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View the
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This site is dedicated to providing accurate information about the prevention and treatment of eating disorders. Here you will find the following information:
- signs and symptoms of an eating disorder
- risk factors that increase the likelihood of someone developing an eating disorder
- a quiz to help determine whether or not you have a problem
- information for family and friends about how to help
- a list of reliable resources including books, websites and treatment options
- tips to help prevent eating disorders and body image dissatisfaction
This site also outlines the treatment and prevention services I provide in southern Ontario, and links to treatment providers elsewhere in Canada and the United States. To learn more about me, click here.
Eating disorders (ED's) are a serious illness affecting as many as one in ten women in North America. Many people mistakenly think someone with an eating disorder should just eat, and then all would be well.
But, believe it or not, eating disorders are NOT really about food and weight - they just seem to be, because the person struggling with an eating disorder talks about little else!
While fears about food, weight and appearance are involved in this illness, it's important to know that eating disorders really indicate that there are deeper problems, like the ones listed in the animated intro to this site (such as low self-esteem, fear of failure, and a need for control). Often, eating disorders function as a coping mechanism - a way for someone who feels overwhelmed to try and cope with (or avoid) their problems.
Contrary to some beliefs, ED's are not a normal developmental phase that a person will just "grow out of", nor are they completely the fault of the media and superthin models. Eating disorders are a very complex mental illness - and like many illnesses, an eating disorder can be fatal if untreated. In fact, it's estimated that as many as 20% of all people who develop an eating disorder will die from it!
You should know that people with eating disorders come in a range of sizes and shapes (in fact, more often than not, a person with an eating disorder does NOT look underweight) and that you can't tell whether or not someone is sick just by looking at them. Often, by the time someone looks sick on the outside, a tremendous amount of damage has already been done on the inside. This is why it's so important to get treatment as soon as possible!
There are three main kinds of eating disorders:
Anorexia which is characterized by severe restriction of food, weight loss, intense fear of fat, and severe body image distortion. Often these patients will refuse to eat or dramatically reduce their intake; get quite thin; hide under bulky clothes; and become secretive about their eating. The second, and more common type, is bulimia which is characterized by periods of bingeing and purging (with or without periods of restricting); secretive eating; and body loathing. These patients may appear "normal" weight or be heavier or thinner than they once were. The third kind of eating disorder is called compulsive overeating (also called binge eating disorder) and consists of periods of bingeing without purging; followed by feelings of shame or self-loathing; and possibly periods of ongoing dieting.
Unfortunately, no one knows exactly what causes an eating disorder. However, we do know a fair amount about treatment, and we also know what DOESN'T help. Read on to learn more about both of these, and the services I offer in southern Ontario.
Candy S. MacNeil, M.S.
Individual and Family Therapist
Specializing in Eating Disorders and Marriage & Family Therapy
147 Wyndham Street North, Suite 403
Guelph, ON N1H 4E9
(519) 760-3031
For e-mail, use Contact form.
Degrees
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA USA
Master of Science, Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy,
Chestnut Hill College, Philadelphia, PA USA
Professional Memberships
Member:
Ontario Association of of Consultants, Counselors, Psychometrists and Psychotherapists
Experience
Ten years treating patients (female and male, adult and adolescent) with eating disorders on both an inpatient and outpatient basis, in Canada and the United States.
To learn more about my practice and approach to treatment, click here.
OUTPATIENT SERVICES - I provide individual, couples and family therapy on an outpatient basis to men and women of all ages in southern Ontario (Guelph, Toronto, and the surrounding areas) who either have an eating disorder or fear they are on their way to developing one. I also counsel family members and friends throughout the illness and recovery process. If you would like to arrange an appointment, click here.
PRESENTATIONS & SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS - I am available as a speaker to groups of any size regarding the prevention and treatment of eating disorders; body image; self-esteem; and related topics. I frequently speak to students, parents, teachers and administrators; employers; and women's groups among others. I have also provided training at conferences and seminars. To arrange a presentation or training for your group, click here.
My fee for counseling and consulting service is currently $70/hour (excluding speaking engagements; fee to be arranged).
A referral from a healthcare professional is not required for counseling. However, medically unstable clients will be required to remain under the care of a physician, with whom I may confer, for the duration of treatment.
I can be contacted directly at (519) 760-3031 for more information or to arrange a consultation.
This site and all content (unless otherwise noted) are Copyright © 2001, Candy MacNeil.