Michelle Kleindienst is the founder of ViaMar Health, a leading eating disorder treatment center located in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Known for her compassionate approach and dedication to holistic treatment, Michelle combines her cultural roots, love of the ocean, and years of professional experience to create a safe and supportive space for individuals and families navigating eating disorder recovery. Her vision for ViaMar Health stems from a deeply personal journey and a commitment to fostering long-lasting, meaningful change in the lives of her patients.
What inspired you to create ViaMar Health?
ViaMar Health was born out of a deep calling that I couldn’t ignore. When I moved to West Palm Beach, I fell in love with the natural beauty of the area, but I also saw a desperate need for specialized treatment for eating disorders. Many people were suffering in silence without receiving the care they deserve. I have always been passionate about creating spaces where people feel safe, seen and supported. Reflecting my Puerto Rican heritage and love of the ocean, the name “ViaMar” symbolizes a journey toward healing. The depth, beauty and unpredictability of the ocean resonates deeply with the complexities of recovery, and I wanted this essence to be at the heart of what we do.
How does your Puerto Rican heritage influence your approach to therapy?
My heritage has shaped me in countless ways, especially in how I view community and its resilience. In Puerto Rican culture, family and connection are everything. This perspective is incorporated into the ViaMar Health philosophy. We emphasize family involvement and inclusion because healing does not happen in isolation. I also wanted to create an environment that reflected the warmth and acceptance I felt growing up. For me, it’s about celebrating diversity, promoting belonging and showing that every person’s story matters.
Why is comprehensive care so important in eating disorder recovery?
Eating disorders aren’t just about food, they’re about emotions, self-esteem, trauma, and how we deal with the world. Comprehensive care treats the whole person, not just symptoms. At ViaMar Health, we combine evidence-based therapies, mindfulness, and family support to address all layers of the disorder. Recovery is not just about stopping harmful behaviors; It’s about rediscovering joy, building self-compassion, and learning how to live a balanced life. Holistic care ensures respect for the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of healing.
What role does mindfulness play in your programs?
Mindfulness is at the core of everything we do. It helps patients reconnect with their bodies and emotions in a non-judgmental way. Many of our patients come to us feeling completely disconnected from their hunger cues, their self-esteem, and even their relationships. Mindfulness allows them to slow down and rebuild this connection. Practices such as mindful eating, body scanning, and meditation teach patients to monitor their thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them. It’s about creating space for healing and self-awareness.
How do you balance compassion and responsibility in therapy?
This is a delicate balance, but it is necessary to achieve real progress. Empathy creates trust, it is what allows patients to feel safe enough to open up and do the hard work of recovery. On the other hand, accountability is what ensures they stay on track and develop the tools they need to achieve long-term success. At ViaMar, we foster an environment where patients know they are unconditionally supported, but we also set clear, achievable goals. Recovery is a partnership, and we are here to guide and challenge patients in equal measure.
What challenges did you face in building ViaMar Health and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was building trust within the community. Eating disorders are complex, and people need to feel confident that they are in safe hands. We’ve focused on building a team of highly qualified, compassionate professionals and creating programs that truly meet the needs of our patients. Listening to feedback and being willing to adapt has been key. Another challenge was recognizing early on that family involvement was essential but often overlooked. By integrating family programs, we have turned a gap into one of our greatest strengths.
What do you find most satisfying about your work?
The transformations I witness. There’s nothing like seeing someone rediscover their happiness, rebuild their relationships, and step into a life they never thought possible. Recovery is not easy, it is a rollercoaster of progress and setbacks. But every small victory, every moment of clarity, is a reminder of why I do this work. Hearing about former patients thriving years later or seeing their families reconnect is so much fun.
What advice would you give to someone who is hesitant to seek treatment?
I would tell them that taking the first step is the hardest, but also the most important. Eating disorders thrive in silence and isolation, and breaking that silence is incredibly brave. You don’t have to understand everything or feel “prepared.” Just start. There’s no shame in asking for help – in fact, it’s one of the most powerful things you can do. At ViaMar Health, we meet you where you are and walk with you every step of the way. You are not alone, and there is hope for a brighter future.
How can you recharge and stay inspired as a leader?
The ocean is my sanctuary. When I’m feeling tired, I walk on the beach or sit and watch the waves. It reminds me of the bigger picture and helps me reset. I also practice gratitude daily, it’s a habit that keeps me grounded and focused on what really matters. Finally, my team and patients inspire me every day. Their courage and resilience motivate me to continue to grow and give my best.
What’s next for ViaMar Health?
We are always looking for ways to expand and deepen the impact of our programs. This includes incorporating new treatments, enhancing our family programs, and exploring partnerships with schools and community organizations. We also want to continue raising awareness about eating disorders and eliminating stigma. Our mission is to create lasting change, not only for our patients but for the broader conversation about mental health and recovery.
Key takeaways from Michele Kleindienst’s perspective
- Holistic recovery is essential: Recovery involves addressing the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of a person’s well-being, ensuring a comprehensive and lasting approach.
- Family and Community Matter: Michelle’s cultural roots emphasize the importance of communication, making family engagement a cornerstone of ViaMar Health’s treatment philosophy.
- Empathy with Accountability: A supportive and structured approach creates the foundation for meaningful progress and long-term recovery.