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You always have our support

Clinically reviewed by Jillian Lampert, PhD, MPH, RD, LD, FAEDLast reviewed August 27, 2026

It’s vital to have a strong support system when undergoing eating disorder treatment. Our free community events are places where you can connect with other individuals and families going through similar experiences. Join us to learn about eating disorders, share stories, and find hope for recovery.

ED 101: Understanding Eating Disorders, Treatment, and Recovery

We know how overwhelming an eating disorder diagnosis can be for families and friends. The terminology. The process. The uncertainties. Share an evening with us to learn about eating disorders, our personalized treatment programs, and the path to recovery. Our knowledgeable staff at The Emily Program answer common concerns of families and friends facing eating disorder issues for the first time. You’ll leave with valuable resources and a better understanding of this serious mental health issue. We recommend family and friends who are new to eating disorders attend this session at least once before joining a Friends and Family Session for a better experience in the group.

Virtual Event: Eating Disorders 101

Session Options:

  • Second Thursday of the Month – NEW TIME!
    • Upcoming dates: Oct 8, Nov 12, Dec 10
    • Time: 4–5 pm PT, 6–7 pm CT, 7–8 pm ET
    • Zoom link: Join us via Zoom
  • Fourth Thursday of the Month
    • Upcoming dates: Nov 26
    • Time: 10-11 am PT, 12-1 pm CT, 1-2 pm ET
    • Zoom link: Join us via Zoom
Friends and Family Sessions

The Emily Program offers free evening Friends and Family Sessions open to the public. No need to register; just drop in. (Please note: This group is intended for family and friends providing support to loved ones with an eating disorder. If you are a client or potential client, please attend our ED 101 or Recovery Night events if you would like to learn more.)

Virtual Event: Friends and Family Session 3rd Thursday of the month, 6–7pm PT, 8-9pm CT, 9-10pm ET.

Upcoming dates: Oct 15, Nov 19, Dec 17.  Join us via Zoom

Support Groups

The National Alliance for Eating Disorders also offers free virtual support groups led by licensed eating disorder clinicians.

  • Pro-Recovery Support Groups:
    • Mondays, 9am PT, 11am CT, 12pm ET
    • Tuesdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
    • Wednesdays, 6pm PT, 8pm CT, 9pm ET
    • Thursdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
    • Fridays, 9am PT, 11am CT, 12pm ET
    • Saturdays, 8am PT, 10am CT, 11am ET
  • Larger Body Individuals Pro-Recovery Support Group: Mondays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
  • LGBTQ+ Pro-Recovery Support Group: Wednesdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
  • Friends & Family Support Group: Thursdays, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET
  • Mom2Mom Support Group: Tuesdays, 1pm PT, 3pm CT, 4pm ET
  • Individuals Who Have Lost a Loved One Support Group: every third Monday of the month, 4pm PT, 6pm CT, 7pm ET 

Learn more and register on The Alliance’s website.

Share Your Story

There’s Help. There’s Hope! The Emily Program is a warm and welcoming place where individuals and their families can find comprehensive treatment for eating disorders and related issues. We want to hear your story. Email us (blog@emilyprogram.com) and ask how you can become a contributor to our blog or podcast.

Other Community Events

Midwest: