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As person who has experienced the difficulties of friends and family members dealing with mental health problems, I am well-equipp...
About
As person who has experienced the difficulties of friends and family members dealing with mental health problems, I am well-equipped to understand and empathize with a broad spectrum of patients.
Grace Fultang-Shadzeka is a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorders, and sleep/insomnia. She is passionate about providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, treatment planning, and medication management. she believes in a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment that encourages engagement in various evidence-based therapeutic modalities and the use of medication to manage psychiatric symptoms. In addition, her person-centered approach to care fosters a collaborative relationship focused on the experience and treatment goals of every individual she works with.
Grace completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Walden University. She uses an evidence-based and holistic approach to enhance each individual's adaptive and healing capability. She encourages self-care and personal responsibility, fostering independence and a sense of empowerment. After a thorough psychiatric evaluation and diagnosis, and if counseling alone is insufficient, psychiatric medication regimens can be explored and kept as simple as possible. You will be educated on medication risks, benefits, and available treatment options, to allow informed decision-making and to provide patient-centered care.
We all go through challenges in life. Grace is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to get started, schedule an appointment with her today!
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As a career-oriented woman living with lifelong anxiety and attention issues, I understand the unique issues encountered in overco...
As a career-oriented woman living with lifelong anxiety and attention issues, I understand the unique issues encountered in overcoming the day-to-day stress involved in managing the many roles associated with fulfilling personal, family, and career obligations.
Brandy Messiah is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a mission to deliver quality mental health care to individuals and their families by providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment to foster a strong therapeutic alliance with the patient and/or family. Brandy began a nursing career in 2009 as a Registered Nurse (RN) and spent the next 10 years as a bedside nurse in emergency medicine, psychiatry (outpatient programs & inpatient hospitals), long-term intensive care units (ICU), step-down ICU/cardiac/telemetry, home-health, and hospice.
Throughout her nursing career Brandy witnessed the many disparities in the delivery and approach to mental health issues. This led her to develop an intense passion for the mental health population and the specialty of psychiatry. She decided to pursue an advanced degree as a PMHNP to effectively contribute and reach her personal goal to enhance the delivery of the mental health care to assist patients/families in better management and outcomes associated with mental health conditions.
Brandy thoroughly enjoys direct patient care and values the therapeutic relationship between patient/family and provider as the foundation to success in outpatient psychiatry. In this relationship, she will be able to provide you with the relevant education and resources, and better assist you in your own, unique journey in the recovery and healing process.
I believe that healing happens when you feel truly seen and heard, so I combine my clinical expertise with a warm, down-to-earth a...
I believe that healing happens when you feel truly seen and heard, so I combine my clinical expertise with a warm, down-to-earth approach to help you navigate life’s challenges and rediscover your own resilience.
Hello, I am Emmanuel Mbi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care. My journey in behavioral health began in 2014. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and a Bachelor's degree from Chamberlain University. I typically work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders who are looking for a supportive partner to help manage overwhelming symptoms, navigate difficult life transitions, or find greater emotional balance. My goal is to help you achieve the mental wellness you deserve.
I utilize a patient-centered approach that blends evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy. By tailoring treatment to your unique needs, I ensure you feel empowered and informed throughout the process. I specialize in helping clients build practical coping strategies in a safe space focused on healing and long-term wellness.
Taking the first step towards mental wellness can feel daunting, but you don't have to navigate it alone. I am here to offer the support and expertise you need to feel your best again. I look forward to meeting you and working together toward a brighter, more balanced future. Please feel free to schedule an appointment when you are ready to begin.
As a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive space wher...
As a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered on your journey to mental wellness.
Dr. Edwige Tonye is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 5 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based care. She specializes in treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders, helping them regain stability and confidence in their daily lives. Dr. Tonye’s ideal client seeks a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore their challenges, develop coping strategies, and achieve emotional well-being. She tailors treatment to each individual’s needs, empowering them to take control of their mental health.
Dr. Tonye received her Master of Nursing from Walden University. She takes a holistic, evidence-based approach, drawing on methods from cognitive behavioral therapy, multicultural therapy, narrative therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Dr. Tonye understands that seeking mental health care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. She provides a supportive space where you can openly share your struggles and work toward healing. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, or life’s challenges, she is here to help. Reach out and take the first step toward wellness.
As a woman of color who has experienced trauma, I deeply understand how life can sometimes hand you situations that feel overwhelm...
As a woman of color who has experienced trauma, I deeply understand how life can sometimes hand you situations that feel overwhelming and hard to navigate, and I will walk this journey with you.
I am a licensed professional counselor associate (LPCA) with 7 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through emotional and relational challenges. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship concerns, communication difficulties, eating disorders, and life stressors. I am passionate about helping clients recognize their strengths, gain new perspectives, and feel more empowered in their daily lives.
I earned my master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Abilene Christian University. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and individualized, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and motivational interviewing to help clients build practical tools for lasting change.
I understand that reaching out for support can be a vulnerable and overwhelming experience. I create a safe, compassionate space where you feel respected and heard. Together, we’ll identify root concerns, strengthen coping skills, and work toward meaningful growth. When you’re ready, I invite you to schedule a session and begin your journey forward.
As a seasoned counselor with over 30 years of experience, I am open to the various issues and situations that clients may bring to...
As a seasoned counselor with over 30 years of experience, I am open to the various issues and situations that clients may bring to therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 33 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in supporting clients facing depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, as well as those working through life transitions. My approach is rooted in building a trusting and comfortable relationship, where clients feel valued and understood. I am committed to helping you set realistic goals, overcome obstacles, and create meaningful growth in your journey toward healing and wellness.
I hold a Master’s in Counseling from Texas A&M University–Commerce. My training includes eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy. I tailor my approach to meet each client’s unique needs with compassion and sincerity.
I welcome you to take the first step toward greater health and wellness. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore challenges, strengthen resilience, and move toward the life you want to create. Together, we will work to unlock your potential and support your healing journey.
As someone who values empathy, respect, and genuine connection, I’m committed to creating a safe space where you can feel heard, u...
As someone who values empathy, respect, and genuine connection, I’m committed to creating a safe space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported exactly as you are.
Dr. Uche Uka is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of work experience and a dedication to providing empathetic and comprehensive mental health care. She enjoys working with patients of all ages and backgrounds to find the most suitable treatment model based on their diagnoses and mental health needs. Her areas of expertise encompass depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, addiction, and other psychiatric disorders.
Dr. Uka earned a Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Alabama. She specializes in diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions. These include pharmacological interventions where treatment goals are discussed and patients are guided through medication management to help them meet their therapeutic goals.
Dr. Uka provides psychotherapy and psychiatric services with empathy and respect, guiding clients through every step of their journey. If you’re seeking support and understanding, Dr. Uka invites you to reach out.
Having experienced personal trauma and life's challenges, I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space where clie...
Having experienced personal trauma and life's challenges, I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to heal.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of experience in mental health care. I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. I combine evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy to promote healing and long-term well-being. I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, client-centered environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey toward mental health.
I earned my Master’s in Nursing from Walden University, where I developed a strong commitment to evidence-based care and holistic treatment. My approach blends medication management with supportive therapy to address each client’s unique needs, build coping strategies, and foster resilience and stability.
Taking the first step toward mental health care can feel overwhelming, but it is also an important act of strength. My goal is to provide thoughtful, personalized support that empowers you to move forward with confidence. If you’re ready to begin your path toward greater stability and well-being, I encourage you to schedule an appointment.
As a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, I draw on extensive clinical experience to provide evidence-based, cultural...
As a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, I draw on extensive clinical experience to provide evidence-based, culturally informed care tailored to each client’s unique needs.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 11 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stress-related concerns. I offer a calm, collaborative space where you can feel respected, understood, and empowered. My approach blends evidence-based care, medication management, and compassionate dialogue to help you build clarity, strengthen stability, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.
I earned my master’s degree in nursing from Walden University. My work integrates evidence-based psychotherapy, patient-centered collaboration, and thoughtful medication management. I help clients stabilize their mood, understand their symptoms, and develop healthier patterns through practical tools that support sustainable emotional well-being.
Reaching out for support is an act of strength, and you deserve a space where you feel heard and supported. My goal is for you to leave each session with clarity, confidence, and a greater sense of balance. When you are ready, I welcome you to schedule an appointment so we can begin this work together and take the next step toward healing and stability.
As one who has experienced personal trauma and loss, I have an authentic understanding of how we are impacted by painful life circ...
As one who has experienced personal trauma and loss, I have an authentic understanding of how we are impacted by painful life circumstances and how building new life skills can empower us once again.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 4 years of experience supporting clients in Florida and Texas. I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and emotional abuse. I help clients process and overcome the effects of trauma while creating a safe, judgment-free space to share their experiences. I am passionate about helping people understand their emotions, build resilience, and move toward healing with clarity and confidence.
I earned my master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Walden University. My therapeutic style is warm and interactive, grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I draw from cognitive behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive approaches to create treatment plans tailored to your individual needs.
It takes courage to seek support, and choosing therapy is a powerful first step toward change. I aim to empower you as you work toward a more fulfilling and emotionally balanced life. If you are ready to begin that journey, I am here to walk with you and help you move forward with strength and support.
My family, friends, and I have had decades grappling with ADHD, the autism spectrum, and that balance between others and ourselves...
My family, friends, and I have had decades grappling with ADHD, the autism spectrum, and that balance between others and ourselves.
Abe Clabby is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating relationship issues, workaholism, trauma, codependency, depression, anxiety, autism, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Abe spent the last 6 years at the Love Is Respect hotline and the National Domestic Violence Hotline, where he has seen the best and the worst that family and relationships have to offer. He is the author of "Cool Off the Burnout: Feel Better at High-Pressure Jobs".
Abe completed his master's degree in Counseling at St. Edward's University, where he earned a 3.7 GPA and spent an extra semester taking courses in marriage and family therapy. In postgraduate training like the Gottman method, Abe found what some couples do that makes them thrive. There are things that help with a partner, but they also help with our parents, our jobs, and our friends. Abe uses motivational interviewing in a client-centered way, empowering people to change the narrative and find an existential purpose for what they do and using the tools of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to get around the obstacles where people feel stuck.
Abe works with a lot of good-hearted people. They're compassionate and want to do good in the world and to help people they love. Caring people can be taken for granted, taken advantage of, and even hurt and used. They can be left feeling empty, unfulfilled, and unloved. But with the right mindset, boundaries, and self-care, they can be respected, appreciated, and live a life that they're proud of. Abe helps people care for others and in turn, care for themselves. With therapy, people can troubleshoot their troubles in jobs and relationships. Everyone has more options than they realize.
As a woman of color, I understand seeking counseling can be a hard step to take for anyone. I want to make this process for you. I...
As a woman of color, I understand seeking counseling can be a hard step to take for anyone. I want to make this process for you. I am here for you no matter what you are going through or suffering from. I am here to support and empower you in your time of need.
Dominica Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 5 years of experience working with all different populations, including adults, children/adolescents, and geriatric, while providing individual, family, couples, and group counseling. Dominica has also worked with clients who suffer from drug/alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, family/relationship issues, anger problems, communication problems, and severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), etc. She has helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse.
Dominica completed her Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. She is easygoing, open, accepting, and flexible. Her counseling style is warm, collaborative, and welcoming. Dominica’s approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic, psychodynamic, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, and rational-emotive counseling. She will tailor your dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs/goals. Seeking counseling can be a hard step for anyone to take. Dominica is here to support and empower you in your time of need, and she looks forward to working with you!
I believe healing begins when we feel truly seen and understood, and my goal as a therapist is to create a space where you can sho...
I believe healing begins when we feel truly seen and understood, and my goal as a therapist is to create a space where you can show up fully—messy, real, and human—and still feel accepted.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges. I began my career in applied behavior analysis with children on the autism spectrum before transitioning to work with eating disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety. Through these experiences, I learned how deeply our emotions, bodies, and stories are connected and how healing begins when we feel truly seen and supported.
I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Houston Christian University. My therapeutic approach blends accountability with humor to foster honesty and growth. I use cognitive processing therapy for PTSD, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy to support lasting change.
I aim to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported as you navigate life’s ups and downs. My goal is to help you reclaim peace, build emotional resilience, and move forward with confidence and clarity. If you’re ready to rewrite your story and evolve with purpose, I’d be honored to walk beside you.
As one who has experienced personal loss, I have a genuine understanding of how life transitions can impact daily functioning and ...
As one who has experienced personal loss, I have a genuine understanding of how life transitions can impact daily functioning and how addressing these transitions with loving kindness can transform us once again.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16 years of experience supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, and other life stressors. I believe people heal best when they feel safe, seen, and supported. My approach focuses on helping clients rediscover their inner strength, develop healthy coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change through a compassionate and empowering therapeutic relationship.
I earned a Master’s in Social Work from Saint Louis University, and I am licensed to practice in Texas, Missouri, and Illinois. I use a strengths-based approach and motivational interviewing to help clients identify their stage of change and build lifelong coping skills, especially when supporting perinatal clients on their postpartum journey.
I aim to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, gain insight, and grow in self-understanding. My goal is to guide individuals toward transformation and renewed perspective so they can move forward with clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.
Being human means embarking on an adventure into the uncertain and unknown. By recognizing our innate resilience in facing life’s ...
Being human means embarking on an adventure into the uncertain and unknown. By recognizing our innate resilience in facing life’s challenges, we can create the conditions to discover an authentic path toward healing, growth, self-discovery, and connection.
Natalie Branda is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in providing personalized support to individuals facing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, food and body issues, self-esteem, interpersonal issues, life challenges and transitions, behavioral issues, trauma, life challenges, and transitions. Natalie tailors her approach to suit each individual's needs and experiences. She is passionate about providing safe and inclusive care to all and has extensive experience supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and gender-affirming care.
Natalie earned her Master of Science in Counseling and Development from Texas Woman’s University. She uses evidence-based techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practices. Through a multicultural lens and a person-centered approach, she empowers clients to navigate life with resilience.
Navigating life's ups and downs can be daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. Natalie believes in the power of genuine connection, empathy, humor, and providing the right tools to help you reach your goals. Whatever you’re facing, her goal is to support you in uncovering your potential to make sustainable change and live your most authentic life.
I believe that psychiatric care should focus on providing clients with individualized treatment plans to meet their specific needs...
I believe that psychiatric care should focus on providing clients with individualized treatment plans to meet their specific needs, which may include medication management and supportive psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care. My approach integrates both psychotherapy and medication management to address a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I strive to help each client reach their optimal level of functioning physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.
I earned my Master’s in Nursing from the University of Texas. My approach blends psychopharmacology and holistic methods to create treatment plans that support the whole person, mind and body. I believe in fostering self-awareness, resilience, and emotional balance through collaborative and individualized care.
Sometimes when dealing with life, you may feel alone, but you are not. I invite you to take the next step in your mental health journey. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose and peace.
As a mother, woman of color, and daughter of senior parents, I deeply understand the challenges, transitions, and emotions that co...
As a mother, woman of color, and daughter of senior parents, I deeply understand the challenges, transitions, and emotions that come with balancing the many stages and roles of life—and I bring that understanding into the care and compassion I offer my clients.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 28 years of experience providing care to diverse populations across Texas. My work has focused on supporting adults, seniors, and individuals living with chronic illness through compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based care. I strive to create an inclusive, safe, and empowering environment where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and discover meaningful paths toward emotional well-being and personal growth.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Tulane University, where I began developing my clinical behavioral foundations and methodologies. My therapeutic approach integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and psychoeducation to create personalized treatment plans that align with each client’s unique needs and goals.
I am dedicated to fostering healing and self-discovery by helping clients develop coping strategies and strengthen their emotional awareness. My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel understood, empowered, and encouraged to make meaningful, lasting changes.
As a woman of color, I understand the unique issues people of color face, personally and professionally....
As a woman of color, I understand the unique issues people of color face, personally and professionally.
Divya Patel is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. She has extensive experience, both personally and professionally, working with diverse populations in various settings. She has worked within psychiatric inpatient hospitals, hospice, community, mental health agencies, as well as higher education.
Divya is here to provide guidance and insights during the healing process. She believes the client is the expert of their own lives and is there to bring out the best potential within them so that they live a happy, harmonious life.
Divya's specialty includes an eclectic approach where she will individualize treatment that best fits the needs of the client. Divya is naturally a compassionate, empathetic individual who is passionate about helping people heal with the many struggles of life. "You are not alone! I am here to walk with you in this journey of healing and recovery!" says Divya.
You deserve dedicated time with a mental health professional — it can be life-changing.
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Eating disorder therapy is a specialized approach aimed at assisting those who are grappling with a range of eating disorders. These disorders are significant mental health conditions characterized by irregular or unhealthy eating patterns and an intense focus on body weight and shape. Common conditions addressed in Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID).
At Thriveworks, Eating disorders begins with a thorough assessment and personalized treatment plan. Central to eating disorder therapy is psychotherapy, often employing cognitive behavioral therapy and other specialized techniques to target negative thought patterns.
The signs of an eating disorder can include:
CBT’s remission rate, according to some research, is generally between 50-30% for those seeking assistance for eating disorder symptoms.
The recovery rate for those seeking assistance with eating disorders depends entirely on the individual’s involvement in sessions, the severity of their symptoms, and their willingness to change their eating habits and relationship with food.
Eating disorder therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
The length of Eating disorders will vary from one person to the next, dependent on their specific needs. Your therapist can help to determine what might be most beneficial for you.
I don’t stop eating when I’m full. The meal isn’t over when I’m full. It’s over when I hate myself.” — Louis CK, comedian, writer, actor, director
Food sustains us. Food also provides enjoyment, gets people to share an experience together and gives a rich variety of new flavors to discover and try. The risk of any good thing, however, is when it becomes more than fuel, more than moderated pleasure and crosses over into the dangerous territory of addiction.
Food, which should provide us with energy and increased cognitive function, becomes a detriment to someone with an eating disorder — through overindulgence (or the opposite) and many other forms of unhealthy interaction. The sad truth is that out of the nearly 24 million people who suffer from some type of eating disorder, only 10 percent of those people seek and receive treatment.
The three major types of eating disorder — anorexia nervosa, bulimia and binge eating — each carry their own distinct set of symptoms and problems.
The eating disorder bulimia is defined as frequent expressions of excessive eating followed by intense feelings of guilt and embarrassment, at which point the person suffering from bulimia tries to prevent weight gain through self-induced vomiting and/or obsessive exercise (also known as binging and purging).
Characteristic signs and symptoms of bulimia include:
Bulimia is a vicious cycle. You seek fulfillment and pleasure from food, overdo it, and take extreme measures to try to offset the overeating, but those measures bring their own health complications, leaving you feel even worse than before. Then it starts over again from the beginning.
This doesn’t have to be your life. You can overcome bulimia, just as many other have done before you, with the help of a trained mental health professional. Austin eating disorder therapists are here to help.
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder where people implement harmful techniques in order to achieve a perceived ideal body shape. Many times, this is manifested by extreme restriction of food intake, self-imposed starvation and obsessive exercise. People suffering from anorexia nervosa risk death, if the eating disorder goes untreated.
Characteristic signs and symptoms of anorexia include:
Anorexia nervosas effect on your physical and mental health is incredibly serious. No idealized body type is worth the debilitating, if not fatal, nature of the disorder.
Food can bring immense feelings of enjoyment — instant gratification. We refer to our go-to snacks as “comfort food,” but that comfort soon turns to overwhelming shame once that entire pack of Oreos or oversized fast food meal and soda reaches the bottom of your stomach. It’s a quick fix to what was maybe a bummer of a day, but that “fix” is only intensifying your problems, relieving you of your self-confidence and replacing it with shame.
This is called Binge Eating Disorder (BED). People suffering from BED will repeatedly consume, in a short period of time, more food than people would normally eat under similar circumstances, sometimes taking in as much as 15,000 calories in a single sitting.
Symptoms of binge eating disorder include:
Although many of BED symptoms sound similar to those of bulimia, the main difference is the lack of excessive measures taken to counteract the overeating, resulting in obesity.
Numerous factors can contribute to the development of an eating disorder, including:
It’s no secret that popular media can play a significant role in the development of eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia and BED. These often unrealistic expectations for what the human physique should look like can be a source of demoralization for anyone who doesn’t fit the mold.
Forget what popular media has taught you to believe about what an attractive body looks like. Everyone has a unique shape. What’s important is that you are healthy, clear-minded and confident. Accept what you look like now, and address your physical health — don’t become disillusioned by seeking a particular shape. Live healthy, live long, live happily.
For those struggling with eating disorder, the problem is rarely lessened (in any positive, meaningful way, at least) after reading a few encouraging words. These issues are much more complicated than a gap in information.
We do however, want to share with you some pointers that our clients have found helpful in dealing with an eating disorder.
Here are some tips that clients have found helpful for managing their relationships with food:
Eat several small meals throughout the day. Spread your eating out into five or six smaller meals, occurring at regular intervals throughout the day, instead of concentrating your eating to two or three large meals.
Only eat things that provide actual nutritional benefit. Forget the complicated eating regimens and trendy diets. Eating well is not even remotely complicated. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and lean meats for protein. Instead of snacking on junk foods, consider a handful of almonds for their healthy fats, protein and filling fiber. Almond milk is also delicious and less fatty than cow milk — you may even like it better.
Water. Drink lots and lots of water. Water keeps you hydrated, yes, but it’s also great at taking the edge of your food cravings, which sometimes are just a signal that you’re dehydrated.
Reduce stress. When you’re stressed or anxious, it’s easy to reach for some chocolate for a quick rush of endorphins. Unfortunately, that quick burst of happiness you get from sugary snacks soon gives you a similar drop in mood and energy (sugar crash).
Get plenty of exercise. Don’t underestimate the strong connection between mind and body. It has been proven over and over again that even small (but regular) periods of exercise can work wonders when it comes to boosting your mood. A healthy, active body is a healthy, active mind.
Learn your triggers. Have you noticed a certain activity that makes you want to overindulge? If fast food TV commercials, for example, get you craving something unhealthy, consider turning off the television and getting to that book you’ve been meaning to read. Or go for a walk. Call a trusted friend.
Talk to a therapist. This is where we excel. At Thriveworks Austin Counseling and Coaching, our goal is to help you develop a healthier lifestyle, one based on your needs and not on what the media defines as beautiful. Our therapists have the training and experience you need in order to break free from your unhealthy relationship with food. Learn how to let your eating habits work for you, not against you.
Food is important, but it shouldn’t consume your life. Learn to use food as a tool instead of as a weapon of self-harm. Learning to balance your diet and physical activity is paramount for living a happy, successful life. Sure, some people are “blessed” with genetics that seem to allow them to eat whatever they want with little to no adverse affects, but they’re probably doing more damage to their bodies than they realize.
When put in its proper place, food can give you the energy to achieve your goals. You can learn how. Let us show you.
Your eating disorder doesn’t have to control you. Contact us today, and begin the journey to change.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Austin is located in Building 3, Ste 222, on the corner of FM 2244 and St. Stephens School Rd. Our building is the last building in the row going toward Bee Cave, and the entry is across from Gold Tier Real Estate. If you are going west and past the Texaco station, you have gone too far. If you are going east, the office is located in building 3 in the first group of buildings after the Texaco station. The office is located on the west side of the building with TruPlay Games and The Cagle Law Firm.
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