What Is It Like to Work with an Eating Disorder Dietitian?

Jun 11, 2024

If you’ve been considering working with an eating disorder dietitian, you might be wondering what the experience will be like, especially if the dietitian follows weight-neutral, intuitive eating principles.

Whether you’re struggling with disordered eating, a diagnosed eating disorder, or prefer weight-neutral guidance as you navigate a new medical condition, here’s what you can expect from 1:1 nutrition therapy sessions.

A Compassionate and Non-Judgmental Approach

First and foremost, our sessions are a safe space. As a team of eating disorder dietitians, we understand the complexities of your relationship with food. We are here to support you without judgment, focusing on your overall well-being rather than your weight. You will never hear, “just lose weight” from us. Instead, our approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and respect for your unique journey.

eating disorder dietitian

During Your First Session

The initial session is all about getting to know you. We’ll discuss your medical history, eating and exercise habits, body image, and any challenges you’re facing.

We’ll also cover goal setting. Together, we’ll set realistic, achievable goals based on your needs and preferences. These goals will focus on improving your relationship with food and enhancing your overall health.

Personalized Nutrition Therapy

We’ll address these goals with a personal approach that works for YOU! Each person’s experience with disordered eating or an eating disorder is unique, so your nutrition plan will be too. Here’s what personalized nutrition therapy involves:

  • Individualized Meal and Snack Recommendations: Based on your nutritional needs and preferences, we’ll create a way of eating that is nourishing and satisfying that supports you. These recommendations are free from food rules and are designed to fit into your lifestyle.
  • Intuitive Eating Guidance: We’ll help you reconnect with your body’s hunger and fullness cues. We support you in rebuilding your ability to listen and honor your body with food and movement, without guilt or restriction.
  • Nutritional Education: You’ll learn about how different foods can fuel and support your body. We’ll dispel myths about “good” and “bad” foods and focus on balance and variety.

Building a Healthy Relationship with Food

Again, our goal is to help you develop a positive relationship with food. This includes:

  • Challenging Food Rules: We’ll work together to identify and challenge any food rules or restrictive behaviors you may have.
  • Mindful Eating Practices: You’ll learn techniques to eat more mindfully, paying attention to the sensory experience of eating and recognizing emotional triggers.
  • Coping Strategies: We’ll equip you with therapeutic tools to manage stress and anxiety around food. This might include mindfulness exercises, journaling, or other self-care practices.

Weight-Neutral Medical Nutrition Advice

For clients with medical conditions that require dietary management, such as diabetes or high cholesterol, we provide weight-neutral medical nutrition therapy. This means focusing on health-promoting behaviors and nutrition strategies without placing value or emphasis on weight loss.

Why Choose a Weight-Neutral, Intuitive Eating Dietitian?

Choosing to work with a dietitian who practices weight-neutral and intuitive eating principles offers several benefits:

  • Focus on Overall Health: Our primary goal is to improve your overall health and well-being, not to achieve a specific weight.
  • Reduction of Food-Related Stress: By eliminating the focus on weight, you can reduce the stress and anxiety often associated with eating. There is significant research around how this type of approach supports both physical and mental health.
  • Long-Term Success: Intuitive eating and a weight-neutral approach promote sustainable, long-term changes rather than short-term fixes.

Continuous Support

Your journey doesn’t end after a few sessions. We’re committed to providing ongoing support and adjusting your nutrition plan on a schedule that supports you. Regular follow-up sessions ensure that you’re making progress towards your goals and that any challenges are addressed promptly.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

If you’re ready to transform your relationship with food and improve your overall health, we’re here to help. Our team’s weight-neutral, intuitive approach to nutrition therapy is designed to support you in a compassionate and individualized way. 

Contact us today to schedule your first session and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life. Together, we can create a plan that nourishes your body and mind.

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heather lasco confidently nourished dietitian

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