My girlfriend has been bulimic for many years.  She has sought treatment in the past, but stopped after she lost her health insurance.  She is of modest means and is worried that her new health insurance provider will deny her treatment based on a pre-existing condition.  She likes the Emily Program, and I noticed that the Emily Program also offers counseling for supporters of those with EDs.  As I have struggled to understand how she needs me to support her, I’ve realized that I’ve got my own issues to work out (codependency), so I think I need to find a good therapist myself.  My thought was to approach my issues through the lens of people who understand eating disorders.

Curious if anyone else out there has taken a similar approach with themselves, and whether you know if the Emily Program treats supporters even if the person they’re supporting isn’t currently in treatment.

I don’t know if EP counsels family members without treating the ED person directly.  I’m sure they’ll respond and let you know, though.  (If not, there are some good books you can read on the subject while you look for another alternative.)

Your girlfriend is very lucky to have such a caring person in her life.  I applaud you for being so accepting of her ED and wanting to understand as much as possible in order to support her in her struggles.  Her new insurance may deny coverage for a year or so, but hopefully, she’ll be able to get help again when and if she wants it.

One thing about your post did strike me, though.  You say you know you have issues of your own (codependency, etc.).  It’s great that you’re interested in working through those.  Just remember that they are *your* problems, not your girlfriend’s.  There are 2 different issues here: your understanding and support of your girlfriend, and your own personal issues.  Supporting her is great, and you certainly will need help with that.  However, I think if you try to solve your personal issues through the lens of your girlfriend’s ED, you are possibly setting yourself up to blame her for your problems, whether you consciously think that or not.  If I’ve misunderstood your intent, my apologies.  As we all know, typed messages are difficult to interpret when it comes to inflections and connotations.  Perhaps her ED is just a jumping-off place for you, a catalyst that is getting you motivated to seek treatment.

Good luck, and best wishes to you and your girlfriend.

It was through some discussions about her ED that I came to understand how I’m susceptible to codependency.  I see that as a potentially dangerous combination.  For what it’s worth, I’m pretty confident that my own issues are a consequence of my upbringing.  In fact, my girlfriend is pretty good at pointing out when I’m acting out in its influence in relating to other people.  But I think your point is probably still right.

MNice, as staff of The Emily Program, we’d certainly like to be able to help meet your needs for support. I echo JM’s comments about how terrific it is that you are looking to support her in multiple ways.
One of the options that is available to you at The Emily Program as a supporter are the Family/Supporter Groups that are offered both in St. Louis Park (every other Thursday) and St. Paul (every othe wednesday). You can get the exact dates of the next groups at 651.645.5323. The administraive staff at the SLP or SP offices can provide that information. These groups are open to all support people, families, significant others, and friends alike. Another opportunity is Recovery Night, which is the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 6:30-8:00 at the St. Paul location. Each month, two speakers share their stories of recovery in an effort to help individuals struggling with eating disorders and their loved ones hear words of hope and encouragement. Both the Family/Friends support groups and the Recovery Night are sponsored by The Emily Program Foundation and are open to the public at no charge. Donations are welcomed.
There are other opportunities within The Emily Program for supporters of clients, such as a Saturday Multifamily Group and couples therapy. If your girlfriend has questions about her insurance and accessing services at The Emily Program, I would encourage her to call and talk with one of our benefits coordinators. They can help her navigate the sometimes challenging issues around insurance. They can be reached at the same number: 651.645.5323. 
I hope that she is able to access the care that she needs and that you can access the support you need to walk the journey with her.  Please let us know how we can help.