Nourishment Works

Erin Malone, LSW, MSW she/her

Licensed Social Worker, Master of Social Work Clinician & Therapist

Erin is a Licensed Social Worker in Chicago, IL. As a Social Worker, she is committed to acknowledging how her clients are impacted by systems of oppression outside of the office and how that affects their lived experiences. Her clinical perspectives are heavily rooted in anti-racism, social justice, and liberation!

In the therapy room, Erin prioritizes creating a safe, nonjudgemental space with each client to ensure authentic processing and healing. Her approach with clients is collaborative, strength-based, and non-judgmental. Together they explore patterns and work to develop new skills and strategies to help with navigating life's challenges while celebrating the clients' strengths.

It is important to note that while Erin does not specialize in the treatment of eating disorders she is eating disorder-informed, weight-inclusive, Health At Every Size informed, and anti-diet!

Erin is a queer, neurodivergent, person existing in a larger body. She also has lived experience as a family member of a person living with a chronic, degenerative visual impairment. Erin is open to working with folks of all identities over the age of 18.

Areas of Expertise & Therapeutic Approaches

  • Relational Therapy

  • Person-Centered Therapy

  • Somatic Processing & Mindfulness

  • Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapy

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) Informed

  • Trauma-Informed

  • Feminist/Queer/LGBTQIA+ Theories

  • Life Transitions

  • Overwhelm & Burnout

  • ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorder (including self-diagnosis)

  • Self-compassion, Self-worth, & Self-esteem

  • Anxiety

  • Codependency

  • 12-Step Aligned

  • Health At Every Size (HAES®) aligned

    • As a HAES® aligned therapist, I am committed to practice and advocate for: size inclusivity, health enhancement, respectful care, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. Check out the Association for Size Diversity's statement of the HAES® Principles here.

Specialized Training

  • 40 Hours Domestic Violence Training (ILCDVP Approved)-The Network

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy Certification (C-DBT)- PESI: in progress

  • Psychodrama with Individuals- Chicago Center for Psychodrama

Education

  • Master of Social Work, Loyola University Chicago

    • Magis Scholar

  • Bachelor of Science, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point


Psychology Today Intro Video


Book a 15 Minute Discovery Call with Erin



Camille Wachholz, RDN, LDN, CDCES she/they

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist & Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist

Camille is an anti-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), and Certified Diabetes Specialist (CDCES) who works from a weight-neutral and non-judgmental perspective.

Before joining Nourishment Works, Camille honed her expertise in the inpatient arena at UPHS-Marquette Hospital, where she offered comprehensive support to clients facing various challenges. From navigating eating disorders to managing diabetes, hypertension, and implementing tailored meal plans for specific health conditions. Camille's compassionate approach and clinical acumen ensured her clients received top-tier care. Drawing from her background in clinical nutrition, she brings a wealth of experience in addressing diverse disease states. Her goal is to help individuals break free from diet culture and embark on a journey of lifelong self-compassion, empowering them to embrace a balanced and nurturing relationship with food and their bodies.

Her Approach

Camille initiates each client journey by delving into their unique needs and aspirations. Through open dialogue, she collaborates with clients to craft personalized goals and develop actionable plans for achievement. Embracing the Health at Every Size (HAES®) philosophy, Camille integrates attuned and mindful eating principles into her practice, recognizing the value of all foods in one's life. She understands that embarking on eating disorder recovery or any form of nutrition therapy can evoke apprehension, and she strives to cultivate a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. Together, they embark on a transformative journey to uncover the essence of living their fullest life, taking incremental, attainable steps toward holistic well-being. Camille's aspiration is for everyone to enjoy food without guilt and nurture themselves with mindfulness and compassion.

Areas of Expertise

  • Eating disorders and disordered eating recovery

  • Diabetes care and management using a HAES® and non-diet framework

  • LGBTQ+ welcoming & affirming care

  • Affirming and supportive care for neurodivergent individuals

  • Nutrition for heart health (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease)

  • Nutrition for chronic kidney disease and hemodialysis

  • Attuned and mindfulness based eating & self-care

  • Non-diet, weight neutral, body inclusive approach to well-being 

  • Promotes body diversity, challenges beauty and weight norms, and fosters inclusivity and respect, empowering clients' bodies and identities

  • Nutritional counseling of all ages across the lifespan

  • Experienced facilitator of nutrition support groups

  • Health At Every Size (HAES®) Expert:

    • As a HAES® dietitian expert, she is committed to practicing and advocating for size inclusivity, health enhancement, respectful care, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. Interested individuals can explore the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH) statement of the HAES® Principles here.

Specialized Training

Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Dietetics, Central Michigan University

  • Dietetic Internship through Nutrition Ink Dietitian Consulting Services &

    Products, Banning, CA

 
 

Cristina Arceo MS, RDN, LDN, IBCLC she/her/ella

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist & Board Certified Lactation Consultant

Se habla español

Cristina, an experienced Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), and Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), brings over a decade of expertise to her practice. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and a Master of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics, both earned from Northern Illinois University. Cristina’s commitment to ongoing education is evident through her Graduate Certificate in Eating Disorders from the same institution. Her research thesis focused on the relationship between acculturative stress and body image dissatisfaction among Latina college students.

Prior to joining Nourishment Works, Cristina worked with WIC at VNA Health Care. She has experience working with adult and young adult clients from historically marginalized backgrounds and has addressed a variety of client concerns, including prenatal and postnatal nutrition, breastfeeding support and education, infant and child feeding practices, fueling during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and nutritional needs for women and children. Cristina is ready to assist you in cultivating an enjoyable connection with food, while recognizing and honoring the significance food holds in your life.

Her Approach

She is committed to providing a compassionate, non-diet, and Health at Every Size (HAES) approach to client care and treatment. Her belief is that well-being extends beyond any particular measurement or standard. Instead, she focuses on fostering a positive relationship with food and supporting individuals in making choices that align with their overall well-being. She hopes to help and encourage clients in their journey to making peace with food. Her Hispanic upbringing has also equipped her with the knowledge of incorporating other cultural foods that are nourishing and important to many.

Since she is a certified lactation consultant, she possesses an added layer of expertise in providing comprehensive care to individuals seeking support in their breastfeeding journey. Understanding the unique challenges and joys that come with this aspect of maternal and infant health, her goal is to empower new parents with evidence-based guidance, ensuring a nurturing start to their breastfeeding experience. She remains dedicated to being a trusted resource for all aspects of well-being, ranging from nutrition to breastfeeding support, as she believes everyone deserves understanding and judgment-free assistance on their path to thriving.

Areas of Expertise

  • Pediatric, adolescent, and family nutrition counseling

  • Pregnancy, postnatal, and lactation nutritional counseling

  • Disordered eating & eating disorder recovery

  • Skilled in tailoring education to meet the cultural needs of clients

  • Attuned and mindfulness based eating & self-care

  • Non-diet, weight neutral, body inclusive approach to well-being 

  • LGBTQ+ welcoming & affirming care

  • Nutritional counseling of all ages across the lifespan

  • Experienced facilitator of nutrition support groups

  • Health At Every Size (HAES®) Expert:

    • As a HAES® dietitian expert, she is committed to practicing and advocating for size inclusivity, health enhancement, respectful care, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. Interested individuals can explore the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH) statement of the HAES® Principles here.

Specialized Training

  • Certificate of Graduate Study in Eating Disorders, Northern Illinois University

  • Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) with extensive knowledge of lactation science and breastfeeding management

Education

  • Master of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics, Northern Illinois University

    • Thesis: The relationship between acculturative stress and body dissatisfaction among Latina college students

  • Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition, Northern Illinois University

  • Dietetic Internship, Northern Illinois University

 

Cristina is available for virtual sessions only.



 

John Castro he/him

Practice Coordinator

John Castro is the Practice Coordinator at Nourishment Works, bringing over five years of experience in operations, billing, and administrative management within healthcare, training and continuing education organizations. With a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Northwestern University, John combines his strong organizational skills with a passion for creating efficient, client-focused workflows.

Prior to joining Nourishment Works, John gained extensive experience managing training operations, coordinating with international affiliates, supervising administrative staff, and handling billing processes. His expertise includes streamlining systems, ensuring compliance with professional standards, and providing exceptional support to both clients and team members.

John is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for both clients and staff at Nourishment Works.

Feel free to reach out to John for any scheduling, billing, or administrative support needs at billing@nourishmentworks.com 

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Northwestern University

  • Bachelor of Arts Minor in Harvey Kapnick Business Institutions Program, Northwestern University

 
 

Kate Merkle, MPH, RDN, LDN, LCSW, CDWF, PAT she/her

Founder and Executive Director

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Daring Way Facilitator™ & Certified Psychodramatist

Kate is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN) and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), holding a Masters of Social Work from Northeastern Illinois University, a Masters of Public Health from Benedictine University, and a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Food Science from Colorado State University. With 20 years of experience, she has been dedicated to assisting individuals in healing their relationship with food. Specializing in body attunement for those struggling with disordered eating and body image issues, she has undergone extensive training in the field of eating disorder recovery. Her professional background includes working in hospital settings, various levels of treatment, and outpatient settings. She firmly believes that self-nourishment is essential for maintaining or improving one's well-being and that recovery is possible.

My Approach

She takes a holistic approach when working with clients to address disordered eating patterns and negative body image concerns. Her mission is to help her clients lead flourishing lives, characterized by vitality, physical well-being, meaning, and connection. Employing a strength-based approach, she draws from a range of therapeutic modalities, including Appetite Awareness Training, Health At Every Size, Intuitive Eating, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and psychodrama.

Recognizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in fostering change and growth, she collaborates with clients to define their goals and cultivate the necessary skills and perspectives for progress towards true recovery. She values the wisdom and experience of her clients, working to build rapport over time. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, she conducts ongoing assessments to remain focused on the client's goals, track progress, and make adjustments as needed.

Areas of expertise

  • Eating disorders and disordered eating recovery

  • Consultation & supervision for therapists, nutritionists, dietitians, and nutrition/therapy students

  • 12-Step Informed

  • Attuned and mindfulness based eating & self-care

  • Non-diet, weight neutral, body inclusive approach to well-being 

  • LGBTQ+ welcoming & affirming care

  • Nutritional counseling of all ages across the lifespan

  • Experienced facilitator of nutrition support groups

  • Health At Every Size (HAES®) Expert:

    • As a HAES® dietitian expert, she is committed to practicing and advocating for size inclusivity, health enhancement, respectful care, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. Interested individuals can explore the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH) statement of the HAES® Principles here.

Specialized Training 

Education 

  • Masters of Social Work, Northeastern Illinois University

  • Masters of Public Health, Benedictine University

  • Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Food Science, Colorado State University

In the Press

 
 
 

The CHICAGO Magazine

 
A Little Help from the Pros

A Little Help from the Pros Article

SAND Student Association of Nutrition and Dietetics Presentation at Benedictine University

GI Health and Immunity: Implications for Nutrition Professionals Webinar

SAND Student Association of Nutrition and Dietetics Presentation at Miami University

Mini Nutrition Conference 2022 Presenter

 

Mental Health Alumni Panel Discussion at Benedictine University

 

Kelly Gleason, MS, MAEd. she/her

Nutritionist & Health Educator

Kelly is a passionate nutritionist with a strong academic and professional background in nutrition education and health sciences. She holds a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Northern Illinois University, where she also earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics & Wellness with honors. Kelly's diverse experiences range from teaching nutrition at the undergraduate level to designing and implementing community wellness programs. Her work reflects a commitment to making nutrition science accessible and empowering, helping individuals of all ages foster improved relationships with food and well-being.

Kelly’s expertise extends beyond the classroom, with certifications in diabetes prevention, food safety, and yoga instruction. She has contributed to community outreach programs, led professional development workshops, and collaborated on research projects focused on integrating food science with education.

My Approach

My approach to nutrition is rooted in intuitive eating, a Health at Every Size® (HAES) framework, and a weight-neutral philosophy. I believe that health isn’t determined by weight, but by fostering an attuned and supportive relationship with food and the body. Through my practice, I support clients in developing trust in their bodies, honoring hunger and fullness cues, and breaking free from the harmful effects of diet culture.

I emphasize mindful eating, guiding clients to be present and attuned to their eating experiences, helping them cultivate a more compassionate approach to nourishment. By focusing on well-being over weight, I encourage clients to make peace with food and their bodies. My weight-neutral approach creates a non-judgmental space where clients can explore their health goals without unnecessary pressure.

Through individualized care, I help clients embrace sustainable, life-enhancing movement and holistic health practices that honor their unique bodies and lifestyles. I firmly believe that everyone deserves to feel good in their bodies, and my compassionate, evidence-based approach reflects this philosophy.

Areas of Expertise

  • Attuned and mindfulness based eating & self-care

  • Non-diet, weight neutral, body inclusive approach to well-being 

  • LGBTQ+ welcoming & affirming care

  • Nutritional counseling of all ages across the lifespan

  • Experienced facilitator of nutrition support groups

  • Health At Every Size (HAES®) Expert:

    • As a HAES® dietitian expert, I am committed to practice and advocate for: size inclusivity, health enhancement, respectful care, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. Check out the Association for Size Diversity's statement of the HAES® Principles here.

Specialized Training

  • Certificate of Graduate Study in Eating Disorders, Northern Illinois University

  • Certified Lifestyle Coach from the National Diabetes Prevention Program

  • 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training

  • Certificate of Sustainable Food Systems

Education

  • Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, Northern Illinois University

  • Master of Arts in Elementary Education, University of Phoenix

  • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics & Wellness, Northern Illinois University

  • Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Emphasis Business & Mathematics, Arizona State University

Publications

  • Regan, M., Prange, N., Muzaffar, H., Furr, K., Mesic, J., Brynteson, K., Roseno, A., Berry, C., & Duffrin, M. (2021). FoodMASTER Small Bites: Creating Videos to Introduce Food and Nutrition Science Lessons. Food & Nutrition

  • Mesic, J., Furr, K., and Duffrin, M. (2020). Utilizing Food and Nutrition to Create Authentic Mathematics Learning. Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo.

  • McCartney, G., Furr, K., and Duffrin, M. (2019). Simplifying Science with FAN Cards: Creating and Utilizing Mini Food Science Lessons to Excite Learner Curiosity. Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo.

 
 

Laura Gann MPH, RDN, LDN she/her

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Laura is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN) with extensive experience in sports nutrition, eating disorder nutritional counseling, higher levels of care treatment, and community health. Her academic background includes earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) from New York University's College of Global Public Health, with an emphasis on Nutrition. Additionally, she completed her Dietetic Internship at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center. Her undergraduate education comprises a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Drake University, with a concentration in Global and Comparative Public Health. Her multidisciplinary education provides her with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and societal influences on health, enhancing her ability to deliver personalized and effective care to her clients. Additionally, her personal background includes competing in Division One Track and Field and Cross Country during college, as well as six years of post-collegiate competition with a competitive club team, which motivated her to pursue a career in dietetics.

Her Approach

Laura’s approach is rooted in dismantling diet culture, encouraging individuals to break free from its constraints, and fostering a sense of liberation around food choices. With a Master of Public Health degree, she brings a comprehensive understanding of public health principles to her practice. Her passion lies in continuing to work with individuals who face the challenges of eating disorders. She is particularly interested in the intersection between athletics and eating disorders, and her goal is to assist individuals in reintegrating sports into their recovery journey.

She believes that everyone deserves to live without the burden of intrusive thoughts about food, and she works to create a supportive environment where this can happen. By promoting food freedom, she helps individuals develop a harmonious relationship with both food and their bodies, promoting overall well-being. Her mission as a dietitian is to empower individuals to embrace a balanced and positive approach to nutrition, enhancing their quality of life while nourishing their physical and emotional health.

Areas of Expertise

  • Eating disorders and disordered eating recovery

  • Sports nutrition

  • Offering a safe space for post-bariatric clients needing nutritional counseling support

  • Attuned and mindfulness based eating & self-care

  • Non-diet, weight neutral, body inclusive approach to well-being 

  • LGBTQ+ welcoming & affirming care

  • Nutritional counseling of all ages across the lifespan

  • Experienced facilitator of nutrition support groups

  • Health At Every Size (HAES®) Expert:

    • As a HAES® dietitian expert, she is committed to practicing and advocating for size inclusivity, health enhancement, respectful care, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. Interested individuals can explore the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH) statement of the HAES® Principles here.

Specialized Training

  • ServSafe Certification 2020

Education

  • Masters in Public Health, New York University: College of Global Public Health

    • Emphasis: Nutrition

  • Dietetic Internship at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Drake University

  • Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Drake University

    • Concentration: Global and Comparative Public Health

Publications

  • Langford, A. T., Solid, C. A., Gann, L. C., Rabinowitz, E. P., Williams, S. K., &; Seixas, A. A. (2018). Beliefs about the causes of hypertension and associations with pro-health behaviors. Health Psychology. Advance online publication. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/hea0000687

 

Laura is available for virtual sessions only.