Maja Berry, Specialist Eating Disorder & Sports Dietitian
This week, we sat down with Maja Berry – a Specialist Eating Disorder & Sports Dietitian – to discuss the complexities of eating disorders, the benefits of at-home treatment, and how a multidisciplinary approach supports recovery.
Why is at-home eating disorder assessment and treatment beneficial, and how does it compare to residential care?
“At-home treatment isn’t suitable for everyone, as it depends on whether the individual is ready and able to break certain habits to make room for recovery. However, for those who can, it offers significant benefits. Being in your own environment, rather than an artificial one, means you avoid the adjustment period that often comes with transitioning back home after treatment.
It can also lower stress and anxiety, as you’re surrounded by supportive loved ones and able to maintain as much of your normal routine as possible. Additionally, it provides opportunities to navigate real-life situations, building skills that can have lasting benefits.”
What inspired you to work with individuals living with eating disorders, and how has this shaped your approach to mental health care?
“I initially joined the Priory Roehampton because it was close to home and allowed me to balance a part-time role with family commitments. What I discovered, though, was how much I enjoyed working in this field. The structured and systematic approach to recovery – where progress is built gradually and thoughtfully – clicked with me. Being part of someone’s recovery journey is incredibly rewarding.
I also value the psychological aspect; uncovering the underlying factors of an eating disorder and working toward full recovery is deeply fulfilling. Over time, my practice has expanded to include autism, ADHD, and relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S). These areas share some commonalities with eating disorders, and I feel like I’ve found a niche where I truly belong and can make a meaningful impact.”
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about eating disorders, and how do you address these with patients and families?
“One of the biggest misconceptions I see is around the idea of eating “healthily.” Many parents don’t realise how much their teenagers need to eat or how critical regular snacks are for their development. What is healthy for a teenager is entirely different from what is healthy for someone in their 40s or 50s.
Another misunderstanding is the assumption that eating disorders are solely about food. In reality, however, recovery from an eating disorder is complex and takes time. It’s a mental health condition, which means cutting corners isn’t an option. Helping families understand this complexity is a key part of my work – educating them about the psychological underpinnings while supporting them to be patient and consistent in their approach.”
Eating disorders often involve both psychological and physical complexities. How does a multidisciplinary team approach benefit patients in their recovery?
“An eating disorder is often a symptom of deeper underlying issues. Whether the person is dealing with anxiety, low confidence, or struggles at school or with friendships, the mental aspect of the disorder is just as important as the physical.
A multidisciplinary team is essential because it ensures that both aspects are fully addressed. Understanding where the disorder originated helps individuals gain insight into themselves and prevents the eating disorder from becoming a coping mechanism again in the future. By bringing together professionals from various disciplines, we can deliver a truly whole-person approach to care that addresses both the root causes and the physical symptoms.”
During Eating Disorders Awareness Week, what message would you share with healthcare professionals and families?
“Eating disorders are complex, but recovery is absolutely possible with the right support and understanding. Recovery is rarely linear, and it’s okay if there are a few bumps along the way. What matters most is showing up and being present.
For families, this means being patient and supportive, even when things feel overwhelming. For healthcare professionals, it’s about recognising the nuances of these conditions and tailoring care to each individual. Together, we can create an environment where recovery isn’t just possible but sustainable.”
At-home eating disorder treatment can help individuals build resilience in real-life settings while reducing the stress of transitioning from residential care. Misconceptions about ‘healthy eating’ and the complexity of eating disorders highlight the need for education and support. And, a multidisciplinary approach is crucial for addressing the root causes of eating disorders and fostering sustainable recovery.
Maja’s insights remind us of the importance of compassion, patience, and personalised care in supporting individuals and families impacted by eating disorders. Recovery is a journey – and with the right approach, it’s one that leads to profound transformation.
