Social media often portrays an idealized version of people’s lives, making it easy for us to compare ourselves (we’ve all been there 🤷). So, I understand if you look at my social media presence now and think my career as a Binge Eating Therapist appears all put together (or so I hope 😉). But let me tell you, my journey wasn’t always this neat and tidy. It wasn’t always smooth sailing. It doesn’t mean it wasn’t worth it, but I want you to know that I’ve been through the same struggles and challenges. When I say, “I get you,” I truly mean it.

How I Became A Binge Eating Therapist

Alright, let’s get into the story of how I went from abinge eater to the binge eating therapist you know today!

Part 1: College Days

When I started college, I had no clue about my career path. At that time, I was already struggling with binge eating, and all I could think about was losing weight. I believed that having the perfect body would make my life perfect. Sound familiar?

After my freshman year, I was still indecisive about my major, and my binge eating continued. I knew it was more than just about food; I was desperate to “fix” myself. I thought I knew how I should eat, so I didn’t think I needed to major in nutrition. Instead, I thought psychology was the answer. My idea was to figure out what was “wrong” with me so that I could control my eating habits. In my mind, it went something like this: Fix my brain → Stick to a diet → Lose weight = Perfect life. 🤦

Let’s just say it didn’t work out that way. Deep into my psychology classes by the end of my sophomore year, I was still binge eating, and nothing had changed. I hit rock bottom. (If you want to hear more about that, you can listen to my detailed story here).

Part 2: Eating Disorder Treatment

Shortly after that realization, I sought help and entered eating disorder treatment. It was there that I met my binge eating therapist, a remarkable woman who would alter the course of my career forever. She was also in recovery, and I saw in her everything I aspired to be. From that moment, I shifted my perspective on my binge eating and recovery journey. I decided to see my eating disorder as something that happened to me, not something that defined me. I made a pact to do whatever it took to become a binge eating therapist and help others the way she helped me.

Part 3: Becoming a Binge Eating Therapist

I made good on my promise and worked tirelessly to become a binge eating therapist. I started by earning a Bachelor’s Degree, graduating with a BA in Psychology.

Next, I pursued a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling, recognizing that it was the path to becoming a therapist. After two years of hard work, I graduated with a Master’s Degree.

With my Master’s Degree in hand, I applied for a provisional license to become a professional counselor. I worked full-time as a therapist at an addiction treatment center while fulfilling the requirements to become a licensed therapist (including 3,000 clinical hours, 48 continuing education hours, 100 supervision hours, and passing the National Counselor Examination).

Part 4: The Virtual Binge Eating Therapist

Fast forward to 2020, the year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many of you, I spent more time on social media. I noticed many people (some with expertise, some without) sharing insights on health and wellness. I thought, “If they can do it, why can’t I?” I had a lot to say and wanted to share it in a fun and easy-to-understand way. That’s how I started my Instagram @coffeetalkswellness, which you now know as @itsryannnicole.

For two years, I created content and continued my education, preparing for the day when I could open my private practice. During my graduate program, I received limited training on eating disorders, but I filled in the gaps with self-study and personal experience. After meeting all the requirements for my professional counselor license, I left my job as an addiction therapist to run @itsryannnicole full-time.

Part 5: Today

Today, I run Ryann Nicole Wellness, a virtual private practice that includes a team of wellness professionals. We provide a wide range of services, such as online courses, virtual coaching, and free support. This allows us to reach and help people from all over, no matter where they are located.

Every day, I have the privilege of doing what I am truly passionate about – supporting individuals who are facing the same challenges and struggles I once did. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be able to guide them on their journeys toward healing and recovery. My team and I are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those who seek our help, and we are committed to providing the support and resources needed to promote well-being and positive change.

Note: If you’re an aspiring therapist, feel free to reach out with any questions. I’m here as a resource to help you in your career.

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Want to know more about me?

• Do I ever emotionally eat? Find out here!
• Do I ever get the urge to binge? Find out here!
• My detailed binge eating recovery story

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