Technology in Treatment
Whether it’s their cell phone, Facebook or online gaming, it’s no secret that today’s children and teens are entrenched in technology. A key component of effective treatment is connecting authentically with themselves, their families and their peers without the noise that technology can present, and patients at Eating Recovery Center’s Behavioral Hospital for Children and Adolescents are restricted from using many common technologies to focus entirely on uninterrupted relationships with themselves and others.
In light of this population’s affinity for technology, Drs. Bermudez and Easton have incorporated the use of several cutting-edge recovery technologies to support improved treatment outcomes and engage the young, tech-savvy patients in their treatment plans. This creative approach involves the use of “video game”-like biofeedback as an anxiety management tool, as well as “body movement sensors ” to help patients understand how their bodies support their daily activities. Additionally, patients in Eating Recovery Center’s Behavioral Hospital for Children and Adolescents are given MP3 players upon admission loaded with music and activities to help facilitate rest and relaxation as they familiarize themselves with their new treatment environment. Patients are also given laptop computers during their admission in order to support academics and therapeutic assignments.
