Shauna Alexansder, a woman with should length brown hair, smiles at the camera.

Shauna is one of the practice owners. In addition to seeing clients and providing clinical supervision, she works behind the scenes keeping the practice going!  Among many things, she handles all of the practice’s referrals. She sees clients in our Raleigh Office. Shauna specializes in eating disorders/disordered eating and provides supervision to many of the RD’s on our team. You can read more about Shauna’s professional background in her bio.

We asked Shauna some questions to learn a bit more about her and her work as an eating disorders dietitian.

1. Describe your ideal client?

I work best with adults who have spent years caught in the cycle of dieting—losing and regaining weight, feeling frustrated, and becoming disconnected from their bodies. My ideal client is ready to step away from rigid food rules and is open to exploring a more intuitive, sustainable approach to eating.

They are working toward building a more compassionate relationship with food and their body and are interested in unlearning diet culture while reconnecting with their internal cues. They may still feel stuck in old patterns, but they’re open to exploring the “why” behind their behaviors and trying something different. Above all, they are curious, engaged, and willing to take small steps toward change—even when it feels uncomfortable—and value long-term healing over quick fixes.

2. What three words best describe your therapeutic style with clients?

Warm, Collaborative, Lighthearted

3. What do you wish those struggling with eating disorders knew? Or what is one thing you wish your clients knew?

I wish my clients knew that their eating disorder makes sense—and that they don’t have to keep living this way. These behaviors often developed for a reason, and we can honor that without staying stuck in them.

I also want them to know that recovery doesn’t require perfection or full motivation. You don’t have to feel fully ready—you just need a small amount of willingness to show up and try.

4. What does self care look like for you? 

Self-care for me is about consistency over perfection. It’s making sure I’m nourished, rested, and not overextending myself. It’s setting boundaries with my time and energy, protecting space for my family, and giving myself permission to slow down when I need to.

Sometimes it looks like movement or time outside. Other times it’s saying no, asking for help, or simply taking a break to rest.

5. Outside of work you can find yourself doing___________________?

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me outside—playing tennis, going for a walk, or just soaking up some fresh air and sunshine – I love the beach! I also really value quiet time alone, which helps me reset and be more present for others.

6. What is your favorite food?

Anything Mexican

7. If you could do another job just for a day, what would it be?

I’d spend the day in the NICU helping care for babies. There’s something incredibly meaningful about supporting such tiny, vulnerable infants, and I would value the connection that comes with being part of their care and supporting their families.

 

Want to meet with Shauna or one of our other amazing dietitians? Contact us today!