Remedy Therapy

Understanding Body Image Therapy: How It Helps in Eating Disorder Recovery

Conveniently Located To Serve West Palm, Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville.

Any eating disorder like anorexia is challenging to overcome as it affects how people see themselves and their bodies. Recovery is possible though–and this is where body image therapy comes in. It plays a huge part in helping people regain a healthy perspective of their bodies. 

If you or a loved one are looking for body image therapy in Stuart, FL, we at Remedy Therapy Center for Eating Disorders will be your partner in your recovery process.

What is Body Image Therapy?

Body image therapy is a type of counseling that helps people change the negative thoughts and beliefs they have about their bodies. It’s especially important for those recovering from eating disorders, as these conditions often stem from deeply ingrained, distorted views of body image. 

For example, someone with an eating disorder might see themselves as overweight even when they are underweight or fixate on specific body parts in unhealthy ways.

Body image therapy helps address these distorted perceptions, guiding people toward a healthier understanding and acceptance of their body shape and size.

Why Therapy for Body Image Issues Matters in Recovery

Recovering from an eating disorder involves more than just getting back to a healthy weight or eating normally. It’s about healing the mind and rebuilding a positive relationship with oneself. 

Here’s how a body image therapy center helps:

  • Challenging Negative Beliefs: One of the first steps in body image therapy is identifying the negative beliefs individuals hold about their bodies. By challenging these thoughts, individuals can begin to let go of the harmful behaviors tied to them.
  • Boosting Self-Esteem: As they start to accept and appreciate their bodies, their overall self-esteem improves. This is a critical part of recovery because a better self-image reduces the urge to control one’s body through unhealthy eating patterns.
  • Building Resilience: Recovery isn’t always a straight path, and setbacks can happen. Body image therapy equips people with the tools they need to handle negative thoughts about their bodies when they arise, helping to sustain long-term recovery.

How Body Image Therapy Works

Body image therapy services usually combine cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and education. The process begins with a behavioral health specialist exploring the person’s specific body image concerns and understanding how these issues contribute to their eating disorder. From there, they and their client work together to reframe negative thoughts, foster body appreciation, and practice self-compassion.

Therapy sessions might also include activities like mirror exposure, where the person practices seeing their reflections in a more neutral or positive way. Journaling is another avenue to explore their feelings about body image. 

Group therapy can also be incredibly supportive, offering a space where individuals can share their experiences and support each other.

However our clients decide to heal and see themselves in a new light, we’re here to support them every step of the way.

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery

At Remedy Therapy Center for Eating Disorders, we understand the critical role that body image therapy plays in recovering from an eating disorder. Our behavioral health team supports you in developing a healthier relationship with your body and yourself. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our personalized body image therapy treatment plans for you or your friend or relative. We serve communities in and around Stuart, the Greater Palm Beach area, West Palm Beach, Miami, Orlando, and Jacksonville.