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Book details
  • Genre:SELF-HELP
  • SubGenre:Eating Disorders & Body Image
  • Language:English
  • Pages:200
  • eBook ISBN:9798350961881
  • Paperback ISBN:9798350961874

Grapevine

A Mother and Daughter's Tangled Journey Through an Eating Disorder

by Alexa Doerr and Michelle Doerr

Book Image Not Available Book Image Not Available
Overview
Mother and daughter Michelle Doerr and Alexa Doerr share their intertwined experiences as they confront the complexities of a seemingly elusive eating disorder diagnosis. Alexa's battle with the disorder began at the tender age of ten, setting off a tumultuous journey that profoundly shaped both their lives and relationships. They lay their raw and intimate memories side by side, intentionally choosing not to correct or edit the other's recollection. Stories are told as if they are happening in the present, from the start of their journey through their lasting recovery, as well as reflections, desires for change in the system, and hope for the future. It is a powerful testament to individual perspectives and interpretations, the importance of empathy, and the enduring lessons gained from adversity. In the vineyard of life, our vines may wither and entangle, but through perseverance and the nurturing touch of love, we can bloom and thrive.
Description

Michelle Doerr, a devoted mother, found herself navigating uncharted territory when her daughter Alexa was diagnosed with an eating disorder at an unusually young age. Their journey through ambiguous diagnoses, clinic visits, and counseling sessions is candidly depicted, providing a real-world view of the challenges faced by families dealing with similar issues.

Alexa Doerr bravely recounts her struggles and triumphs, offering a rare insight into the mind of a young person battling an eating disorder. Her perspective sheds light on the internal dialogue, tactics, and mental health of someone with an eating disorder.

"This book is a vivid, real, and honest account of the toll an eating disorder takes on the person and the main caregiver. The Doerrs bravely explain their unique viewpoints on what their journey entailed. As an Adlerian professional with more than 25 years of experience helping individuals struggling with eating disorders, the memories and situations shared throughout the book highlight the insidious, and sadly typical, nature of these disorders and the lasting impact they have. The usefulness of Adlerian psychology and how it creates a turning point in their story comes as no surprise to me given the successful recovery of many of my previous clients. Overall, this book is a must-read for clients and caregivers alike; everyone will feel seen and understood, while new insights may develop from reading the authors’ different perspectives. Congratulations to Michelle and Alexa on a book that will undoubtedly change lives for the better."

Susan E. Belangee, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS, DNASAP

About the author

Alexa grew up dreaming of writing a novel someday, but never imagined her first book would be part of her personal life journey. Her debut novel, Grapevine: A Mother and Daughter's Tangled Journey Through an Eating Disorder shares a raw and real glimpse into how an eating disorder can impact the individual as well as the family system. Alexa has bachelor's degrees in psychology and anthrozoology, and she currently serves as an outreach professional with a national eating disorder treatment center. Alexa is passionate about eating disorder awareness and prevention as well as sharing the power of the human-animal bond. Alexa and her fiancé live in Washington state with their two spunky pups.

Michelle’s journey as a parent has been both challenging and transformative. Navigating her son's autism spectrum disorder and her daughter's eating disorder, showcased in her debut novel, Grapevine: A Mother and Daughter’s Tangled Journey Through an Eating Disorder, led her to explore the principles of Individual Psychology. Michelle completed the InnerMBA and holds certificates in Advanced Adlerian Psychology, Wellness Coaching, Advanced EcoTherapy, Trauma-informed Leadership and Executive Leadership. In addition, Michelle is a leader, coach and trainer in the conservation field, blending principles of human connection and her passion for Earth. Through her writing and teachings, she strives to leave a lasting impact, both in the conservation field and the human and non-human lives she touches.

Book Reviews

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Excella
I could not stop reading it! I felt touched and moved from the introduction on. I found myself taking a few deep breaths when reading the first chapter and on. I could feel the struggle and the tension from both sides. I enjoyed to be placed in different perspectives and be in the shoes of both parties. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your experience and feel what you went through. I appreaciate the courage and the willigness to share this intimate part of your life story. I came to realize that I might been experience the same thing with a member of my family without realizing it. Reading the book opened my eyes and comprehension of what I experienced. Don't miss out reading this book! Read more
Barb
Must read resource on Eating Disorders Getting perspective from both child and parent really sets this book apart. I admired how mother and daughter had the realization that the same situation looked/felt different in each of their eyes and they embraced that in the writing of the book. It was a quick/easy read making it an ideal resource for families dealing with eating disorders and those treating them. It has some amazing points of how to parent when faced with a child with a challenging diagnosis. This book gives a parent some grace in the tough job of being a parent. And hopefully gives children/teens a voice on their perspective of navigating a diagnosis they can’t fully understand. I also was intrigued in learning about different counseling methods that worked better in this situation. We must always be our strongest advocate to get to the positive outcomes we all deserve. I applaud these two in doing an amazing job telling their story and I am confident it will help others to hear it. Read more