Specializing in eating disorders recovery and body image work
Suzanne Friedman, PhD (202) 686-1155 ext. 3
I recall the look of relief on her face the first time I said, “I don’t believe that your eating disorder is the core issue. I believe it is the strategy you use to deal with the core issue.”
The client sitting before me, who had struggled with an eating disorder for years, was stunned. Although I was not her first therapist, she noted that I was the first one who conveyed understanding that having an eating disorder can feel like a friend. She told me, “It’s the only thing I can count on.” Of course the idea of relinquishing this support feels virtually impossible to you.
From our first meeting I will respect your feelings and we will work together to examine the role the eating disorder serves in your life. Behaviors like restricting, bingeing, purging, and obligatory/compensatory exercise tend to diminish when you gain insight into how the eating disorder developed. With understanding comes greater opportunity to make meaningful and lasting changes. You can feel better.
Contact me for a free initial consultation
My role as your therapist is twofold. First, together we examine core emotional issues and work on skill development. Second, and with your consent, I will ensure that you have a team of professionals to help you learn more about nutrition and monitor your physical health. I regard you as an equal participant our team.
What is recovery?
Essential elements of recovery from an eating disorder include:
· The freedom to focus on your interests and goals
· The ability to:
o identify and express your needs
o manage your emotions in a productive ways
o eat intuitively
o exercise for health and well-being
o describe the function your eating disorder has served
· A solid plan for self-care
What else can I expect in therapy?
· An interactive conversation where your beliefs, feelings, and wishes are valued
· Skill building, including useful ways to manage stress and assert yourself
· Discussion to challenge societal assumptions that equate worth with body size.
What does body image mean anyway?
Body image refers to our perception about our physical body, and the feelings, thoughts and behavior that arise from that view.
You may struggle with any or all of the four facets of body image:
· Perceptions about your overall body
· How you see your body or individual body parts
· Feelings about the way in which your body moves through space
· How your body image perceptions influence your behavior.
Suzanne Friedman, PhD 5100 Wisconsin Ave, NW Suite 300 Washington DC 20016 (202) 686-1155 extention 3 drsuziefriedman@gmail.com