Beth Riley, LISW-CP, CEDS-S (Certified Eating Disorder Specialist Supervisor)
I have a passion for helping people overcome self-defeating behaviors in order to live fulfilling lives. I have found that many of my clients are overwhelmed by stress and turn to food and other substances or unhealthy behaviors to cope.
My specialty is counseling those who struggle with binge or emotional eating, eating disorders and bariatric counseling. I have even written a book on the topic called “Breakthrough Binge Eating”.
I thrive on helping people learn to slow down, connect with their authentic selves and find inner peace. I have 23 years of experience as a therapist and my own personal story of healing and hope.
My work history:
I started my career in the non-profit world where I developed a reputation for creating highly successful and innovative programs. I returned to school to get my master’s in social work and then started a therapy business that eventually grew into a full-fledged Center with a reputation for clinical excellence and innovative practices. My business was acquired by a world class behavioral health organization in 2015. I had the good fortune of being able to hone my leadership and business skills during my two-year tenure with this organization, and after a heart wrenching decision to leave what I had started in 2005, I knew it was time for me to make a change.
As hard as it is to change, I thrive on challenge and opportunity. My business coach/therapist advised me to slow down and reflect on what I really wanted for this next phase of my life. I took some time to sit in my yard and watch the birds. I traveled. I meditated, did yoga, walked in the woods, hung out with my new puppy. I talked to the women I admired and trusted, my friends, colleagues, husband and daughter. I faltered at times but then finally came to the realization that I needed to slow down and live a life that is aligned with what I value. I had to ignore a lot of “I should be doing” or “How are we going to survive if I don’t make more money?” and realize that I am truly happiest when I’m working as a therapist and empowering others to change their lives. This time around, instead of seeing 30 clients a week and leaving no time for myself, I am limiting my sessions to 16 clients a week and have chosen to see only those who are truly motivated to change their lives.
A little more about me:
I’m a native New Yorker (Manhattan) who has lived in Boston, San Francisco, Italy, France, North Carolina and now Greenville, SC for the last 30+ years.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a certified eating disorder specialist.
I am a graduate of Stanford University, received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of South Carolina, hold a Certificate in Executive Leadership from Cornell University, am a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP), a CEDS supervisor, a Social Work Supervisor, a member of IAEDP, the South Carolina Society for Clinical Social Work, and the Upstate Behavioral Health Alliance.
When I am not working or hanging out with Jasper and Joni, my rescue dogs, I love traveling to big cities to get my urban fix or hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I have been married to Owen Riley, a former photojournalist and now high school photography teacher for 26 years. We have on amazing 22 year old daughter who is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Tulane University. My favorite place to find solace is the Carl Sandburg House in Flat Rock, NC.
