02 Oct Member Journey: Cherrelle Davis – Finding Connection, Encouragement, and Purpose in the Eating Disorders Field

From Graduate School Internship to Lifelong Commitment

Cherrelle Davis began working in eating disorders not by design, but while seeking clinical hours during her Marriage and Family Therapy graduate studies. A few colleagues suggested a newly opened treatment center, and with a bit of humor added, “We get to eat on the job.” For a grad student balancing work and studies, that sounded like a practical choice. She went to check it out and inquired about an internship opportunity. The center shared they unfortunately could not offer her an internship but offered her a job instead as a TA (Therapeutic Assistant).

What began as a role as a Therapeutic Assistant, eating meals with patients, escorting them to groups, and providing daily support, soon turned into something much more. “I just loved it,” Cherrelle recalls. “I found the population so interesting, the groups so meaningful, and I realized I was good with connecting with patients.” That first role sparked what has become a lifelong passion. Over time, she became a licensed therapist, moved into private practice, and discovered her unique niche: working primarily with people of color who experience eating disorders.

Discovering iaedp: A Professional Community Beyond the Treatment Center

Cherrelle’s introduction to iaedp came through her treatment center, which hosted local chapter meetings. Initially encouraged to attend for continuing education, she quickly saw that iaedp offered much more than CE credits. “I realized there was a whole other community out there of clinicians in private practice, dietitians, physical therapists, and I liked being in those rooms, learning and connecting.”

Membership opened the door to broader engagement. Attending chapter events became a way to connect beyond her immediate workplace and discover the depth of the professional community committed to eating disorders care.

The Power of Encouragement and Representation

Two aspects of iaedp membership have been especially meaningful for Cherrelle. First, the ability to connect with other clinicians of color. “That would have been really difficult to find without iaedp,” she reflects. Having access to a network and being able to search for colleagues by location has been invaluable both for client referrals and for collaboration.

Second, the encouragement she received from fellow members. One moment stands out: “The whole reason I finally got my CEDS was because a chapter member said, ‘We need more Black and Brown people certified. What can I do to help you?’” That support and accountability from a peer made all the difference. Today, Cherrelle has not only earned her certification but also helps others pursue theirs.

Community as More Than Networking

When asked what makes iaedp unique, Cherrelle doesn’t hesitate. “It’s more than networking; it’s about building each other up.” Her chapter has become a place of mutual encouragement, where members know each other’s specialties, celebrate milestones, and create an environment of support that goes beyond referrals.

“I realized there was a whole other community out there of clinicians in private practice, dietitians, physical therapists, and I liked being in those rooms, learning and connecting.”

Advice to New Members and New Professionals

For anyone new to the field or new to iaedp, Cherrelle’s advice is simple: show up. “Go to an event. Talk to people. See what the chapter is doing. You’ll realize these are real people who want to encourage you, not just recruit you. That’s how you get a sense of the community.”

Looking Ahead: Accessibility, Belonging, and Growth

Cherrelle is especially excited about how the symposium is evolving to be more accessible, creating new opportunities for members to gather, connect, and grow together. She sees this as a powerful way for iaedp to be even more intentional in welcoming and onboarding members into the organization’s mission. For her, these changes reflect the heart of iaedp, building community, fostering belonging, and ensuring that every member has a place to contribute and thrive.

A Journey Fueled by Connection and Purpose

Cherrelle’s story is a reminder that membership is more than benefits; it’s about community, encouragement, and growth. From her early days as a graduate student intern to becoming a private practice clinician and certified specialist, iaedp has provided support, connection, and the power of peers who believe in her potential.

“The most valuable part of my membership has been the encouragement and connection. It’s about people who see your potential, believe in you, and want to lift you up.” – Cherrelle