General Information on Remuda Programs for Eating Disorders
Remuda Ranch offers programs and settings that are distinctively different from the traditional, institutional format offered at hospitals and clinics. We provide a balanced approach, which produces a continuing lifestyle change through individualized, Biblically based programs designed to treat the whole person and meet her unique medical, nutritional and psychological needs. Remuda’s programs are geared toward overcoming the habitual response patterns of an eating disorder and uncovering the issues at the core of the illness. Throughout treatment, Remuda’s medical, psychiatric and clinical staff give each patient the tools to return to her family with the confidence, courage and determination to live a healthy and productive life.
Founder’s Story
Ward Keller, founder of Remuda Ranch, developed this specialized treatment program as a result of helping his daughter in her battle with anorexia. Ward’s experience with his daughter’s illness and recovery inspired him to establish Remuda Ranch and help other families who have a loved one with an eating disorder. Remuda Ranch Programs for Anorexia and Bulimia opened in January of 1990 and offers the highest standard of professional care within a Christ-centered, Biblically based framework. As President and CEO, Ward remains actively involved in the day-to-day operations of Remuda.
Watch a video about our mission, vision and values.
Why Choose Remuda Ranch?
The treatment provided at Remuda Ranch has been found to be extremely effective. In fact, a reliable outcome study indicates that over 95% of Remuda residents were successfully recovering one year after completing treatment. 
This is a result of our unique qualities:
- Treatment designed exclusively for individuals suffering from eating disorders
- Treatment grounded in Biblically based Christianity
- Multi-disciplinary treatment team
- Specialized therapies such as art, equine, body image, trauma and challenge course
- Individualized treatment planning based on extensive, multi-phase assessments
- Longer-term, intensive treatment (45 to 90 days)
- Total staff-to-patient ratio of 4 to 1
- Non-institutional settings
- Outcome research and satisfaction surveys continually used to identify areas for program improvement
- Patients participate in an Intensive Family Week
- Treatment of co-occurring disorders, including trauma, chemical dependency, anxiety and depression
- State licensed and JCAHO accredited since 1990
- Treated more than 7,000 women and girls with eating disorders
- Founder, Ward Keller, actively involved in continuing the vision of Remuda
- Strong patient advocacy with third-party payers
- Excellent aftercare planning and follow-up programs
Treatment Team
Remuda offers a multi-disciplinary treatment team consisting of Psychiatric and Primary Care Providers, Registered Dietitians, Masters Level Therapists, Psychologists and Registered Nurses. Our professionals specialize in treating patients with eating disorders and are led by this well-established team:
- Kevin R. Wandler, MD
Vice President of Medical Services Dr. Wandler joined Remuda’s team in 1995 and directs our medical and psychiatric staff. - Brenda Woods, MD Director of Primary Care Medicine Dr. Woods joined Remuda’s team in 1997 and her staff of Primary Care Providers oversees the physical health of our residents.
- Amy N. Spahr, MSW, LCSW
Executive Program Director Amy joined Remuda’s team in 1995. She leads our team of program directors and provides oversight for the clinical programs. - Marta N. Harris, RN
Executive Director of Nursing Marta joined Remuda’s team in 1996 and administers the 24-hour nursing care provided to our residents. - A. David Wall, PhD
Director of Psychological Services Dr. Wall joined Remuda’s team in 1995 and oversees all psychological services. - Juliet Zuercher, RD
Director of Nutrition Services Juliet joined Remuda’s team in 1997 and leads our dedicated team of registered dietitians. - Marian C. Eberly, RN, LCSW, DAPA
Vice President of Program Development Marian joined Remuda’s team in 1993. She is the clinical advisor to Remuda’s patient care team and is responsible for the development of new programs.
Accreditation
Remuda Ranch Programs are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and are also fully licensed by the State of Arizona.
Tours
Visitors are welcome to tour the Remuda Ranch facilities (by appointment only). Arrangements can be made by calling 1-800-445-1900.
Accreditation by JCAHO
Remuda Ranch is committed to the highest level of safety and quality of care for our patients.
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