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Achieve recovery. Heal your relationship with food and body.

Compassionate OCD & Binge Eating Dietitian Nutritionist in Colorado, Body Image Counseling for Lasting Wellbeing

Embark on a journey towards cultivating a self-compassionate, trusting, and empowering relationship with food, body, and overall well-being. Our certified dietitians in medical nutrition therapy, with expertise in OCD and Binge Eating, provide compassionate care to guide you towards lasting well-being. They empower you to reclaim trust and freedom in your relationship with food and body, enabling you to embrace life with a revitalized sense of wellness and vitality.

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What is the goal of medical nutrition therapy for people with OCD & Binge Eating?

At Side By Side Nutrition, our certified dietitians in medical nutrition therapy provide personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling specifically tailored for individuals grappling with both OCD and Binge Eating. With locations in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins, Colorado, as well as Woodinville, Washington, our services cater to patients statewide and nationwide through both in-person and online nutrition counseling.

Our approach is rooted in a weight-inclusive philosophy, giving precedence to positive behaviors, holistic well-being, establishing trust with food and bodies, and fostering self-compassion. We are committed to assisting clients in cultivating a new, enduring, compassionate, respectful, and trusting connection with food, body image, and self.

 
 

What is What difficulties may arise when OCD intersects with binge eating?

When OCD intersects with binge eating, individuals may face a range of challenges that stem from the overlapping symptoms and impact of these two conditions. Here are some difficulties that may arise:

  1. Compulsive Rituals Around Food: Individuals with OCD may have specific rituals or compulsions related to food preparation or consumption. When combined with binge eating, these rituals can become more complex and distressing.

  2. Contamination Fears: OCD may involve intense fears of contamination, leading to compulsive cleaning rituals. In the context of binge eating, individuals may struggle with conflicting thoughts about the perceived "cleanliness" of food, adding an extra layer of anxiety.

  3. Guilt and Shame: Binge eating often brings feelings of guilt and shame. Individuals with OCD may experience heightened levels of guilt due to perceived transgressions of their own compulsive rules or rituals, compounding the emotional burden.

  4. Difficulty Establishing Eating Routines: OCD's impact on routines and rituals may interfere with establishing healthy eating patterns. The compulsion to follow specific rituals or routines can disrupt regular meals and contribute to irregular eating habits.

  5. Increased Anxiety and Stress: Both OCD and binge eating are associated with heightened anxiety. The combination of these conditions may result in increased stress levels, making it challenging for individuals to manage and cope with their symptoms effectively.

  6. Negative Impact on Self-Esteem: Binge eating and OCD can independently contribute to negative self-perception. When these conditions intersect, the negative impact on self-esteem may intensify, as individuals may feel overwhelmed by the simultaneous challenges they face.

  7. Impaired Quality of Life: The combination of OCD and binge eating can lead to a significant impairment in the overall quality of life. Daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being may be negatively affected, requiring comprehensive and specialized intervention.

 
 
 

It's crucial for individuals facing these challenges to seek professional help from practitioners experienced in treating both OCD and binge eating. A tailored and integrated approach can address the unique aspects of each condition and support individuals in managing their symptoms effectively.

Despite seeming insurmountable now, it's crucial to recognize that complete recovery is achievable. Our team of specialized experts is uniquely equipped to work with you and the treatment team to guide you towards full recovery.

 

Is it common for people with OCD to struggle with binge eating or another eating disorder?

There is a notable association between OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) and eating disorders, including binge eating disorder. While not everyone with OCD experiences eating disorders, research suggests an increased prevalence of eating-related concerns among individuals with OCD. Here are some key points:

  • Comorbidity Rates: Studies have found higher rates of comorbidity between OCD and eating disorders compared to the general population. Binge eating disorder, in particular, has been identified as one of the more prevalent eating disorders in individuals with OCD.

  • Shared Features: OCD and eating disorders share certain features, such as repetitive behaviors and rituals. Individuals with OCD may develop specific rituals or compulsions related to food, and these behaviors may contribute to or coexist with patterns of disordered eating.

  • Common Triggers: Stress and anxiety, which are central to OCD, can also be triggers for disordered eating behaviors, including binge eating. Individuals with OCD may use food as a way to cope with or alleviate their anxiety.

  • Perfectionism and Control Issues: Perfectionism and a desire for control, common themes in both OCD and certain eating disorders, may intersect. This can manifest in rigid eating habits, extreme dieting, or and resulting episodes of binge eating.

  • Body Image Concerns: OCD-related obsessions and compulsions can extend to body image concerns, influencing an individual's relationship with food and contributing to the development of eating disorders.

It's important to note that the co-occurrence of OCD and eating disorders does not imply a direct causal relationship. Each condition has its distinct features, but their coexistence may complicate the overall clinical picture. Individuals experiencing symptoms of both OCD and disordered eating should seek professional evaluation and support. Comprehensive treatment approaches, which may include therapy and nutritional counseling, can be tailored to address the unique challenges presented by the intersection of these disorders.

 

What does a dietitian do for someone with both Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and an eating disorder?

Our dedicated team of dietitian nutritionists are committed to guiding clients toward a path of healing that transcends fear and shame. By addressing food fears and dismantling negative body image, we empower clients to become the experts of their body and to shift their perspective towards love, respect, and acceptance. This helps, clients reach lasting recovery. Together, we work to eliminate food and body shame, identify triggers leading to self-doubt, and foster a trusting relationship with food and body, allowing space for genuine values to emerge.

Recognizing that the answers lie within each individual, our multi-disciplinary team of medical nutrition specialists facilitates a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Eating disorder recovery is not just about overcoming an eating disorder; it's about creating a full and empowered life through food and body image healing.

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What does nutrition therapy include?

 

A Comprehensive Initial Assessment

Our comprehensive approach starts with an in-depth assessment focused on your unique needs, examining your past and present relationship with food, body image, and health history. With your consent, we collaborate to understand your goals for our partnership. In our specialized work with OCD, EDs, and nutrition, we prioritize holistic well-being by addressing the challenges associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. We aim to support a positive relationship with food and enhance overall health through personalized strategies tailored to your specific needs and aspirations.

 

Build Trust in the Body’s Natural Cues

Our focus is on breaking free from the persistent thoughts and behaviors linked to OCD and ED-related challenges that may keep individuals trapped in a cycle of distress. Together, we initiate a transformative journey to cultivate trust in the body's natural cues, fostering a renewed sense of freedom and openness in life. Utilizing targeted interventions, we address the underlying factors contributing to disordered eating patterns, aiming to liberate individuals from the constraints associated with OCD and ED and its impact on nutrition and well-being.

 

Go Beyond Symptom Management - Shift Body Image Perception

Our focus goes beyond mere symptom management; we aim to bring about a profound shift in body image perception, fostering self-acceptance and a genuine appreciation for one's unique identity in the context of OCD and ED-related challenges. By dismantling the mental and emotional barriers imposed by OCD and ED, we empower our clients to embrace a life free from constant mental strain, cultivating a newfound sense of joy, purpose, and possibility. Follow-up sessions are integral to our collaborative work. We thoroughly explore your relationship with food and body, addressing challenges and co-creating personalized tools. We delve into body image exploration, dismantling external influences related to OCD and ED and promoting a supportive environment. Our goal is to assist you in expanding variety and flexibility with eating, learning to respond to your body's cues, and cultivating a positive and joyful relationship with food and body in the context of OCD and ED and its unique challenges.

 

Continued Support

Throughout your journey, we offer unwavering support, navigating the inevitable ups and downs. We celebrate your progress and stand by you as you cross the finish line. Our mission is not only eating disorder recovery but also the cultivation of a life that is rich, meaningful, and fully aligned with your values. We believe in the importance of this journey and the therapeutic relationship, and our dedicated dietitians are here to guide you every step of the way.

 

TESTIMONIALS

Testimonials List

Recent “graduate” from Side by Side Nutrition. I started working with SBSN to figure out how food worked after having an eating disorder for years. And I’m so happy I got so much more than that! SBSN introduced me to Self-Compassion and met me with an approach that never included shaming me. I looked forward to our sessions every week, even if I hadn’t done any of my work, because I knew she’d be understanding and work with me to figure out what I needed to make it happen. And none of that compassion and presence was lost when we had to switch to telehealth. When I started, I didn’t think healing from an eating disorder was possible. And I never in my wildest dreams imagined that I’d come out of it with an unshakable love for my body (certainly not a plus size body with chronic illness)! I’m so glad circumstances sent me here because I know I wouldn’t have gotten to this place with my previous dietician! I am STRONG, I am CONFIDENT, and I am in LOVE with myself! Thank you so much for helping me on my journey here! It wasn’t easy, but it was so worth it!

— Michaela Myers

I worked with SBSN at Side by Side after an eating disorder diagnosis, and it changed my life for the better. The entire team is incredibly supportive, patient, and full of resources. There's a lot of confusion out there about dieticians and nutritionists, and I'm lucky to have found a place that helped me the way no one ever had. I thought recovery was impossible for me, but it's not! You just have to find the right people, and that can take some digging. Side by Side is the real deal.

— Melanie Smith

As the director of an eating disorder outpatient clinic, licensed psychologist, and certified eating disorders specialist, I am extremely picky about the dietitians my team and I will collaborate with. I can say with full confidence that my team completely trusts Jamie Magdic and her entire team of dietitians. Jamie is incredibly compassionate and dedicated to her patients, in addition to being extremely knowledgeable . Side By Side Nutrition is one of our clinic's top picks for nutrition therapy. They are excellent, know eating disorders, and are actually weight-inclusive and HAES-informed. I would trust Side By Side Nutrition with any patient with any diagnosis in any stage of recovery.

— Dr. Janean Anderson

I started working with SBSN after 20 years of disordered eating and 3 years of eating disorder treatment. My RDs were always focused on my weight restoration and how I felt food, but never really got how I felt about my body. I have made bigger strides in recovery working with SBSN than I ever did with any other RD. SBSN is kind, compassionate, non-judgemental, and easy to relate to. I felt comfortable with SBSN starting from day 1. To quote my therapist, SBSN is a unicorn and you won't find anyone like them!

— Alexandria McCombs

When I started working with SBSN, I had been struggling with my eating disorder for over six years. I had worked with RDs and therapists before, but they solely focused on weight restoration and not the mental aspect of recovery, so I stayed stuck in my disorder while in a "recovered" body. SBSN's approach was unlike any other RD or eating disorder specialist I had worked with before in that she treats her clients as whole, multifaceted people and addresses so much more than just the food piece of recovery. They helped me to constantly challenge my eating disorder and tackle food fears while also teaching me about the importance of self care and self compassion in recovery and how I could incorporate these into my life. I truly feel that my work with SBSN not only helped me win my battle against my eating disorder but helped me to be a stronger, happier, healthier person in general now that I have those self care tools. It was so refreshing to work with someone with a holistic approach to eating disorders and body image issues and I cannot recommend working with her enough! Thank you so much SBSN for your support!

— Kacey

SBSN gave me peace and restoration in my mind, body, and life. I had deeply rooted issues surrounding food and my body, and I thought I would never recover from my concerns. I had my reservations about meeting a dietician on my first appointment, but the therapy is never diet-focused, and focused more on client-centered care and recovery. They tailor therapy sessions around your goals and comfort. They provide many resources for her clients to guide them through each phase of recovery. I will never forget SBSN, they were an essential factor in my recovery.

— Lauren

I am so thankful to this organization, they are helping me out so much in so many different areas. My dietitian is an outstanding registered dietitian to work with and Jamie has jumped hoops to make sure that I could get into this program and I am so humbled by their partnering care! I love the inviting and accepting feel of the staff and overall office feel, from when I walk in the doors through when I walk out after my appointment every time I come. I truly don’t know where I’d be if I didn’t have Side by Side guiding me through my healing journey. My eyes well with gratitude for this practice as I write this review! Thank you!!!

— Mary Sanders

Our team of Expert Dietitian Nutritionists Have Been Featured In:

 

Our Team of Dietitian Nutritionists, Expert ED and Medical Nutrition Counselors

 

The Side by Side Nutrition team has a team of 12+ outpatient registered dietitians. We provide online nutrition counseling to patients in Colorado and around the country. We offer one-on-one and family nutrition counseling for patients either online or in person, with offices located in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins. We specialize in eating disorder recovery and body image healing.

RD - Registered Dietitian
RDN - Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
MS - Masters of Science

As specialists in ED nutrition counseling our mission is rooted in compassion. We:  

  • Strive to create a safe and nurturing space for individuals on their journey to wellness. 

  • Understand the profound impact that eating disorders can have on one's life.

  • Are committed to fostering a supportive community where every client feels seen, heard, and understood. 

  • Work from an intuitive eating, HAES (Health at Every Size) Informed Approach.

  • Believe everyone has the right to high-quality care – accessibility and inclusivity are at the core of our values.

  • Stand firm in our belief in the possibility of full recovery. 

  • Continually invest in our education to stay at the forefront of the field.

  • Are committed to ongoing learning.

  • Channel all our resources into becoming the best eating disorder nutritionist counselors.

  • Are dedicated to guiding our clients toward a life of lasting health and empowerment.

 

We Accept Insurance:

We are committed to ensuring that our clients have access to healthcare, and we make every effort to facilitate this. We accept insurance plans such as BlueCross Blue Shield (Anthem/Regence), United HealthCare (Optum), Aetna, and Cigna.

 
 

Dietitian for ED and Medical Nutrition Therapy FAQ

 

Do people with OCD have problems with food?

Yes, individuals with OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) may experience problems related to food. Obsessions and compulsions can extend to concerns about contamination, fear of harming others through food preparation, or the need for specific rituals around eating.

What percentage of people with eating disorders have OCD?

The comorbidity between OCD and eating disorders varies, but research suggests that a notable percentage of individuals with eating disorders also experience symptoms of OCD.

Why is OCD worse when hungry?

Hunger can potentially exacerbate OCD symptoms due to increased stress and anxiety levels. Hunger may amplify obsessive thoughts and make it challenging for individuals with OCD to cope with their compulsive behaviors.

Do I Can OCD cause digestive problems?

While OCD itself is a mental health disorder, the associated stress and anxiety may contribute to physical symptoms, including digestive problems. Stress can affect the digestive system, leading to issues such as indigestion or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

How does OCD affect preparing food?

OCD can impact food preparation in various ways. Individuals may have obsessive fears related to contamination, leading to compulsive rituals such as excessive handwashing or avoidance of certain foods. This can significantly interfere with the ability to prepare and consume meals.

Can OCD cause binge eating?

OCD itself is not a direct cause of binge eating. However, individuals with OCD may develop comorbid conditions, such as binge eating disorder, where compulsive eating becomes a way of coping with obsessive thoughts or distress or ritualistic and rigid food rules and restriction lead to binge eating episodes.

Is binge eating related to OCD?

Binge eating can be related to OCD in some cases, particularly when individuals use compulsive eating behaviors as a way to cope with obsessive thoughts or anxiety. However, it's essential to consider each individual's unique circumstances, as not everyone with OCD engages in binge eating behaviors.

What insurance plans do you accept?

Side By Side Nutrition is in network with Cigna, Cigna Localplus, Aetna, BlueCross Blue Shield (Anthem/Regence), UMR, and United Healthcare. Prior to your visit, please call your insurance company to check your benefits. We can not guarantee coverage. 

For other insurance companies, we are out-of-network providers. This means we can provide you a superbill to submit to insurance for possible reimbursement. SBS can not submit superbills without a medical diagnosis. Payment is due at time of service for folxs using out of network benefits.

How does treatment work? What does a typical session look like?

An outpatient team consists of a dietitian, therapist, and primary care physician at minimum. Sessions are highly individualized and change from week to week depending on the needs, goals, behaviors, and journey of each client. Our dietitians are constantly assessing the needs, progress, safety, and next steps with their client’s short and long term goals in mind. 

An outpatient team works collaboratively to ensure clients get the best care for their recovery while staying in their day to day life. Clients in eating disorder recovery being treated on the outpatient level will typically visit with their dietitians 1-2x/week, therapist 1-2x/week, PCP monthly, and psychiatrist as needed.

I don’t live in Colorado, can we still work together?

Absolutely! We are passionate about making care accessible for you and offer telehealth services and online nutrition therapy when appropriate. We will meet via a HIPAA-compliant video conference platform and communicate between sessions using email. 

We provide nutrition counseling to clients from around the county. 

How do I get started?

You can schedule directly online here!

You can also contact us to help you schedule via our contact form here.

If you have any questions about working with us or scheduling, feel free to contact us via email or phone: contact@sidebysidenutrition.com or call us at 708-717-7394.