Learn more about…
Tess Patterson, MS, RD, LD
Everybody has a story to tell and I’m so blessed to get to share mine with you. I was a happy eater all my life. Food was everything it should be: delicious, connective, and fun! As a competitive athlete growing up I loved moving my body, but the transition to college left me in disarray. I lost an identity and traded it for a new one, an eating disorder. And my life unraveled. A spiritual awakening and intervention from those that loved me most, allowed me to see that my life had a lot more to it than the identity I was giving it.
The first time I sat in a session with my dietitian I felt heard and was able to see food the way I once did again. After that moment I made it my life’s passion and work to share the truth of how beautiful food is with all those around me. I take every opportunity to break down diet cultures’ sneaky lies, and remind my clients how important nourishing our bodies and souls are. It’s always my goal for all my clients to see that the changes we foster in sessions are changes that can/should be fostered for the entirety of ones’ life.
How I can help
services & specialties
Services
Specialties
Fees & Insurance
Appointments:
Virtual nutrition counseling & in-person in Southlake
My qualifications
Master of Science in Nutrition and Health Sciences with a Minor in Educational Psychology
I am a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with my Bachelors of Science Dietetics and a minor in Psychology, and my Masters of Science in Nutrition & Health Sciences with a minor in Educational Psychology. I completed my Dietetic Internship from Iowa State University in June 2018, and was given the opportunity to spend extensive time in the IOP treatment facility at Children’s Medical Center in Omaha, as well as gain experience in the private practice setting.
I worked for Eating Disorder Solutions as the primary dietitian at the IOP (intensive outpatient) location. I developed and implemented the curriculum there, which focused on underlying thoughts and beliefs around food and the body, including topics like: Fear Foods, Self-Compassion, Food & Feelings, Accountability, Food Myths, and Challenging/Reframing Thoughts.
I’m currently eligible and sitting for my CEDS (certified eating disorder specialist) certification through IAEDP (the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals), with hopes to become a supervisor in the future. I focus my work on individualized and specialized treatment as best practice when working with clients. I incorporate an ‘all foods fit’ and psychological approach to understand how individuals can help restore positive relationships with food and body image.
I have written for the Eating Disorder Registered Dietitians and Professionals (EDRD Pro) and was featured on the You’re Not That Special podcast to talk about Releasing Control – Leaning into the Unknowns. Take a listen here!
Let’s Get Personal
In my free time I am a foodie and travel monster through and through. I love to check out all the local DFW goodies, delicacies, and delights. I love to hike. And you will most likely catch me playing with my beautiful golden retriever puppy. Be on the lookout for her to join in sessions!
You can book a therapy appointment with me online by clicking below or by emailing me at tess@nourishedsoulcenter.com.