Let’s first acknowledge that there is no fixed framework for the therapeutic relationship. We know that each person's experience is unique. How close we get to the edges of this metaphorical frame varies from person to person and might change over time. But ultimately, most sessions follow a set of “rules”.

Ever wondered why some dreams stick around while others vanish like morning mist? Jennifer shares that dreams we remember are like neon signs from our unconscious, emphasizing an underlying conflict. It turns out, that the more significant the conflict, the greater the unconscious's push to deliver the message through vivid dreams.

While diagnostic criteria, such as those outlined in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), exist for binge eating disorders, it's crucial to prioritize the individual's subjective experience. There is a limitation when it comes to these medicalized classifications and it’s important to recognize the subjective nature of these issues.

There is no doubt that I disagree with diet culture. But recently I’ve been noticing that a lot of these things that frustrate me with this culture are starting to show up in the anti-diet culture as well. Between the judging, the internal shaming, and the “cult behaviors”, the lines are starting to blur and the cycle we were trying to break has begun to repeat itself.

Feeling stuck isn't exclusive to one area of life; it can strike at any moment. Whether you're battling with your career, your relationships, or, as is often the case, your relationship with food, that suffocating feeling can be all too familiar. If you've ever grappled with issues related to your relationship with food or have felt trapped in various aspects of life, this discussion is going to be a game-changer for you.

This first question revolves around the decision-making process regarding various levels of care for eating disorder treatment. Many individuals with eating disorders receive outpatient treatment, but some may consider stepping up to higher levels of care like intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization, or even residential treatment. The challenge is figuring out which level of care is best for them. The answer is not one-size-fits-all.

In our journey to understand the distinction between CBT and psychodynamic therapy, it's essential to understand the intricacies underlying the medical model and its limitations when applied to mental health. Unlike physical ailments, mental health conditions aren't as straightforward to diagnose, with no blood tests or scans to conclusively pinpoint their existence.

In a world where intuitive eating has become a buzzword, it's crucial to sift through the chatter and truly understand what it means. We're not here to entertain misconceptions or misinterpretations of intuitive eating—those are a whole different story. Instead, we're bringing you a discussion that revolves around the insightful critiques of intuitive eating from individuals who genuinely respect and comprehend its principles.

In a world driven by absolutes and quick fixes, where opinions often seem black or white, it's time to stop for a minute and just think about how complex the situation really is. Let’s embrace the nuance in our decision-making, whether it pertains to nutrition, relationships, or any other aspect of life.

As I sat down with Dr. Gaudiani, she wasted no time in emphasizing the personalized and intricate nature of eating disorders. These conditions are shaped by a complex interplay of genetics and an array of factors still shrouded in mystery. Dr. Gaudiani made it clear that the web of complexities surrounding eating disorders extends far beyond our current comprehension, revealing the need for a bespoke approach to treatment.

As clinicians, our role goes beyond that of typical interpersonal relationships. We are healers, listeners, and guides to our clients, offering them a safe space to explore their emotions and experiences. When a client becomes upset or frustrated, it becomes a unique opportunity for us to understand their inner world better.

What do we do with the limitations in nutrition science? Much of the conversation among nutrition scientists, outside the realm of eating disorders, revolves around various fad diets or approaches involving highly processed foods, intermittent fasting, and keto diets, among other trends. But the majority of this evidence may lack comprehensive scientific support.

Since 2020, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp have become very popular, mainly because of their convenience and affordability. With a subscription-based model, easy therapist switching, and 24/7 accessibility, they promise an accessible and hassle-free mental health solution. But are these platforms really a replacement for traditional therapy? Are these platforms providing true therapeutic value?

In the world of mental health and therapy, there's often a buzz around "evidence-based treatment" or EBT. It sounds great, right? But what exactly does it mean, and is it the be-all and end-all of effective therapy? Is there a difference between EBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy (deep work therapy)? Why has CBT gotten a monopoly on the evidence-based title? So many questions!

In today’s episode, I am joined by Douglas Bunnell. Douglas W. Bunnell, Ph.D., FAED, CEDS-S is a clinical psychologist in Fairfield, Connecticut. He has specialized in the treatment of people with eating disorders for the past 30 years. Dr. Bunnell is a past board chair of the NEDA and recipient of their Lifetime Achievement Award.

Today I am talking with Dr. Elizabeth Hamlin. Elizabeth Hamlin, MD, is a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, and psychoanalytic candidate who has spent her career working intensively with patients with severe eating disorders.

I’ll say it once and I’ll say it again: Eating disorders are a way to communicate.

Eating disorders are really not just about the food. They're a way to regulate and communicate emotions. By understanding what is potentially going on for someone via their eating disorder, we can use it as information to actually get to what's underneath.

In moments of high emotions, like feeling stressed from work, angry at your spouse, or sad from grieving, how are you regulating your emotions? Do you bury them deep down and move on? Do you let them take control of you and guide your actions? There has to be a balance on the emotional scale, but where does the balance lie? In this solo episode, we’re covering how our emotions play into eating disorders and how emotion regulation is crucial.

Learn more about eating disorder therapy and treatment in NYC and Brooklyn with Rachelle Heinemann at rachelleheinemann.com.

Today, we are talking with Hilmar Wagner about what eating needs to look like when someone is starting their eating disorder recovery and what happens when you jump straight into Intuitive Eating. 

If you are looking for a trusted, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist to answer all those FAQs about Intuitive Eating- this is your episode! 

Learn more about eating disorder therapy and treatment in NYC and Brooklyn with Rachelle Heinemann at rachelleheinemann.com.

Do you find yourself questioning your own thoughts and decisions? (esp with your eating habits) If so, you are not alone!

I have been reading Diane’s work for years! She has been published in various places– truly everywhere! She has so much content out there, mainly focused on general therapy. She has an analytical mind, just like me, so it makes me very excited to have a conversation with her. Today’s conversation is particularly relevant for individuals on the path of eating disorder recovery, as self-trust can feel elusive and challenging.

Today we have Diane Barth talking all about trusting oneself.

Learn more about eating disorder therapy and treatment in NYC and Brooklyn with Rachelle Heinemann at rachelleheinemann.com.

Today is all about finding and embracing your WHY for your recovery, especially in those moments when nothing seems worth it. We have TedX speaker Alana Van Der Sluys sharing personal insights, tools, and acronyms (so many acronyms!) to help you along your recovery journey.

Learn more about eating disorder therapy and treatment in NYC and Brooklyn with Rachelle Heinemann at rachelleheinemann.com.

Today's episode is a follow-up from last week's with Dr. David Wiss, all about ultra-processed foods. I stand by the content of the information and data shared last week, and I know David only speaks about information he can completely back up. However, I do want to reiterate the intent of the conversation. It was not to make more rules in your brain or tell you to be more restrictive. We were mostly talking about issues with policies and the general food industry, the research, and the biases in research. We highlighted where some information out there may actually be false.

This is a much larger conversation— not just about me or you.

To reiterate, I very much agree with the idea of all foods fit model, food neutrality, and listening to your cravings. However, I think when we end at that, it feels like something is missing.

Learn more about eating disorder therapy and treatment in NYC and Brooklyn with Rachelle Heinemann at rachelleheinemann.com.