ConnectED Caregiving Program

Virtual or In-Person Meetings

Transitioning from a higher level of care (HLOC) to home or a lower level of clinical support is a major milestone, but it often brings a mix of relief and anxiety. The ConnectED Caregiving Program is designed to bridge that gap, ensuring families feel equipped, supported, and organized. Over a 90-day period, families are paired with a Family Peer Mentor—someone with lived experience who walks alongside you to help identify needs, navigate obstacles, and celebrate victories.

The 90-Day Roadmap

Our program focuses on four pillars of stability during the first three months at home:

1. Clinical & Medical Continuity

Your Mentor helps you organize and maintain the "Care Team" momentum:

  • Provider Tracking: Ensuring weekly touchpoints with the Primary Therapist, Registered Dietitian, and Psychiatrist.

  • Medical Safety: Coordinating with Medical Providers to monitor vitals and labs.

  • Peer Guidance: Utilizing the Peer Mentor for real-world troubleshooting that clinicians might not cover.

2. School & Community Re-Entry

We advocate for a "Safety First" approach to education:

  • 504 Plan & IHP Support: Guidance on securing supported lunches and modified PE requirements.

  • Staff Education: Encouraging school staff to enroll in School-Based ECHO training to better understand eating disorder recovery.

3. Home Structure & Nutrition

Establishing "The New Normal" to prevent the eating disorder from reclaiming space:

  • Meal Planning: Practical tips for grocery shopping and post-meal supervision.

  • The Emergency Plan: Creating a clear "Crisis Action Plan" so you know exactly when to call the doctor or head to the hospital.

4. Caregiver Resilience

We believe the health of the family is central to the health of the loved one:

  • Wellness Plans: Helping caregivers establish a routine that includes self-care and boundaries.

  • The Power of Connection: Direct access to our Wednesday Caregiver Support Group to reduce isolation.

How Your Family Peer Mentor Helps

Your Mentor isn't a clinician; they are navigators. During your 90 days, they will:

  • Check-in regularly to see how meals and routines are going.

  • Help you prepare for school meetings or doctor appointments.

  • Provide an empathetic ear from someone who has been in your shoes.

"Recovery doesn't happen in a vacuum; it happens in the kitchen, the classroom, and the living room. ConnectED Together ensures those spaces stay safe.