Staff Spotlight: Leah Palm, Dietitian

Leah Palm is a Dietitian at The Emily Program in Saint Paul, Minnesota. She has worked as a Dietetic Technician at The Emily Program since 2015.

TEP: Tell us about yourself!

Leah: Hello! My name is Leah Palm and I am a dietitian at The Emily Program and I hope to work here for years to come! I was born and raised in St. Anthony and currently reside there. In my free time, I like to hang out with family and friends. No children, husbands or pets at this time, just a wonderful boyfriend!

TEP: Tell us about your position at The Emily Program.

Leah: I have the honor of being a program dietitian, which means I get to spend lots of time with the clients who are in the Intensive Day Program and Intensive Outpatient Program levels of care. I eat breakfast and lunch with them daily, participate in case management, teach a nutrition class, and meet with them individually for dietitian appointments. I like getting to participate in meals with the clients. It’s a great way to build rapport and learn more about them but also better understand how their eating disorders present when food is involved.

TEP: What do you like the most about working for TEP?

Leah: I love seeing the progress my clients make throughout their recovery. It’s cool to look back upon when someone first started treatment versus now and reflect on how much progress has been made. I also can’t forget to mention my coworkers. They are extremely supportive and always there to help consult me through complicated client cases.

TEP: Do you have a favorite health tip?

Leah: When it comes to food choices, my favorite health type is encouraging moderation, balance, and variety. I truly believe all foods can fit!

TEP: What’s a piece of advice you give to those in recovery?

Leah: I like to remind my clients that recovery is a journey and the journey is not linear! There’s going to be ups and downs and that’s okay. One bump in the road doesn’t define recovery. It takes time!

TEP: What’s your favorite food?

Leah: I don’t think I can pick just one! I’d have to say my favorites are lasagna or a medium-rare steak with garlic mashed potatoes and some roasted vegetables. I guess you could say I just love food!

TEP: Do you have a favorite quote or saying?

Leah: “She believed she could, so she did.” I truly believe willpower play a huge role in one’s success.

TEP: What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

Leah: I love to travel but have never been out of the country! I’m hoping to travel out of the country in the near future!