Therapy for Body Image and Eating Disorders in South Pasadena

Are you struggling with negative thoughts about food, weight, or your appearance? Do you find yourself trapped in cycles of dieting, binging, or compulsively exercising? If you’re experiencing feelings of low self-worth, loneliness, or fear of rejection due to your body image, you may be dealing with an eating disorder or disordered eating.

I provide compassionate therapy in South Pasadena for eating disorders and body image issues. I specialize in helping individuals understand and improve their relationship with food, exercise, and self-image, so they can lead more fulfilling, peaceful lives.

Understanding Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that impact an individual’s relationship with food, exercise, and body image. Common conditions include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other forms of disordered eating. These disorders often arise from a mix of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, including trauma, societal pressures, and negative body image.

If you recognize these behaviors in yourself or a loved one, therapy can be a critical step toward recovery and healing. In my practice, I take a holistic approach to therapy, addressing the psychological, emotional, and physical aspects of eating disorder recovery.

My Approach to Eating Disorder Therapy

In our therapy sessions, we work collaboratively to understand how your relationship with food and body image is influenced by your unique life experiences. Together, we focus on:

  • Exploring the Root Causes: We address underlying issues like trauma, body image concerns, and societal influences that may contribute to disordered eating patterns.

  • Increasing Self-Compassion: Learning to be kind to yourself and embracing your body is a key part of healing from eating disorders.

  • Aligning with Your Values: We help you reconnect with your core values and life goals, so you can build a fuller, more authentic life.

  • Building on Strengths: Our work includes cultivating the strengths and skills you need to navigate relationships, manage emotions, and find peace around food and exercise.

We use evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based approaches to address eating disorders and promote lasting recovery.

The Body Positive Model & Intuitive Eating

Our therapeutic approach is informed by the Body Positive Model, which encourages a healthier, more compassionate relationship with your body, and by Intuitive Eating, a non-diet approach to eating that fosters mindful, attuned eating habits without restrictive behaviors. These approaches align with Health at Every Size (HAES), which advocates for well-being regardless of body size or shape.

Notes on My Philosophy

I believe that eating disorders, binge eating, compulsive exercise, and body image concerns arise for a reason. This may be due to genetic, biological factors, or the impact of trauma, abuse, or exposure to toxic diet culture and fatphobia. Healing from these behaviors involves understanding and making peace with your history, while cultivating compassion for your true self.

I believe that healing is possible when we embrace our humanness and move toward a life that is truly worth living—one where food and exercise no longer control us. I recognize that recovery is often a non-linear process, and I support clients in navigating the emotional and psychological challenges that arise along the way.

Harm Reduction in Eating Disorder Treatment

I believe in meeting clients where they are. My approach is informed by the idea of dialectical abstinence, a principle from DBT that balances the goal of recovery with harm reduction when full recovery is not yet possible. This approach allows us to explore and reduce harmful behaviors, while focusing on safety, progress, and self-compassion.

In therapy, we work on two fronts:

  1. Recovery: We collaboratively develop a vision of a life where eating disorders are no longer a defining factor.

  2. Harm Reduction: We also honor and explore how the eating disorder has become a coping mechanism for underlying trauma, relationship struggles, or identity challenges, and work to reduce harm and improve safety during recovery.

Healing with a Collaborative Team

Eating and exercise disorders often benefit from a team approach. In addition to therapy, it may be helpful to work with a registered dietitian, medical doctors, or other trusted practitioners who can support your recovery journey. I’m happy to connect you with these resources and work collaboratively with professionals in your care team to ensure holistic healing.

I also believe in partnering with clients and their loved ones to create a supportive network, ensuring that you have the resources and care you need for a well-rounded recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

I am here to help you navigate the complex journey of eating disorder recovery. If you’re ready to explore a healthier relationship with food and your body, reach out today for a consultation. Let’s work together to create a more peaceful, fulfilling life that aligns with your values and goals.