Body Image Therapists in Sacramento, CA

Kathryn Rabak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Need change? If you’re searching for a safe space to explore your identities, learn how to manage life stressors, deal with emotional baggage that weighs you down, or equip yourself with tools to reach your goals, you’ve taken an important first step towards change. In the space we’ll build together during our work, I’ll strive to help you recognize patterns, learn about yourself, and develop skills, knowledge, and awareness that allow you to move towards the best version of your life and yourself.
Need change? If you’re searching for a safe space to explore your identities, learn how to manage life stressors, deal with emotional baggage that weighs you down, or equip yourself with tools to reach your goals, you’ve taken an important first step towards change. In the space we’ll build together during our work, I’ll strive to help you recognize patterns, learn about yourself, and develop skills, knowledge, and awareness that allow you to move towards the best version of your life and yourself.
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Dr. Katie S Polsky
Psychologist, PhD
4 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who as a generalist works with a variety of presenting problems and enjoys working with different populations. I have extensive experience working with women, men, adolescents, and children with eating disorders and OCD. It is critical to individually tailor treatment to each client's needs. I utilize relational, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, values based therapies in my practice. I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have a collaborative approach where therapist and client work as a team to better understand the problem and work towards healing and emotional health.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who as a generalist works with a variety of presenting problems and enjoys working with different populations. I have extensive experience working with women, men, adolescents, and children with eating disorders and OCD. It is critical to individually tailor treatment to each client's needs. I utilize relational, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, values based therapies in my practice. I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have a collaborative approach where therapist and client work as a team to better understand the problem and work towards healing and emotional health.
(916) 678-1993 View (916) 678-1993
Joanna Kwan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC, CCMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Running on autopilot, feeling numb, feeling miserable, and perpetual suffering. Feeling overwhelmed. Nothing I do is right? I’m not good enough. Feeling like you can’t change a situation? Your life feels out of control, things are blowing up in your face, and you feel lost. Your life seems to be more difficult than you imagine, and you just want to make things right. You are either content or dissatisfied, no other way out or around. You’re just stuck. You want to be more present with yourself or the people around you. "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become." - Carl G. Jung
Running on autopilot, feeling numb, feeling miserable, and perpetual suffering. Feeling overwhelmed. Nothing I do is right? I’m not good enough. Feeling like you can’t change a situation? Your life feels out of control, things are blowing up in your face, and you feel lost. Your life seems to be more difficult than you imagine, and you just want to make things right. You are either content or dissatisfied, no other way out or around. You’re just stuck. You want to be more present with yourself or the people around you. "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become." - Carl G. Jung
(916) 666-6313 View (916) 666-6313
Elin Kiyoko Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Imagine being in a space that feels open, accepting, free of judgment—where you can show up as your full self without ever needing to censor or adjust who you are. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapeutic environment where you feel like you truly belong, and it’s deeply meaningful to witness the relief clients experience when they’re able to engage authentically in the therapeutic journey. My primary focus is supporting individuals navigating complex trauma, sexuality-related concerns, and Neurodiverse clients. I have completed and continue to pursue specialized training and education in Sex Therapy.
Imagine being in a space that feels open, accepting, free of judgment—where you can show up as your full self without ever needing to censor or adjust who you are. I understand how challenging it can be to find a therapeutic environment where you feel like you truly belong, and it’s deeply meaningful to witness the relief clients experience when they’re able to engage authentically in the therapeutic journey. My primary focus is supporting individuals navigating complex trauma, sexuality-related concerns, and Neurodiverse clients. I have completed and continue to pursue specialized training and education in Sex Therapy.
(415) 570-6476 View (415) 570-6476
Stephanie Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Welcome! I provide psychological assessment for: Autism, Intellectual Ability (or disability), Decision Making Capacity (such as ability to make financial or legal decisions), and Pre-Surgery evaluations for Bariatric Surgery (through a Health at Every Size lens). These assessments can help families and individuals answer important questions about their own or a loved one's abilities or readiness, and complete any needed paperwork. -At this time I am accepting new clients for psychological testing ONLY. (If you have been referred for therapy by an existing client, or you are a former client, we may be able to make an exception).
Welcome! I provide psychological assessment for: Autism, Intellectual Ability (or disability), Decision Making Capacity (such as ability to make financial or legal decisions), and Pre-Surgery evaluations for Bariatric Surgery (through a Health at Every Size lens). These assessments can help families and individuals answer important questions about their own or a loved one's abilities or readiness, and complete any needed paperwork. -At this time I am accepting new clients for psychological testing ONLY. (If you have been referred for therapy by an existing client, or you are a former client, we may be able to make an exception).
(916) 764-3940 View (916) 764-3940
Ashlley Zhazmir Mykayla Alghamdi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
If you're navigating body image issues, burnout, chronic illness, or grief, you’re not alone.
My style is compassionate and collaborative, rooted in trauma-informed care. I draw from CBT, somatic work, and narrative therapy to help you reconnect with yourself, find your voice, and move forward with clarity and strength
If you're navigating body image issues, burnout, chronic illness, or grief, you’re not alone.
My style is compassionate and collaborative, rooted in trauma-informed care. I draw from CBT, somatic work, and narrative therapy to help you reconnect with yourself, find your voice, and move forward with clarity and strength
(707) 926-3413 View (707) 926-3413
Transparent Talk Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
You’re overwhelmed, overstimulated, and searching for relief, and quite frankly, getting pretty desperate. That "best life" others seem to live feels just beyond reach, with a little progress one day, then sliding all the way back to where you started. It’s exhausting. You logically know you’ve overcome so much, but where is that strength everyone says you have? Together, we can foster compassion for the coping skills you’ve used to survive. These strategies deserve acknowledgment and appreciation because they have kept you alive.
You’re overwhelmed, overstimulated, and searching for relief, and quite frankly, getting pretty desperate. That "best life" others seem to live feels just beyond reach, with a little progress one day, then sliding all the way back to where you started. It’s exhausting. You logically know you’ve overcome so much, but where is that strength everyone says you have? Together, we can foster compassion for the coping skills you’ve used to survive. These strategies deserve acknowledgment and appreciation because they have kept you alive.
(916) 545-2012 View (916) 545-2012
Rachel Cloud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I work with LGBTQIA+ adults, couples, and teens. Together we will navigate relationship issues, sexuality, trauma, anxiety-and whatever is keeping you stuck right now. Life is really hard sometimes and when we are attacked for our identity on a global level, we go through everything that life throws at us with additional fear and minority stress. You are not alone, let's work together towards a joyful and fulfilling life and relationships. Visit lovehealgrow.com to schedule or learn more.
I work with LGBTQIA+ adults, couples, and teens. Together we will navigate relationship issues, sexuality, trauma, anxiety-and whatever is keeping you stuck right now. Life is really hard sometimes and when we are attacked for our identity on a global level, we go through everything that life throws at us with additional fear and minority stress. You are not alone, let's work together towards a joyful and fulfilling life and relationships. Visit lovehealgrow.com to schedule or learn more.
(530) 722-4668 View (530) 722-4668
Brave Passages Affirming Therapy
Psychologist, EdD, MT-BC
Sacramento, CA 95816
I’m Dr. Kate B Wilder (she/they), a licensed clinical psychologist and trail guide for people whose identities and experiences fall outside of the status quo (queer, neurodiverse, chronically ill/disabled and their families, ethically non-monogamous) and who need support navigating a path that is not the well-traveled trail of societal norms. Here you do not have to worry about educating someone on your experience, and the focus can be entirely on you and the support you need. -recent name change from Katie Bautch to Kate Wilder-
I’m Dr. Kate B Wilder (she/they), a licensed clinical psychologist and trail guide for people whose identities and experiences fall outside of the status quo (queer, neurodiverse, chronically ill/disabled and their families, ethically non-monogamous) and who need support navigating a path that is not the well-traveled trail of societal norms. Here you do not have to worry about educating someone on your experience, and the focus can be entirely on you and the support you need. -recent name change from Katie Bautch to Kate Wilder-
(916) 756-9198 View (916) 756-9198
Laurie Beth Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
The idea that one learns by experiencing and is truly capable of making the necessary shifts in their lives is a mantra I live by. When one person mirrors another with gentle listening, others are able to clearly see what no longer works in their lives. Ingrained habits coming from difficult childhoods could be the very source of havoc, that with conscious awareness, can shift. Perhaps the way one communicates is keeping love from flowing in your life. Maybe parenting a child who reminds you of yourself means confronting yourself on a deeply personal level. Or perhaps it is simply a life transition that is simply too much.
The idea that one learns by experiencing and is truly capable of making the necessary shifts in their lives is a mantra I live by. When one person mirrors another with gentle listening, others are able to clearly see what no longer works in their lives. Ingrained habits coming from difficult childhoods could be the very source of havoc, that with conscious awareness, can shift. Perhaps the way one communicates is keeping love from flowing in your life. Maybe parenting a child who reminds you of yourself means confronting yourself on a deeply personal level. Or perhaps it is simply a life transition that is simply too much.
(916) 249-5182 View (916) 249-5182
Amanda Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
We all have the innate capacity for inner healing and personal growth. If you're feeling depleted or overwhelmed, I have several years of experience treating adults confronting anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma and grief and loss. I view clients as the experts in their own lives and use my knowledge and skill to guide our work together towards peace and healing. I am particularly passionate about working with older adults, caregivers and medical professionals. I have experience working in a trauma hospital in acute care and emergency departments.
We all have the innate capacity for inner healing and personal growth. If you're feeling depleted or overwhelmed, I have several years of experience treating adults confronting anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma and grief and loss. I view clients as the experts in their own lives and use my knowledge and skill to guide our work together towards peace and healing. I am particularly passionate about working with older adults, caregivers and medical professionals. I have experience working in a trauma hospital in acute care and emergency departments.
(530) 203-5623 View (530) 203-5623
Ivonne M. Mejía
Psychologist, PsyD
Sacramento, CA 95811
On the surface, the world sees you as the one who ‘always has it together’ - but on the inside, you’re starting to feel like you’re falling apart. You feel like you're working overtime to push down those uncomfortable feelings (you know, the ones that have always been lurking in the background) - except no matter how hard you try, you’re finding yourself more anxious, ungrounded, and on edge than ever before. You want your body to feel more at ease. You want to feel more connected (to yourself, to others). You want to see (and trust) what others see. But, you’re just not sure how.
On the surface, the world sees you as the one who ‘always has it together’ - but on the inside, you’re starting to feel like you’re falling apart. You feel like you're working overtime to push down those uncomfortable feelings (you know, the ones that have always been lurking in the background) - except no matter how hard you try, you’re finding yourself more anxious, ungrounded, and on edge than ever before. You want your body to feel more at ease. You want to feel more connected (to yourself, to others). You want to see (and trust) what others see. But, you’re just not sure how.
(916) 287-1625 View (916) 287-1625
Calliope Coast Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We help clients facing trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, body image concerns, and relationship challenges.
Life gets complicated sometimes. Maybe you’ve been living with the impact of sexual or relationship trauma, family wounds that leave you feeling disconnected and alone, relationship patterns you wish you could break, or navigating a life transition of becoming a college student, a new parent, or an empty nester. Perhaps you’ve been struggling with feeling at home in your body and making peace with food, overusing substances to cope with life’s stressors, anxiety and depression that keeps you feeling stuck, or struggling to cope after the loss of a loved one.
We help clients facing trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, body image concerns, and relationship challenges.
Life gets complicated sometimes. Maybe you’ve been living with the impact of sexual or relationship trauma, family wounds that leave you feeling disconnected and alone, relationship patterns you wish you could break, or navigating a life transition of becoming a college student, a new parent, or an empty nester. Perhaps you’ve been struggling with feeling at home in your body and making peace with food, overusing substances to cope with life’s stressors, anxiety and depression that keeps you feeling stuck, or struggling to cope after the loss of a loved one.
(916) 665-0353 View (916) 665-0353
Amy Tatreau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I can help you discover and strengthen healthy boundaries, guide you to take action on your personal values and life goals, and teach you how to regain your emotional balance when life is working your last nerve. Be kinder to yourself, have greater patience with loved ones, your family of choice, friends and co-workers, and decrease the overwhelming sense of loneliness that you may have felt during this crummy pandemic.
I can help you discover and strengthen healthy boundaries, guide you to take action on your personal values and life goals, and teach you how to regain your emotional balance when life is working your last nerve. Be kinder to yourself, have greater patience with loved ones, your family of choice, friends and co-workers, and decrease the overwhelming sense of loneliness that you may have felt during this crummy pandemic.
(916) 510-0571 View (916) 510-0571
Lauren Ellis-Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My motto is 'I am a human first and a therapist second'. When I show up to work with someone I see it as two human's coming together to learn, grow, and heal. My goal is to meet you where you are at and provide a space of acceptance, non-judgement, and normalization. I do this by bringing humor, personal stories, and humanity into the space.
My motto is 'I am a human first and a therapist second'. When I show up to work with someone I see it as two human's coming together to learn, grow, and heal. My goal is to meet you where you are at and provide a space of acceptance, non-judgement, and normalization. I do this by bringing humor, personal stories, and humanity into the space.
(916) 352-6083 View (916) 352-6083
Ivy Shantell Browder
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, MSW
Sacramento, CA 95825
Hello! My name is Ivy and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I identify as a Black nonbinary womxn and my pronouns are they/them/theirs. I have a background in working within community mental health and school settings within the Sacramento area. Additionally, I have experience working in mental health settings with adolescents, transitional-aged youth, and adults.
Hello! My name is Ivy and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker. I identify as a Black nonbinary womxn and my pronouns are they/them/theirs. I have a background in working within community mental health and school settings within the Sacramento area. Additionally, I have experience working in mental health settings with adolescents, transitional-aged youth, and adults.
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Dre Merkey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Welcome! My name is Dre and I use they/them pronouns. I engage with the world through compassion and a strong wonderment, striving to understand and connect meaningfully. In my practice, I show up with authenticity, humility, and with a deep commitment to your well-being. I recognize life can sometimes challenge the hope and curiosity we are born with, leaving us feeling lost or uncertain. You are the expert of your own life, and I’m here to walk with you as you connect with your inner strength and rediscover your path forward. I have had the honor to be part of many diverse journeys working towards healing and self-discovery.
Welcome! My name is Dre and I use they/them pronouns. I engage with the world through compassion and a strong wonderment, striving to understand and connect meaningfully. In my practice, I show up with authenticity, humility, and with a deep commitment to your well-being. I recognize life can sometimes challenge the hope and curiosity we are born with, leaving us feeling lost or uncertain. You are the expert of your own life, and I’m here to walk with you as you connect with your inner strength and rediscover your path forward. I have had the honor to be part of many diverse journeys working towards healing and self-discovery.
(916) 269-5053 View (916) 269-5053
Lauren Ludlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95821
You're checking all the boxes: relationships, responsibilities, obligations, and career and you are great at doing what needs to be done. But inside, you are constantly in survival mode, nervous system dysregulated, anxious, and disconnected. You’ve been performing, perfecting, and doing for so long and you need to find your joy, your ease, your clarity, yourself. Or maybe it is your relationship that is stuck on autopilot. You two are getting through the days, managing tasks, and avoiding blow-ups. But the spark, intimacy, and real connection you once had feel far away. You want to re-connect and build intimacy.
You're checking all the boxes: relationships, responsibilities, obligations, and career and you are great at doing what needs to be done. But inside, you are constantly in survival mode, nervous system dysregulated, anxious, and disconnected. You’ve been performing, perfecting, and doing for so long and you need to find your joy, your ease, your clarity, yourself. Or maybe it is your relationship that is stuck on autopilot. You two are getting through the days, managing tasks, and avoiding blow-ups. But the spark, intimacy, and real connection you once had feel far away. You want to re-connect and build intimacy.
(209) 553-4636 View (209) 553-4636
Dr. Marjha Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
My passion is in helping you to grow in loving yourself and loving others. I specialize in strengthening relationships. Have you been feeling unheard or underappreciated? Has there been some type of betrayal or broken trust? Is your relationship feeling extra stress during this pandemic? Are you unsure if your relationship will last? Do you and your partner(s) want to strengthen your foundation before taking the next step?
My passion is in helping you to grow in loving yourself and loving others. I specialize in strengthening relationships. Have you been feeling unheard or underappreciated? Has there been some type of betrayal or broken trust? Is your relationship feeling extra stress during this pandemic? Are you unsure if your relationship will last? Do you and your partner(s) want to strengthen your foundation before taking the next step?
(916) 252-1703 View (916) 252-1703
Alexandra M Jansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome, I work primarily with clients that are within the LGBTQIA+ and Kink/BDSM communities. I also am body positive, sex positive, poly positive, geek/nerd positive, and trauma informed. I feel that the therapy space should feel safe and build on your strengths. If you’re here, you’re probably struggling with a significant burden in your life. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or even difficulties with relationships, I want you to know that researching your future therapist is a great first step. In fact, having a good relationship with them has been known to be a major factor in achieving progress in your therapy.
Welcome, I work primarily with clients that are within the LGBTQIA+ and Kink/BDSM communities. I also am body positive, sex positive, poly positive, geek/nerd positive, and trauma informed. I feel that the therapy space should feel safe and build on your strengths. If you’re here, you’re probably struggling with a significant burden in your life. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or even difficulties with relationships, I want you to know that researching your future therapist is a great first step. In fact, having a good relationship with them has been known to be a major factor in achieving progress in your therapy.
(916) 823-8761 View (916) 823-8761

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Body Image Therapists
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognize how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviors as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviors developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.