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Eating Disorders & Food Concerns

Comprehensive Support for Eating Disorders and Food Concerns

At Joanne Fitzgerald Therapy, we specialise in providing holistic and empathetic support to individuals grappling with eating disorders and concerns related to food or weight. Every journey is unique, and we are devoted to guiding you step by step, aiding you in reclaiming your life and establishing a healthy relationship with food.
Psychotherapist, Joanne Fitzgerald sat on the couch smiling

Understanding Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterised by a problematic relationship with food, impacting one's physical health, mental health and psychosocial functioning significantly.

They are a result of a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors, manifesting in various forms, such as:

  • Anorexia Nervosa
  • Bulimia Nervosa
  • Binge Eating Disorder
  • Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
  • and other specified disordered eating, feeding or eating disorders (OSFED)

Our eating disorder therapy methods are diverse and tailored to address the unique requirements of every individual.

Our Approach

Our therapeutic approach to eating disorder treatment is multifaceted and personalised to meet the specific needs of each individual.

We utilise evidence-based therapies, such as Enhanced Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to address the underlying cognitive, emotional, and behavioural aspects of eating disorders.

1. Assessment and Diagnosis

Our first step involves comprehensive assessment to understand the nature, severity, and impact of the eating disorder, aiding in formulating an individualised treatment plan targeting specific symptoms and associated factors.

2. Therapeutic Intervention

We offer a variety of therapeutic interventions focusing on behaviour modification, emotional regulation, and cognitive restructuring to challenge and alter unhealthy thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours related to food, eating, and body image.

3. Nutritional Counselling

Our holistic approach to eating disorder treatment includes nutritional counselling to promote balanced eating, restore nutritional health, and instil sustainable healthy eating habits.

4. Relapse Prevention

We work collaboratively with clients to develop effective strategies for relapse prevention, enabling them to maintain recovery and manage potential triggers for disordered eating, as part of our eating disorder treatment process.

5. Family Support and Education

We understand the significance of involving family and loved ones in the eating disorder recovery process and provide education and support to create a supportive environment for people with eating disorders.

"Rediscover a harmonious relationship with yourself and your body."

– Joanne Fitzgerald, eating disorder therapist

Psychotherapist, Joanne Fitzgerald standing with her hands in her pockets, smiling at the camera

About Joanne Fitzgerald

An experienced eating disorder counsellor and psychotherapist

Joanne is a seasoned psychotherapist and counsellor with extensive experience in assisting young people from diverse backgrounds and with various mental health conditions.

Holding a Bachelor in Psychology, a Diploma in Counselling, and specific accreditations in eating behaviour and trauma counselling, Joanne brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to her practice.

Joanne’s philosophy centres on the belief that each individual possesses a unique set of strengths, values, and resources that can be harnessed to lead an enriched, fulfilling life with a positive physical and mental health, a good body image and a positive relationship with food and eating.

In her private practice, Joanne creates a calm, supportive, and client-centred space, where young people are valued and their individual needs and preferences are respected.

She is committed to helping her clients build on their unique skills, discover new pathways, and navigate through their challenges towards mental well-being.

Ready to reclaim your relationship with food and yourself?

If you're experiencing an eating disorder, whether it's impacting your health, self-esteem, daily life, work, or relationships, the duration of the struggle doesn't define you. We're here to provide you with eating disorder help, so that you can take control back for your best physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Together, we'll navigate these challenges and reframe your mindset, placing you firmly in control of your eating habits and self-image. Our eating disorder counselling is focused on improving your mental health, relationship with food, and body image, in order to improve your physical and mental health for the long-term.

FAQs

Explore our FAQ section to find answers to frequently asked questions.

What is an eating disorder therapist?

An eating disorder therapist is a mental health professional who has specific training in treating individuals with eating disorders. Eating disorder therapists, also known as eating disorder counsellors or eating disorder specialists, are trained in various therapeutic techniques to address the complex psychological aspects of eating disorders and their impact on mental health.

How much can an eating disorder impact mental health?

Eating disorders can significantly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and severe emotional distress. For people with eating disorders, the psychological impact of the eating disorders can be as damaging as the physical consequences, affecting their self-esteem, body image, mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. If you are struggling with disordered eating or a difficult relationship with food and eating, seeking professional help is important. By contacting a qualified eating disorder therapist and seeking help, you can take a big step towards better health and wellbeing, for both your mental and physical health.

What are flags that I might need to consider eating disorder treatment?

Red flags include extreme preoccupation with weight and food, drastic changes in eating habits, disordered eating habits, excessive food restriction, excessive or compulsive exercise, withdrawal from social activities, noticeable weight fluctuations, binge eating or significantly reduced food intake. If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it might be time to consider professional help.

What role do eating disorder counsellors play in recovery?

Eating disorder counsellors provide essential support and guidance throughout the recovery process for eating disorders. They help individuals understand the root causes of their eating disorder, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and rebuild a positive relationship with food and a positive body image.

How is eating disorder counselling different from regular counselling?

Eating disorder counselling is tailored to address the specific challenges and psychological aspects of eating disorders. It often involves a more multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nutritional guidance, medical monitoring, and family therapy, alongside traditional psychotherapy. At Joanne Fitzgerald Therapy we take a multi-faceted approach, customised to your individual needs. We use evidence-based therapies, such as Enhanced Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT-E), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to address the underlying cognitive, emotional, and behavioural aspects of eating disorders.

Get eating disorder help from an experienced eating disorder therapist

Our experienced eating disorder counsellors are here to help you reclaim your relationship with food and yourself and improve your mental health and wellbeing. We're dedicated to providing therapy that takes your needs into account and provides a supportive and empowering environment. We have an excellent track record of successful treatment and are here to help you take control of your health and wellbeing. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help.