Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Whitney Trotter. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Dr. Whitney, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

My parents did so much right, and their influence has shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally. As biracial daughters, my sister and I were raised in a home where our identities were celebrated, and our dreams were always supported. My parents made it a priority to teach us about both sides of our heritage, instilling in us a strong sense of pride in our multicultural background.

One story that stands out is when I expressed my desire to pursue a career in the healthcare field. At the time, I wasn’t sure which path to take, but my parents never wavered in their support. They encouraged me to explore different options, to shadow professionals, and to trust my instincts. This unwavering support gave me the confidence to pursue both my dietitian and psychiatric nurse practitioner licenses, knowing that I had a solid foundation of love and encouragement behind me.

In addition to their support, my parents taught us the importance of hard work and resilience. My mother often shared stories of her own challenges in the workplace, especially as a woman of color, and how she overcame them through perseverance. My father, on the other hand, demonstrated the power of empathy and compassion, always reminding us that understanding others is key to building strong, meaningful relationships.

Their lessons on resilience have been invaluable in my career, especially in the demanding field of mental health and eating disorders. I’ve encountered numerous challenges along the way, but my parents’ example has always reminded me to push forward, to continue learning, and to never give up on my goals.

Another story that illustrates their influence is when my sister and I were young, and we wanted to participate in sports. My parents not only encouraged us to join but also actively participated, helping us understand the importance of community involvement and the power of representation. My sister and I were able to gain a scholarship to college and play the sport we loved.

Ultimately, what my parents did right was provide a strong, supportive foundation that celebrated our unique identities and encouraged us to pursue our dreams with confidence and determination. They showed us the importance of embracing our full selves, working hard, and giving back to our community. Their influence has been profound, and I carry their lessons with me every day as I strive to make a difference in the world.

Dr. Whitney, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a Registered Dietitian and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a deep passion for supporting individuals on their journey to mental and physical wellness, particularly in the realm of eating disorders. My path into this field was driven by a desire to bridge the gap between mental health and nutrition, especially for those in marginalized communities who often face additional barriers to care. I provide comprehensive, culturally sensitive care that addresses the complex interplay between food, body image, and mental health.

What sets me apart is my dual expertise in nutrition and psychiatry, allowing me to offer a holistic approach to treatment. I understand that eating disorders are multifaceted, influenced by a variety of factors, including race, culture, and identity, and I tailor my services to meet the unique needs of each client.

One of my proudest achievements is the development of programs that specifically address the needs of BIPOC individuals with eating disorders, who are often overlooked in traditional treatment models. I strive to create a safe, inclusive space where clients feel understood and supported, and I am committed to continuous learning and advocacy to improve care for all.

I want potential clients to know that my work is deeply rooted in empathy, cultural competence, and a commitment to their overall well-being. My goal is to empower individuals to reclaim their health and their lives, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive. Whether through one-on-one counseling, educational workshops, or community outreach, I am dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those I serve. Over the last three years, I have co-lead the BIPOC Eating Disorders Conference. We have trained and provided education to hundreds of clinicians domestically and abroad.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Beyond training and knowledge, the most helpful qualities for succeeding in my field are empathy, cultural sensitivity, and resilience. Empathy allows you to connect with clients on a personal level, making them feel understood and supported. Cultural sensitivity is crucial, especially in mental health and nutrition, where understanding a client’s background and experiences can greatly impact the effectiveness of treatment. Resilience is necessary to navigate the emotional challenges that come with this work, ensuring that you can provide consistent, compassionate care even in difficult situations.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been building strong, genuine relationships and word-of-mouth referrals. By providing personalized, compassionate care, clients feel valued and supported, which naturally leads to them recommending my services to others. Additionally, maintaining an active presence in community events, workshops, and online platforms helps me connect with a broader audience. Staying engaged with my community and consistently offering valuable insights through educational content has also been key in attracting and retaining clients.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.whitneytrotter.com
• Instagram: whitneytrotter.rd