Body Image & Eating Concerns
What Are Body Image and Eating Concerns?
Body image refers to how you see, think, and feel about your body. For many people, this relationship can become complicated by societal pressure, perfectionism, or early experiences that shape self-worth. Eating concerns can include restrictive eating, overeating, emotional eating, or cycles of guilt and shame around food.
At Botaitis Therapy Group, we provide a supportive space to explore the thoughts and emotions that affect how you view your body and nourish yourself. Therapy helps you move from self-criticism toward self-acceptance, balance, and body trust.
How Do Body Image and Eating Concerns Differ Among Individuals?
Women and Men: Cultural messages often affect women and men differently. Women may feel pressure to be smaller or “perfect,” while men may experience stress around strength or performance. Both can struggle with comparison, shame, or disconnect from their bodies.
Teens and Adults: Teens often face body image pressure from peers and social media, while adults may experience lingering dissatisfaction, emotional eating, or changes related to aging and body function. Therapy helps both groups develop healthier relationships with food, movement, and self-image.
How Does BTG Approach Therapy for Body Image & Eating Concerns?
Compassionate and Nonjudgmental Space: Our therapists offer care rooted in acceptance and respect for all bodies. We help clients unpack cultural, emotional, and relational influences on body image.
Mind-Body Connection: Using mindfulness and somatic awareness, therapy helps you recognize the body’s cues, build trust in internal signals, and repair your relationship with nourishment and rest.
Evidence-Based Treatment: BTG therapists use methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and self-compassion practices to reframe negative self-talk and reduce guilt or shame around eating.
Collaborative Support: When appropriate, we coordinate with nutritionists, medical providers, or eating disorder specialists to ensure you receive well-rounded, consistent care.
FAQs About Therapy for Body Image & Eating Concerns
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No. Therapy can help with any level of concern, from body dissatisfaction to disordered eating patterns. You do not need a diagnosis to begin healing your relationship with food and body image.
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Yes. Therapy helps identify the emotions driving eating patterns and teaches tools to regulate stress, reduce guilt, and build self-compassion.
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No. People of all genders experience body image struggles. BTG therapists provide inclusive and affirming care for everyone.
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Yes. Many clients find that online therapy provides a safe and private space to discuss sensitive topics related to food, appearance, and self-esteem. BTG offers online sessions throughout California.
Meet Our Therapists Who Specialize in Therapy for Body Image & Eating Concerns
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re ready to explore therapy for body image & eating concerns, we’re here to help. Our therapists provide compassionate, evidence-based care in Santa Barbara and online across California. Call us at 805-636-9890 or schedule your consultation to take the first step in your journey.