Every member of the EDI team is passionate about the important work that we do! At the EDI, we strive to maintain a team culture that is open, warm, collaborative, playful and introspective. Just as the therapy room needs to be a safe space for our clients to grow, we believe the workplace must be a safe place for our clinicians and trainees to grow. We also know that what we say and do is powerful, so we truly strive to “walk the walk,” not just talk the talk. This means that all the hard things we ask our clients to do, we do, too!
Our team is committed to healing our own internalized weight stigma and fighting against anti-fatness and diet culture. We strive to trust and respect our own bodies. Treating eating disorders can be incredibly challenging work. Therefore, we value self-care, balance, and connection to help us to show up as our best selves as we help others along their path to recovery!
THERAPISTS
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders and related concerns. In addition to completing a focused internship and fellowship in eating disorders, I am certified by the Training Institute for Child and Adolescent Eating Disorders and I am a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals.
I have been active in the field of eating disorders and related concerns as researcher, clinician, mentor, and advocate for nearly 20 years. As a doctoral student (1999-2004), under the supervision of Dr. Marta Meana, my research focused on the psychosocial aspects of bariatric surgery.
This novel area of research explored the rich, lived experiences of individuals living in larger bodies who underwent bariatric surgery. The outcomes of this research were published in a coauthored book as well as several peer reviewed articles. I then completed my internship and fellowship (2004-2006) at the University of Chicago Hospitals Eating Disorder Program. I had the honor of being mentored by two experts in the eating disorder field, Dr. Daniel Le Grange and Dr. Eunice Chen.
Hi! My name is Chelsea and I’m a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I’ve been building a specialization in helping people struggling with eating disorders for the better part of 9 years. In the course of my training, I’ve worked at the Cambridge Eating Disorder Center, Eating Recovery Center in Chicago, the University of Chicago Eating Disorder Program, and Counseling and Psychological Services at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I completed my postdoctoral training year here at the EDI and am excited to be staying on as a full-time employee!
My overall goal in therapy is to help individuals to feel empowered in their unique identities while they move toward a fulfilling life based on their personal values. Among my own top values are connection, flexibility, adventure, integrity, and openness. I believe these values are what initially drew me to this work and I endeavor to incorporate them into everything that I do. For this reason, I try to be fully myself in therapy and invite my clients to do the same as we collaborate in challenging their eating disorders and other mental health struggles.
I believe in the importance of creating a non-judgmental space for clients where they can feel safe in finding what works and what doesn’t work for them, and exploring who they are and what they want. I typically integrate mindfulness-based approaches, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and some elements of Existential, Humanistic, and Relational approaches.
Outside of work I enjoy traveling, baking, reading, acting, watching “trash” TV, going to plays, exploring nature, drinking coffee, buying plants (and attempting to keep them alive), playing games, and spending time with friends and family.
Hi! My name is Amber, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I completed my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, and finished my last year of schooling under Dr. Ricciardi’s supervision. It has been a rewarding experience to specialize in Eating Disorders, and I am excited to continue this work in my post-grad internship.
Seeing the prevalence of eating disorders while playing competitive volleyball in high school sparked a passion in me for promoting positive body image and healthy relationships with food and exercise. I believe it is essential to liberate ourselves from unattainable beauty standards and rigid diet rules in order to create a life worth living. I have seen it work for so many clients, and I am excited to continue to work with individuals of all backgrounds to heal their relationships with food and body.
In my undergraduate research, I studied a variety of issues including the effects of abuse on self-esteem in romantic relationships, vulnerability’s importance in deepening relationships, and the efficacy of Enhanced Cognitive Behavior Therapy for the treatment of eating disorders. My focus on training in Cognitive Behavior Therapy has continued through my work at Kayenta Therapy under the supervision of Sara Pelton, LMFT. Under Dr. Ricciardi’s supervision, I have become familiar with Dialectical Behavior Therapy and enjoy using that in practice. I’d love the chance to work with you!
In my free time, I love to play volleyball, practice Krav Maga and yoga, read, play the piano, and spend time with my husband and two dogs.
Hi! My name is Linnea, and I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at UNLV. I serve as a Practicum Student Clinician at the EDI, where I provide individual and group therapy.
My interest in working with individuals experiencing eating disorders grew from my background in sport psychology and experiences working within athletic settings, where I became increasingly aware of the complex ways that body image, food, exercise, performance expectations, and broader cultural messages can influence well-being.
I strive to create a compassionate, affirming, and collaborative space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. I believe therapy should be tailored to each person’s unique experiences, needs, values, and goals. My clinical interests include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I am passionate about helping clients build on their strengths, navigate challenges, and work toward meaningful, sustainable change.
Prior to joining the EDI, I completed clinical training at UNLV Student Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and UNLV PRACTICE, where I provided individual therapy, group therapy, and psychological assessment services. I also co-facilitated ACT and DBT groups focused on psychological flexibility, emotion regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance.
Alongside my clinical training, I have supported student-athlete mental health and performance through research and collaboration with the UNLV Athletic Department. Prior to beginning my doctoral training, I worked as a Research Coordinator in the University of Michigan Department of Psychiatry. I earned my M.S. in Sport Psychology from the University of Stirling and my B.S. in Psychology and B.A. in Sports Communication from Clemson University (Go Tigers!).
Outside of my academic and clinical work, I enjoy reading, baking, watching sports, hiking, and spending time outdoors!
Hi! My name is Maegan, and I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at UNLV. I serve as a Practicum Student Clinician at the EDI, where I provide individual and group therapy.
My interest in working with individuals experiencing eating disorders grew from working at a residential eating disorder treatment center and conducting research in the field during my time at Florida State University for my bachelor’s degree. These experiences prompted a lifelong passion in promoting a positive body image, healthy relationships with food and exercise, and advocacy for eating disorder treatment accessibility.
I am passionate about creating a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and understood in their journey to challenge eating disorder behaviors and other mental health concerns. My clinical interests include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as some Humanistic and Relational approaches.
Prior to joining the EDI, I completed clinical training at the Southern Nevada Veterans Affairs Hospital, where I provided individual and group DBT, and UNLV PRACTICE, where I provided individual therapy, group therapy, and psychological assessment services. Alongside my clinical training, I conduct eating disorder and mental health assessments with active duty military personnel as a part of a research study funded by the Department of Defense. My research at UNLV explores the relationship between disordered eating, emotion regulation, and interpersonal relationships, particularly romantic relationships. Prior to beginning my doctorate, I worked as a Project Coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh’s Psychoneuroimmunology lab and the Behavioral Medicine Research Group. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Criminology at Florida State University.
In my free time, I am playing video games, watching reality television, playing with my dog, or practicing yoga.
DIETITIAN
Hi! My name is Kayla and I’m a Registered Dietitian who specializes in supporting folks with eating disorders. I attended the University of Washington where I earned a Masters of Public Health in Nutritional Sciences and completed the coursework & dietetic internships necessary to become an RD. After graduating, I signed on with The Emily Program where I enjoyed working full-time with clients at their Seattle residential eating disorder rehabilitation facility.
Even though I’m a dietitian, I’m not concerned with “the perfect diet”. In fact, I’m not interested in diets or weight loss at all! I’m what you call a non-diet RD. I embrace a Health at Every size paradigm which emphasizes respect, critical awareness, and compassionate self-care. I advocate for all foods in moderation (and sometimes moderation means a little or a lot!) with plenty of balance and variety. There are no good and bad foods in my world – there is just food! When nothing is off limits, the guilt and shame of eating can slowly disappear.
Using an evidence-based Intuitive Eating model, we will honor your body’s innate wisdom and work to dismantle food rules that govern what, when, and how much to eat. We’ll also work together to recognize damaging cultural norms around food, body and exercise by breaking down the myths that support unhealthy thoughts and behaviors.
Eating disorders and related issues affect everyone, including men, people of color and LGBTQ+ folks. My approach to nutrition honors inclusivity and respect. Everyone is welcome. My goal is to work collaboratively with you on your personal journey.
When I’m not working with clients, I enjoy reading, watching sports, traveling, spending time with friends and family, cooking, and eating.
ADMINISTRATION
Hi! My name is Melissa. I am the Fabulous Financial Administrator and BFF of Dr. Lindsey Ricciardi. I studied theater and dance at the University of Maine at Orono.
After college, I chose to stay home to raise my 2 incredible sons. I have dealt with OCD and anxiety since I was a child. So when I noticed it in my children, I was able to get them the therapy they needed. I have seen and experienced, first hand, how DBT and CBT can work to improve your life and give you back control and freedom.
Being a part of the EDI has been so rewarding. It truly is the best feeling to see individuals seek out help and gather the tools they need to live a more empowered life! My hobbies include reading, doing puzzles, having in-depth conversations, travelling, cooking, eating, and dancing. I am passionate about social justice, activism, and spending time with my family.
Hi, I’m Amber! As the Clinic Operations Manager at EDI, I bring more than ten years of experience in clinical operations and leadership. I focus on helping the clinic run smoothly while ensuring that every person who comes through our doors receives compassionate, high-quality care.
I’m passionate about finding thoughtful and innovative ways to improve the experience of both our clients and our team. Whether I’m streamlining systems, strengthening workflows, or helping the clinic maintain high standards of care, my goal is to create an environment where our providers can focus on what matters most: healing and hope.
Outside of work, my faith is at the center of my life. I love studying the Bible, growing in my understanding of God’s Word, and putting my faith into practice. Creativity is also a big part of who I am, especially graphic design and all things whimsical.
SUPERVISORS / CONSULTANTS
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Dominic Ricciardi completed his undergraduate degree at UNLV and graduated from the University of Nevada School of Medicine in 2001. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and has been a practicing physician in Las Vegas for over 20 years. Dr. Dominic Ricciardi spent 2 years as the Medical Director of Center for Change, an outpatient eating disorder treatment facility. While there, he was intensively trained to provide medical care for individuals with eating disorders at the outpatient, intensive outpatient, and partial hospitalization levels of care. He also spent 7 years working with Dr. Lindsey Ricciardi in an interdisciplinary private practice setting treating and managing the medical concerns of individuals with eating disorders. He currently specializes in Wound Care and Hyperbaric medicine. Dr. Dominic Ricciardi provides medical training to the providers at the Eating Disorder Institute of Las Vegas, and he is on staff as a medical consultant to all of our clinicians. Dr. Dominic Ricciardi is a husband, father, and son. He enjoys Italian cooking, Pilates and playing poker.
EXPERIENTIAL THERAPIST
Hi I’m Erin, I specialize in yoga, trauma and eating disorders. While working with me you can expect to connect with your body and breath to support healing and to be challenged to work through old triggers.
I’ve been practicing yoga for 14 years. It started its healing magic for me way back then! I’ve been consistently practicing HiBs (Holistic integration of Body & Spirit) yoga for the past 9 years and I have been teaching yoga for the last 3 years. Yoga isn’t just about movement and breathing; it is the way I live my life on and off of my mat.
Taking my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) in 2020 gave me tools that literally saved my life. It helped me see the truth of my life and the path that I was on wasn’t working. In 2021, I took my 300-hour YTT and I haven’t looked back. I teach yoga that any body can do. I meet you where you are at.
My core values are integrity and community. I do what’s right versus what’s easy. My students leave my classes feeling ease, comforted, cared about and seen.
When I’m not doing yoga, I love to facilitate and sit in ceremonies. I love being with my tribe, being in nature, going to health & wellness events, and spending time alone. I’m also a mentor and that has been amazing! It has been such an honor to teach at EDI. I look forward to seeing you on your mat!
OFFICE DOGS
Hi! I’m Hiccup. I’m a 12-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, so I like to take life at a relaxed pace, but don’t let that fool you, I love coming to work with Kayla and having adventures. It’s the perfect job for me, because as a dog, I’m an expert in mindfulness — I’m always in the present, aware of my needs without judgment. My favorite things are people, especially kids, other dogs, neck massages, walks, soft places to nap, and ALL foods! Hope to see you soon!
Hi there! My name is Maximus, but my friends call me Max. I’m a Golden Doodle originally from Indiana, now proudly serving as the official comfort companion here at The Eating Disorder Institute of Las Vegas.
I began my training with Mark at Gibson’s Dog Training right here in Las Vegas, where I mastered all the basics. From there, I earned my advanced service certification with Elite Dog Training Southwest. My trainer Nick taught me how to perform Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT)—or as I like to call them, hugs on command. 🐾
Recovery can be challenging, and I’m here to help however I can. I greet every visitor with a wagging tail and warm energy to remind you that you’re welcome and loved. If you’re feeling sad or anxious, I’m always available for a snuggle or a calm moment of connection.
I try to lead by example: I’m intuitive, fully embodied, and I embrace joyful movement and nourishment. I love all kinds of food, daily walks, mountain hikes, and playtime with my friends—whether it’s at the dog park or at home with Hank, Furbles, RoseLily, and Olive. I also enjoy swimming, chewing on toys (and sometimes random things I probably shouldn’t), spending time in nature, and doing yoga with Erin twice a week.
Most of all, I believe in living in the present moment—mindfully, joyfully, and full of love. #MindfulMaximus
