Weight loss is a journey that involves a lot more than losing physical weight. Psychodynamic psychotherapy can really help as a compliment to other supports in weight loss in that it can really help to unpack the belief system you have in connection with food from childhood where most of the culprits are. By getting to the roots of overeating, undereating, emotional eating, etc., we can help support awareness of their origins which tends to help us break patterns that are not benefitting us and introduce new ones.
As we build our capacity for self compassion, we become more in tune with what will be nourishing for our bodies. In therapy we focus on what has happened to us that made us disconnect from our bodies in this way. We explore what eating foods that cause unhealthy weight gain do for us; do we eat for comfort, for relief, for relaxation, disconnection and so on. Which part of us enjoys feeling full, eating to ease emotions and so on. Working with me to support your weight issues will provide you with tools to support yourself through emotional eating patterns that have been difficult to change.
The aspects of body image and weight loss important. We all have times the way we see ourselves hurts. What if those thoughts are impacting our lives? If you want to get past negative image thoughts and behaviors we can work together to understand why and get new tools to change our image view. Imagine 'looking in the mirror' with a healthy view and positive thoughts. "You are Amazing!" "You look strong". You will explore your aspects of body image in 4 steps in a safe therapeutic way using art materials and therapeutic techniques to release emotions and safely talk when you are ready using the Signature: Body Aspects Program (6 Sessions).
When working with weight loss, I like to start with some mindfulness around the issue to gain a deeper understanding of the experience, from here there are many options, and I rely of the client's wisdom to guide me.
Licensed Professional Counsellor, Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC)
The struggle to lose weight occurs in males and females across varying cultures. Feeling unable to lose weight can create feelings of helplessness due to trying out numerous diets without seeing satisfying results. In working with somebody who is overweight or who would like to lose weight the most important factor in our work together is looking beyond the weight loss struggle. Rather than exploring the multiple methods you have tried to lose weight, I would like to get to know you better as a whole person. When did you begin recognizing your need to lose weight? What was going on for you at the time? What does weight gain mean to you, and how does it affect your perception of yourself? I would also like to explore the barriers to losing weight, as they are often linked to unhealthy thoughts patterns and past trauma. Although a small portion of our work together can include psychoeducation on nutrition, we predominantly focus on the underlying issues that have triggered the weight gain. Together we can devise a treatment plan to help you attain your goals and aspirations.
3 Years Experience
