Prosperity Eating Disorders and Wellness Center

11/29/2023

🎉 Three incredible members of our team are celebrating their work anniversaries with us in November!

🎉 Congratulations to:
• Michelle Schwake, COO & Human Resource Director, for six years of dedicated service with Prosperity!
• Katrina Baron, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC, & Medical Director, marking her second year of impactful contributions with Prosperity!
• Mary Dye, MPH, RDN, CEDS-S, & Nutrition Director, reaching her two-year milestone with Prosperity!

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Michelle, Katrina, and Mary for their exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to their roles! 💜 Your remarkable contributions continuously inspire us, and we are truly grateful for the impact you make each day.

11/23/2023

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🫶 Here is our reminder to you that you don't need to feel guilty for enjoying your favorite foods today, or any day! You are allowed to eat the foods that you enjoy, whether it be stuffing, apple pie, loaded baked potatoes, or whatever it is that you enjoy most!

11/22/2023

A reminder for Thanksgiving tomorrow 💜 Just because something is normal in the prominent culture doesn’t mean it has to be normal for you. We can teach ourselves and our kids to name diet culture and call it out when it rears its head. Our team at Prosperity Eating Disorders and Wellness made these handy little bingo cards last year with a list of recovery tools and reframes to help our community this holiday. As we bring these back this year and play bingo, we’ll work together to normalize gratitude, connection, memory-making, and enjoyment of food while calling out the culture of food and body shaming that tends to have a major uptick this time of year. As we play bingo together while apart, we hope members of our community will feel less alone as they swim upstream. Whether it’s from friends, family, or media (I can already hear you, Al & Hoda), we’ll be filling our cards to emphasize that statements and behaviors we’re exposed to have nothing to do with us or our bodies, are highly predictable as they’re products of projected insecurities, and are culturally normative and experienced by pretty much everyone. We may not be able to cancel the noise, but we can choose how we respond to it, whether or not we choose to engage in it, and how we take care of our bodies mentally and physically.

So as a reminder:

✅ Help cancel the noise by not commenting on body size or changes. Any person would much rather hear how a color brings out their eyes, or that their shoes are fabulous. And have you ever met a person whose weight has changed and they’re not aware of it? Nope. Help them feel seen for something other than their body.

✅ Just because no one else is having breakfast doesn’t mean you should skip it.

✅ No one has to “trot” to eat tomorrow or any day. Food fuels life. Life is short. Move your body for the joy of it, not for earning or to pay penance.

✅ Everyone’s needs are different. Focus on your own plate & don’t comment on the portions of others. Yes, that also means a kid’s plate - parents, give them the ultimate gift of body trust & trust their bodies to know what they need. Even if it’s just buttered rolls tomorrow. And the next day.

✅ No one cares about your diet or wellness journey aside from food allergies. Seriously, no one wants to hear how many points are in stuffing or which foods give you “mental fog”. You know what works for you so eat that food and move on. The healthiest lifestyles are personal and not topics of ongoing discussion.

✅ Cherish the people at your table, even if their statements are racking up your bingo points. Food is more than nutrition. It’s connection, culture, memory-making, and sometimes just yummy and fun.

✅ Watch the dog show. It’s hilarious & a good reminder that bodies of animals come in all shapes and sizes. We are animals. Debatably smart ones but animals full of variation and complexities all the while.

11/21/2023

Our bodies do so much for us to allow us to live each and every single day to the fullest. To read this caption... your body is working both physically and mentally right at this very moment. Instead of criticizing your body, appreciate all of the values that your body has to offer you!

Our bodies carry us, they allow us to move through life and experience all that it has to offer... no matter what our body looks like. It's time to cut our bodies some slack! Our bodies are wonderful. They have gotten us through the good times, the bad times, the scary times, and the most memorable times... our bodies should be looked at as our BEST friend, not our enemy that we criticize!

11/20/2023

You're invited to join our FREE Virtual Family and Friends Support Group tonight at 6 PM!

Are you seeking a safe and understanding space to discuss eating disorders and mental health? We invite you to participate in our virtual support group for family and friends, where we offer answers to all your questions while fostering connections with others who share similar experiences.

What to Expect:
💜 Safe and Open Environment: We provide a non-judgmental and supportive setting for everyone.
💜 Expert Guidance: Our facilitators are well-informed about eating disorders and mental health, ready to address your concerns.
💜 Validation and Support: Engage in meaningful conversations with others who are sharing similar experiences.
💜 Free Weekly Sessions: Our support groups take place every Monday at 6 PM, offering consistent assistance and support.

To register for this virtual support group, please email us at:
✉️ [email protected]

11/15/2023

The holiday season is approaching us and during this time, it's essential to be aware of potential warning signs that someone close to you might be struggling with their relationship with food or body image.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and needs support, please understand that you are not alone. We are here to support you every step of the way. At Prosperity, our comprehensive programs tailored for binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders can provide assistance. Get in touch with us today to learn more about the levels of care we offer!

For any questions, you can contact us via email:
📧 Email: [email protected]
Or give us a call at:
📞 Contact: 703-466-5150, ext. 803

11/13/2023

🦃 Thanksgiving preparations are in full swing at Prosperity Norfolk, and today marked one of our team's favorite days of the year: Thanksgiving practice day!

All week, Prosperity Norfolk has been infused with the delightful aroma of freshly baked pies, a collaborative effort between our clients and nutrition team. 🥧👩‍🍳 They’ve been baking up a storm!

As we reflect on what we learned from today, we are now gearing up to plan how we can transform this holiday into a meaningful experience focused on corrective experiences, gratitude, connection, and the courage and bravery to make recovery-oriented choices.

11/08/2023

Growing up, we often learn to be overly critical of our bodies, constantly striving to 'fix' perceived flaws and feeling shame as a result. It's important to remember that our bodies are trustworthy and deserve gratitude. Take a moment to say thank you to your body! 💜

📸:

11/07/2023

BMI belongs in the 🗑… and here is why👇

🤔 Did you know that the Body Mass Index(BMI) was introduced in the 1800s by a mathematician? The formula was created for a quick and easy route of measurement dividing weight by height squared. It is a SIMPLE formula that makes no allowance for body composition, age, gender, or ethnicity.

🙅‍♀️ BMI tells us nothing about one’s physical or mental health, lifestyle, or personality.

👋 It’s time we say goodbye to BMI!

11/02/2023

One of the most common misconceptions about carbs in the diet culture environment is that if you cut them completely out of your diet, you will lose weight.

👇 Here's the truth about carbohydrates 👇

Your body uses the carbohydrate nutrients to FUEL your body! Those carbs are the gasoline to your gas tank. Your heart, brain, and muscles all depend on this energy to function properly. Don’t let diet culture convince you to end this fuel to your body. You need carbs to live!

10/31/2023

Get ready to be spooked! 👻 Our Prosperity Norfolk team is unleashing their inner villains this Halloween. Can you identify them all? 🎃

10/31/2023

This Halloween, our Prosperity team in Herndon stepped into the world of Barbie to remind everyone that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and shades. Barbie is... all of us! 🎀🎃

Our team proudly embraced these iconic outfits not as a celebration of an unattainable standard, but as a symbol of inclusivity, empowerment, and self-love. Just like Barbie, we all have our unique strengths, talents, and quirks that make us special.

Let's rewrite the narrative and redefine what 'perfect' truly means. Together, we're breaking free from the confines of societal expectations and embracing the beauty that resides within each and every one of us.

10/31/2023

Happy Halloween! 👻 Parents, the healthiest thing for your child to learn today is that there are no "good" or "bad" foods. Encourage your child to have and enjoy Halloween candy!

Normalize eating candy! Food is so much more than the nutrients that they provide us; food is also connection, tradition, celebration, pleasure, and heritage!

📸:

10/30/2023

🎃 Let's keep it real! Halloween can be a tricky time for those dealing with food or body concerns. Here are some reminders to help ease any fear or unease you may be feeling as we get ready for Halloween tomorrow.

📸:

10/27/2023

Always remember, eating disorders 👏 never 👏 discriminate. Eating disorders affect everyone: all ages, all cultures, all races, all sexual orientations, all genders, all ethnicities, all body shapes/sizes.

10/25/2023

Yesterday, our Founder, Heather Baker, LCSW-S, CEDS-S, went to Capitol Hill to ask House and Senate members to try to urge the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to implement several acts to be signed into law including the Supporting Eating Disorders Recovery Through Vital Expansion (SERVE) Act and the Telehealth Benefit Expansion for Workers Act.

To learn more about these initiatives, follow Eating Disorders Coalition or visit their website at: www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org.

10/25/2023

Everyone's best looks different. Just do the best that YOU can and it's more than enough.

10/24/2023

Living a life free from fear and self-worth tied to a number on the scale is liberating. Say goodbye to that scale and embrace the freedom that choosing recovery offers!

If you're struggling with diet culture or food-related challenges, we're here to support you every step of the way. At Prosperity, we offer tailored treatment programs that address binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders. Reach out to us today to learn more about the options of care that we provide!

For inquiries, contact us:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: 703-466-5150, ext. 803

10/19/2023

Re-learning normal eating habits and coping skills can take a long period of time and often requires lots of support from professionals, friends, and family. Moving forward is key, however slow it might be.

When it comes to recovery from an eating disorder, slips, backslides, and relapse tend to be the rule, rather than the exception.

10/18/2023

Coming to the realization that your child has an eating disorder can be overwhelming. In family therapy, we explore the best ways to not only communicate with one another but also identify and practice the most effective ways to show up for and support your child.

One of our incredible Herndon therapists, Adrianna Rodriguez, MS, MFT, CFBT, has put together a list of the top 5 things to focus on as you walk alongside your loved one on the path to full recovery. Swipe to learn more!

10/17/2023

🎉 Join us in celebrating the remarkable achievements of two of our therapists, Kaitlyn Seminerio and Lindsey Kirkland, as they mark their one-year work anniversaries with Prosperity this month!

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Kaitlyn and Lindsey for their exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to their work! 💜 Your remarkable contributions continuously inspire us, and we are truly grateful for the impact you make each day.

10/13/2023

Everyone say hi to Winnie! 🐾 Rated among the top therapists, Winnie is an absolute favorite at Prosperity. She is three years old and has experience in making people smile, giggle, and relieve tension. She especially loves working in groups!

10/11/2023

Eating disorders don't discriminate by age. Adults battle these issues too, often in silence. Heather Baker, LCSW-S, CEDS-S, and CEO of Prosperity Eating Disorder and Wellness Center, sheds light on the unique challenges adults face in seeking treatment.

Dive deeper into Heather's perspective in the exclusive OK! Magazine article. Click the link below to learn more.

Eating disorders are not just a teenage program, and this Virginia-based treatment center is addressing the issue.

10/10/2023

Act now to ensure equitable coverage of mental health and substance use disorder treatment

10/10/2023

10/10/2023

Happy ! World Mental Health Day, an annual campaign hosted by the World Federation for Mental Health, is an international holiday that celebrates awareness for the global community by empowering individuals to take action and create lasting change on the importance of mental health.

The Renfrew Center is offering 10 support opportunities for the greater community to come together in recognizing this year’s theme, Mental Health is a Universal Human Right! Tap the link below to learn more.

World Mental Health Day, an annual campaign hosted by the World Federation for Mental Health, is an international holiday which celebrates awareness for the global community by empowering […]

10/10/2023

Don't let these diet culture lies 👻 spook you into believing you aren't enough! You ARE enough!

🎃 Halloween is right around the corner and we are so excited to enjoy Fall festivities like carving pumpkins, exploring haunted houses, enjoying Halloween treats, and watching Halloween movies! What's your favorite Halloween activity? Let us know in the comments!

10/09/2023

Eating disorder recovery is a journey that encompasses physical and emotional healing. Each meal becomes a crucial step on the path to reclaiming your strength and nurturing self-love.
As you navigate this transformative journey, carry with you these 10 gentle reminders.

10 essential reminders for your journey towards eating disorder recovery, from nurturing self-compassion to mindful eating.

10/09/2023

🫖 Prosperity Norfolk transformed lunch into an elegant tea party to celebrate a significant milestone! This allowed us to practice flexibility with meal plans and appreciate the joy and connection that comes from sharing a meal experience together, where food is an integral part of the event, but not the sole focus. Food holds a deeper meaning beyond just nutrition; it connects us. This tea party was a wonderful reminder of this for everyone who shared around the table.

10/06/2023

This legislation must move forward! Read Eating Disorders Coalition's full press release below to learn more.

The Eating Disorders Coalition celebrates the reintroduction of the Nutrition CARE Act, championed by Senator Maggie Hassan and Lisa Murkowski. Read our full press release: bit.ly/3Q3PwQq.

10/06/2023

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s great to have positive coping skills to turn to rather than turning to something that might be more harmful to your mental health.

Taking a pause and getting some fresh air, journaling your thoughts, listening to music, or moving your body and breaking into dancing can be a great way to quiet your mind and ease any overwhelming thoughts or feelings.

When days aren’t feeling as easy as others, what is your favorite positive coping skill that you use?

📸:

10/04/2023

Reminder: Patience is key 🗝️ Recovery takes time. Be kind and patient with yourself. You are worth the effort!

10/03/2023

Swipe 👉 for some creative Halloween dress-up ideas (that don't require a costume!)

Which one is your favorite? 👻

09/28/2023

In case you needed to hear this today, here’s a reminder that your body is not a problem to be fixed.

📸:

09/25/2023

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Norfolk Nutrition Tech, Cristina Jimenez, led our clients in a cooking group featuring her family's recipes from Puerto Rico. She educated us on the African, Spanish, Indigenous, and American influences on the cuisine and culture of her native island as well as how to use a pilón.

Enjoy this recipe of bolitas de mofongo where green plantains take center stage. Thank you for the recipe, Abuela!

09/22/2023

Remember, choosing to focus on recovery might feel like a journey with its ups and downs, but dedicating time to your healing is a gentle and caring act towards yourself.

There will be days that prove more demanding than others, but don't forget to acknowledge your progress and give yourself credit. While recovery may seem like the toughest choice at times, it will always be worth it. We are so proud of you for how strong you are as you work towards healing your relationship with your body and food! 💜

09/21/2023

The messages you convey to your children about food can have a powerful effect, so it's crucial to ensure you're sending the right ones! Here are four statements we recommend steering clear of at the dinner table with your children.