CTEDS 2025 Special Event
The Biannual Central Texas Eating Disorder Specialists (CTEDS) Special Event was held this past Friday at UT Austin. CTEDS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making recovery possible through education, support, and assistance for the complex mental, emotional, and physical challenges associated with disordered eating.
To advance this mission, CTEDS provides multiple educational opportunities throughout the year, allowing professionals to stay informed on the latest research and best practices in eating disorder treatment from leading experts in the field. Our owner, Maggie Stenson, MCN, RD, LD, CEDS-C, serves on the CTEDS Board as the Education Chair. In this role, she oversees the planning and coordination of monthly educational meetings and special events.
This year’s event featured two amazing speakers. Akiera Gilbert, CEO of Project HEAL, opened with a compelling talk about the systemic barriers that make it difficult for many individuals to access eating disorder treatment, especially those who are part of marginalized communities, including BIPOC, larger-bodied, and disabled individuals. She shared valuable insight into the history of bias in diagnosis, the ongoing impact of weight stigma in clinical settings, and the financial and structural challenges that often stand in the way of care.
Next, we heard from Jennifer Gaudiani, MD, FAED, CEDS-S, founder and medical director of the Gaudiani Clinic. Dr. Gaudiani delivered two excellent sessions on medical considerations in eating disorder treatment. The first covered essential information that all providers should know, and the second dove deeper into more complex medical cases and co-occurring conditions.
It was such a wonderful event full of learning, connection, and collaboration. We’re so thankful for everyone who came and for the work CTEDS does to support professionals and improve access to quality care for those affected by eating disorders. If you are interested in learning more about CTEDS, go to the link below!