Working with a dietitian who truly understands eating disorders can make all the difference in your recovery.
At Erica Leon Nutrition, we believe that finding the right support can feel overwhelming, and we want to help reduce that stress adn overwhelm for you.
To help you find that person, we have some key information on what to look for when choosing an eating disorder dietitian, so you or your loved one can get the care and guidance that feels supportive, not restrictive.
What is an Eating Disorders Dietitian?
An eating disorders dietitian is a specialized professional with training and experience in helping people heal their relationship with food, navigate recovery, and find lasting balance. This is something a general practice dietitian, who may not have this specific expertise, may not be equipped to do.
What Sets Them Apart from other Dietitians?
Just like you wouldn’t see a general surgeon for back surgery, seeing a dietitian without eating disorder expertise can sometimes do more harm than good.
They are a Specialist who:
- Recognizes disordered eating patterns that might otherwise be overlooked.
- Understands that recovery is about more than just “eating more.”
- Knows how to support complete weight and nutritional restoration without bias.
- Provides structured meal plans that don’t feel restrictive or triggering.
- Uses compassionate, nonjudgmental language to reframe your relationship with food.
- Works alongside therapists and doctors to ensure well-rounded care.
Why Finding the Right Dietitian Can Be Hard.
A dietitian who truly understands eating disorders will meet you where you are, providing the guidance and support you need – without making recovery feel like just another diet. Finding the right dietitian can be a turning point in your journey towards healing.
How to Find an Eating Disorders Dietitian for you.
If you’re looking for an eating disorder dietitian, ask these key questions when speaking with prospective people:
- Do you specialize in eating disorders? (At least 50% of their caseload is eating disorders.)
- What’s your approach? (Look for weight-inclusive, evidence-based care.)
- How often do you collaborate with therapists or doctors? (Frequent coordination is best.)
- How much training do you have in this field? (10-20 hours of ongoing education per year is ideal.)
If you’ve ever felt dismissed or misunderstood by a provider, you’re not alone. But the right dietitian can change everything. We’re here for you.
If you need support, please reach out and book with your current dietitian to talk through your challenges or if you are looking for an eating disorders dietitian, there are several on our team and we work virtually in many states.
Feel free to book a call and speak with Erica, she will help determine who on our team would be the best fit for you, depending on where you are on your food journey and how we can help.
Not quite ready to work with a dietitian?
We have several free nutrition resources that can help you with your nutrition goals. Check them all out here.
Erica Leon is a Registered Dietitian and practices from a Health at Every Size (HAES®) lens. She and her team of eating disorder specialists and Anti-Diet Dietitians provide insurance-based care for eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting, or other health conditions in a safe and non-judgmental space for healing.
We work virtually with our clients from our offices in Westchester County in New York as well as the tri-state areas of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, along with Alabama, California, the District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Oregon, Texas, Vermont, and Wisconsin. We are in-network with the following insurance companies: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Emblem Health and United Healthcare; including Oxford, UMR, and The Empire Plan (NYSHIP).
We take the time to learn where you or your family are in the pursuit of health. Respectful of your individual needs and lifestyle, Erica will provide an honest assessment of whether or not you are a good fit to work together. Click here to schedule a 15-minute Discovery Call with Erica to let us know about your needs, and to see which of our Dietitians is the best fit for you!
