Research
Duke Eating Disorders Program
Dr. Nancy Zucker of Duke University is performing a cutting-edge research study to benefit women with anorexia nervosa. The literature indicates that women struggling with anorexia nervosa are often uncomfortable in social situations. This study examines different aspects of relationships and analyzes how women with anorexia experience emotions, resolve conflicts, and understand social cues.
Qualifying participants are asked to complete questionnaires, laboratory games, and potentially a brain fMRI scan. The study, divided into three sections, takes approximately eight hours to complete in total. The first two portions of the research study are conducted on-site at Carolina House. Transportation to Duke University for the third and final portion is provided to participants. There is a $100 payment for patients who complete the study. The data, presented to both the patient and clinical staff, assists in tailoring effective, patient-specific treatment.
Duke University Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science
Carolina House patients also benefit from a second IRB-approved study offered in collaboration with Duke University. Principal Investigator Dr. Rhonda Merwin, licensed clinical psychologist and assistant professor at Duke University, is leading a study which focuses on the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in the treatment of body image disturbance. In consort with Carolina House staff, Dr. Merwin will offer patients an ACT group each week specifically designed to explore and reduce body image concerns, so often a chief inhibitor of long-term eating disorder recovery.
EDI-3
In order to gauge the effectiveness of the Carolina House treatment protocol, clinical staff administers the Eating Disorder Inventory, 3rd edition (EDI-3). This inventory measures multiple scales of traits commonly seen in persons with eating disorders. Each Carolina House patient is asked to complete the questionnaire twice: once upon admission and once upon discharge. In addition to providing valuable information about eating disorders unique to each patient, the EDI-3 helps measure effectiveness of treatment at Carolina House. Ongoing data collection and analysis is used by clinicians to tailor programming and interventions to best suit the needs of Carolina House patients.
MHCA Survey
Upon discharge, each of our patients is asked to complete a Mental Health Corporation of America (MHCA) Customer Satisfaction Survey. Carolina House staff strive to treat our patients with the best, most supportive care possible. Patients’ feedback is invaluable to us as we strive for constant growth and development. These surveys are kept confidential and the data is used to train our staff to provide the very highest standard of care possible.