A groundbreaking campaign from a leading mental health facility is transforming how society views eating disorder recovery through an innovative blend of classical art and personal triumph. By reimagining recovery stories as Renaissance masterpieces, Timberline Knolls has created a powerful new narrative around healing and hope.
Excellence in Treatment
Founded in 2006, the residential center has established itself as a premier provider of specialized care for women and adolescent girls struggling with eating disorders, trauma, and mental health challenges. Located on a serene 43-acre campus near Chicago, Timberline Knolls expanded its innovative approaches following its acquisition by Acadia Healthcare in 2012.
Revolutionary Storytelling
The “Every Bite a Battle” campaign emerged from the facility’s collaboration with advertising agency Bakery and acclaimed photographer Szilveszter Makó. Three brave alumni – Shannon Hostetter, Threasa Kluever, and Heather Seiler – volunteered to share their recovery journeys through monumental artwork.
Creative Process and Vision
The decision to shoot in Milan connected modern recovery stories to the city’s rich artistic heritage. Healthcare professionals worked closely with the creative team to ensure the campaign maintained both artistic integrity and therapeutic value. The resulting 15-foot by 20-foot portraits transform everyday objects into powerful symbols of triumph.
Comprehensive Care Approach
The treatment program combines evidence-based therapies with innovative approaches, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Trauma-informed care
- Expressive therapies
- Family support services
Impact and Resonance
The campaign’s influence has been profound within the recovery community. During a presentation to approximately 40 alumni, former patients expressed deep emotional connections to the artwork, with one describing her encounter with the portraits as the final step in her recovery journey.
Mark Palmenter, chief marketing officer of Acadia Healthcare, emphasizes how this initiative represents a shift from traditional clinical messaging to a more emotionally resonant approach. This evolution mirrors the facility’s treatment philosophy, which combines professional expertise with personal connection.
Looking Forward
Today, these remarkable artworks hang permanently at Timberline Knolls, serving as daily inspiration for current residents and staff. Their presence reinforces the facility’s commitment to innovative treatment approaches and patient empowerment.
As mental health treatment continues to evolve, this pioneering campaign sets a new standard for how recovery can be portrayed and discussed. By elevating personal stories through classical art, the facility has created a powerful new way to celebrate healing and inspire hope in others beginning their recovery journeys.
The success of this unique approach demonstrates how creative thinking can transform conversations around mental health treatment while honoring the strength and dignity of those who choose to share their stories. Through this artistic innovation, Timberline Knolls continues to lead the way in reimagining how we view and discuss mental health recovery.
The marriage of classical artistry with modern recovery stories has created a lasting impact that extends far beyond the facility’s peaceful campus. As the mental health landscape continues to evolve, their groundbreaking approach to treatment and awareness remains at the forefront of transforming lives through comprehensive, compassionate care.
