Business Categories: Health Services Not-for-Profits Eating Disorders and Counseling Trainers, Speakers & Performance Consultants In Business Since: 2002
Number of Employees/Subcontractors: 5
Locations: 1
Desired Market: International
Description: A support and resource center committed to empowering individuals, families, and communities to redefine beauty and health through initiatives that increase self-esteem, improve body image and introduce alternatives to dangerous desires for perfection; and to providing outreach, advocacy and educational services to those impacted by eating disorders, disordered eating and body dissatisfaction.
Profile: Mary Ellen Clausen is widely recognized as an innovative leader in eating disorder prevention, education and advocacy. After her two daughters struggled with eating disorders and her family learned of the severe lack of eating disorders resources, Mary Ellen envisioned a center that could offer support, encouragement and hope to those impacted by eating disorders. Out of her vision, Ophelia's Place was founded in 2002. Through its comprehensive resource center, peer run supports groups, annual conference, education campaigns, and public awareness-raising efforts Ophelia's Place continues to grow exponentially and reaches thousands of people annually.
Mary Ellen has presented nationally on college and high school campuses, to professional organizations and associations, and for congressional briefings. She has provided testimony for public hearings with New York State's Office of Mental Health and Department of Health and has effectively lobbied on both the state and federal level for mental health parity and eating disorders legislation. Working with top Senate leaders in the State of New York, Mary Ellen encouraged the development of legislation designed to meet the needs of consumers seeking and accessing eating disorder and mental health care within the State. Additionally, she was invited to serve on the Child Performer Advisory Board for the NY State Dept. of Labor.
Featured Products or Services: Ophelia's Place presents cafe at 407, a cafe open to the community to help fund this little non-profit.
