What We Treat
At Alberta Wellness Centre, we provide compassionate support for a wide range of eating-related struggles. Whether you’re dealing with a clinical eating disorder like Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), or experiencing disordered eating patterns without a formal diagnosis, our services are here for you.
We understand that disordered eating can manifest in various forms, from restrictive dieting and calorie counting to overeating, emotional eating, and binge-eating episodes. Our team is dedicated to addressing the underlying causes of these behaviors, including distorted thinking and irrational beliefs surrounding food, weight, and appearance.
We offer specialized support for picky eating, sensory sensitivities, and traumatic food experiences, alongside addressing issues like body image concerns, orthorexia, and excessive exercise. Our inclusive approach extends to supporting diverse populations, including BIPOC communities, neurodivergent individuals, and the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Additionally, we provide services for individuals with comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Our support spans across the lifespan, from children to adults, and includes resources for family members impacted by their loved one’s eating disorder.
At Alberta Wellness Centre, our goal is to empower individuals and their support systems on their journey toward a healthier relationship with food, body, and self.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions characterized by abnormal eating behaviors, distorted body image, and intense preoccupation with weight and food. They affect individuals of all ages, genders, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses. Despite common misconceptions, eating disorders are not choices or lifestyle preferences but serious illnesses with potentially life-threatening consequences. Understanding the various types of eating disorders is crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and support.
Understanding the complexities of eating disorders is essential for providing appropriate support and intervention to those affected. Support and treatment services for eating disorders are available through the Alberta Wellness Centre, where compassionate care and evidence-based interventions are provided to help individuals on their journey towards healing and recovery.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is a complex mental health condition marked by an intense fear of gaining weight. Individuals with anorexia become excessively preoccupied with achieving a smaller body size, often employing strict dietary restrictions and behaviors to control their body shape and size. This obsession can lead to significant weight loss, although it may not always result in noticeable changes in body weight.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa involves recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise. Individuals may maintain a relatively normal body weight, but their eating behaviors are often secretive and accompanied by shame and guilt. Bulimia can lead to serious medical complications, including electrolyte imbalances and gastrointestinal problems.
Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder involves recurrent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors. Individuals feel a lack of control during binge episodes and may consume large amounts of food rapidly, even when not physically hungry. Associated with distress and embarrassment, Binge Eating Disorder can lead to serious health problems.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is characterized by extreme avoidance or restriction of food intake, leading to significant weight loss and impaired functioning. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by body image concerns but may be associated with sensory sensitivities or traumatic experiences related to food. Seeking professional help is crucial for recovery from ARFID.
Disordered Eating
At Alberta Wellness, we understand that disordered eating encompasses a variety of unhealthy eating behaviors that significantly impact both physical and emotional well-being. This can include restrictive eating, binge eating, and emotional eating, often fueled by underlying psychological and cultural factors. Our dedicated team offers comprehensive support through tailored treatment options, including psychological counseling, nutritional guidance, and group therapy, to help you reclaim a healthy relationship with food. If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating, we encourage you to explore our services and take the first step toward healing and recovery.
Body Image Challenges
At Alberta Wellness, we recognize that body image challenges affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds, often leading to significant emotional distress and impacting overall well-being. Body image concerns can manifest as negative self-perception, low self-esteem, and unhealthy comparisons with societal ideals. Our compassionate team provides comprehensive support through various therapeutic approaches, including psychological counseling and body positivity workshops, aimed at fostering a healthier self-image and promoting self-acceptance. If you or someone you care about is struggling with body image challenges, we invite you to explore our services and begin your journey towards a more positive relationship with yourself.