Body Image Therapy in Texas
ABOUT OUR BODY IMAGE THERAPY IN TEXAS
WHAT IS BODY IMAGE THERAPY?
Body image–the way we interact with and feel about our body–affects many aspects of our daily lives, including how we engage with our sexuality. Because our society normalizes many unhealthy habits like negative body talk and unrealistic expectations, it is no mystery as to why many struggles with their body confidence. All Respark therapists are experts in the sexuality field, a field of study already in tune with body differences, the pain that can come from lack of body positivity, and how bodies can change should they want to, and are here to help you fall back to love with yourself.
During your body image therapy sessions with a Respark therapist, you will chart a journey to radical self-acceptance. We will work together to untangle the web of lies our society has placed on our bodies, especially on women and queer bodies. The process to transition genders can include intense, negative thoughts and emotions towards your body; you may even experience symptoms of Body Dysmorphia Disorder (BDD) where your daily life is severely affected.
ARE BODY IMAGE ISSUES COMMON?
Body image is something so many people struggle with. Are you feeling frustrated or ashamed about your relationship with your body? Are you ready to face the struggle and engage in the self work to finally experience a sense of self-love? Our experienced Respark Therapists can help. We have trained therapists that specialize in body image issues.
Body image, and the way we interact with and feel about our body, plays into so many aspects of our daily lives, especially how we engage with our sexuality. Our society normalizes and sometimes even encourages negative body talk and being critical about your body, so it’s no mystery as to why so many of us struggle with this common issue.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED BODY IMAGE THERAPY?
Body image and confidence issues are, unfortunately, common. Below are some questions to help guide you towards body image therapy, should you need it.
- Are you feeling ashamed of parts or all of your body?
- Are you feeling frustrated with this negative relationship with your body?
- Do you find yourself constantly checking the mirror?
- Do you compare your body to your friends? Celebrities? Media posts?
- Do you cover up certain parts of your body before going outside?
- Are you excessively grooming or exercising?
If any of the above questions triggered a yes response or reaction from you, body image therapy may be greatly beneficial to you. Our experienced Respark therapists can help unravel these thoughts and assist in healing the relationship with your body.
Just want a therapist that is knowledgeable and affirming?
Clients tell us we're friendly, down to earth and approach therapy in a collaborative manner. We offer a holistic, gentle yet direct, and tailored approach that includes well-researched theories with a relational foundation. Together, we will learn new techniques, assign at-home exercises, reading assignments, conduct in-session guided exercises and other activities that make therapy and coaching fun and productive. We'll work together to form an approach that will be tailored to your goals. Leading researchers, including Esther Perel, Brené Brown, John Gottman, David Schnarch, David Ley, Chris Donaghue, and Marty Klein influence our therapeutic work with couples and individuals. Additionally, as AASECT-Certified Sex Therapists, we will work toward improving intimacy, strengthening communication skills, and communicating your desires.
Common issues around body image that bring clients to therapy may be:
- Negative self talk
- Constantly criticizing parts of your body
- Hating what you see in the mirror
- Over-exercising
- Binging and Purging
- Strict rules around food and exercise
- Not feeling comfortable in your own skin
- Forcing yourself to not eat enough
- Extreme dieting
- Lack of presence during sex due to being worried about how your body looks
- Thoughts about your body consuming your day
5 WAYS TO FEEL MORE BODY CONFIDENT RIGHT NOW
While you wait for your appointment with us, we want to help you find relief now. Below are just a few of the many ways to gently improve your mindset. Remember, changing is going to take time and patience is important here. Should one of the methods not work for you, keep trying others, we’re sure you can find at least one in-the-moment coping mechanism.
- Positive affirmations
At the beginning of your affirmation practice, it may feel silly to tell yourself a positive statement or compliment. It can also feel forced when you rely on “I look good today” to boost your positivity. Instead, try saying something such as “It feels good when I check things off my to-do list” or “Taking a walk fills my cup.” Another option is to finish the sentence: “Today, I choose…” and use the mini mantra throughout the day to return to your affirmation. - Compliment others authentically
Receiving and giving compliments is a tried and true way to boost not only your body confidence but also someone else's. When you genuinely compliment others, without requiring a compliment in return, you work to break down the need to compare ourselves that society has ingrained in us. Examples of authentic compliments are: “That color is perfect for you,” or “You really brighten the room when you come in,” or “I am so glad we are friends, you make me feel better about myself.” Focus on the true - Consume body-positive media
It is not surprising that social media can have a negative impact on our bodies. With countless face and body retouching apps, filters and edits there is no guarantee that the photo you see online is even real. Bodies in ads are airbrushed and touched-up via Photoshop and even live videos can have filters added to them. When you find yourself comparing your body to someone on Instagram, remember that these photos can be fake and are working to make you feel bad about yourself.
- Focus on the things you like about yourself
It may feel impossible to bring yourself out of a body-negative headspace, but try focusing on the aspects of yourself you do like, the parts you are proud of. This can be physical parts of yourself such as your hair, eyes, hands, tattoos, even scars. It can also be internal things like your compassion, your traditions, or your values. Whenever you find yourself nitpicking the parts of yourself you don’t like or wish to change, remind yourself of the parts your love about yourself. - Self-care sessions
The possibilities here are endless. Though taking bubble baths, using soothing body care products, and taking a nap are excellent ways to practice self-care, those don’t have to be your ways of self-care. Exercising is self-care. Watching your favorite movie is self-care. Meditating is self-care. Journaling is self-care. Playing your favorite video game, taking a walk, listening to your favorite songs, drinking water, baking something yummy, organizing a junk drawer, trying a new skill are all examples of self-care.
TESTIMONIAL
"I collaborate professionally with Heather on a regular basis and believe she is a talented, effective, and down-to-earth sex therapist. She is my go-to referral for clients exploring sexuality issues such as a sexless marriage, issues of sexual identity, kink, open and poly relationships. I feel so lucky to have her as part of our Austin therapist community!”
Dr. Jessica Michaelson
Dear Texas, ReSpark Your Fire With Us
The sex therapy services offered at Respark are confidential and highly specialized. If you are looking for a sex therapist with specialty training in sexuality issues, look no further. Visit our in person locations in Austin, Texas or see a provider online from any location you choose. We know that Austin prides itself on being a healthy city with great healthcare resources. Residents of Austin have their choice of great hospitals, doctors, mental health providers, and now, highly credentialed sex therapists.
Although Austin, Texas is where our physical location is, residents from all over Texas are eligible for online sex therapy through Respark. From Fort Worth to El Paso, or any other great city in Texas, we are here to provide you with the services you need.
When you are ready to re-spark the fire in your sex life, there is no one better to turn to than the specialty providers at Respark. We welcome individuals and couples from anywhere in the Texas region. Bring your spark back today!