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Question
hi. im 30 years old 5ft6 and weigh106 pounds. im unsure whether to seek help or not. ive had a problem with food for the past 12 years. i am scared stiff of putting weight on and control everything i eat so it doesnt happen. the thing is i want to be a bit fatter.its the fear of loosing control that bothers me.. i know i will look and feel better if i was fatter..so what do you suggest i do.. i eat the same foods every day and im sick of it but i just cant change the way i am...hope you can help thank you.
Hi Susan-
I think you are ready to start getting the help you need. First, please remind yourself that it will be difficult but that you can do it. Second, keep in mind that you are NOT alone, there are many people in the exact same boat, and with help they are getting better. In terms of planning, you will need to find a therapist and nutritionist who specialize in eating disorders. They will help you get started and be there throughout. Let me know if I can help you find people you feel like you can trust. Please consider it. Best of luck.
Dr. Lhulier
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Answers by Expert:
Joanna Lhulier, Psy.D.
Expertise
I can answer several different types of questions about eating disorders, and how to deal with them. I can help figure out how to determine whether an individual needs professional help; how to choose what type of treatment may be most effective (i.e. therapist, nutritionist, psychiatrist or combination). I can give information about what a person can do to avoid relapse which would include an explanation regarding how to identify and avoid triggers and give ideas about where to get help in person and online. I can also give advice to concerned family members or friends. Perhaps most importantly, I can help increase self-understanding and acceptance.
Experience
I have been in private practice for seven years. My specialty is working with individuals struggling with eating disorders and/or body image issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
Organizations
The American Psychological Association
Eating Disorders Hope
Division 39 of APA (Psychoanalytic Psychology)
Publications
I have published a paper about training in the Psychoanalytic Psychology journal which is sponsored by the American Psychological Association. My writing and presentation interests include exploring topics such as loneliness, the learning process, and the benefits of mindfulness meditation.
Education/Credentials
I have earned a doctorate in Professional Psychology from the George Washington University (2001). I obtained my Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University (1997).
Awards and Honors
I serve as a member of the Clinical Supervisory Faculty for The George Washington University's Professional Psychology Doctoral Program. I am also an adjunct professor in Argosy University's Professional Psychology Doctoral Program.
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