The Lotus Collaborative Eating Disorder Recovery Center, Santa Cruz

"I absolutely adore and love Lotus. I was a patient here from September 2020 till February 2021, and now...months later after going through other treatment places for mental health, nothing compares to Lotus. I was in PHP for about 3 months and IOP 2, and received so much help and support. Lotus just has such a wonderful approach to treatment that made me feel safe and important. Other treatment centers I've been to make me feel like all they cared about was getting me "well" as soon as they could so they could move along and get new clients. But Lotus never made my recovery feel rushed. I felt like my time there mattered. The staff was so loving and kind, I just loved the energy. Meals were professional and I really respect that. I've been to a residential and am in another ed treatment place currently, and clients and even staff make triggering food and body comments that make eating much harder. Lotus staff was always very cautious about a safe space for healing. If I was every struggling, staff and the clients showed so much empathy and support. The Rc's that were there during my time (Bronwyn and Hayley) were outstanding. Both were very well knowledged on eating disorders and lead very helpful groups. All the groups at Lotus still have an effect on me a year later, from how inspiring, comforting, and insightful they were. Effort was actually put into the groups, unlike my other treatment places that just read from a book and called it a day. We did art, process groups, mindful movement, meditations, and so much that I am so grateful I got to do during my recovery. The therapists were incredible too. Imma just hype up Emily B, who was literally the best therapist I've ever had. And I've had like over 10 therapists throughout my life. No one compares to her, she is wonderful and just so kind and compassionate. She helped me so so much to get in touch with myself and heal. All of Lotus did! Also Ramana was amazing as well! Such a kind soul, she also leads a weekly support group for clients who have discharged but still want support. Which is so awesome that they offer that. There are so many more staff that I love and am so grateful to have had in my recovery, but I would have to write a whole book. All in all, this place is amazing. It's full of so much kindness and compassion and for me that was they key to getting better in my eating disorder. The feeling of being important and that life without an eating disorder it worth it. No other treatment place I've been to has been close to how great Lotus was. Love love love this place!"

"Excellent services and staff."