Beyond PBJ teaches people of all abilities to prepare healthy, delicious food in the comfort of their homes. We offer a variety of services to guide individuals with special needs toward culinary independence and a healthy lifestyle, including cooking skills, meal planning, grocery shopping, and smart spending.
We work with our clients and their families to create individualized care plans related to all things culinary, taking into account food sensitivities, allergies, and preferences. We understand that while the flavor of a food is important, individuals may also be sensitive to the color, smell, and texture.
We meet our clients where they are, create realistic goals for gaining kitchen confidence, and have fun while doing so.
ABOUT EMILIA EDMONSON
Emilia Edmonson, LMSW, is the founder of Beyond PBJ. Her inspiration came while working as a kitchen manager and culinary director for an Austin-area bakery that employed young adults with autism. Emilia found that her employees were gaining confidence and new skills when working in the professional kitchen space – but some were not successfully transferring those skills to their home kitchens, instead relying too often on simple foods like PBJ sandwiches.
Emilia’s passion for cooking began as a young child, learning to make spaghetti and meatballs with her mother and loving the process almost as much as the finished product. She now practices these skills in her own kitchen with her two daughters, priding herself in offering fresh, tasty, home-cooked meals to her family. Beyond PBJ allows Emilia to combine her lifelong love of cooking with the knowledge she gained managing a professional kitchen to expand the skills and independence of Austinites with special needs.
Emilia holds three degrees from The University of Texas at Austin: bachelor’s degrees in finance and social work, and a master’s degree in social work. She is a Licensed Master Social Worker and has volunteered with The Arc of Texas, Special Olympics, and Best Buddies. She lives in Austin with her husband, two daughters, and beloved boxer, Floyd.
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Interested in how Beyond PBJ can help you or your family member gain culinary independence? Reach out today to learn more: