On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Joy Zelikovsky founder and director of NourishTheHeartCounseling.com discusses the complexities of eating disorders, body image, and their impact on individuals and families. She emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural influences, the role of social media, and the need for a broader definition of health that goes beyond weight.

The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by different demographics, including men and older adults, in relation to eating disorders. Dr. Zelikovsky provides insights into recognizing warning signs and offers advice for parents and grandparents concerned about their loved ones’ eating behaviors.

Dr. Zelikovsky is sponsoring a conference this fall for Jewish eating disorder professionals. More information is available at https://www.jewisheatingdisorderprofessionalsconference.org/

Takeaways

• Eating disorders can affect individuals of all ages, not just adolescents.
• Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping body image and eating behaviors.
• Social media perpetuates unrealistic body standards and can impact mental health.
• Eating disorders are often linked with other mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
• There is a strong genetic predisposition to eating disorders, but environmental factors also contribute.
• Men are often underdiagnosed for eating disorders due to societal perceptions.
• The concept of health should not be solely based on weight; other factors are crucial.
• Cultural traditions, especially those involving food, can complicate recovery from eating disorders.
• Parents should be aware of behavioral changes in their children that may indicate an eating disorder.
• Support and open communication are vital for families dealing with eating disorders.

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About the Guest Joy Zelikovsky, Psy.D., M.A., M.Phil.Ed., M.S.Ed

Joy Zelikovsky is a clinical psychologist and National Health Service Psychologist in New Haven, CT. She is the founder and of Nourish The Heart Counseling in New Haven, Connecticut.

She received her Doctorate in Psychology and a Master’s of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the Florida School of Professional Psychology. She has also completed a Master’s of Philosophy in Education and a Master’s of Science in Education in Professional Counseling and Psychological Services, respectively, from the University of Pennsylvania. Joy completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology with a minor in Education from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Joy is also credentialed as a National Health Service Psychologist.

Most recently, Joy was the Supervising Psychologist at the University of Southern Mississippi, providing therapeutic services in the college counseling center, and had worked in several other college counseling centers during her training and education. Joy also has experience working in private practice settings and community mental health. As the Director of Eating Disorder Services at Turnbridge Addiction Treatment, Joy uses evidence-based practices and treatments to help both men and women who are struggling with addiction and eating disorder concerns. Joy also continues to teach at the graduate level to help prepare the next generation of mental health clinicians.

Joy has a passion for working with eating disorders and has decided to make this site as a way of helping people access information and resources to help themselves, family, and friends in their recovery. This site offers information on eating disorders and resources to help people along their way. This site is also a place to have conversations and get questions answered as people work in their recovery. Learn more about her work at Psychology Today

For more information regarding Joy’s background and training see her curriculum vitae here: Master CV

The post Cultural Influences on Eating Disorders: A Discussion with Dr. Joy Zelikovsky – Seekers of Meaning 8/29/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.