Our Mission
The Healing Connection empowers members of our community who struggle with eating disorders and other mental health challenges to repair disconnection and reclaim their lives through treatment, education, and advocacy. We do this in an inclusive environment that engages individuals- and those who love and support them - in compassionate, evidence-based care. Our commitment means we strive to provide accessible, culturally responsive care that affirms all identities and lived experiences.
“We are hardwired to connect with others; it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives, and without it there is suffering.”
Our History:
The Healing Connection is a nonprofit organization based in Rochester, New York, dedicated to providing compassionate, specialized care for individuals struggling with eating disorders and co-occurring mental health concerns.
Founded in 2009 by Mary Tantillo, The Healing Connection was created in response to a critical gap in services for individuals and families impacted by eating disorders in the Greater Rochester community. What began as a small, mission-driven program has grown into a comprehensive continuum of care—while staying grounded in its core values of connection, dignity, and access to treatment.
Over the years, we have expanded our services to include both Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Outpatient (OP) programming, supporting adolescents and adults at different stages of recovery. Our approach integrates clinical expertise with a strong emphasis on relationships, community, and whole-person care.
As a nonprofit, our work is guided not by profit, but by purpose. We are committed to reducing barriers to care, increasing awareness, and creating a space where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered in their recovery.
At The Healing Connection, we believe healing happens through connection - to self, to others, and to a life beyond the illness.
Our Treatment Philosophy:
At The Healing Connection, our treatment philosophy is based on the knowledge that hope and healing in recovery happen within a context of connections. New relationships – with self, with others, and the world – are vital to treatment and lasting recovery.
We recognize that the eating disorder will do everything in its power to sever positive relationships, leaving you or your loved one primarily connected to the disease. This often leads to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Our treatment approach is family- and relationship-based, with an emphasis on building connections and repairing the disconnection caused by the eating disorder. We help patients and their families identify support systems and engage with them during treatment and discharge planning. These positive connections create a solid foundation for stable, long-term recovery.
“Learning how the ED is a disease of disconnection was very helpful. The program helped us make connections with others. This is the key to making a full recovery . . . small, steady steps forward.”
“It takes a certain level of trust to be successful in ED recovery. The Healing Connection provided me with a safe place to uncover, discover, and discard. I will always have a special place in my heart for the time I’ve spent here. This place saved my life. The work that is done here is difficult and agonizing at times, and is totally necessary at the same time. I always had someone to lean on. Some to hold my hand while I did the work. I am forever in debt to THC for all its done and it will continue to do in my recovery.”
Coming here can feel like a big step. At The Healing Connection, you don’t have to have everything figured out to begin. You are welcome exactly as you are.
Our care is grounded in evidence-based treatment and shaped by human connection. We’ve created a space that feels calm, respectful, and supportive - because healing happens best when people feel safe, understood, and part of something larger than themselves. We welcome the people who support you, including family of choice, and honor the experiences that brought you here.
Our team meets you with compassion, expertise, and care at every level of treatment. Through each stage of recovery, we walk alongside you, offering support, collaboration, and encouragement as you move toward greater health and balance.
Recovery is not one straight line, and it does not require perfection.You are not alone in this. Recovery is possible, and we are here with you.
Many people with eating disorders do recover, either fully or meaningfully, especially with early intervention, ongoing support, and compassionate care.
Nearly 9% of people in the United States - almost 30 million individuals - will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime.
The Healing Connection delivers over 12,000 points of service each year.
The Healing Connection is deeply committed to staying on the leading edge and expanding our scope of treatment. To that end, we’re engaging with other agencies and exploring new partnerships with other professionals in our community.
If you, or someone close to you needs help, know that you are not alone in your struggles. We are here – ready to support you on the journey to recovery. I look forward to connecting with you and welcoming you to The Healing Connection family.