Most people with an eating disorder see recovery as a distant, even impossible goal, especially after trying many times. But Rivka Levin's story proves otherwise: after over a decade of relapses, treatment, and despair, she fully recovered- and shares how she did it. Rivka's journey from near-death moments to a thriving, soulful life is an inspiring testament to hope, resilience, and the transformative power of inner work.

In this deeply personal episode, Rivka joins her former therapist Carolyn Costin to explore the real dynamics behind full recovery and lasting healing. They break down how understanding the split between the healthy self and the eating disorder self—plus the traits that fuel these behaviors—can turn perceived weaknesses into powerful assets. You'll discover concrete strategies like using values as guiding stars, transforming traits like perfectionism and anxiety, and the importance of rituals that nourish the soul.

Together, they discuss the significance of mentorship, role models, and community in recovery—highlighting relatable stories of relapses, setbacks, and victories. Rivka shares her innovative approaches to body image, trauma, and soul healing, emphasizing that recovery is a gradual process of building a new identity based on genuine connection, presence, and soul work. She reveals how rituals, mindfulness, and honest self-compassion help rewire the nervous system and foster resilience.

This episode challenges the misconception that eating disorders can’t be fully healed or that traits are fixed liabilities. Instead, it offers hope and practical tools for anyone feeling stuck—whether you're navigating your own recovery or supporting a loved one. Rivka’s story underscores the importance of patience, persistence, and the deep inner work that restores not just the body but the soul. Perfect for clinicians, coaches, parents, and anyone seeking a hopeful, motivating perspective on full recovery—this conversation illustrates how body and soul reconnect to create a life of authenticity and joy. If you've ever felt that hope is lost, this episode will renew your belief in transformation and remind you that recovery is a journey worth taking.

About Rivka:

Rivka Levin is a clinical psychology PhD candidate, researcher, and therapist-in-training whose work integrates research, clinical practice, and lived experience. Her clinical training centers on eating disorders, neurodivergence, and gender diversity, and she has published research on orthorexia and the relationship between ADHD and eating disorders. She is currently completing her doctoral dissertation on emotion regulation and eating disorders, examining both the inner experience of emotions and how they unfold in relational contexts.  Drawing on both her clinical training and her own experience of full recovery from an eating disorder, Rivka brings a warm, grounded perspective to these conversations and is particularly interested in expanding how recovery is understood and what makes it possible.

Thank you for listening. Please take a minute to review our helpful links and resources below.

Important Links:

Learn about the Carolyn Costin Institute

Apply to become a CCI Certified Recovery Coach

Follow the CCI Institute on Instagram

Subscribe to Carolyn's YouTube Channel

RECEIVE 20% OFF your purchase of the 8 Keys to Recovering from an Eating Disorder (book).

Recovery Resources and Support:

The National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA)

Project Heal

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD)

Carolyn's Bio: 

Carolyn Costin is a world-renowned eating disorder clinician, author, and speaker. Recovered from anorexia, she pioneered the belief that full recovery is possible. Founder of Monte Nido, she transformed treatment with a holistic, home-based model. She later founded the Carolyn Costin Institute, training coaches and clinicians worldwide. She has authored six books, ...