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By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  If you've found yourself searching "how to tell if my child has an eating disorder," you're not alone. Many parents notice changes in their child's eating habits or behavior and wonder whether they're seeing typical developmental changes or something more serious. Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can affect children and adolescents of all ages, genders, body sizes, and backgrounds. They are not a choice or a phase, and they often develop gradually. Recognizing child eating disorder signs early can make a meaningful difference in recovery and long-term health. If something feels different about your child's relationship with food or their body, it's okay to trust your instincts and seek guidance. What Are Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders?One of the most common questions parents ask is, "How do I know if my child has an eating disorder?" The answer isn't always straightforward. Eating disorders cannot be identified by appearance alone, and children in larger, smaller, or average-sized bodies can all struggle with serious eating disorders. Some common child eating disorder signs include:
Children with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) may show different symptoms, such as avoiding foods because of texture, smell, taste, or fear of choking or vomiting. They may have a very limited list of foods they feel comfortable eating. Not every child will experience the same symptoms, and no single behavior confirms an eating disorder. However, if you notice several of these warning signs or significant changes in your child's eating patterns, emotions, or daily functioning, it may be time to seek an evaluation. How Can I Support My Child With an Eating Disorder?If you're wondering how to tell if your child has an eating disorder, you don't have to figure it out on your own. Reaching out for support early is one of the most helpful things you can do. Here are several ways to support your child: Lead with curiosity instead of criticism. Rather than commenting on what your child is eating or how they look, ask open-ended questions and listen without judgment. Avoid focusing on weight. Eating disorders occur in people of every body size, and weight alone does not reflect the severity of an illness. Create a calm, supportive mealtime environment. Try to make meals a time for connection rather than conflict or negotiation. Model a balanced relationship with food and your body. Avoid dieting conversations, negative body talk, and labeling foods as "good" or "bad." Seek specialized care early. Eating disorder treatment for children is most effective when provided by professionals with specialized training. Depending on your child's needs, treatment may include an eating disorder therapist, registered dietitian, pediatrician, psychiatrist, or a higher level of care such as an intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization program. Remember that recovery is possible. With early intervention and compassionate, evidence-based care, children can heal their relationship with food, their bodies, and themselves. If you're concerned about your child, you don't need to wait until symptoms become severe before asking for help. Early eating disorder treatment for children often leads to better outcomes and can prevent the illness from becoming more deeply ingrained. Whether your child ultimately receives an eating disorder diagnosis or another explanation for their symptoms, your concerns are valid. Seeking an assessment can provide clarity, reassurance, and a plan for moving forward. The earlier families receive support, the greater the opportunity for recovery. Interested in eating disorder treatment for children at The Eating Disorder Center?At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in coaching?If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
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By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  As we move through the middle of summer, many people find themselves spending more time thinking about their bodies. Warmer weather often means wearing shorts, swimsuits, tank tops, and other clothing that exposes more skin. At the same time, social media feeds can become saturated with "summer body" messaging, weight loss advertisements, fitness challenges, and unrealistic beauty standards. For individuals struggling with body image concerns, disordered eating, or eating disorder recovery, this combination can be especially challenging. The good news is that you have the ability to take control of your social media feed and create an online environment that supports body acceptance, eating disorder recovery, and mental well-being. The Connection Between Social Media and Body Image Research suggests that social media can significantly impact body image and self-esteem (Fioravanti et al., 2022). Constant exposure to highly curated photos, fitness transformations, and appearance-focused content can increase body dissatisfaction and encourage unhealthy comparisons. Many social media algorithms are designed to show users more of the content they engage with. If you frequently interact with weight loss, dieting, or fitness-focused posts, your feed may become increasingly filled with similar content. That's why intentionally curating your feed can be an important part of protecting your mental health. Unfollow "Fitspo" Accounts That Trigger Comparison Many people assume that "fitspiration" or "fitspo" accounts are motivating. However, these accounts often promote unrealistic body standards, moralize exercise, and reinforce the idea that health and worth are determined by appearance. If you notice that certain fitness influencers leave you feeling guilty, inadequate, or pressured to change your body, it may be time to unfollow, mute, or block those accounts. Ask yourself:
If the answer is yes, removing that content from your feed may be a powerful act of self-care. Follow More Body-Inclusive Influencers One of the best ways to improve your relationship with your body is to intentionally expose yourself to greater body diversity. Consider following creators who:
Seeing diverse bodies on a regular basis can help challenge the unrealistic standards often portrayed online and remind us that healthy bodies naturally come in many different forms. Audit Your Feed Regularly Take a few minutes to scroll through your feed and notice how different accounts make you feel. Keep the accounts that leave you feeling:
Consider unfollowing accounts that leave you feeling:
Your social media feed should add value to your life, not make recovery more difficult. Use Social Media Tools to Protect Your Mental Health Most platforms offer tools that can help you create a healthier online experience. You can:
Remember, every interaction teaches the algorithm what you want to see. You Do Not Need a "Summer Body" One of the most harmful messages promoted during this time of year is the idea that your body needs to change before you can enjoy summer. The truth is that you deserve to participate fully in your life right now. You do not need to lose weight before going to the beach, attending a barbecue, taking a vacation, or wearing clothes that help you stay cool. Your worth is not determined by your size, shape, weight, or appearance. This summer, consider taking charge of your social media feed by unfollowing triggering fitspiration accounts and intentionally seeking out body-inclusive voices. Curating a feed that reflects the diversity of real bodies can be a meaningful step toward improving body image, reducing comparison, and supporting eating disorder recovery. Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in coaching? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Sources: Fioravanti, G., Bocci Benucci, S., Ceragioli, G., & Casale, S. (2022). How the Exposure to Beauty Ideals on Social Networking Sites Influences Body Image: A Systematic Review of Experimental Studies. Adolescent Research Review. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is more than “picky eating.” It is a complex eating disorder that can affect physical health, emotional well-being, social functioning, and daily life. Unlike some other eating disorders, ARFID is sometimes not driven by body image concerns. Instead, individuals may avoid food due to sensory sensitivities, fear of choking or vomiting, low appetite, anxiety, or past negative experiences with eating. Recovery from ARFID can feel overwhelming, especially when eating feels unsafe, uncomfortable, or exhausting. The good news is that recovery is possible, and progress does not have to happen all at once. Here are some practical, compassionate recovery tips for individuals navigating ARFID. Start with Safety Recovery does not mean forcing yourself to eat everything immediately. Building safety around food is often the first step. This may look like:
Progress happens through repeated experiences of safety, not shame. Nourishment Matters More Than “Perfect” Eating Safe foods are valid foods. Eating enough and staying nourished is more important than eating “perfectly” or meeting wellness culture standards. Your body deserves nourishment even if your food choices feel limited right now. Focus on Flexibility, Not Perfection Recovery can involve slowly increasing flexibility with food rather than eliminating fear overnight. Examples might include:
Small steps count. Reduce Shame Around Eating Challenges ARFID is real, and struggling with food is not a personal failure. Many people with ARFID have spent years feeling embarrassed, misunderstood, or judged. Recovery is often easier when self-compassion replaces criticism. Support Your Nervous System Eating can feel genuinely stressful for people with ARFID. Calming the nervous system may help meals feel more manageable. Helpful supports may include:
Build a Supportive Team Recovery may involve support from:
Care should feel collaborative, compassionate, and weight-inclusive. Recovery Is Not Linear Some days eating may feel easier than others. Setbacks do not mean failure. Recovery from ARFID is often gradual, and every step toward increased nourishment, flexibility, and reduced fear matters. You do not need to become a “perfect eater” to deserve care, support, and healing. Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in coaching? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  Recovering from an eating disorder is rarely a straight line. It’s a complex, deeply personal process that often requires more than one kind of support. While therapy is a cornerstone of treatment, many people find that adding recovery coaching alongside it creates a more comprehensive and effective support system. Rather than duplicating each other, therapy and recovery coaching serve different but complementary roles. When used together, they can fill in gaps, reinforce progress, and help bridge the space between insight and action. Understanding the Difference Therapy typically focuses on the “why.” It provides a space to explore underlying causes, such as trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, or identity struggles. A licensed therapist helps process emotions, challenge harmful thought patterns, and address co-occurring mental health concerns. Recovery coaching, on the other hand, focuses more on the “how.” Coaches work in the present and help clients navigate the practical, day-to-day aspects of recovery, things like meal support, accountability, routine-building, and real-life coping strategies. Neither replaces the other. Instead, they work best as a team. Bridging the Gap Between Sessions One of the biggest challenges in recovery is translating what’s discussed in therapy into everyday life. Therapy sessions might happen once a week, but eating disorder thoughts and behaviors can show up multiple times a day. Recovery coaching helps bridge that gap. With more frequent check-ins and real-time support, coaching can help reinforce what’s being learned in therapy. For example, if a therapist introduces a new coping skill, a coach can help the client practice it during meals, social situations, or triggering moments. This kind of reinforcement makes it more likely that new behaviors will stick. Increased Accountability Without Judgment Accountability is often a key part of recovery, but it needs to be handled carefully. Too much pressure can backfire, while too little structure can make it easy to fall back into old patterns. Recovery coaching offers a balanced form of accountability. Coaches help clients set realistic goals, follow through on commitments, and stay aligned with their recovery values. Because the relationship is collaborative rather than clinical, many people find it easier to be honest about struggles and setbacks. When paired with therapy, this accountability becomes even more powerful. Therapy can explore the emotional resistance behind certain behaviors, while coaching supports the follow-through. Support in Real-Life Situations Eating disorders don’t exist in isolation, they show up in everyday experiences like grocery shopping, dining out, or navigating holidays. These situations can feel overwhelming, even when someone understands their triggers intellectually. Recovery coaching provides hands-on guidance in these moments. Whether it’s planning meals, challenging food rules, or building flexibility, coaching helps bring recovery into the real world. Meanwhile, therapy can help process the emotions that come up afterward, creating a cycle of action and reflection that deepens progress. A More Personalized Recovery Experience Every recovery journey is different. Some people need more emotional processing, while others need more structure and behavioral support. Combining therapy and coaching allows for a more tailored approach. If one area feels stuck, the other can help move things forward. For example, if therapy feels emotionally heavy, coaching can offer practical wins that build momentum. If coaching feels challenging, therapy can help unpack the fear or resistance behind it. Together, they create a more flexible and responsive support system. Building Confidence and Independence Over time, the goal of recovery is not just symptom reduction, it’s building a life that feels meaningful and sustainable. Therapy helps individuals understand themselves more deeply and develop emotional resilience. Recovery coaching helps them apply those insights consistently in their daily lives. As these skills build, confidence grows. Clients often find that having both types of support allows them to take more ownership of their recovery, rather than feeling dependent on a single source of help. Final Thoughts There’s no one-size-fits-all path to recovery, and not everyone will need both therapy and coaching. But for many people, combining the two creates a stronger, more well-rounded foundation. Therapy offers depth. Coaching offers momentum. Together, they can make recovery feel not only possible, but more supported, more practical, and more connected to everyday life. Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in coaching? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  For a lot of people, spring and summer breaks are something to look forward to, like more freedom, sunshine, vacations, and a pause from academic stress. But if you’re in eating disorder recovery, breaks can feel complicated, overwhelming, or even scary. If that’s where you are right now, you’re not alone. And more importantly, you’re not doing recovery wrong just because this season feels hard. Let’s talk about why breaks can be challenging, and how to move through them in a way that supports your recovery. Why Breaks Can Feel So Difficult 1. Loss of Structure During the school year, your days likely have some built-in routine like classes, study time, scheduled meals between activities. When break hits, that structure often disappears. Without it, you might notice:
2. Being Back at Home (or in a New Environment) Whether you’re returning home, staying on campus, or traveling, a change in environment can bring up challenges:
3. Increased Social Pressure Spring and Summer tend to come with:
This can amplify body image struggles and make you feel like you’re being watched or judged, even when you’re not. 4. “Summer Body” Culture Let’s be real: messaging around needing to “look a certain way” ramps up this time of year. Even if you know it’s harmful, it can still get in your head. What You Can Do to Support Yourself You don’t have to handle this perfectly. Recovery isn’t about perfection, it’s about continuing to show up for yourself in small, meaningful ways. 1. Create Gentle Structure You don’t need a rigid schedule, but having a loose rhythm can help:
Think of structure as support, not restriction. 2. Make a Break Plan (Yes, Really) Before break starts, or even now, ask yourself:
You can even write a short “recovery plan” for the break. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just something you can come back to when things feel shaky. 3. Set Boundaries Where You Can This might look like:
You are allowed to protect your recovery. 4. Expect Body Image Fluctuations Warmer weather, different clothes, and more social exposure can intensify body image thoughts. That doesn’t mean you’re going backward. Try:
Bad body image days are part of recovery—not a sign of failure. 5. Stay Connected Isolation can make everything louder. Even if your schedule changes, try to stay connected to:
You don’t have to go through this alone. 6. Redefine What “Enjoying Break” Means There’s a lot of pressure to make breaks “perfect” or “fun all the time.” But real life isn’t like that, especially in recovery. Maybe enjoying your break looks like:
A Reminder You Might Need You don’t have to earn your place in summer. Not by changing your body. Not by eating “perfectly.” Not by being fully recovered. You are allowed to exist, take up space, and participate in your life exactly as you are. If Things Feel Hard If you find yourself struggling more than expected:
Recovery isn’t linear, and breaks can bring up new layers. That doesn’t erase the progress you’ve made. Spring and Summer might not feel easy, but they can still be meaningful. And every time you choose to support yourself, even in small ways, you’re continuing forward. That matters more than you think. Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in additional help beyond therapy? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  Seeking support for an eating disorder can feel overwhelming — and finding care that fits into your life shouldn’t add to that stress. Virtual therapy has made specialized treatment more accessible, flexible, and integrated into everyday living than ever before. In this blog, we’ll explore how online therapy can support eating disorder recovery, who it’s a good fit for, and why many clients find it just as effective as in-person care. 1. Greater Convenience in Your Daily Life One of the biggest advantages of virtual therapy is how seamlessly it fits into your routine. There’s no need to factor in drive time, traffic delays, parking, or sitting in a waiting room. Instead, you log in from your laptop, tablet, or phone at your scheduled time. For individuals juggling work, school, parenting, or other responsibilities, removing the commute can make therapy far more manageable. When recovery already requires emotional energy, simplifying logistics can make a meaningful difference. 2. Increased Scheduling Flexibility Because you don’t need to travel to and from an office, appointment times can often be more adaptable. Some clients attend sessions during a lunch break, from a private office at work, or even from their parked car between commitments. This flexibility can reduce the need to take extended time off work or rearrange your entire day, helping you stay consistent with treatment, which is essential in eating disorder recovery. 3. Expanded Access to Specialized Care Not everyone lives near a therapist who specializes in eating disorders. In rural or underserved areas, qualified providers may be hours away. Virtual therapy removes geographic barriers, allowing you to work with a specialist who truly understands eating disorder treatment, even if they are located in a different city or region within the state your therapist is licensed in. This broader access means you don’t have to settle for general therapy when you need specialized support. 4. Research Support A common question is whether virtual therapy is “as good” as in-person treatment. Based on extensive clinical experience providing both formats, many providers have found online therapy to be equally effective in supporting eating disorder recovery. Research also supports this. Studies such as Hilty et al. (2013), Prescott et al. (2022), and Zhou et al. (2021) indicate that telehealth interventions can produce outcomes comparable to traditional in-office therapy across a variety of mental health conditions, including eating disorders. Consistency, engagement, and therapeutic connection matter far more than the physical location of the session. 5. Opportunities for Creative, Real-Life Interventions Virtual therapy opens the door to unique and practical recovery tools that may not be possible in a traditional office setting. For example:
6. Comfort and Emotional Safety Being in your own space can make difficult conversations feel slightly less intimidating. You have access to your familiar comforts — a favorite blanket, your pet nearby, a warm drink, soft lighting, or a scented candle. For some individuals, this increased sense of safety makes it easier to open up about vulnerable topics such as body image, shame, trauma, or disordered eating behaviors. When you feel more grounded, deeper therapeutic work often becomes possible. Who Might Not Be the Best Fit for Virtual Therapy? While virtual therapy works well for many people, it is not ideal for everyone. It may not be the right option if:
A Helpful Privacy Tip for Virtual Sessions If you share your home with others and worry about being overheard, there’s a simple solution many therapists use in their offices: sound masking. Placing a white noise machine or loud fan outside your door can significantly muffle conversation and increase privacy. Sound machines are widely available and affordable, and they can provide peace of mind so you feel more comfortable speaking openly during sessions. Virtual therapy has transformed access to eating disorder treatment by making it more flexible, accessible, and integrated into everyday life. For many individuals, it offers an effective and empowering pathway toward recovery, all from the comfort of home. Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in additional help beyond therapy? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
References: Hilty, D. M., Ferrer, D. C., Parish, M. B., Johnston, B., Callahan, E. J., & Yellowlees, P. M. (2013). The effectiveness of telemental health: a 2013 review. Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association, 19(6), 444–454. https://doi.org/10.1089/tmj.2013.0075 Prescott, M. R., Sagui-Henson, S. J., Welcome Chamberlain, C. E., Castro Sweet, C., & Altman, M. (2022). Real world effectiveness of digital mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. PloS one, 17(8), e0272162. Zhou X, Edirippulige S, Bai X, Bambling M. (2021). Are online mental health interventions for youth effective? A systematic review. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, 27(10), 638-666. doi:10.1177/1357633X211047285 By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  Eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are often discussed separately, but in reality, they frequently overlap. Many people are surprised to learn just how similar eating disorders and OCD can be at their core. Both involve intrusive, distressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors aimed at easing anxiety. Unfortunately, while these behaviors may bring short-term relief, they tend to worsen symptoms over time. How Eating Disorders and OCD Overlap Eating disorders often involve intense focus on food, body size, weight, and/or exercise (though not everyone experiences all of these). Individuals typically struggle with persistent eating-disorder-related thoughts paired with compulsive behaviors such as restricting, bingeing, purging, or excessive exercise. OCD, on the other hand, is characterized by intrusive thoughts, images, or urges followed by mental or physical compulsions meant to reduce anxiety or prevent feared outcomes. While the themes may differ, the underlying cycle is often the same: intrusive thoughts → anxiety → compulsive behavior → temporary relief → increased distress It’s important to emphasize that eating disorders and OCD are mental health conditions, not choices. Many behaviors associated with these disorders function as attempts to feel safe, cope with uncertainty, manage trauma, or regulate overwhelming emotions. Unfortunately, these attempts often backfire, leaving individuals feeling exhausted, trapped, and discouraged. For some people, eating disorders and OCD symptoms become tightly intertwined, with each condition fueling the other. Helpful Strategies for Managing Both an Eating Disorder and OCD 1. Reduce reassurance-seeking behaviors Reassurance-seeking is extremely common in both eating disorders and OCD. Examples include:
Loved ones can help by responding with empathy instead of reassurance. For example: “It sounds like these thoughts are really loud right now. I’m sorry you’re having such a hard time.” Learning to tolerate and lean into uncertainty—and resisting the urge to seek reassurance—is a key part of recovery. You might instead say to yourself when the thoughts are swirling, “It’s ok not to know. I can lean into uncertainty.” 2. Practice non-engagement with intrusive thoughts When eating disorder thoughts or OCD thoughts feel overwhelming, non-engagement responses can feel hard. Still, with consistent practice, it becomes more natural over time. Non-engagement means acknowledging the presence of a thought without arguing with it, obeying it, or trying to make it go away. Example:
3. Work with a therapist who specializes in both conditions Treating co-occurring eating disorders and OCD requires specialized training and experience. While many therapists are well-intentioned, working without proper expertise can unintentionally reinforce unhelpful patterns such as excessive rumination or reassurance during sessions. A therapist trained in evidence-based approaches for both eating disorders and OCD can help identify how these conditions interact and guide treatment in a way that supports lasting change. Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C and Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C are clinicians here at The Eating Disorder Center who have specialized training and experience working with those with OCD and eating disorders. They can provide support for each of these as standalone issues or those struggling with the intersection of the two. Final Thoughts Living with both an eating disorder and OCD can feel overwhelming and isolating, but recovery is possible. With the right support, skills, and therapeutic approach, individuals can learn to disengage from compulsive cycles and build a more flexible, values-driven life. If you or someone you love is struggling, know that you’re not alone—and help is available. Interested in OCD and Eating Disorder Therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C and Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida and are OCD specialists on our team! Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in additional help beyond therapy? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  As the calendar flips to a new year, we are flooded with messages rooted in diet culture that push the idea that we need to “fix” ourselves. Every January, the same themes appear again and again: promises to lose weight, become “healthier,” start a new workout routine, or overhaul our eating habits. Gym memberships surge, restrictive meal plans are marketed as “wellness,” and so-called “lifestyle changes” are praised—though many of these are simply diets wearing a new disguise. For individuals who are recovering from an eating disorder, this time of year can feel especially overwhelming. When nearly everyone around you is talking about cutting out foods, shrinking their bodies, or “earning” their meals through exercise, it can be incredibly difficult to stay grounded in recovery. The constant noise of diet culture can make it feel like your healing journey is invisible, misunderstood, or even wrong. What makes this even harder is the way diet culture often reinforces eating disorder thoughts. Messages about weight loss and control are not neutral—they validate the very behaviors and beliefs that recovery asks you to challenge. Diet culture is not about health or well-being; it is about profit. And unfortunately, it profits by convincing people that their bodies are problems that need solving. Below are three practical and compassionate strategies to help you navigate the New Year while continuing to protect your recovery. 1. Take a break from diet-focused media Let’s be clear: food “detoxes” are unnecessary, unscientific, and often harmful. Your body already has a built-in detox system—your liver, kidneys, and digestive system handle that job perfectly well. There is no special cleanse required. However, there is one type of detox that can be incredibly beneficial during this season: a break from diet culture on social media. Begin by taking an honest look at your online spaces. Pay attention to how different accounts make you feel. If certain posts leave you feeling ashamed, anxious, or pressured to change your body, it’s okay—and healthy—to remove them from your feed. Unfollow or mute accounts that center on weight loss, calorie counting, “before and after” photos, rigid exercise routines, or moralizing food choices. This includes content framed as “clean eating,” “wellness,” or “lifestyle change” if it still promotes restriction or body dissatisfaction. Then, intentionally add voices that support healing. Follow accounts that promote body diversity, Health at Every Size principles, intuitive eating, and eating disorder recovery. Seeing people of different shapes, sizes, abilities, and backgrounds living full, joyful lives can be a powerful reminder that happiness and worth are not tied to weight. You may not be able to eliminate diet culture entirely, but you can absolutely shape your environment in ways that support recovery instead of undermining it. 2. Set intentions that center recovery and self-compassion Traditional New Year’s resolutions often fail because they are rigid, perfectionistic, and rooted in shame. They tend to focus on what we think is “wrong” with us rather than what we truly need. Instead of setting resolutions that last an entire year, consider creating short-term intentions that align with your recovery values. The New Year can still be a meaningful time to reflect—just without the pressure to transform yourself overnight. Try setting intentions for the next few weeks or months rather than the whole year. Shorter timeframes often feel more manageable and realistic, especially during recovery. Pro-recovery intentions might include gently challenging a fear food, practicing neutral or appreciative language toward your body, or noticing when negative self-talk appears and responding with kindness. You might focus on resting more, asking for help when you need it, or prioritizing activities that bring you peace or joy. These intentions are not about being perfect. They are about showing up for yourself with curiosity and care. Recovery is not linear, and progress does not require constant forward motion—it requires patience and compassion. 3. Lean on your support system when things feel hard Feeling triggered during the New Year does not mean you are failing at recovery. It means you are human in a culture that glorifies disordered behaviors. Be gentle with yourself when difficult thoughts or urges arise. If you notice yourself wanting to return to old patterns, reach out to someone you trust. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, dietitian, or another member of your treatment team. Eating disorders thrive in isolation and secrecy, which is why connection is such a powerful tool in healing. You deserve support, and you do not need to carry this alone. Speaking openly about what you’re experiencing can reduce shame and help interrupt harmful cycles before they take hold. If you are not currently working with a therapist, consider seeking one who specializes in eating disorders and practices from a Health at Every Size perspective. Professional support can make a meaningful difference and provide guidance tailored to your unique needs. The bigger picture The New Year can feel hopeful and motivating—but it can also be deeply triggering for those in recovery. Both experiences can coexist. As you move through this season, try to extend compassion not only to yourself but also to others who are still caught in the cycle of dieting and body dissatisfaction. When someone says they want to lose weight, they are often expressing a deeper desire—to feel confident, accepted, safe, or loved. Diet culture teaches people to chase these needs through body control, even though it rarely delivers. Remind yourself that your value does not depend on your size, your food choices, or your appearance. People of all bodies are worthy of respect, belonging, and care. If you feel pressure to make a resolution this year, consider letting go of things that cause harm instead of trying to change your body. You might work on releasing diet culture’s expectations, the thin ideal rooted in systems of oppression, harsh self-criticism, and the belief that weight determines health or worth. When that inner voice tells you that you are not enough, challenge it. When it suggests that shrinking your body will somehow improve your life, remember that this voice is not telling the truth. Focusing on weight loss often narrows your world—it takes up time, energy, and joy that could be spent living. Your eating disorder lies by promising control and happiness while taking so much away. You are already enough—exactly as you are. Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in additional help beyond therapy? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
By: Olivia Kline, EDC Administrative Assistant  Here at The Eating Disorder Center, we have a team of trained clinicians who specialize in eating disorders. Our team is unique in that all of our professionals have personally recovered from an eating disorder or have helped a loved one through recovery. Because of this personal experience, our therapists get it and have a passion for helping others going through a similar situation. If you are looking for a therapist who has been there, we may be a good fit for you! Hope That Comes From Real Recovery Recovery is not abstract for these clinicians—it’s a lived reality. Their presence alone is a quiet but powerful reminder: Recovery is possible, and you can get there too. Many clients describe feeling more hopeful when working with a recovered therapist because they see someone who has walked through the same darkness and come out the other side. This isn’t just motivational—it can strengthen the therapeutic alliance and increase motivation to engage in difficult but meaningful work. A Unique Ability to Challenge the Disorder Compassionately A recovered clinician understands how difficult an eating disorder can be. They know the mental loopholes, the fear-driven logic, and the resistance that often shows up in treatment. Because of this, they can challenge the eating disorder without adding shame to the equation.They use a combination of empathy and firmness to help clients feel safe enough to be honest and supported enough to make changes. Reduced Stigma and Increased Transparency Eating disorders carry heavy stigma, and many clients fear being misunderstood, minimized, or labeled as “irrational.” Working with someone who has lived experience can reduce this fear dramatically. Clients often report:
A Balanced Blend of Empathy, Boundaries, and Professional Skill Clinicians with lived experience undergo rigorous training, supervision, and ethical education just like any other provider. They learn how to use their personal history appropriately—not as the center of treatment, but as a supportive lens that enhances their understanding. This means they can offer:
This blend can create a deeply attuned environment where clients feel both supported and guided. Representation: “Someone Like Me Can Recover and Thrive” For many people, especially those who feel unseen or who struggle with identity-related barriers—representation matters. Seeing a therapist who has recovered can disrupt harmful myths, such as:
Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in additional help beyond therapy? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
 The holiday season is supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” right? But if you’re in recovery from an eating disorder, it can also be one of the most challenging. Everywhere you turn, there’s food, family gatherings, and a change of routine — all things that can stir up anxiety or make it harder to stay grounded in recovery. If you’re feeling that way, please know you’re not alone. Many people in recovery find this time of year overwhelming. Between travel, parties, and endless conversations about food or diets, it’s easy to feel out of sync. I want to share three common challenges that tend to come up around the holidays — and some compassionate, realistic ways to work through them. Challenge #1: When Your Routine Gets Shaken Up One of the biggest hurdles during the holidays is the disruption of your normal routine. When you’re in recovery, consistency can be incredibly stabilizing. You might have a structured schedule during the week: set mealtimes, therapy sessions, classes, or work commitments that keep you anchored. Then suddenly, the holidays arrive, and everything changes. Maybe you’re coming home from college, staying with relatives, or traveling to a new place. The foods are different, the timing of meals changes, and the rhythm of your days might feel totally off. That can be unsettling, especially if structure helps you feel safe in your recovery. Here’s something that might help: bring some familiar snacks or foods with you. It might sound simple, but having your go-to granola bar or favorite crackers nearby can make a world of difference. Those familiar foods can provide a sense of stability when everything else feels unpredictable. It can also be helpful to plan ahead. Before you leave for break or go to a holiday dinner, think about your general meal structure, what times you usually eat and what kinds of foods you typically include. Even if things aren’t exact, having a loose plan can help you stay consistent. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s about giving yourself enough structure to feel supported. And if things don’t go perfectly? That’s okay. You’re human. Flexibility is part of recovery, too. Try to show yourself compassion if the day looks different from what you imagined. Every time you choose nourishment and care for yourself, you’re reinforcing your recovery, even if it looks a little messy in the moment. Challenge #2: Family, Food, and Boundaries Let’s be honest — family time can be both wonderful and stressful. You might love your relatives deeply and still find being around them hard. Especially when food and body comments start flying around the table (“I’m being so bad eating this pie!” or “You look so healthy!”). Even well-meaning remarks can be triggering when you’re recovering from an eating disorder. One helpful step is to set clear boundaries ahead of time. You can kindly ask family members to avoid talking about food, dieting, or bodies while you’re together. It might feel uncomfortable to bring it up, but you deserve a safe space where recovery is respected. You could say something like, “I’m focusing on my recovery, and it would really help me if we could avoid diet or body talk during meals.” If that conversation feels too intimidating, consider asking someone you trust, a parent, sibling, or close friend to help advocate for you. Having an ally in the room can make a big difference. Another strategy is to identify a support person, someone you can check in with before, during, or after a family gathering. This could be a friend, a therapist, or someone else who understands what you’re working through. You might send them a text when you start feeling anxious or schedule a quick check-in call after dinner. Recovery can feel lonely at times, but you don’t have to face triggers on your own. It’s also okay to take breaks. If you need a few minutes to breathe, step outside, or listen to music, that’s not “escaping”, that’s self-care. Give yourself permission to protect your peace. Remember: you are allowed to enjoy the holidays without getting caught up in the diet talk or food comparisons that so often surround them. You’re doing recovery on your own terms, and that’s something to be proud of. Challenge #3: Staying Grounded in Recovery When routines shift and triggers appear, staying connected to recovery can feel harder. That’s completely normal. But a little preparation can go a long way. If you work with a treatment team — like a therapist, dietitian, or support group, try talking with them ahead of the holidays. Together, you can come up with a plan that supports your meal structure and coping strategies while still leaving room for flexibility. Maybe that means bringing specific foods you feel safe eating or brainstorming responses to triggering situations. It can also help to reflect on why you chose recovery in the first place. What made you decide to fight for freedom from your eating disorder? What do you look forward to experiencing as you heal? Writing these reflections down in a journal or your phone can be powerful. When things feel tough, you can come back to your words and remind yourself of your purpose and strength. Another idea is to make a short list of “recovery reminders”, things that ground you when your eating disorder voice gets loud. It might include quotes that inspire you, names of people who support you, or small comforts that make you feel safe. Keep it with you throughout the season as a gentle anchor. Most importantly, remember that one difficult moment or slip does not erase your progress. Recovery isn’t linear. What matters most is your willingness to keep coming back to yourself, to keep choosing healing, even when it feels hard. The Bottom Line Holidays can be complicated, full of joy, love, connection, and yes, stress. But you’ve already done one of the bravest things possible: choosing recovery. That courage doesn’t disappear just because the calendar changes. Lean on your support system. Stay in touch with your treatment team if you have one. Remind yourself that you deserve to feel safe, nourished, and included. You don’t have to navigate this season perfectly — you just have to keep showing up for yourself, one day and one meal at a time. You are doing better than you think. You are strong, capable, and worthy of peace during this holiday season. Take a deep breath — you’ve got this. Interested in therapy at The Eating Disorder Center? At The Eating Disorder Center in Boca Raton, Florida, our clinicians, Jennifer Rollin LCSW-C and Lauren Levine, MSW, LCSW-C provide virtual therapy throughout the state of Florida. Reach out to us via our contact form or call us at 301-246-6856 to get started with a free 15-minute consultation with an eating disorder specialist. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide more information about our center or the clinicians on the team! Interested in additional help beyond therapy? If you’re looking for more help to supplement therapy, we offer eating disorder recovery coaching. Coaching can be a great addition to your treatment, and it can be a game-changer during recovery! Our coaches, Javoni Cobb, MA and Sarah Baginski, MSW are here to help you in your journey to finding freedom from food and body obsession. Schedule a free 15 min consult for eating disorder therapy in FL, or recovery coaching worldwide. Click here. Eating Disorder Therapy Boca Raton is a premier outpatient eating disorder therapy center founded by Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C. We specialize in helping teens and adults struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, OSFED, and body image issues. We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Parkland, Naples, Miami Shores, and Palmetto Bay. Virtual eating disorder therapy throughout Florida.
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