#United States #Madison #Eating Disorders #Inner Haven #Adolescent Programs

Inner Haven Wellness Launches New Adolescent Eating Disorder Programs in Madison

The esteemed Inner Haven Wellness has opened its doors to a new Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) in Madison, Wisconsin, as of May 2025. This significant expansion is a direct response to the pressing needs for specialized eating disorder treatments tailored to adolescents aged 12-17 in the area.

Given the alarming rise in mental health difficulties among teenagers, Inner Haven’s initiative comes at a pivotal moment. Reports from the Wisconsin Office of Children's Mental Health highlighted that nearly one out of five high school students in the state reported serious thoughts of suicide in 2023, underlying the urgency for accessible mental health resources. Additionally, growing concerns about body image and disordered eating behaviors among the youth are more pronounced than ever, and yet, specialized services remain scarce. Families in Dane County often find themselves facing extended travel or long waiting periods for suitable treatment options.

Lee Neagle, MA, LPC, Co-Founder and Therapist at Inner Haven Wellness, noted, "Parents, school counselors, and pediatricians in Madison have repeatedly told us how hard it is to find care that meets teens where they are. We are eager to ensure that local families don’t have to choose between accessibility and quality of care."

The newly established program combines both IOP and PHP services, allowing for an earlier intervention in the treatment process and supporting families through various stages of recovery. This aligns with national trends; a recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics indicated that adolescent hospitalizations for eating disorders doubled during the pandemic, emphasizing an ongoing need for local options—especially those informed by trauma and developmental considerations.

Margherita Mascolo, MD, CEDS, CEO and Chief Medical Officer at Inner Haven Wellness, stressed the importance of timely access to quality care, stating, "With eating disorders, time matters. We are committed to delivering safe, effective, and personalized treatment to families in Dane County and beyond, facilitating early recovery."

The Madison programs offer an extensive range of services, including individualized and family therapy techniques grounded in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), paired with trauma-informed care. Each adolescent will work closely with a registered dietitian for nutrition counseling, structured meal planning, and clinician-supported meal times to foster immediate behavioral changes. The program also encourages parental involvement through support and collaborative care planning.

Moreover, the schedule features mindfulness practices, expressive arts therapy, and group sessions dedicated to body image rehabilitation, identity development, and relapse prevention. The carefully selected clinical team comprises licensed therapists, medical professionals, dietitians, and recovery specialists adept in adolescent developmental needs, ensuring a supportive environment for young individuals.

"Our focus lies in the adolescent experience, acknowledging that recovery is not solely about food; it is about empowering young individuals to reconnect with their values, families, and aspirations," Neagle added.

In Neenah, WI, Inner Haven has already witnessed success with its adolescent PHP and IOP, impacting numerous families by making treatment more accessible. With the launch of the Madison program, these high-impact services will now be available to even more families across southern Wisconsin.

Referrals and inquiries regarding the May 2025 program are actively being accepted, and area providers, schools, and families are encouraged to connect early due to limited space.

About Inner Haven Wellness

Inner Haven Wellness is a renowned provider of specialized eating disorder treatment for adolescents (ages 12-17) across Madison and Neenah while also catering to adults (ages 18 and older) in Madison and virtually statewide. The institution delivers both Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs utilizing evidence-based methodologies like DBT and ACT. Their mission revolves around helping individuals achieve lasting recovery through compassionate care and customizable treatment plans tailored to each client's unique circumstances. For support, visit innerhavenwellness.com to learn more about available treatment options. Let’s take the first step towards recovery together.