Ask The Expert 
Abbie Lambert is a Clinical Dietitian at Rapid City Clinic, Flormann Street. She is passionate about counseling clients through a non-diet approach and fostering a positive environment for people of all shapes and sizes. She helped to create Monument Health’s first Eating Disorder Steering Team, which supports individuals struggling with eating disorders, their loved ones and the providers who care for them.
When Abbie isn’t in her office, she is hiking in the Black Hills, spending time with friends and family, catching a Chicago Cubs baseball game, a South Dakota State University football game or baking gluten-free goodies.
What are some common misconceptions about eating disorders?
That eating disorders are rare and not serious illnesses. Research shows that 1 in 10 Americans will be affected by an eating disorder—equating to over 77,000 people in South Dakota alone. Many individuals engage in disordered eating behaviors, which can be a precursor to developing an eating disorder.
Another harmful misconception is that eating disorders only affect people in smaller bodies. Only 6% of individuals with an eating disorder are considered underweight. This means that 94% of those struggling live in larger bodies. The belief that eating disorders only look a certain way can prevent people from receiving proper assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
How does the role of a registered dietitian differ when working with clients who have eating disorders?
The role of a registered dietitian is to assess nutritional status, provide evidence-based nutrition guidance, create meal plans and support clients in improving their overall health and well-being.
An eating disorder dietitian has similar responsibilities, but with a greater emphasis on adequate nourishment, positive relationships with food and body and applying coping strategies learned in therapy. We work to dismantle harmful diet culture and empower clients to cultivate a sense of peace and trust with food, their bodies and themselves.
How do you collaborate with other professionals?
Eating disorders are complex illnesses with biological, psychological and social components. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to address the full spectrum of a client’s needs.
The American Psychiatric Association recommends that, at a minimum, an eating disorder treatment team include a primary care provider, a registered dietitian, and a mental health professional—all of whom should ideally be eating disorder-informed. Additional team members may include psychiatric providers, case managers or social workers, family therapists, physical therapists and pharmacists.
I often serve as a bridge between the medical and psychological aspects of treatment, ensuring that nutrition interventions align with both physical health goals and therapeutic work. Through ongoing communication and shared decision-making, the team works together to provide patient-centered care that supports long-term recovery.
How do you help clients develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies?
Eating disorders impact nearly every aspect of an individual’s life, so I focus on clients’ motivations and personal goals, as these play a crucial role in fostering change.
I also help clients deconstruct past beliefs and rigid rules around food and body image. Our conversations often explore topics such as rejecting diet culture, honoring hunger and fullness cues, making peace with food, finding satisfaction in eating, respecting the body, engaging in joyful movement and embracing gentle nutrition.
Autonomy is the foundation of recovery. I often remind clients that I don’t have the power to change their minds—only they do. I walk alongside them as a support person and offer guidance and encouragement for as long as they choose to have me on their journey.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders?
Anyone considering this career path should start early and connect with health care professionals already working in the field. The eating disorder community is small and incredibly supportive and we collaborate to help both clients and each other. We are eager to support and mentor new professionals who share a passion for this important work.
If you or someone you know struggles with an eating disorder, there is help. The National Alliance for Eating Disorders helpline: 1-866-662-1235, National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders helpline: 1-888-375-7767.