As a coach, my role is to specifically support and guide someone as they navigate the day-to-day challenges of recovery. We focus on the how rather than the why.

My coaching approach includes reasonable texting in between sessions, which can be a powerful tool when someone is trying to make changes.

I help with navigating challenging recovery-related situations in daily life such as eating meals; going out to eat; grocery shopping; people making comments about food, diets, & bodies; getting dressed & choosing clothes; getting rid of old clothing; ordering clothes; engaging in movement, etc.

I am a trained social worker and understand the interconnection between eating disorders and trauma which is why I use a trauma-informed approach in my coaching. But as a coach I do not provide interventions for trauma or delve into trauma. I point clients to therapy for the deeper wounds in need of processing and healing.

Therapists often use coaching in their practice, but coaches have a much narrower scope of practice than therapists. Coaching is meant to be an adjunct to working with a therapist, dietitian, psychiatrist and/or doctor.

I bring an understanding of how common trauma is in those with eating disorders and take steps to prevent further harm and promote healing. I consider the role of trauma at an individual, collective, and historical level and the connection with eating disorders

Trauma-informed care asks us to make a shift from “What is wrong with you?” to “What has happened to you?”

I incorporate the trauma-informed principles into my coaching: Safety; Trust and Transparency; Peer Support; Collaboration and Mutuality, Empowerment, Voice and Choice; Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues

Citations

• Institute on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care. (n.d). What is Trauma-Informed Care? University at Buffalo.https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/social-research/institutes-centers/institute-on-trauma-and-trauma-informed-care/what-is-trauma-informed-care.html

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). SAMHSA's concept of trauma and guidance for a trauma-informed approach. https://ncsacw.acf.hhs.gov/userfiles/files/SAMHSA_Trauma.pdf

Coaching can be beneficial for anyone trying to make changes either (1) towards recovery or (2) towards reducing negative consequences from behaviors and improving their quality of life while living with an eating disorder.

Some examples of things we might do in coaching include:

• Practical strategies for following through on goals

  • Think about all the things that need to happen for someone to reach their goal: planning meals, buying the food, finding support, anticipating obstacles, coping for after, etc.

  • For example, how will someone eat lunch even when their mind is coming up with every reason not to have lunch.

• Collaboratively anticipating barriers/obstacles and developing supportive ways to get through them

• Staying committed to recovery and compassionate accountability for tough moments

I believe full recovery from an eating disorder is a possibility while also acknowledging and respecting that we are complex humans living in a complex world. Not everyone is in a place where recovery is their priority and not everyone wants to recover. The idea that we are obligated to recover creates a sense of morality which perpetuates feelings of shame and disempowerment. I believe someone is always worthy of compassion, support, and an improved quality of life regardless if that is with an eating disorder or trying to recover from one.

You can read more about my perspective HERE.

Yes, I incorporate harm reduction into my coaching to reduce the negative consequences of eating disorders. Harm reduction is ethical care.

I have learned so much in this area from the amazing Gloria Lucas of Nalgona Positivity Pride.

This depends based on someone’s needs. Standard weekly coaching includes 60-minutes of video/phone coaching which can be broken up to best meet someone’s current needs. I also offer additional time each week if someone needs more frequent meetings. I meet with someone less frequently if they are further along in their recovery and in need of less support. 

Please note that texting is only included if meeting weekly. If meeting less frequently I do offer text support for a supplemental fee.

I offer a free 30 minute consultation call to give someone the chance to meet me, ask questions, and see if working together feels like the right fit. I believe finding supports that someone feels comfortable with is so important!

If it’s a good fit, then we schedule our first session, and I send over a few forms to fill out and sign beforehand.

Ideally we work together consistently because change takes time, but I understand financial resources can make frequent coaching not feasible for some. Or maybe you are at a stable place in recovery but need a bit of a boost or guidance every few months! For these situations I offer 90-minute recovery support calls.

In a support call, we will collaboratively create an outline of your recovery goals and obstacles you have been experiencing. Together, we will develop specific ways to support yourself and take steps towards the direction you want to be moving in.

You are always welcome to book another single support call if you feel you need another!

60-minutes of video/phone coaching with texting support in between - $120 per week

I offer a certain amount of sliding scale and pro-bono coaching spots. Please inquire if this is needed.

Unfortunately coaching is currently not covered by most insurances at this point in time but that could change in the future. I encourage you to contact your insurance company & inquire if there are any reimbursement avenues available for coaching services.