As the patient’s physical strength increases and physiological changes occur, the psychological needs of the individual alter.  This frequently is a distressing stage of recovery, as the patient must now leave behind the ‘coping mechanism’ that their eating disorder may have provided.

When the clinical team considers it appropriate, the patient commences a carefully monitored transfer to the second stage of treatment in the adjacent building, Chesham House, where they will develop the life skills that will promote their long-term recovery.  

The staff team in Chesham House, and ‘the resident’, as the individual is now known, mutually formulate a therapeutic plan tailored to meet their specific needs. Short, medium and long-term goals are identified.   Relapse prevention training is a feature of this stage of treatment.   Challenging situations are identified as learning opportunities in preparation for the difficulties the individual may encounter after discharge into independent life.

Residents continue under the care of their psychiatrist, whom they meet at two-weekly intervals.    Individual and family therapy continues as before.

Residents learn to manage and take responsibility for maintaining their weight within a healthy range.   They continue to develop confidence around nutrition by food shopping and preparation, restaurant meals with staff and an occasional ‘takeaway’ meal.   They cook both for themselves and for each other so that they are able to manage the challenge of eating in social situations.    They may also shop for clothes with a support worker.   Planned visits and overnight stays at home or with friends ease the transition from residential care.

Chesham House provides residents with the opportunity to ‘practise’ spontaneity.   They discover new ways of expressing need and communicating with others, which in turn facilitates the formation of healthy relationships.   They learn and develop strategies for overcoming unhealthy patterns of behaviour.   They explore social, educational and leisure activities in order to develop a balanced lifestyle.