Counseling and coaching for eating disorders and health
Counseling is a partnership that encourages you to grow to new levels. You learn about what you value and your authentic self. You decide what you really want in your life, rather than living out past patterns and old core beliefs. You identify how you stop yourself from being successful and leading a fulfilled life.
Rachel Quast, M.A. is a Master’s level counselor, author, national public speaker, group leader and Reiki practitioner. In her counseling, she specializes in eating disorders, emotional eating, body image dissatisfaction, obesity, relationship struggles, issues with faith and spirituality, co-dependency, anxiety and depression. She also counsels those with other issues not listed. She works with teens, adults, couples and families. In addition, Ms. Quast leads multiple groups for eating disorders, emotional eating, trauma and parents of children with eating disorders. Transitional counseling, from inpatient/residential/IOP/PHP treatment, to one’s “routine” life is also available.
In addition, Ms. Quast is a resource person for ANAD (Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders) and a member of NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association). Before her counseling practice, she was a Health and Foods & Nutrition teacher for seven years at the high school level, four of which she taught at a school for at-risk teens.
Ms. Quast is a survivor of anorexia, bulimia and binge eating and spiritual and family trauma which gives her true understanding of those she counsels. She believes that the eating disorder behaviors, addictions, anxious cycles, patterns of self-harm, etc in any form are the symptom and not the “problem”. She uses cognitive and behavioral therapy, parts therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, psychodynamic therapy and experiential therapy, while taking into account one’s past and its role in current patterns and behaviors. She is very personable and energetic. She values the therapeutic relationship in the highest regard.
SHED operates on fee for service. We do not take insurance, so our fees are about half or less of what most counselors charge. This also means that clients are able to receive proper support without the label or limitations by insurance companies. The initial sessions are 75 minutes and follow-up sessions are 50 minutes.
Phone or Virtual Counseling
Phone and virtual counseling is available for those who do not live near SHED’s office. I understand times have changed, so you may feel more comfortable with appointments in your own home. Also, counseling for eating disorders, obesity and emotional eating is hard to find. Being that these issues are so specialized and require counselors who understand the dynamics of eating disorders, I found it necessary to include phone and video counseling. Appointments would work the same except the sessions take place over the phone or video. If possible, the initial consultation would be in person; however, if that is not possible, each case will be separately evaluated to meet your specific needs.
Consultations
Single consultations are available in-person, by phone or by video for those who just want to ask a few questions, get direction or express themselves confidentially. Often times, family members or friends utilize such sessions to understand the function and dynamics of eating disorders or to support their loved one in their struggles, addiction, relationship issues etc.. You can ask questions on how best to support your loved one. Consultations are booked in either 25 or 50 minute sessions.