About Us
About the Healthy Eating and Lifestyle (HEAL) Lab
The Healthy Eating and Lifestyle (HEAL) Lab is directed by Dr. Stephanie Cassin and is located in the Department of Psychology at Ryerson University. The primary aims of the lab are to investigate the psychosocial aspects of disordered eating across the weight spectrum, and to develop evidence-based treatments to improve eating behaviours and overall wellbeing.
RESEARCH
Readiness for Change and Motivational Interviewing
Individuals with disordered eating often feel ambivalent about making changes to their eating because their current eating behaviours are rewarding in some way or serve important functions in their lives.
Obesity and Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric (weight loss) surgery is currently considered the most effective treatment for severe obesity. However, the long-term effects of bariatric surgery on weight loss, physical health, and psychological health are highly variable.
Disordered Eating Across the Weight Spectrum
Disordered eating refers to a variety of maladaptive eating behaviours such as dietary restriction, dietary restraint, binge eating, emotional overeating, grazing, and loss of control over eating. In some cases, disordered eating can lead to eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.