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Online Support Groups for Anorexia with an Eating Disorder Dietitian Nutritionist for Community, Lasting Healing, and Recovery

Embark on a transformative journey towards complete recovery and overall well-being from Anorexia by incorporating an online support group into your treatment plan. Participate in our online support groups facilitated by certified medical nutrition therapy dietitians, offering a nurturing community to guide you on the path to lasting healing. Join us to empower yourself, regain trust and freedom with food and body, and embrace life with renewed wellness and vitality in a compassionate and understanding group environment.

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What is the goal of Online Support Groups for anorexia support?

At Side By Side Nutrition, our certified medical nutrition therapy dietitians provide online support groups specifically tailored for individuals facing anorexia and other eating disorders.  Our dietitians are based in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins, Colorado, as well as Woodinville, Washington, and we work with patients from all over the state and country providing online support groups as well as in-person and online nutrition counseling.

Our approach is rooted in a weight-inclusive philosophy, emphasizing behaviors, whole-self wellbeing, trust with food and our bodies, and self-compassion over numbers.  This is  the cornerstone of lasting health. We firmly believe that true wellness goes beyond the scale. We focus on helping clients discover a new sustainable, compassionate, respectful, and trusting relationship with food, body image, and self.

 
 

What is anorexia?

Anorexia Nervosa, a type of eating disorder, triggers an intense fear of weight gain, leading to distorted body image, struggles in maintaining a healthy weight, fear and distrust of food, food and body preoccupation and anxiety, all of which can result in medical and psychological complications. It presents in two subtypes: the restrictive subtype, characterized by severely limiting food intake to sustain a low body weight, and the binge-eating/purging subtype, which involves a combination of food restriction alongside binge-eating and/or purging behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, and misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas.

Anorexia Nervosa can affect individuals regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status, job occupation, sexual orientation, ability, neurodiversity, race, ethnicity, or body shape and size.

Although it may seem very overwhelming to navigate recovery, it's important to acknowledge that complete recovery is attainable and support is available. Our team of specialized professionals is uniquely positioned to collaborate with you and the treatment team, guiding you towards achieving full recovery.

 
 

What can I expect from an online support group for anorexia? What are the benefits?

Joining an Eating Disorder (ED) support group can be a crucial step toward recovery for individuals struggling with these challenging conditions. These groups offer a supportive and understanding community where members can share their experiences, fears, and triumphs in a non-judgmental, inclusive, and compassionate environment. The benefits of participating in an ED support group are plentiful, contributing significantly to an individual's overall well-being and recovery journey.

WHY JOIN AN ED SUPPORT GROUP:

  • Understanding and Empathy:

    • One of the primary reasons to join an ED support group is the opportunity to connect with others who share similar struggles. Members of the group can empathize with the challenges individuals face, fostering a sense of understanding that might be lacking in other social circles.

  • Reduced Isolation:

    • Eating disorders often lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Support groups provide a safe space where individuals can share their thoughts and emotions, breaking the isolation that can amplify the effects of the disorder.

  • Shared Coping Strategies:

    • Members of the support group can exchange valuable coping strategies and tips that have helped them navigate through difficult moments. Learning from the experiences of others can provide new perspectives and tools for managing triggers and setbacks.

  • Sense of Belonging:

    • Being part of a support group can create a profound sense of belonging. Knowing that there are others who understand and accept you without judgment can be a powerful motivator for recovery.

  • Education and Awareness:

    • Support groups often provide educational resources about eating disorders, including information on treatment options, nutrition, and the importance of seeking professional help. Increased awareness can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

WHAT DO SUPPORT GROUPS PROVIDE?

  • Emotional Support:

    • Members of an ED support group offer emotional support by listening, sharing, and validating each other's experiences. This creates a nurturing environment that promotes emotional healing and resilience.

  • Accountability:

    • Support groups can serve as a source of accountability. Members set personal goals and share their progress within the group, fostering a sense of responsibility to oneself and the community.

  • Safe Space for Expression:

    • The support group provides a non-judgmental space for individuals to express their thoughts, fears, and triumphs. This open dialogue can be instrumental in breaking down barriers and building a foundation for recovery.

  • Peer Mentorship:

    • More experienced members who have made significant progress in their recovery can offer guidance and mentorship to those who are newer to the journey. This peer support can be invaluable for setting realistic expectations and goals.

  • Hope and Inspiration:

    • Witnessing the recovery journeys of others within the support group can instill hope and inspiration. Seeing that recovery is possible and achievable can motivate individuals to persist in their own efforts.

In conclusion, ED support groups play a vital role in providing a sense of community, understanding, and resources for individuals struggling with eating disorders.

HOW DO OUR DIETITIAN-LED VIRTUAL EATING DISORDERS DISCUSSION GROUPS WORK:

Learn more here and contact us to join our support groups!

These can be a vital part of your recovery. We recommend you join these groups while, and after going through medical nutrition therapy.

Important Note: Online support groups are a valuable addition to your support network, but they do not replace the need for ongoing treatment with a comprehensive team of healthcare professionals. It is essential to continue working with a treatment team, including therapists, dietitians, and medical professionals, to ensure a holistic and personalized approach to your recovery journey.

 
 

What population is most at risk for anorexia?

Anorexia Nervosa does not discriminate, and anyone, regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, ability, neurodiversity, body shape and size, race, or ethnicity, can be at risk. The widespread occurrence of anorexia nervosa across various demographics underscores their potential impact on individuals from all backgrounds. It's vital to understand that susceptibility to eating disorders is not confined to any particular group, underscoring the need for broad awareness, education, and support for all.

Psychological elements, genetic predisposition, and concurrent mental health conditions also significantly influence vulnerability. Recognizing these factors is crucial for early intervention and support, highlighting the necessity of addressing anorexia across diverse populations.

 
 

We want to work with you.

 
 

What does a dietitian do for ED?

Our devoted team of nutrition experts specializing in eating disorders is dedicated to guiding clients toward a journey of healing that transcends fear and shame. By addressing concerns around food and dismantling negative body image perceptions and behaviors, we empower clients to reclaim ownership of their relationships with food and body and to shift their outlook, beliefs, and behaviors towards love, respect, and acceptance. This transformation paves the way for sustainable recovery and lasting wellbeing. Together, we strive to eradicate feelings of shame related to food and body image, identify triggers that fuel self-doubt, and nurture a trusting relationship with both food and body, creating space for our authentic selves and true values to emerge and thrive.

Recognizing that each individual holds the key to their own healing journey, our diverse team of medical nutrition specialists facilitates a process of self-exploration and empowerment. Recovery from an eating disorder and disorder eating extends beyond overcoming the eating disorder; it involves cultivating a rich and empowered life through healing around food and body image.

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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

 

Are support groups effective for anorexia?

Support groups have proven to be effective for individuals grappling with anorexia, providing a sense of community where experiences and challenges can be shared. Facilitated by certified medical nutrition therapy dietitians or mental health professionals, these groups offer expert guidance, ensuring that discussions are informative and constructive. Peer connections within the group allow for the exchange of insights, coping strategies, and encouragement, reducing the sense of isolation often associated with anorexia. Educational components, focusing on anorexia, nutritional guidance, and evidence-based recovery strategies, contribute to participants' understanding and skill development. Emotional support is a key aspect, providing individuals with a space to openly discuss their emotions and receive empathetic responses from those who comprehend the challenges. The accountability fostered by regular group participation encourages commitment to recovery efforts, while the prioritization of confidentiality and anonymity creates an environment conducive to open and honest discussions. The flexibility of online access allows for convenient engagement from home, and skill-building opportunities are often introduced to aid in coping with anorexia and fostering healthier relationships with food. Overall, support groups empower individuals in their recovery journey, providing encouragement and resilience in overcoming the challenges associated with anorexia.

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 contact us about support groups 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.

What is Health At Every Size?

Health at Every Size™ is a compassionate care framework that recognizes and promotes body diversity and holistic health. We recognize a focus on intentional weight loss causes harm, does not improve health, and further invokes weight stigma and discrimination. We believe any person in any size body can pursue health and create positive behavior change that prioritizes their individual health desires.

What is Intuitive Eating?

Intuitive Eating is an approach to eating that incorporates building body trust, intuitive responses, emotional awareness, and listening to your body. It encourages self-compassion, curiosity, trust, and a gentle attitude towards food in order to cultivate and maintain a sustainable, healthy, and trusting relationship with food and body image.