Coaches have lived experience of an eating disorder and use the learnings from their recovery to empower, equip and give you a reason and motivation to keep fighting. They can guide you in a non-judgemental, empathetic and collaborative way. Coaches make themselves more available in-between sessions to provide support and encouragement to implement recovery skills when you are struggling the most. Coaches work really well in tandem with psychologists and nutritionists because they support clients to implement the skills to achieve the treatment goals.

Unfortunately no, with the exception of meal support, which can be done in-person. Our Coaching sessions are provided online for a number of reasons:

1. Accessibility: Online sessions break geographical barriers, allowing individuals from anywhere to access coaching services without the need for travel. This makes Coaching more convenient for people with busy schedules and allows for a wider reach for our services across all of New Zealand.

2. Convenience: Online sessions offer flexibility in scheduling, making it easier for both the Coach and the client to find mutually convenient time slots. This can be particularly beneficial for clients with hectic lifestyles or irregular work hours.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: Operating solely online eliminates overhead costs associated with maintaining physical spaces for Coaching sessions. This cost efficiency can translate to more affordable services for clients.

4. Technological Advancements: With advancements in technology, online platforms offer various tools for communication and interaction, enabling Coaches to conduct sessions effectively. Video conferencing, chat features, and file sharing facilitate a rich Coaching experience virtually.

5. Comfort and Privacy: Some individuals might feel more comfortable discussing personal matters or sensitive topics from the privacy of their own space. Online sessions can provide a sense of security and confidentiality.

Absolutely, your confidentiality is your right! All notes taken will be kept in a password protected document and you can request to see your notes at any time. There are certain limits to confidentiality when there is enough information for the Coach to believe the client is at risk, such as rapid weight loss, physical health concerns, or at risk of suicidal ideation. If the Coach believes there is reasonable concern, they will contact your GP, the Police, the crisis team, or an emergency contact you provided. All efforts will be made to ensure communication is done respectfully and effectively.

When I was looking for treatment over 20 years ago, I tried at least 4 or 5 counsellors, groups and GPs before I found a psychotherapist who ultimately walked me through my recovery over a period of 3 years. I’m glad I didn’t give up because now I live my life in food freedom and I am so thankful that I decided to keep fighting.

Trying a Coaching service after previous unsuccessful attempts can be beneficial for several reasons:

1. Different Approach: Each Coach, psychologist or counsellor has a unique style, expertise, and approach. What didn’t work in previous attempts might simply be due to a mismatch in styles or approaches. Trying a new Coach could offer a fresh perspective and different strategies tailored to your needs.

2. Specific Expertise: Coaches often specialise in various areas, and at Food Freedom Coach, I specialise in binge eating, bulimia and emotional eating. Finding a coach whose expertise aligns more closely with your current needs or challenges could lead to more effective guidance.

3. Timing and Readiness: Sometimes, previous attempts might have been made when you weren’t fully ready or receptive to the process. After some time and personal growth, you might be in a better mental space to engage more effectively with Coaching.

4. Refined Goals: Your goals or objectives might have evolved since your last experience. Realigning with a Coach to reassess and refine these goals can provide a clearer path forward.

5. Diverse Perspectives: A new Coach brings a fresh perspective. Their unique experiences and approach may uncover solutions or perspectives that were overlooked previously.

6. Commitment and Openness: Sometimes, success in coaching relies on the client’s commitment and openness to the process. Being more open-minded and committed to the Coaching journey can significantly impact the outcomes.

My encouragement for you is to not give up and to keep looking until you find the right fit. Everyone has different styles of therapy and Coaching. Keep looking until you find one that works for you.

As a Coach at Food Freedom Coach, my style is flexible and personal, but also structured and clinical. I draw on my personal experience and battles, if it is helpful for you. I like to get to know my clients and find out what works for them. I am very open to feedback and can adjust my sessions based on what you find helpful. As a registered Social Worker who worked in Mental Health, my clinical experience gives me the ability to draw on evidence-based practices (e.g. CBT and ACT) to equip my clients with knowledge and skills. I provide resources and worksheets for you to use in between sessions.

Yes, you can see a Coach without seeing a psychologist or nutritionist. The best results can be achieved when Coaches work alongside psychologists and nutritionists, but it is not essential. Many of my clients do not work with other health professionals and they are still able to achieve their recovery goals.

With the rise of living costs in New Zealand, many people are struggling financially. When I was looking for treatment more than 20 years ago, the only treatment available were psychiatrists and clinical psychologists that charged over $200 per hour. That was way more than what I could afford as a student. That is why I started Food Freedom Coach, to reach more people, at affordable prices. With the Monthly Packages, there is an upfront investment each month at a lower weekly rate. If you are unable to pay upfront, please contact me and we can discuss other options.

Everyone’s recovery journey is different, and one size does not fit all. It is important not to rush recovery and to continue Coaching until you are fully recovered to prevent relapse. I have found the more work you put in, the more you get out of it. If you are really struggling and need more input, I would recommend my Wrap Around Package, as it provides two weekly sessions, a phone check-in and unlimited in-between session support. We can discuss what the right Package is for you after our initial meeting. See “Packages” for more details.