Eating disorders represent a complex and multifaceted condition that affects countless individuals across Ottawa. At The Balanced Practice, we understand that eating disorders are not just about food but are deeply rooted in psychological, biological, and sociocultural factors. As a dedicated team located in Ottawa, ON, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for those struggling with eating disorders, aiming to foster healing and sustainable recovery.
Our approach is holistic and person-centered, acknowledging the unique journey of each individual. Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and others, require specialized care and understanding. By combining nutrition and psychology, we aim to support our clients in developing a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.
Multidisciplinary Support
Our team consists of registered dietitians, psychotherapists, social workers, and support staff, all working collaboratively to address the needs of our clients. We provide a range of services including psychotherapy, counseling, nutritional counseling, and more. Our approach is anti-oppressive, weight-inclusive, and evidence-based, ensuring that every client feels supported and valued throughout their recovery journey.
Individualized Care
At The Balanced Practice, we emphasize the importance of personalized treatment plans. We understand that recovery from eating disorders is not a one-size-fits-all path. Services are tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients, whether they are seeking support for eating disorders, nutritional counseling, or therapy. Our specialized programs for eating disorder recovery acknowledge the uniqueness of each individual's journey.
We believe in the power of inclusivity and diversity. Our practice welcomes clients of all backgrounds and identities, providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone. Empowerment and support are at the core of our work, allowing clients to address their challenges and move towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Understanding the barriers to accessing care, we offer both in-person and online services, ensuring short-to-no wait times. This flexibility allows clients across Ottawa and Ontario to receive the care they need when they need it. Our operation hours are flexible, accommodating the diverse schedules of those we serve.
Education and community support play a crucial role in destigmatizing eating disorders and promoting mental health. Through speaking engagements, workshops, and clinical mentorship, we strive to spread awareness and knowledge about eating disorders, their impact, and the pathways to recovery.
We actively engage with the Ottawa community, offering resources and support to not only those affected by eating disorders but also to families, educators, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders. By fostering a community of understanding and support, we aim to create lasting change in the way eating disorders are perceived and treated.
Recovery from an eating disorder is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and continuous support. At The Balanced Practice, we believe in empowering our clients to take active roles in their recovery process. Through education, therapeutic interventions, and nutritional guidance, we help individuals reconnect with their bodies, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build resilience against future challenges.
The diversity of our client base is reflected in our adaptable and respectful treatment approaches. Understanding that eating disorders do not discriminate, we ensure that our services are accessible and relevant to people from all walks of life. This commitment to diversity is mirrored in our team, our programs, and our day-to-day interactions with clients.
Treating Ottawa eating disorders requires a collaborative effort. Our team works closely with healthcare providers, families, and other relevant parties to ensure a cohesive recovery plan. Collaboration extends beyond the walls of our practice; we actively work with community organizations and initiatives to broaden the support network available to our clients.
Interestingly, the United States reports the highest number of eating disorder cases globally. This prevalence is often attributed to various factors, including societal pressures, media influence, and a culture that emphasizes thinness as an ideal. However, it's crucial to note that eating disorders are complex conditions influenced by a range of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. They do not discriminate and can affect individuals in any country, culture, or community. Our approach at The Balanced Practice is to understand these multifaceted influences and offer comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each individual.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in Canada, characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. It's a condition that many people struggle with in silence, due to shame or lack of awareness about the disorder. At The Balanced Practice, we aim to create a supportive environment that encourages open dialogue about BED and other eating disorders. By providing evidence-based treatment and fostering a community of understanding, we help individuals find sustainable paths toward recovery.
Research indicates that young women, particularly those aged 12-25, have the highest rates of eating disorders. Despite this, it's crucial to recognize that eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background. Our practice adopts an inclusive approach, offering specialized care that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by various groups, including men, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those of diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. We believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, personalized care for eating disorders.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a relatively new diagnosis in the realm of eating disorders. Unlike anorexia or bulimia, ARFID doesn't necessarily involve distress about body shape or size, or an intense fear of gaining weight. Instead, individuals with ARFID may avoid food due to a lack of interest, sensory discomfort, or a previous negative experience related to eating. It can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies and impact social situations that involve eating. Our team at The Balanced Practice is trained to recognize and treat ARFID by employing strategies that address the specific fears and avoidances of those affected.
At The Balanced Practice, we prioritize a holistic and person-centered approach to treatment. We understand that eating disorders are not merely about food but involve a wide range of psychological, biological, and sociocultural factors. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates to create personalized treatment plans that integrate nutrition counseling, psychotherapy, and support from social workers and other professionals. We are committed to providing anti-oppressive, weight-inclusive care that empowers our clients to develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies. Through education, therapeutic interventions, and community engagement, we support individuals on their journey toward recovery and resilience.
We offer different services in order to meet you exactly where you are at and provide you with the most appropriate level of support to reach your goals (no one-size-fits-all here). Our team works closely together and with other healthcare professionals to make sure we can provide you with the very best care.
Here at The Balanced Practice, we get it. We believe that you deserve more joy, more connection, and more fulfillment. After all, life is meant to be experienced fully (and not spent feeling stuck in our own heads). And we want to help, our team is available during the day and into the evening!
