achieved in its first year and extremely grateful for all the hard work the staff has put in to make it all happen," enthuses Nicole Siegfried, PhD, clinical psychologist and director of the center. "We've made a strong beginning, but we plan to do a lot more work to extend our reach and provide additional services to women suffering from eating disorders."
Expanded After Care Program
Magnolia Creek recently took a step in that direction and expanded its weekly alumni support group into a weekly after-care therapy group. The group is now led by clinical psychologist Chebon Porter, PhD, and is offered at no charge to local alumni who have recently graduated from Magnolia Creek's residential program. "We've realized that our residents want continued support in maintaining their recovery. By providing them a more intensive after care therapy group, we have seen our graduates build on their progress at MC," explains Porter.
Adds a former resident, "Magnolia Creek was the foundation but I'm finding after care to be as important as my residential stay itself. In aftercare, we are having to deal with everyday life issues and Wednesday night gives us the support we need."
"Eventually, we hope to offer more after care services and maybe even open a transition house," says Siegfried. "We won't be resting on our laurels any time soon."
