WHY WE CREATED
CEDAR
CEDAR was initially created with the intention of supporting families, after recognizing the significant gap in resources that actively include them in the treatment of eating disorders.
These conditions often affect not only the individual experiencing them, but the entire family system, highlighting the importance of providing caregivers with guidance, understanding, and support.
Over the years, through continued learning and experience in this field, we also became aware that many professional areas still lack sufficient expertise in eating disorders.
This realization encouraged us to deepen our knowledge and training across related areas such as neurodivergence, body image, and the potential risks associated with fitness culture and body-focused environments.
Along this journey, we have had the privilege of connecting with professionals and advocates who have enriched our perspective and supported our mission.
Their collaboration has helped our community grow, strengthening our work and allowing us to build a more multidisciplinary and supportive network.
Hi, I’m Deirdre. I support parents, families, and individuals affected by eating disorders by helping them understand their role in recovery and providing practical tools and guidance.
Drawing from both personal experience and professional training, I deliver workshops and programmes that empower caregivers and raise awareness around eating disorders.
Hi, I’m Zuzanna. I’m a clinical psychologist and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals with eating disorders and their families.
My work focuses on the connection between eating disorders, sensitivity, trauma, and the nervous system, helping people move toward healing, self-understanding, and deeper connection.
I’m passionate about supporting families and creating spaces where people feel seen, understood, and empowered in their recovery journey.
OUR MISSION
We provide whole‑person eating‑disorder support through an early‑identification, stepped‑care approach that ensures people can access the right help at the earliest opportunity.
As a voluntary community social enterprise, we deliver optimal care, reduce stigma, and strengthen awareness so individuals and families can heal and thrive.
OUR VISION
A world where eating‑disorder care is accessible at the earliest sign, where every person is met with understanding and connection, and where communities, families, and professionals work together to create environments that support recovery.
We envision a future in which stigma is replaced with compassion, barriers are dismantled, and whole‑person wellbeing is supported across the entire lifecycle of an eating disorder.
MEET OUR TEAM
Silvia Quintana is a Body Trust provider who is passionate about raising awareness around harmful beauty standards and helping people feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
She is also deeply interested in marketing and supports the team by developing ideas and strategies for social media and communication.
Sean Blake is an anorexia survivor who shares his lived experience to raise awareness about eating disorders and the role exercise can play in mental health.
He advocates for the use of respectful, non-stigmatizing language and encourages people to avoid making assumptions about others’ bodies or experiences.
Sean believes that guidance around exercise and nutrition should come from qualified professionals, and he shares his story to help increase understanding and awareness in this area.
Maggie Lawler is a HAES-aligned gym owner and the host of the podcast Inclusive Movement & Nutrition Ireland.
She is a strong advocate for the non-diet approach and works to connect size-inclusive movement and nutrition professionals who are committed to creating spaces where people of all body types, shapes, sizes, and abilities feel welcome.
Her work is supported through her gym, Simple Strength Leixlip.
