What to Expect When You See a Dietitian at The Emily Program

By Lisa Diers, RD, LD, E-RYT, Director of Nutrition Services

Today I want to talk about the role of the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and what to expect in your first session with an RDN at The Emily Program.

At The Emily Program, part of your treatment will likely include meeting with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. And you may be wondering — what role does the RD play in recovery?

Well, let’s talk about it!

The answer is simple: eating disorders affect people’s psychological, emotional, and physical health. Your dietitian helps you deal with the physical impact of the eating disorder.

At The Emily Program, our Nutrition Department is comprised of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs), Dietetic Technicians, and Culinary Professionals.

Below are some things you can expect in a session with an RDN. Sessions can vary for each person as we individualize our approach to meet your unique needs. At the Clinical Nutrition level, our RDNs take great pride in our ability to create a welcoming environment in order to:

• Assess your clinical nutrition needs. This process typically begins in the initial 45-60 min session.
• Take the time to get to know you, your concerns, fears, and goals.
• Provide a meal plan, plan for eating, or guidance toward a balanced relationship with food.
• Assist you in developing improved eating, exercise, symptom, weight, and body image patterns.
• Help you understand the roles of nutrition, weight, activity, and body image in overall health.
• Partner with you to develop steps toward symptom management and improved physical health.
• Provide education on the functionality of nutrition related to physical and mental well-being.
• Work collaboratively with your treatment team to provide comprehensive care.
• For loved ones, parents and professionals—we are steeped in nutritional eating disorder knowledge and will work closely with you to help you provide the best support possible.

We understand eating disorders. We understand that the decision to focus on recovery takes courage. We have the highest respect for this process and will help you chart your course to health and healing.