I was at rock bottom, just going through the motions. I loved my ED and hated myself. I didn’t know where to turn and truly wasn’t in a place to make moves on my own. I was isolated, miserable, and could only focus on exercise and food. I knew I needed to change something or I would end up not making it through the year. There was so much of me that wanted to just give up.

I started therapy with Nicolle about three months after diagnosis and to say she changed my world would be an understatement. It wasn’t easy, there were days where she pushed me to go to places I didn’t even knew existed. It was exhausting and overwhelming but Nicolle truly saved my life. I am far into recovery and wouldn’t be where I am without her. Her constant care, support and encouragement were what really got me through. Nicolle made talking to her so unbelievably easy. I was able to trust her when I couldn’t even trust myself.

I was 15 when I started the recovery process.  There were many days where my parents nor I ever thought I would make it. While Nicolle constantly says it was all me, she was the light that kept shining- she always believed and eventually so did I. I am now 22, a college graduate, and incredibly happy. For all of those that are struggling, please know that it is possible. While difficult it is so rewarding and life beyond ED is worth it.

In 2010 when our daughter was diagnosed with Anorexia, our world was falling apart. We began the journey with finding a therapist and for our daughter. Eventually we were advised to find a family therapist as this disease is considered to be a “family disease.” That is when we met Dr. Nicolle Arbeleaz Lopez.

Nicolle had no idea what she was getting herself into when our family of 5 descended on her office. She proved to be a strong advocate for all of us. After our daughter went into residential treatment, (with the help and guidance of Nicolle), she returned to us and a slight shift in her treatment team. Nicolle became her individual therapist and ultimate lifesaver.

I can’t begin to account for the many, many, many support phone calls we were given throughout the entire process. In addition to working with us, Nicolle was a true “team” member and spoke to the rest of our team on a weekly basis so that everyone was on the same page for treatment of the whole family. It has been 8 years since we started this journey and Nicolle has been a constant, kind and caring support system for all of us. Nicolle truly has the best interest of her clients at heart. She wants her patients to be mentally sound and equipped with the best “toolbox” possible to handle anything life may throw their way.

Nicolle is a complete professional as well as a thoughtful and caring therapist that continues to guide me in my pursuit of a happier and more peaceful life. Both treatment and training, along with her expert guidance throughout our individual sessions have helped to end the binge-purge cycles that plagued me most of my life.