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.
Bio
Tamie is a marriage and family therapist and National Business Development Representative for a residential eating disorder treatment program. She is also an adjunct professor at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, USA teaching Eating Disorder Psychology.
Tamie completed her master’s in clinical psychology at Antioch University in Santa Barbara, California, USA and has worked at all levels of care for eating disorders and substance abuse. She is an advocate with the Eating Disorders Coalition, the Founding President of the Southwest Philly Chapter of the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, and a former group leader for The National Alliance for Eating Disorders. She is the Medical Trauma Advisor for Root to Branch.
Tamie utilizes her personal and professional experience to help others and advocate for change and offer support to others. Tamie has presented internationally on the topic of Chronic Illness, Eating Disorders and Resilience at conferences including the International Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) and IAEDP as well as a webinar for The International Scoliosis Scientific Association (ISSA) Korea.
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