Understanding the Struggle and Seeking Help with Hannah Merrell, LPC-MHSP
What are Eating Disorders:
Eating disorders (EDs) are complex and life-altering conditions that affect individuals in profound ways. Caused by a mix of genetic, psychological, sociocultural, and physiological factors, eating disorders often result in severe disruptions in eating behaviors, accompanied by distressing thoughts and emotions surrounding food and body image. Without proper treatment, eating disorders can be life-threatening. At The Child & Family Counseling Center, Hannah Merrell, LPC-MHSP, specializes in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, offering compassionate, expert care tailored to each person’s unique journey toward recovery.
Types of Eating Disorders
Anorexia Nervosa (AN): Characterized by an intense fear of weight gain and behaviors that prevent weight gain, including restrictive eating. Individuals with AN often experience a distorted body image, leading to significantly low body weight.
Bulimia Nervosa (BN): Characterized by episodes of overeating followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting, laxative use, or excessive exercise. This cycle is often linked to an intense preoccupation with body shape and weight.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED): The most common but least discussed eating disorder, BED involves frequent binge-eating episodes without compensatory behaviors like purging. These episodes often lead to psychological distress and may significantly impact social and emotional well-being.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not related to body image or weight concerns. Instead, it involves a lack of interest or avoidance of food, often due to sensory sensitivity, leading to nutritional deficiencies and significant social or psychological consequences.
What does an eating disorder look like?
Eating disorders can manifest in various ways, including:
- Preoccupation with food or eating
- Skipping meals or restricting food intake
- Guilt or shame after eating
- Body image concerns, such as avoiding mirrors or buying clothes that are too big
- Purging behaviors, including self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or using laxatives
- Body checking, such as measuring body parts or weighing oneself frequently
- Inability to stop eating once full, or compulsively measuring food portions
These behaviors often stem from deeper emotional issues and unmet needs, making treatment for eating disorders a holistic process. It’s not just about food—it’s about addressing the emotional connections and psychological factors that fuel the disorder. Every eating disorder is unique, and recovery requires a tailored, individualized approach.
The Role of Hannah Merrell in Eating Disorder Treatment:
Hannah Merrell, LPC-MHSP, is a key provider at The Child & Family Counseling Center who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders. With a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding eating disorders, Hannah utilizes evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help clients address not just their eating behaviors, but the underlying emotional and psychological challenges they face.
In addition to her experience, Hannah is actively pursuing her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) certification, which signifies her commitment to providing the highest quality of care in this field. The CEDS certification, awarded by the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (IAEDP), is recognized as the gold standard for professionals treating eating disorders and demonstrates her advanced expertise and continued education in this area.
Hannah’s approach to treatment is collaborative, working closely with a comprehensive care team that may include nutritionists, dietitians, medical providers, and other specialists. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of an individual’s recovery are addressed, from nutritional guidance to emotional healing, providing clients with the full support they need for long-term success in their journey toward recovery.
Comorbidity: Eating Disorders and Mental Health
It’s important to note that eating disorders often co-occur with other mental health conditions, such as:
- Major depression
- Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder
- Substance use disorders
- Trauma and self-injury
- Suicidal ideation
For effective recovery, it’s essential to address both the eating disorder and any co-occurring mental health concerns. Hannah takes a comprehensive approach, integrating treatment for all aspects of mental health and well-being.
Treatment for Eating Disorders: A Personalized Approach
At The Child & Family Counseling Center, we understand that eating disorders are not one-size-fits-all. Our treatment plans are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that the root causes of the disorder are addressed. Whether you are dealing with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or ARFID, Hannah Merrell’s expertise in eating disorder treatment will help guide you toward recovery, focusing on long-term healing, self-compassion, and emotional well-being.
With her collaborative model, Hannah works alongside an experienced team of professionals to provide comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs. This approach promotes a well-rounded path to recovery, supporting both mental and physical health.
Get the Help You Need
Eating disorders can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face them alone. Hannah Merrell, LPC-MHSP, is here to offer compassionate support and expert care. Reach out today to schedule your first appointment or learn more about how we can help you on your journey toward healing.
Contact us to learn more or schedule your first appointment.