The Renfrew Center First in Eating Disorders

This is a delayed review. But I’ve been working through some treatment induced trauma and now feel comfortable sharing. I was there in 2019, so again one can hope things have changed, but I doubt it. Renfrew left me far worse off than when I admitted. I was hopeful because I had a coworker who had a good experience, but that was certainly not my story. The groups are repetitive, not individualized, don’t have personal input allowed, and weren’t really helpful. There is zero processing or discussion that occurs, just lectures. Their “reward” aka badge system is literal hell. You’re effectively punished for not being able to complete meals. You spend 12+ hours per day locked in the group room, no access to fresh air, no ability to escape 4 walls—which for me, induced worsening mental health issues. You’re forced to use the restroom without any privacy, literally the door is open, people are walking around because the phone booth and kitchenette is right by that bathroom. Rather than implement a system where staff flush the toilets to ensure behaviors aren’t occurring, you’re literally forced to use the bathroom with someone standing in the doorframe, which for me was awful and more traumatizing. Therapy was subpar, I hope the therapist I had since has left because she was awful at her job. The only good thing to come out of Renfrew was two of the interns from a PsyD program showed compassion, empathy, and genuine concern for all of us. I made some good friends, but came out with more trauma and behaviors than when I went in. I hope it’s improved.

Thank you for all the Renfrew’s staff members for being so supportive during this journey. I feel so much better mentally and physically after treatment. I’m am gratful I made de choice to come here.

I highly recommend Renfrew coconut creek. I couldn’t have asked for more from them. The staff is amazing and so kind. The therapists are wonderful, especially Janine. She was my perfect match for therapy and I was terribly sad to not be able to work with her anymore. The counselors are top tier and are always there for extra support. All of the counselors were amazing! Thank you McKayla for always checking in on me on those hard days! It meant so much to me knowing people cared. Gabrie, you are amazing! Never forget it!!! Ness, I hope you are still doing those watercolor affirmations because I still have mine! Cassie, I adore your vibe and your humor! Kayla, thank you for teaching me to crochet and for always checking in! The nurses are caring and fantastic at what they do. Such wonderful people! The housekeeping, security, and kitchen staff work so hard and it is so appreciated! My dietician Skylar was phenomenal! We didn’t just focus on the food and nutrition but she worked with me on body image and acceptance. Renfrew was a place I felt safe enough to let myself feel my emotions and work on some very difficult things. I don’t think you’ll find a better place to find recovery.