BHN Member Spotlight

Theresa Carmichael, RD

Current Position

Chair- Elect- Elect
Previous Mental Health Resource Professional
BHN DPG

National Dietary & Operations Specialist
Center for Discovery

How long have you been a RDN?

5 years

How long have you been in the Behavior Health Nutrition area?

7 years

Why did you join BHN?

I joined because a colleague of mine had been sharing all the great shifts and changes the DPG had been making to center marginalized voices as well as their initiatives to increase eating disorder competence among all dietitians. This inspired me, as I consider myself a “change agent” too. I embrace change and enjoy being a part of it. I am excited to now be able to lead the DPG in 2023-2024 as Chair and cannot wait for what is to come!

How has BHN helped you professionally?

BHN has opened so many doors to opportunities I would have otherwise not have gotten so easily. This includes speaking engagements, focus groups, project reviews, etc. I have met so many people of all different backgrounds which helps me grow as a dietitian. Hearing all the different perspectives on feeding issues keeps my mind open and aware. I believe this is important for doing informed care with our patients.

What do you think other RD's should know about BHN?

I really want RDs to know that this DPG is evolving fast. The executive committee puts value in hearing from members and integrating them into all aspects of BHN initiatives. Joining this DPG has been a healthy way for me to remain informed within the RD community, get more involved in social justice/advocacy, while also holding true to my values/beliefs in practice.

A little about me

National Dietary & Operations Specialist
Center for Discovery
Eating Disorder Operations Team

Chair-Elect 2022-2023
Previous Mental Health Resource Professional
Behavioral Health Nutrition DPG with the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics

Advisory Board Member
San Diego State University - Didactic Program in Dietetics

Theresa Carmichael earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Foods & Nutrition from San Diego State University. Shortly after graduation she was accepted to a dietetic internship through the University of Nevada Las Vegas with an emphasis in Clinical Nutrition. Ms. Carmichael has been working with adults and adolescents via behavioral health nutrition in all levels of care at Center For Discovery since 2014. She has found a passion working with clients of all ages struggling with a variety of mental health and eating disorders diagnosis. Ms. Carmichael has been featured in multiple mental health blogs, professional speaking events, articles and podcasts on her work with body inclusivity and nutritional treatment modalities. She is responsible for facilitating training Center for Discovery's treatment teams across the country in the treatment of disordered eating alongside the rest of the Operations Team. Ms. Carmichael continues to serve patients one to one in her private practice located in San Diego, California while also serving as an Advisory Board Member for the Didactic Program in Dietetics at San Diego State University.