In this candid interview, psychotherapist Joanna Jleilaty shares her path from battling an eating disorder as a teenager to becoming a guiding voice for recovery—and dismantles myths along the way.
What inspired you to specialize in eating disorders, and how did your journey as a coach begin?
Joanna Jleilaty: What inspired me most was my own battle with eating disorders. It began at a very young age—just 13 years old—at a time when awareness of these conditions was scarce. I didn’t know what I was dealing with; I thought my behavior was normal, even though I felt a deep obsession. There was no diagnosis, no recognition that others struggled the same way. After seven years of navigating this alone, including encounters with professionals who lacked specialization, I decided to study the field myself. I wanted to understand, to recover fully, and eventually to become the guide I needed but never had.
What my journey taught me is that no struggle lasts forever. Back then, I couldn’t see light at the end of the tunnel. But today, I know pain isn’t permanent. Recovery starts with a decision—even a small change—and while healing is hard, living with an eating disorder is harder. I also learned I wasn’t alone. Many recover, and that means no one has to be the exception. This is what I tell every client who doubts their ability to heal.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about eating disorders that you encounter in your practice?
Joanna: There are so many. First, the idea that people with eating disorders are “mentally ill” in a catastrophic sense. I disagree. We all face mental challenges; for some, it manifests in food. Labeling it as “illness” can strip away hope.
Another dangerous myth is that eating disorders are desirable—that they help maintain a certain body type. Some even trivialize them: “Just eat more” for anorexia or “Just eat less” for binge eating. These oversimplifications ignore the deep emotional and psychological roots. Eating disorders aren’t choices; they’re coping mechanisms gone awry.
What are the most common challenges in recovery, and how do you help clients overcome them?
Joanna: The biggest battles are in the mind. Negative thoughts, self-limiting beliefs, and overwhelming emotions make people wonder, “Will I ever live normally again?” My recovery program meets clients where they are, with tailored therapy sessions to dismantle these obstacles step by step.
Healing is an investment—of time, money, and effort—but it’s worth it. I walk alongside clients until they no longer need support, showing them that freedom is possible.
If you could give one message to women, what would it be?
Joanna: Know your worth. You are a unique gem—the only version of yourself that will ever exist. Own your identity. Stop the self-criticism; challenges with food or otherwise can be overcome. It starts with mindset: your thoughts will either make you or break you.
Final Thought: Joanna’s story is a testament to turning pain into purpose. Her work with Recoverly Ever After isn’t just clinical—it’s deeply personal, a lifeline for those still searching for their own light at the end of the tunnel.
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