Exploring Therapy Specialties: Body Image
by Patricia McGuire, LPC-MHSP
5/20/2025
In therapy, I work with individuals facing a variety of concerns and challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, eating disorders, and body image concerns. I believe treating each individual uniquely and holistically is key to the therapeutic relationship and path of healing. (Take a look at all my specialties here).
Body image is a personal narrative that encompasses how you think, feel, behave, and experience your embodiment. It is shaped by various factors, including societal expectations, media representations, and individual experiences. Each person navigates their body image with a unique set of influences, which may encompass both helpful and hurtful messages.
Numerous factors contribute to the development of difficult body image patterns, including persistent self-criticism, trauma, body shaming, and neglecting self-care. These issues can result in low self-esteem, increased anxiety and depression, and the emergence of eating disorders. Cultivating a kind and compassionate body image is essential for overall well-being, as it significantly impacts self-perception and interpersonal relationships.
By challenging unrealistic societal expectations, you can foster a more compassionate and realistic view of your body. A healthy body image involves accepting your body as it is while embracing mental, emotional, and behavioral changes that reflect an appreciation for both your body and its needs.
I approach this process from a Health At Every Size perspective, which honors the diversity of all bodies. Health is a multifaceted concept that includes (but is not limited to!) self-care, intuitive nourishment, and mental wellness, recognizing that each person's journey toward health may look different.
Here are several topics we may explore in sessions to help you delve deeper into your body image experience:
Body Image Timeline: Examine the experiences in your life that have shaped your perception of your body.
4 Component Model of Body Image: Reflect on the thoughts, feelings, actions, and physical sensations associated with your body experience.
Societal and Systemic Influences: Analyze and challenge the societal and systemic factors that affect body image.
Myths Surrounding Body Image: Debunk common misconceptions, such as— the belief that only specific body types struggle with body image; that body image issues can be resolved solely through weight changes; and that body image is only concerned with physical appearance.
Everyone has a personal view of their body, influenced by the stories we tell about ourselves, how others treat us, and our daily experiences. Body image is not a fixed concept; rather, it is a dynamic experience that reflects the diversity of each individual and is worth exploring and celebrating.
Go deeper: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-savvy-psychologist/202202/the-4-components-of-body-image
If you’d like to explore these ideas further, connect with Patricia McGuire here
