Body Image therapists in Lincolnia, Virginia VA
Body Image
Dr. Caroline Hicks
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Especially in my work with transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) community, body image is often in context to what we are processing. Body image work can look a variety of ways, such as deconstructing and healing internalizations of fat phobia, transphobia, and European body ideals. I like to make it clear - I am a firm believer in the Healthy at Every Size movement and we can utilize this space to find a path towards connecting your mind and your authentic and congruent body.
7 Years Experience
Body Image
Dr. Adam Shafer
Psychologist, Psy. D., M.A.
See ourselves through a critical lens undercuts our capacity for growth and living a happy, meaningful life.
Body Image
Rachel Ann Dine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LPC
The relationship we have with our body and self-image can change over time. Comparison, feeling hyper focused on looking a certain way, and even messages you may have received growing up about your body can all go into affecting our view of self. I take a compassionate approach to understanding and helping you feel more confident (and compassionate!) with who you are on both an emotional and physical level.
19 Years Experience
Body Image
Andrea Elkon
Psychologist, Ph.D.
Do you find yourself avoiding mirrors or scales? Or...are you constantly weighing yourself? Inspecting yourself? Dressing in ways to hide your body? Do you have rules about eating or exercise? I want to help you feel better about yourself, to calm those self-critical beliefs and feel secure in your skin. Please feel free to reach out to me to learn more about my approach to treating body image.
19 Years Experience
Body Image
Elisha S Lee
Counselor/Therapist, LPC
Our body image counseling services are dedicated to helping individuals develop a healthier, more positive relationship with their bodies. Recognizing the profound impact that body image can have on overall mental wellness, self-esteem, and daily functioning, we offer a compassionate, supportive setting where clients can explore their feelings about their body and work towards acceptance and self-love.
Empowering Approaches to Improving Body Image
* Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapeutic strategy is fundamental in addressing the negative thought patterns that often underpin poor body image. CBT helps clients identify and critically evaluate their beliefs about their bodies, challenging and changing those that are distorted or self-defeating.
* Mindfulness Practices: Incorporating mindfulness can enhance body awareness and acceptance. Through practices such as mindful eating and body scans, clients learn to experience their body from a place of gratitude and respect, rather than judgment and criticism.
* Media Literacy Education: Our approach includes education on how media images are often manipulated and do not reflect realistic standards. Understanding this can significantly reduce feelings of inadequacy and negative comparison to others.
* Expressive Therapies:Techniques such as art therapy or narrative therapy allow individuals to express their feelings about their bodies creatively and therapeutically. These practices can often reveal and help resolve deeply held emotions about body image.
* Self-Esteem Enhancement: Enhancing a client's overall self-esteem is crucial in improving body image. Therapy focuses on recognizing and cultivating personal strengths and achievements, providing a more balanced and positive self-perception.
Goals of Body Image Therapy
Our primary aim is to empower individuals to see beyond societal standards and embrace their unique qualities. Therapy goals include:
* Increased Body Acceptance: Clients can achieve a greater appreciation and acceptance of their body, recognizing its capabilities and resilience rather than focusing solely on appearance.
* Reduced Impact of Negative Thoughts: Develop the ability to recognize and manage negative thoughts about one's body, replacing them with affirmations and positive self-talk.
* Improved Mental and Emotional Wellbeing: As body image improves, so often does overall mental health, leading to reduced anxiety, less depression, and more positive social interactions.
* Healthier Behaviors: With an improved body image, clients are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors for the right reasons, rather than as a punishment or compensation.
If you're struggling with body image issues, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Reach out to us, and let’s work together toward a more positive and accepting view of your body, fostering a healthier, happier you.
7 Years Experience