The Eating Disorders Clinic

The Ottawa Eating Disorder Clinic (EDC) was founded in 1984 by Drs. Jane Barlow, Dr. Jane Blouin and Dr. Arthur Blouin at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.  It was the first Eating Disorder Clinic in Ottawa and one of the first of its kind in Canada.  In order to expand its services at a time when Hospitals were experiencing financial pressures, the Eating Disorder Clinic was moved from the Hospital to a community based clinic in 1995.  Drs. Blouin, Blouin and Barlow continue to work closely together to assess and treat eating disorders in their offices on Carling Avenue.  Dr. Cindy Maddeaux and Catherine Zuro, C.P.A. have also been affiliated with the Eating Disorder Clinic for over 20 years.

A variety of cognitive-behavioral treatment programs are available in the EDC, including: individual therapy, group therapy, body image groups, parent and family member groups.  A modified day treatment program is also available. This program is operated by Dr. Jane Barlow, a psychiatrist with over 20 years experience treating eating disorders.  Dr. Barlow is an acknowledged expert in pharmacotherapy of eating disorders, having published important research in the use of medication with eating disorders.  The intensive Day Treatment program meets 2 hours per day, includes eating a full meal and is conducted 4 days per week.  Preferred referrals to inpatient units and a close relationship with eating disorder treatment programs in local and other hospitals in the province has been maintained.  The vast majority of patients are successfully treated on an outpatient basis and the typical course of treatment lasts 4 to 6 months with considerable variability depending on individual factors.