Meet Eating Disorder Dietitian, Courtney Gault – Health Stand Nutrition
Courtney Gault is a a member of Dietitians of Canada and is registered with the College of Dietitians of Alberta and the College of Dietitians of British Columbia. Courtney specializes in disordered eating, mental health, emotional eating, intuitive eating, chronic disease, geriatrics/seniors health, swallowing issues. She strives to create genuine connections with clients and works to create an inclusive space for all.
In this article, we asked her to share a few things about herself so you can get to know her better. You can also read her full bio here: Meet Our Registered Dietitian Team
What is your background as a Dietitian?
I was lucky to grow up with parents who were both great cooks. My dad loved good food and would make intricate and involved meals. He was known for his restaurant style meal presentation and elaborate fruit platters. My interest in food and nutrition definitely began with him! I wanted to learn more about cooking and how to make food taste good. Eventually, my interest in cooking turned to an interest in how to fuel myself properly for sport. I have always been active and participated in many activities including figure skating, biking, snowboarding, running, and provincial level field hockey.
Unfortunately, in my late teens I began struggling with my relationship with food and exercise and shifted into an unhealthy mindset and disordered eating patterns. Although this was a challenging time, I was privileged to receive support and work through improving my relationship with food and movement. Throughout this process, I questioned where I wanted to take my career. I knew I wanted to go into health care as I value helping others. After a lot of thought, I decided to become a dietitian to help others struggling with their relationship with food and their body. I took a very different approach to learning about nutrition. I did not want to promote restrictive diets, take away favourite foods, or stop people from enjoying social meals or going out with friends. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition, and Health majoring in Dietetics at the University of British Columbia in 2015.
After I completed my internship in Kamloops, B.C., I decided to move back to my hometown of Calgary. I was hired as a sole charge Dietitian at a long term care facility that I still work at today. I also worked as a consulting Dietitian at both a massage clinic and family practice where I saw a multitude of clients. Over my years as a dietitian, I have worked with a variety of clients with varying health concerns, but have always found a spark when working with individuals with disordered eating. I have undergone further training in this area, including becoming certified as an Intuitive Eating Counsellor and completing a Masters in Dietetics with projects focused on disordered eating, weight bias, and prenatal and infant health. I love to learn and am always seeking opportunities to increase my knowledge.
What is your favorite part about being a Dietitian?
I love talking to people and creating genuine connections. Everyone needs to eat and for many of us food is tied to memories and experiences. I love hearing these stories and helping people create a healthier relationship with food. Getting to know clients and learning how I can best support them around food and their health is extremely rewarding.
What is one myth you want to clear up about Dietitians?
That we will lecture you on your food choices, judge you based on your eating habits, and tell you not to eat your favourite foods. We will do none of the above! I am interested in getting to know you as a person and understanding what is important to you. I take the approach that all foods fit and strive to work alongside you.
What is your favorite nerdy nutritious food chosen for health?
I love apples served with cheese slices or sliced cucumbers with salt and pepper. I usually eat at least one apple a day! I have even turned my boyfriend into an apple lover- we go through an absurd amount of apples in our household.
What is your favorite soulful food chosen for taste, enjoyment, and social fun?
My favourite soulful food depends on my mood! I love ice cream, chocolate covered strawberries, puffed wheat squares, and cheddar Crispy Minis. I always include some kind of soulful food in my day!
Something that people may not know about me:
I am dog obsessed and almost took home a puppy from the Inca Trail (only kind of joking). I now share a dog with my boyfriend. Her name is Pepper and she is the best! I am always happy to see cute photos and videos of other people’s animals and frequently can be caught watching dog videos on Instagram. Another interesting thing about me is that I used to teach aerial yoga. I have not done it for a few years, but it was a super unique and fun way to move. I enjoyed doing tricks and spending an hour upside down.
Looking for more information on nutrition counselling? Need nutrition support with your health, mental health and family needs?
We can help! If you want to book an appointment to begin nutrition counselling with Courtney please contact us.
Want to learn more about Calgary Dietitian Courtney Gault? Check out her full bio here
Find out more about our Calgary Dietitian and Online Nutritionist services here.
Don’t forget to check your health insurance! Many insurance plans cover Dietitian services.
Brought to you by our friendly Registered Dietitian team at Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. For more balanced living advice check out our RESOURCE MEGA BANK of nutrition articles, videos, healthy recipes, newsletters and meal planning kits here: www.healthstandnutrition.com/personal-nutrition/resource-mega-bank/