21 Mar Member Profile: Kate Funk, CEDS-C – A Passion for Eating Disorder Recovery and Community
At the 2025 Annual Global Symposium, I had the pleasure of meeting Kate Funk, CEDS-C, a dedicated professional in the eating disorder field, is a shining example of the commitment and passion that drives individuals to make a meaningful impact. We met at the Connection, Outreach, and Mentoring Committee New Attendee Annual Breakfast. Kate serves as an iaedp mentor and Kate had a warm and connecting energy and began discussing her journey with the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (iaedp) which began in 2012, just after she graduated from graduate school. Motivated by her own personal experience of recovery from eating disorders, Kate sought to learn more and contribute to the field despite having no clinical background at the time.
Starting the Journey
Coming out of graduate school, Kate faced the challenge of finding a job in the eating disorder field without clinical experience. Determined to learn and grow, she turned to the iaedp certification program. “I had personal experience recovering from an eating disorder, but I didn’t have clinical experience,” Kate shared. “So, I googled how to learn about eating disorders, and the iaedp certification came up.” While she wasn’t yet eligible for certification due to lack of clinical hours or licensure, she began taking core courses that laid the foundation for her professional growth.
Over the next several years, Kate worked toward gaining the necessary experience and licensure to pursue a full career in eating disorder treatment. Her dedication and perseverance eventually led her to become a certified member of iaedp through her previous employment with a credentialed provider.
The Power of Community
Kate’s first experience with iaedp left a lasting impression, particularly at her first symposium. “I’m a huge nerd when it comes to eating disorder research,” she said with a smile. “At that symposium, I got to meet people like Margo Maine, the author of The Body Myth, who I had read when I was about 17.” Meeting such influential figures in the field made Kate feel a profound sense of belonging and inspiration. “Just being in the same room with these experts was a game-changer for me,” she recalled. “It made me feel like, okay, I am going to do this. I do want to pursue this. This is my passion.”
In addition to learning from top professionals in the field, Kate felt an immediate connection to the community at iaedp. “It was such a welcoming space. I was just so grateful to be there, learning and hearing from people I respected so much.”
“It’s been an incredible resource for me to navigate the field,
figure out where I want to go and learn from different people.”
Professional Growth Through Membership
Kate credits her iaedp membership for opening doors to invaluable networking opportunities and learning experiences. “Being a member has connected me with so many different providers, facilities, and modes of treatment,” Kate explained. “It’s been an incredible resource for me to navigate the field, figure out where I want to go and learn from different people.”
Her iaedp membership also provided her with the tools and support to feel confident in her career. “It helped me connect with people who had similar experiences and goals. Having that community has been a huge support as I continue to grow in this field.”
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
When asked what advice she would offer to someone considering entering the eating disorder field or joining iaedp, Kate emphasized the importance of being open and brave. “Learn as much as you can and be open to different perspectives,” she advised. “Joining iae
dp is a great way to do that. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people, even if they seem intimidating. More often than not, they will respond and offer helpful suggestions.”
Kate’s own journey with iaedp demonstrates the value of being proactive and making connections. “I’ve been a fangirl for some of these seasoned therapists,” she laughed. “But just going up to them and thanking them for their work has led to amazing conversations and connections.”
Looking Toward the Future
While Kate has had a positive experience with iaedp, she recognizes the importance of continually evolving and focusing on the mission of the association. “It’s crucial that iaedp stays true to its mission and continues fostering community and inclusion,” she said thoughtfully. “The future of eating disorder treatment will look different, and it’s important that we stay focused on how to make the community even more relevant and accessible.”
For Kate, being a part of iaedp is about more than just professional development—it’s about contributing to a cause and a community that drives her passion. “There’s so much potential for growth and connection in this field,” she concluded. “Being a part of iaedp has been a powerful part of my journey, and I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and contributing to this important work.”
Kate Funk’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and passion in building a meaningful career. Her dedication to iaedp continues to grow as she strives to make a positive impact on those affected by eating disorders.
In addition to her contributions, Kate is a mentor within iaedp’s Connection, Outreach, and Mentoring Committee (COMC), a valuable resource for clinicians new to the field of eating disorders. She finds great fulfillment in guiding and supporting emerging professionals as they navigate their careers. She stated, “I would love to offer my guidance as a mentor to support new professionals in the field.”
To learn more about the mentoring program, visit COMC.
One notable aspect of Kate is her passion for painting and active involvement in animal rescue initiatives.
By Mel Jordan-Carr, Membership Director
melody@iaedpfoundation.com.