This is my story and “why” I am doing this work

I have worked as a diabetes dietitian and mental health dietitian with both young people and adults. After specialising as a paediatric diabetes dietitian for 13 years, at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead in Sydney, NSW, I moved to the Sunshine Coast in Qld, and commenced working in the paediatric ward. I noticed that there was a steady influx of adolescents with Eating Disorders (ED) admitted for nasogastric refeeding. I soon gained interest and started research into in this area. Around this time, I started expanding my skills and knowledge in ED’s working as a private practicing Dietitian. It was the very personal recent experience of supporting my daughter through the recovery journey of an ED that set my course to study as a mental health practitioner (Counsellor).

I understand the feelings as a mum, of shame and guilt and am very grateful I was aware of the early warning signs and quickly sought help. I remember feeling like I had to convince the GP to provide a referral and feeling very judged. After all I was an experienced ED Dietitian. Then there was the 3 months wait to see a mental health practitioner with experience in adolescent ED’s.

The aim of being dually trained was to provide a nutrition recovery service alongside mental health support. A collaborative approach is so important including an ED experienced GP and psychologist. The family of carers and loved ones also form a critical network of support for recovery.

I provide individualised treatment that is evidenced based and goes against the dieting culture. I believe that the way we think about and view ourselves has a huge impact on how we live our lives. I place value on every individual I come into contact with and believe that seeking treatment is the first step towards the recovery journey.

My goal is to provide young people, along with their families, and adults, mental health and nutrition support to recover from eating, weight, and body image concerns. I am excited to have the opportunity to walk alongside you and to share what I have learnt both personally and professionally. I want you to discover a better way of thinking and relating to your body and food that creates freedom for you to flourish 😊

My Qualifications