Real Health Radio

Dr. Jennifer Averitt, a clinical health psychologist specializing in CBT and mindfulness for diabetes, sleep, pain and eating disorders, plus co-author of a weight-inclusive CBT workbook. She discusses weight-inclusive care, the rise and unknowns of GLP-1 medications, CBT approaches for eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain and diabetes distress, and how screening and community support aid recovery.

Practical strategies for balancing planning and flexibility during recovery. Tips for managing missed meals, urges for “bad” foods, and fears around binging. Guidance on supporting an adult child through weight restoration and spotting when recovery habits are actually harmful. Discussion of recovery challenges during perimenopause and coping with rising numbers on the scale.

Dana Colthart, a therapist and clinical director specializing in OCD, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders, trained in ERP and ACT. She discusses using exposure and response prevention, blending ACT and mind-body work, and how these approaches apply to intrusive thoughts, eating disorder behaviors, and common misdiagnoses. Practical techniques, metaphors, and therapy expectations are highlighted.

Dr. Lauren Mulheim, clinical psychologist and eating disorder specialist who co-authored the Weight-Inclusive CBT Workbook, discusses adapting CBT to avoid weight stigma. Short takes cover why classic CBT needed changes, how regular eating and mindful self-monitoring reduce restriction-driven binges, when weighing helps or harms, and practical steps like mechanical meals, RAVES, and collaborating with dietitians.

A deep dive into constrained energy expenditure theory and why calories do not always add up. Contrasts the additive model with real physiology and explains how bodies reallocate energy. Covers conservation mode signs like lowered thyroid and slowed digestion. Discusses how stress, fear around food, and eating disorders reinforce metabolic constraints and why consistent recovery signals safety.