Eating Disorder Therapy for Athletes
Are you tired of feeling lost and
disconnected from your body?
Do you fear losing fitness or strength
if you try to heal your body?
Your mind is taken over by thoughts of
food and how to properly fuel yourself.
The voice takes over that tells you how everything you eat will impact how fast you run. The voice that once made you feel in control, now leads you to this immense fear your body changing.
You have tried to listen to the voice, but only feel weak and unsettled, isolated, and alone. Team meals feel confusing and hard as you debate over how certain foods will make you feel.
These thoughts dominate your every day life from school, to work, to practice, to the non-existing social events that you can't muster up the energy to attend.
You are ready for change.
At Serendipity Counseling Services, we understand athletes face unique challenges regarding their mental health and physical well-being. Our approach combines individual therapy with a deep understanding of sports culture, ensuring athletes receive the support they need to thrive both in and out of their sport.
But Starting Eating Disorder Therapy is Scary...
Fear of Change
You know how comfortable we get with our routines, even if they're not the healthiest? Well, imagine having to break away from those routines entirely. It's like stepping into the unknown, and that uncertainty can be really scary, especially when it feels like those routines are the only things keeping me grounded.
Loss of Control
Controlling your intake feels like a way to feel strong. Yet at this point the thing that has made you feel strong, is leaving you feeling out of control. That only makes you want more control and more power and giving up the thing that has made you feel strong, feels way to scary if all you want is that control back.
Body Changes
You have put so much time into trying to make your body smaller. The thought of it changing is absolutely terrifying. You fear that therapy might lead to changes in your body, whether it's gaining weight or losing control over how you look. The uncertainty feels crippling.
Not Sick Enough
Sometimes, you look around and see stories of people who seem to be struggling much more intensely than you. It makes you wonder if you are just overreacting or if your struggles aren't valid enough for therapy. It's this constant comparison game, questioning if you are deserving of help or if you should just tough it out on your own. It's like feeling stuck between feeling like you need help but also feeling like you don't deserve it.
Stigma and Shame
You know how we sometimes worry about what others think of us? Well, imagine that, but multiplied by a hundred. There's this fear of being judged or looked down upon because of something that feels like it's beyond your control. It's like carrying around this heavy weight of shame everywhere you go.
Changes in Performance
You love being active and have put years into getting in shape. You fear that focusing on recovery, could lead to a decrease in speed or strength. Your athletic ability has defined so much of who you are. Taking time off is not something you are comfortable with for so many reasons.
Addressing Your Fears
Will you weigh me?
As a virtual therapist, I do not weigh my clients. I do however, often communicate with medical providers who do, but I will always help advocate for blind weights, if weights are needed. Otherwise, I will help you advocate to not get weighed!
Will you make me stop my sport?
My goal as an eating disorder therapist for athletes is to help you improve your relationship with your sport. If you want to keep training, I want you to keep training. If there are high risks for your health, however, I will need to take that into consideration.
Will I need to see a dietitian?
Depending on your unique situation, will depend on what I recommend. It is often helpful to have a registered dietitian, along with a therapist to help with recovery. I will always do my best to find someone that I feel would be a good fit for you.
Will I gain weight?
This is a fear of so many individuals. I cannot promise you that you will gain or lose weight. I can tell you that whatever changes occur, I will be by your side supporting you through the discomfort.
Why Choose Serendipity for Eating Disorder Therapy as an Athlete?
Expertise: Founder, Kate Ringwood, LPC, specializes in working with eating disorders, while combining clinical knowledge with an understanding of sports psychology.
Individualized Treatment: Every athlete is unique, which is why we work with you to find goals based on your own values, to address individual needs.
Holistic Approach: We focus on healing the mind and body in unison, promoting overall wellness and peak performance.
Confidentiality: We prioritize privacy and confidentiality, creating a safe space for athletes to explore their challenges and seek support through HIPPA-compliant software.
Collaborative Care: We work closely with coaches, trainers, dietitians, and medical professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to treatment.
At Serendipity Counseling, we are committed to supporting athletes on their journey to recovery and peak performance. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, we're here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our specialized therapy services for athletes.
Still not sure if you need support?
Check out this quick and easy assessment to see how your relationship with food, body, and movement is.