Anorexia, Bulimia, and Compulsive Overeating
Today we face great pressure in society to be thin- even more so in the entertainment capital that is Los Angeles. Yet food is plentiful and the processed food industry "works" to make overeating ubiquitous. Dieting is now our sick, sad new normal and sharing foods we like according to hunger, in a relaxed setting, and with family and friends needs to be retaught.
It is clear that certain individuals carry a genetic predisposition to Eating Disorders; they run in families and can arise from stress and anxiety. But there is always always hope for recovery with treatment and support. This form of outpatient therapy can function as aftercare following a residential stay for an eating disorder.
Christine's own recovery from an Eating Disorder as well as her professional training enables her in a unique way to address various dysfunctional and often painful relationships with food.
Her Clinical Nutrition experience qualifies her to help those suffering with medical complications or co-occurring illnesses.
It is clear that certain individuals carry a genetic predisposition to Eating Disorders; they run in families and can arise from stress and anxiety. But there is always always hope for recovery with treatment and support. This form of outpatient therapy can function as aftercare following a residential stay for an eating disorder.
Christine's own recovery from an Eating Disorder as well as her professional training enables her in a unique way to address various dysfunctional and often painful relationships with food.
Her Clinical Nutrition experience qualifies her to help those suffering with medical complications or co-occurring illnesses.
Women
Eating Disorders have long been seen as "a feminist issue". They are fueled by expectations upon women to appear sexually appealing while also passive and without need. The question of how much space women get to take up in the world is in continued and constant negotiation.
Men
Hospitalization for men with Eating Disorders is on the rise, particularly among those engaging in weight related activities and sports. Furthermore, the stigma of having what others see as a female disease can hinder their search for treatment.
Adolescents
Young people today feel pressure to be smart, successful, nice, and attractive- and this is all supposed to look effortless. In addition, major transitions in life can be overwhelming and stir up confusion about becoming independent in the world. A youngster who is sensitive to peer pressure or judgment by others is vulnerable to the Body Shame that is normalized by our society. This can contribute to an Eating Disorder.
Family
Families can be our best resource in treatment. In Family Therapy, feelings symbolized by the eating disorder as well as those felt in response, can be unearthed and examined in a safe setting. This can reopen pathways to new and rewarding phases in the life cycle of a family.