Eating disorders are sneaky, insidious diseases that create a tremendous amount of anxiety in the person suffering. The disorder has created an irrational fear that cannot be reasoned with. Therefore, the only way to alleviate the fear is to do the unthinkable--and eat the foods. Exposure therapy for eating disorders is like exposure therapy for OCD and other anxiety disorders in that they all share the same principle: exposure to a feared object, situation, or thought.

Eating disorders in autistic individuals are not just neurotypical EDs in disguise. They are often driven by neurological differences, sensory processing patterns, alexithymia, and the emotional toll of masking rather than a desire for thinness or a distorted body image. By increasing awareness, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for neurodivergent-affirming care, we can support autistic people on a path to recovery that honors their unique experiences.

TLDR: Going away to college is a huge transition for anyone, but especially for someone in eating disorder recovery. There are physical and emotional signs that you are ready for this step, such as absence of ED behaviors, maintaining weight, and comfort with a variety of foods and food situations. There are also some therapeutic challenges you can do to help increase your readiness. Eating Disorder Recovery Journey When it comes to eating disorder recovery, there's one unive

For many people, eating disorders are closely tied to past trauma, such as abuse, bullying, neglect, or chronic feelings of being unsafe. The trauma can range from very serious to less disruptive, however it can still affect your wellbeing in the present. These experiences can leave lasting emotional scars that shape the way you see yourself and your body. Sometimes, food becomes a tool to manage overwhelming feelings like shame, fear, sadness, or the need for control.

Prom dress shopping can be difficult for those struggling with body image, but there are ways to make it better. Shopping with a support person, focusing on how the dress feels on your body, and remembering that you are the magic ingredient for a fun Prom, not the dress.

OCD is a commonly misunderstood diagnosis, but a very treatable condition. ERP is the gold standard in treating OCD

Body love is hard to achieve, and it’s not necessary to have a healthy body image.

The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) is a self-report questionnaire to help diagnose eating disorders. Learn more here

Honesty in recovery provides a strong foundation in the treatment of eating disorders, sexual compulsions, and other addictive behaviors.

I'm so pleased and excited to announce that I wrote a book! I have wanted to share my passion about body image in book form for several yea

During this season of giving, why not give generously to yourself by improving your own self talk? Here are some ways to shift your self-ta

Are you tired of reading quotes about loving your body and not getting it? You’re not alone! Body love is hard to achieve. There are other w

From dress shopping to the final post on social media, I'll give you some concrete tips to help you remain confident in your own skin.

I have seen the benefit of family therapy in the treatment of teens and adults struggling with eating disorders. As with other addictions,

Announcing my new home! I recently moved from Utah to Virginia, and I found a great place to continue working as a therapist: Prosperity...

In the wake of the recent mass shooting at Stoneham Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the national conversation has turned to...

We here the word "codepedent" thrown around a lot, but do we really know what it means? By the end of this post, you will know whether...

Most people have an idea about what boundaries are, but that doesn't mean that most people are great at setting boundaries. Discussing...

So...anyone feeling pressure to start a new diet or exercise plan to make your body look better? Maybe lose a few pounds? Maybe tone up?...

If you're struggling with an eating disorder, you know how difficult the holidays can be. Celebrations and traditions almost always include