In this insightful and deeply personal episode, Dr. Cristina Castagnini sits down with Asher M. Saruya, a psychotherapist whose lived experience with eating disorders, neurodivergence, and Jewish identity informs their clinical practice and advocacy work. Together, they unpack the complex intersections of culture, family, identity, and neurodiversity that shape how we experience food and body image. Asher shares their powerful story of struggling with restriction, bingeing, and perfectionism—alongside the deep healing that came from understanding how trauma, cultural messaging, and ADHD influenced their relationship with food. This episode explores how shame and self-judgment evolve through family systems, religious traditions, and social pressures, and how recovery means learning to exist more fully and compassionately in one’s own body. Asher is a social worker and psychotherapist specializing in trauma-informed care, weight-stigma, and eating disorder recovery. Working from a place of lived-experience, Asher’s clinical approach to therapy honors that the client has as much wisdom as the clinician, and that a collaborative, uniquely-tailored approach is how we create a sustainable path for growth. Prior to becoming a therapist, Asher studied the art of narrative and storytelling. She brings this perspective to all aspects of her work, including clinically. Asher also enjoys illustrating and creates mental-health-informed infographics and art when they can. You can often find her drinking chai, reading a book, and snuggling with one of her many animals.      

Key Topics Discussed:

  • How eating disorders can develop from restriction mistaken as 'health' or 'discipline.'
  • Why bingeing often signals the breaking point of deprivation rather than 'loss of control.'
  • How Jewish identity, family dynamics, and intergenerational trauma shape food relationships.
  • The intersection between ADHD, sensory sensitivities, and disordered eating behaviors.
  • How body image struggles intertwine with whiteness, proximity to privilege, and belonging.
  • What it means to redefine 'recovery' beyond perfectionism or linear healing.
  • The importance of community, compassion, and self-understanding in lasting recovery.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THIS EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 01:22 Welcoming Today's Guest: Asher
  • 02:32 Asher's Personal Journey with Eating Disorders
  • 03:32 The Struggle with Restriction and Binging
  • 07:05 Seeking Help and Family Dynamics
  • 12:49 Cultural Influences on Eating Disorders
  • 21:58 Parental Influence on Body Image
  • 23:00 Therapy and Cognitive Restructuring
  • 24:21 Neurodivergence and Eating Disorders
  • 25:11 Sensory Challenges and Food
  • 26:49 Complexities of Treatment
  • 32:12 Defining Recovery
  • 36:10 Navigating Cultural and Religious Events
  • 38:44 Living a Present Life
  • 40:57 Final Thoughts and Resources

CONNECT WITH ASHER:

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!

Thank you for tuning in to Behind the Bite! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others who might benefit. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review.  Until next time, remember, we're here to break down barriers, challenge stigma, and support each other on the path to a better life. Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales. **Disclaimer:** The content of this podcast episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and experiences shared by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or affiliated organizations. If you have any medical or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those sensitive to topics related to body image, weight stigma, and eating disorders.