Health, Wellness & Fitness - Toronto, Ontario, Canada
INDIVIDUAL COUNSELINGAnn's work is evidence based using different modalities depending on the issues and options most suited to her clients. She works with people with all kinds of eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and body image issues. She collaborates with professionals from a number of areas of expertise, such as dietitians, psychologists, psychiatrists, family doctors, therapists, counselors, educators and hospital-based teams. The decision to start therapy may happen quickly in a time of crisis, but is usually a more cautious decision fraught with fear, doubt, skepticism, denial and shame. In recognition of this, individual counseling with Ann is a process of working toward mutually agreed upon goals within the context of a supportive, open, therapeutic relationship based on respect and empathy. Ann works primarily with older adolescents and adults. FAMILY SUPPORTAnn provides family members professional, guided support to understand and facilitate change within the family. In particular, for families who have a member with an eating disorder, parents or spouses may require strategies to help them make the best decisions possible for their loved ones. Family support may involve learning skills to handle food and meal times, money and contingencies for harmful behaviours, as well as processing feelings and concerns for their loved one. Family support may occur with or without the loved one receiving care.CONSULTATIONAn eating disorder consultation may be the first step for someone seeking entry/care at a hospital based or residential program. A consultation also provides clarification and a plan of care in the context of other issues. The consultation process takes several sessions, and may involve interviews with family members. Recommendations based on the assessment are reviewed with the client, and a plan of care or referral will be made according to the client's needs and readiness for change. This may involve coordinating care locally, regionally or in the USA.