Theoretical Orientation

Much of my work centers on those who struggle in their relationships with food and their bodies. I am a Certified Body Trust® Provider and practice from a weight-inclusive perspective. I take a weight-inclusive approach to treatment, rather than the typical weight-normative approach, as it has been extensively documented that a weight-normative approach contributes to weight bias in providers and is harmful to all people, but specifically those who live in larger bodies. As such, I do not engage in promoting intentional weight loss in the pursuit of physical or mental health, nor do I focus on a client’s weight at all but instead favor interventions that encourage health promoting behaviors. I engage in treatment that promotes health through inclusion by dismantling oppressive systems of racism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, ableism, and fatphobia that are rampant in the general public and, more specifically, in the medical establishment.

My work is heavily influenced by Feminist Family Therapy, which incorporates anti-oppression and social justice activism into the therapy room. I also have an integrated Bowenian-Narrative orientation that recognizes the need in a system to balance intimacy and autonomy, and considers the role of structure and narratives in maintaining this balance. I also work collaboratively and do not claim to be the expert, but I see my role in supervision or consultation as that of a guide.