Working on our body image can be a life long process. I have found that this is a common "go to" in our thoughts when we are feeling negative about almost anything in our life. Working to notice how a thought can affect our feelings and then practicing "catching" our thoughts as they happen and refocus them can completely turn around these sticky negative body image thoughts.
Unfortunately in our culture people tend to feel their value is based on looks, particularly body image. Because so much focus is placed on our bodies, the way we feel about ourselves is almost always an issue even if it isn't what has brought someone to therapy originally. It is very rewarding working with someone to improve the way they feel about themselves and as a result, increased self-confidence follows.
I assist clients in co-exploring the stories they've been told about their bodies and appearances, identifying the external influences that shape their experiences. Together, we work to minimize the impact of dominant narratives by enriching stories of clients’ beauty and worthiness.
Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT 144461, MA, RYT-500
Struggling with negative body image can have a profound impact on your self-esteem and overall well-being. Let's work together to challenge harmful body image beliefs, develop a healthier relationship with your body, and cultivate self-compassion.
We are born happy in our own skin. As kids, we are curious about our bodies and enjoy exploring them. Then something goes wrong. A well-meaning parent suggests we skip dessert, and the dolls we play with are so anatomically inaccurate they would fall over if they were humans. Then we start to attend school and become more aware of the larger culture. We notice only certain types of bodies are portrayed in the media. Our peers and our social media tell us we should look a particular way. This story may sound familiar, and sadly, it’s a common one. Unfortunately, for so many of us, the dissatisfaction with our bodies starts when we are young and persists for many years, particularly if we don’t start to examine how we think. Together, through radical self-acceptance, fat positivity, and the anti-diet framework we can begin to work toward healing.
We all hear a duality of messages: Criticize your body: Accept you body. We all walk this line yet it's normal to intellectually know something is not right but to embody acceptance of oneself is also possible with support.
Are your negative thoughts about your body keeping you from enjoying your life? Do you constantly compare yourself to others? We all desire healthy relationships both with others and ourselves. The relationship we have with our bodies can be complicated. Media, the diet industry, previous experiences, and our own thoughts about our body can impact our self image and intimacy with others. I use a Health At Every Size (HAES®) and body liberation framework to support you in your goals. Through therapy, acceptance and peace within our bodies can grow and be nurtured to help you live your fullest life.