Julie A. Elrod

"We are indeed much more than what we eat, but what we eat can nevertheless help us to be much more than what we are."
- Adelle Davis (1904 - 1974)


As a counselor and advocate of healthy eating habits, I believe that food is a means to heal and strengthen the body. Not only that, but it is also a way to heal and strengthen our relationships with our family and surrounding community. Food creates a bond between parents and children, husband and wives, friends and family, local producers and consumers. I also believe that approaching food with the idea that it has the ability to nurture our spirits will allow us to live longer and happier lives.


At some point throughout life, most people will develop an unhealthy relationship with food, as I know I have. We overindulge in comfort foods at times, and at other times we abstain from food altogether for vanity’s sake. Wouldn’t it be ideal if we could possibly connect with our food in a balanced and positive way? Indeed this is possible, and it is not as difficult as you may think.


After many years of personal struggles, I have finally found a healthy relationship with food and now work as a counselor for those who also want to nurture and develop that balanced relationship. I work with my clients in an individualized approach which empowers them to gain a better understanding of not only what we put in our bodies, but also how we treat our bodies and ourselves. I help people discover stability in what I refer to as their primary food, (career, relationships, physical activity, and spirituality); as well as their secondary food: the food on their plates. When our primary food is out of balance, it is nearly impossible to achieve balance with our secondary food. For example, when we are experiencing issues with primary food, we often times self medicate with comfort food and alcohol. Overindulging in secondary food can also negatively affect our experience with our primary food, thus continuing an unhealthy and harmful cycle.


As your counselor, I am here to help you recognize the knowledge that your body already has to offer, and use it to help address whatever health concerns you may have. Through a personalized wellness program, you will be able to resolve concerns about your body and improve your overall health, in order to obtain the tools for a lifetime of balance. It is important to learn what nourishes the mind, body, and spirit; especially when we come to understand that nourishment comes from so many sources other than food. My approach not only incorporates what we eat, but also how we treat ourselves. It is my goal to help you to find the relationship that connects all aspects of your whole self. With proper guidance, a strong commitment to yourself, and a deeper understanding of your foods, you can learn how to reach your optimum wellbeing.