In this powerful episode of Fly to Freedom, I’m joined by someone whose story and work I deeply admire—Dr Rachel Evans. Rachel is a chartered psychologist, hypnotherapist, and podcast host with her own lived experience of bulimia recovery. Known for her compassionate and trauma-informed approach, she supports individuals who feel trapped in cycles of food obsession, body hatred, purging, and compulsive exercise.
Together, we explore a part of eating disorders that often lives in the shadows—purging behaviours. Whether it’s vomiting, laxatives, or over-exercising, these actions often feel impossible to stop. Rachel opens up about her personal journey through restriction, bingeing, and purging, revealing the emotional layers, life pressures, and deep-rooted fears that fed her eating disorder.
We discuss:
How control, perfectionism, and fear of rejection can fuel purging behaviours
Why purging often becomes a coping mechanism beyond just ‘getting rid of food’
The physical and emotional impact of purging on the body and mind
The turning point that made Rachel say “enough” and begin true healing
How to begin understanding your own urges to purge with curiosity, not shame
The role of identity, academic pressure, and self-worth in recovery
Why awareness and self-compassion are the first steps to lasting change
Rachel’s story is a testament to what’s possible when we stop fighting symptoms and start listening to what they’re trying to tell us. Whether you’re struggling with purging yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers validation, insight, and hope.
You can find Rachel on Instagram at @rachel.evans.phd or visit her website at eatingdisordertherapist.co.uk to explore her work and book a free consultation.
Julia will also be appearing on Rachel’s podcast soon—so stay tuned!
Julia Trehane is a specialist anorexia recovery coach who blends lived experience with compassionate, practical tools to help others achieve full freedom from eating disorders. To access workshops, courses, community support and 24/7 recovery tools, join The Eating Disorder Recovery Circle today: www.edrecoverycircle.com/join
Keywords: bulimia recovery, purging behaviours, compulsive exercise, binge purge cycle, eating disorder recovery, emotional healing, trauma-informed, body image, laxative abuse, stop purging, overcome bulimia, eating disorder therapist