Eating disorders are complex mental and physical health conditions that can affect a person’s relationship with food, eating, exercise and body image. Recovery requires understanding, appropriate professional support and an approach that recognises the individual – not simply what they eat.

At Ward Nutrition, Claire Ward, Ella Mackie and Nadia Fathinia provide compassionate, evidence-based nutrition support for children, adolescents and adults experiencing eating disorders or disordered eating. Nadia has particular experience supporting people with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED), including both children and adults.

Our approach is supportive and non-judgemental, helping clients improve their nutrition and gradually build a safer, more positive relationship with food.

Experienced Eating Disorder Dietitians

Claire, Ella and Nadia bring complementary training and experience to eating disorder nutrition. Claire and Ella have undertaken additional professional training in eating disorder care, including the RAVES model of care and training through the Australian Centre for Eating Disorders, while Nadia’s feeding therapy experience supports her work with ARFID and other restrictive eating concerns.

Our dietitians work collaboratively with psychologists, GPs and other healthcare professionals to ensure nutrition care forms part of a coordinated approach to recovery.

An eating disorder is not a lifestyle choice or simply a matter of changing eating habits. It is a serious health condition that can have significant effects on both physical and psychological wellbeing.

Food restriction, binge eating, purging and excessive exercise can become part of a difficult cycle. Restricting food can also increase hunger and preoccupation with eating, making it increasingly difficult to establish regular and adequate nutrition.

For some people, eating behaviours can become connected with feelings of stress, anxiety, self-worth or a desire for control when other areas of life feel overwhelming.

Effective treatment therefore involves much more than providing a meal plan.

Nutrition support is an important part of eating disorder treatment and recovery. Your Ward Nutrition dietitian can work with you to develop practical strategies around food and eating while supporting your individual treatment goals.

This may include:

• Establishing regular and adequate eating
• Improving nutritional intake
• Reducing restrictive eating behaviours
• Supporting a more balanced relationship with food
• Understanding hunger, fullness and eating patterns
• Practical meal and snack guidance
• Addressing nutrition concerns and food rules
• Supporting nutritional recovery
• Working alongside your psychologist, GP and broader healthcare team

Care is tailored to the individual and can change as you progress through recovery.

Eating disorders are best supported by an appropriately experienced healthcare team.

Our dietitians can work alongside your GP, psychologist and other treating health professionals, helping ensure everyone involved in your care is working towards the same goals.

If you’re concerned about a child, teenager, family member or friend, seeking professional advice early can be an important first step.

Some people with an eligible eating disorder may be able to access Medicare rebates for treatment through an Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan arranged with their GP.

If you think you may be eligible, speak with your GP about the treatment and referral options available to you. Our team can also help you understand the dietetic support available and what you may need before your first appointment.

Taking the first step can feel difficult. Our team provides a supportive and respectful environment where you can discuss your nutrition without judgement or pressure.

Book an appointment with Claire or Ella, or contact Ward Nutrition if you’d like help deciding which appointment is right for you.