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Eating Disorders and Chronic Illness: Treatment Where There is No Finish Line

Meet Tamie Gangloff

Author, Educator, Counselor, Coach, Scoliosis Warrior, Sober, Recovered

As an athlete with a disability, my journey through spine surgeries and the lengthy recovery process has equipped me with the tools to overcome injuries and navigate life in my body.

Although it can be unpredictable and frustrating at times, I know that I can always recover. One source of inspiration for me has been reading books about athletes who have triumphed over incredible odds after life-threatening injuries.

Their stories have given me hope that I, too, can emerge from my challenges even stronger. I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire you with that same sense of hope.

How can we recover from an eating disorder and learn to trust ourselves and our bodies, especially when we are in a body that functions differently? Many individuals develop eating disorders due to body image disturbances and the perception that their bodies don’t work the way they are supposed to.

Chronic medical conditions and the trauma associated with complex surgeries or accidents can lead to PTSD and other psychiatric co-morbidities. It is crucial for clinicians to recognize trauma, grief, anxiety, and body image issues that arise from medical conditions. By doing so, we can effectively assess and treat clients facing these complex challenges, ultimately fostering resilience and recovery.

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Bio

Tamie Gangloff, M.A. is a clinical psychology professional, national business development representative for a residential eating disorder treatment program, and adjunct professor at West Chester University, where she teaches Eating Disorder Psychology.

Tamie earned her master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and has worked across all levels of eating disorder and substance use treatment. She is an advocate with the Eating Disorders Coalition, founding president of the Southwest Philly and Central PA iaedp Chapters, former group leader for The National Alliance for Eating Disorders, and Medical Trauma Advisor for Root to Branch.

Drawing from both professional expertise and lived experience, Tamie focuses on the intersections of chronic illness, eating disorders, medical trauma, body image, and resilience. She has presented nationally and internationally, including for SOSORT, iaedp, and ISSA Korea.