Not Just a Girl’s Disease: Treating Boys with Eating Disorders from a Psychological and Dietary Perspective

 Not Just a Girl’s Disease: Treating Boys with Eating Disorders from a Psychological and Dietary Perspective

Presenters: Dena Cabrera, PsyD, CEDS, and Megan Kniskern, MS, RD, CEDRD

Dena Cabrera, PsyD, CEDS, is the Clinical Director of Rosewood Centers for Eating Disorders. Dr. Cabrera oversees the direction of the treatment team in service of patient care, leads program development, and directs staff training and supervision throughout the Rosewood system. Prior to being appointed as Rosewoods’ Clinical Director, Dr. Cabrera served two years in the role of Clinical Director of Adolescent services, and Director of The Rosewood Institute.

Dr. Cabrera is a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist. She has a wealth of diverse clinical experience including 19 years treating individuals, families and groups with a range of medical and psychiatric disorders. Her multiple areas of specialized training include neuropsychological and psychological assessment, dialectical behavior therapy, as well as the cognitive-behavioral treatment for patients with developmental disorders, behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

Dr. Cabrera is a recognized expert in the field of eating disorders and presents her work throughout the nation. She has authored numerous articles and publications and has been recognized by her academic and clinical peers for bringing vital resources to the field of eating disorders. She most recently Co-authored, Mom in the Mirror: Body Image, Beauty and Life After Pregnancy (Rowman & Littlefield). A first of its kind resource, this book speaks to moms’ and those who love them through a personal and compassionate lens that assists in healing from body image disturbances and disordered eating.

She is a member of the American Psychological Association, the Academy of Eating Disorders and the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals. Dr. Cabrera obtained her M.A. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles.

Megan Kniskern, is the Director of Nutrition and Culinary Services at Rosewood Centers for Eating Disorders, and “A New Journey”, our California based PHP/Transitional Living program. Megan joined the Rosewood Leadership team with 10 years’ experience developing and implementing wellness programs for women, men and adolescents struggling with eating disorders, and addictions. Megan emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection in treatment and recovery. She is a 10-year veteran Certified yoga instructor; combining mindfulness practices and meditation techniques with traditional nutrition models. She is also passionate about exploring tasty food combinations and creating new dietary approaches that allow patients to build a positive relationship with food.