Staff Spotlight, Hannah Halbur

Tell us about yourself!

Hi! My name is Hannah, and I’m a Behavioral Health Specialist at The Emily Program’s South Sound outpatient site in Lacey, Washington. Currently, I am working virtually, assisting the Adult Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). I have a BA from the University of Montana, where I double majored in Psychology and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. In the nearly four years I have worked at The Emily Program, I’ve worked in-person, virtually, and with clients in various levels of care.

What one thing do you wish everyone knew about eating disorders?

Eating disorders are biological, brain-based disorders. I am deeply passionate about researching and sharing the neurobiological underpinnings of how eating disorders impact the mind and alter how chemical messages are sent and received, including the mechanisms that carry the messages.

If you could do another job just for a day, what would it be?

A certified Bob Ross painting instructor.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

When I’m not working, you can find me shooting pool with friends, going on walks with views of the Puget Sound, playing with my cat Tootie, or watching HGTV. I also love board games and play Settlers of Catan on a weekly basis.

What’s something you’re really proud of?

I’ve advocated for eating disorder awareness for nearly a decade. My advocacy started when I was in high school on the speech and debate team, where I wrote an original oratory speech on the biological perspective of eating disorders. I was fortunate enough to share this message with many, as I won the state title in this event and qualified to compete nationally. Since then, I have found every opportunity to start conversations that increase awareness and understanding of eating disorders and the people who struggle with them.