Body Image Therapists in Columbus, OH

Kiliyah Mair
LPC Intern, CT
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43232
I identify as a Black, fat, femme lesbian woman, and I am committed to supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, and body image concerns.
Welcome! I know that it can be hard to find a therapist that relates and understands the unique experiences we endure as BIPOC, Queer, and Larger-Bodied individuals. Therefore, I am here to support you and hold space for the cultural and social identities that represent your truest self. I am an intern and student therapist currently accepting clients both in-person and virtually.
I identify as a Black, fat, femme lesbian woman, and I am committed to supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, and body image concerns.
Welcome! I know that it can be hard to find a therapist that relates and understands the unique experiences we endure as BIPOC, Queer, and Larger-Bodied individuals. Therefore, I am here to support you and hold space for the cultural and social identities that represent your truest self. I am an intern and student therapist currently accepting clients both in-person and virtually.
(614) 662-4884 View (614) 662-4884
Amy Hauer - Sexuality Educator & ENM Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Online Only
Poly. ENM. CNM. Kink. You know who you are — and you're not here for someone to validate it. You're here because navigating dating, desire, and relationships in these configurations is genuinely complicated, and somewhere underneath all of it you're carrying self-doubt, guilt, anxiety, and desires and worries you've never said out loud to anyone. I'm Amy Hauer, LISW-S, a kink-aware, ENM-affirming therapist and sexuality educator with nearly 30 years in sex-positive community. I didn't learn to affirm your life through a training. I came from it. Your desires are not the problem, the shame around them is.
Poly. ENM. CNM. Kink. You know who you are — and you're not here for someone to validate it. You're here because navigating dating, desire, and relationships in these configurations is genuinely complicated, and somewhere underneath all of it you're carrying self-doubt, guilt, anxiety, and desires and worries you've never said out loud to anyone. I'm Amy Hauer, LISW-S, a kink-aware, ENM-affirming therapist and sexuality educator with nearly 30 years in sex-positive community. I didn't learn to affirm your life through a training. I came from it. Your desires are not the problem, the shame around them is.
(614) 963-9852 View (614) 963-9852
Lauren House
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
Sometimes, life can leave us feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck, and we’re often unsure of how to manage it, or even harder, make a change. Adjusting to the unexpected, dealing with transitions, and trying to show up for ourselves while juggling relationships, work, family and responsibilities are all things that can lead to this. While coming to this realization is difficult, taking the next step by reaching out for help can feel like the most overwhelming task. I am here to offer a non-judgmental, supportive, and compassionate space to build fulfillment in your life and help you achieve the growth you’ve been looking for.
Sometimes, life can leave us feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck, and we’re often unsure of how to manage it, or even harder, make a change. Adjusting to the unexpected, dealing with transitions, and trying to show up for ourselves while juggling relationships, work, family and responsibilities are all things that can lead to this. While coming to this realization is difficult, taking the next step by reaching out for help can feel like the most overwhelming task. I am here to offer a non-judgmental, supportive, and compassionate space to build fulfillment in your life and help you achieve the growth you’ve been looking for.
(614) 368-9628 View (614) 368-9628
Violet Valley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My clients are typically between the ages of 18 and 60. They are typically, but not exclusively, queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent, or exploring identities. Clients come to me to receive skills, tools, and processing from someone who shares one or more of my identities. I work a lot with both couples, individuals, and the occasional group who are seeking direction or accountability help with polyamory and/or Ethical Non-Monogamy. I also work with a lot of survivors of religious trauma.
My clients are typically between the ages of 18 and 60. They are typically, but not exclusively, queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent, or exploring identities. Clients come to me to receive skills, tools, and processing from someone who shares one or more of my identities. I work a lot with both couples, individuals, and the occasional group who are seeking direction or accountability help with polyamory and/or Ethical Non-Monogamy. I also work with a lot of survivors of religious trauma.
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Chelsea Tobias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
I work with children, teens, and young adults who struggle with food, body image, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
If you or your loved one is struggling with eating, sleep, motivation, or schoolwork, these can be indicators that life is out of balance. These are common signs of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or PTSD. Having a child who is struggling to keep afloat can feel overwhelming, and recovery may feel like an insurmountable task. I provide evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents and young adults using Family Based Treatment (FBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Intuitive Eating, and CPT. I am here to guide you through the stages of treatment towards recovery and improvement of your life and family functioning.
I work with children, teens, and young adults who struggle with food, body image, anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
If you or your loved one is struggling with eating, sleep, motivation, or schoolwork, these can be indicators that life is out of balance. These are common signs of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or PTSD. Having a child who is struggling to keep afloat can feel overwhelming, and recovery may feel like an insurmountable task. I provide evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents and young adults using Family Based Treatment (FBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Intuitive Eating, and CPT. I am here to guide you through the stages of treatment towards recovery and improvement of your life and family functioning.
(614) 368-0389 View (614) 368-0389
Jennifer Pennington
Pre-Licensed Professional, CT
Columbus, OH 43220
I am a former EMT and hospice RN. I work with all different mental disorders including depression and anxiety. I have also completed Level 1 Gottman couples training. I am in my second internship, working toward my master's in clinical mental health counseling. I am interning at Cornerstone family services, a Christian-based, non-profit private practice. I am still open to seeing any culture, ethnicity, or faith. I use therapy modalities that are appropriate for the client's needs and goals. I am passionate about guiding others on their journey. I offer a warm, safe space for those who need someone to talk to about their concerns.
I am a former EMT and hospice RN. I work with all different mental disorders including depression and anxiety. I have also completed Level 1 Gottman couples training. I am in my second internship, working toward my master's in clinical mental health counseling. I am interning at Cornerstone family services, a Christian-based, non-profit private practice. I am still open to seeing any culture, ethnicity, or faith. I use therapy modalities that are appropriate for the client's needs and goals. I am passionate about guiding others on their journey. I offer a warm, safe space for those who need someone to talk to about their concerns.
(614) 300-5514 x831 View (614) 300-5514 x831
Dr. Mark G Sampson
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Waitlist for new clients
My professional interests include Gay/Bi Men's issues, male body image issues, adjustment/life transitions, LGBTQ issues, anxiety management, grief, family concerns, relationship counseling, sexual identity and gender identity issues.
You possess a unique and personal journey that influences how you navigate the world. By exploring your journey together, we can access your resilience and develop tools to overcome life's challenges. We will work to identify the strengths and coping skills that life has taught you along the way and identify new skills to improve your ability to thrive. The ultimate goal is to help you heal, grow, and re-engage in a productive and fulfilling life. We will work to understand how your experiences, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors have influenced your journey.
My professional interests include Gay/Bi Men's issues, male body image issues, adjustment/life transitions, LGBTQ issues, anxiety management, grief, family concerns, relationship counseling, sexual identity and gender identity issues.
You possess a unique and personal journey that influences how you navigate the world. By exploring your journey together, we can access your resilience and develop tools to overcome life's challenges. We will work to identify the strengths and coping skills that life has taught you along the way and identify new skills to improve your ability to thrive. The ultimate goal is to help you heal, grow, and re-engage in a productive and fulfilling life. We will work to understand how your experiences, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors have influenced your journey.
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Regina Sigafoos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
My work centers on anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment wounds, and complicated feelings about sex and body image.
I’m a queer, sex‑positive therapist who centers LGBTQIA+ folks, women, nonbinary and trans people in individual and relationship therapy. I’m a good fit if you’re unpacking sexual shame, navigating pelvic pain or chronic illness and sex, exploring your desire or orientation, or trying to make polyamory feel less chaotic and more secure. Together we’ll notice how culture, trauma, and power have shaped your story and build more self‑compassion, choice, and pleasure in how you relate to your body and the people you love. My goal is to offer a brave, playful space where you can be fully yourself and practice new ways of relating.
My work centers on anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment wounds, and complicated feelings about sex and body image.
I’m a queer, sex‑positive therapist who centers LGBTQIA+ folks, women, nonbinary and trans people in individual and relationship therapy. I’m a good fit if you’re unpacking sexual shame, navigating pelvic pain or chronic illness and sex, exploring your desire or orientation, or trying to make polyamory feel less chaotic and more secure. Together we’ll notice how culture, trauma, and power have shaped your story and build more self‑compassion, choice, and pleasure in how you relate to your body and the people you love. My goal is to offer a brave, playful space where you can be fully yourself and practice new ways of relating.
(614) 683-3742 x108 View (614) 683-3742 x108
Liv Shagla
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, M.Ed, LPCC
Columbus, OH 43206
The world can feel pretty scary a lot of the time, and I believe therapy can be a place to navigate it in a safe and supportive environment. I focus on cultivating a non judgemental space to meet clients where they are at in life. My approach to therapy is collaborative, direct and compassionate, as well as using humor as an outlet when it is needed during a session. I believe therapy is never one size fits all and should be a place to explore what works for you with support.
The world can feel pretty scary a lot of the time, and I believe therapy can be a place to navigate it in a safe and supportive environment. I focus on cultivating a non judgemental space to meet clients where they are at in life. My approach to therapy is collaborative, direct and compassionate, as well as using humor as an outlet when it is needed during a session. I believe therapy is never one size fits all and should be a place to explore what works for you with support.
(614) 300-2018 View (614) 300-2018
Kenslie Dugan
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LISW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You deserve a space where you feel truly seen, supported, and safe to explore what’s been weighing on you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, a major life change, or relationship challenges, therapy with me is a place to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll build understanding and find practical ways to help you feel more balanced, confident, and in control of your life.
You deserve a space where you feel truly seen, supported, and safe to explore what’s been weighing on you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, a major life change, or relationship challenges, therapy with me is a place to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll build understanding and find practical ways to help you feel more balanced, confident, and in control of your life.
(614) 767-5453 View (614) 767-5453
Macie Hobbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Waitlist for new clients
My philosophy for therapy is “you only get out of it what you put into it” so if you are open to talking through life stressors while utilizing helpful skills and tools, I am the therapist for you! As a therapist, I want to empower my clients to be the best version of themselves, while also showing love and compassion for their flaws, because hey, we're all human! I enjoy being a therapist because life is a rollercoaster and we have to learn to ride the ups and downs of life and it is okay to have someone there to help you along the ride!
My philosophy for therapy is “you only get out of it what you put into it” so if you are open to talking through life stressors while utilizing helpful skills and tools, I am the therapist for you! As a therapist, I want to empower my clients to be the best version of themselves, while also showing love and compassion for their flaws, because hey, we're all human! I enjoy being a therapist because life is a rollercoaster and we have to learn to ride the ups and downs of life and it is okay to have someone there to help you along the ride!
(937) 507-3740 View (937) 507-3740
Niki Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients – 7/28/26 You’re a Christian woman who feels overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety or trauma, stuck in patterns that are holding you back. You want to find peace but are unsure how to break free. Your faith is important to you, but despite praying and seeking support, you feel trapped in the same cycle. You long for healing that aligns with your beliefs—something deeper than surface-level advice. Your relationships are strained, and you're searching for practical tools to move forward. You’re ready for a change, and Christian therapy can help you find the breakthrough you need.
Accepting New Clients – 7/28/26 You’re a Christian woman who feels overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety or trauma, stuck in patterns that are holding you back. You want to find peace but are unsure how to break free. Your faith is important to you, but despite praying and seeking support, you feel trapped in the same cycle. You long for healing that aligns with your beliefs—something deeper than surface-level advice. Your relationships are strained, and you're searching for practical tools to move forward. You’re ready for a change, and Christian therapy can help you find the breakthrough you need.
(380) 208-0221 View (380) 208-0221
Amy M Prichard
Counselor, LPCC, PCC
Online Only
20 + years helping youth, adults and families work through grief and trauma, restore relationships, and build healthier thought and behavior patterns with a focus on helping clients in transition or facing a dilemma. Are you tired of feeling sad, alone, or hopeless…of being angry for no apparent reason…or of taking out your frustrations on others? You are not responsible for what happens to you, but you are responsible to deal with it. I'm here to help you become aware of your unhealthy thinking patterns and behavior choices. I'll listen, ask great questions, and keep it real-with compassion and a sense of humor.
20 + years helping youth, adults and families work through grief and trauma, restore relationships, and build healthier thought and behavior patterns with a focus on helping clients in transition or facing a dilemma. Are you tired of feeling sad, alone, or hopeless…of being angry for no apparent reason…or of taking out your frustrations on others? You are not responsible for what happens to you, but you are responsible to deal with it. I'm here to help you become aware of your unhealthy thinking patterns and behavior choices. I'll listen, ask great questions, and keep it real-with compassion and a sense of humor.
(614) 820-5913 View (614) 820-5913
Dr. Madison Piehl
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to treat a wide range of eating-related concerns, as well as anxiety, depression, and associated conditions. I also provide Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for adults seeking trauma therapy, and I provide couples therapy using Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT).
I work with adults using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to treat a wide range of eating-related concerns, as well as anxiety, depression, and associated conditions. I also provide Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for adults seeking trauma therapy, and I provide couples therapy using Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT).
(614) 532-2576 View (614) 532-2576
Kira Techatanalai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Do you crave a deeper, loving connection to yourself, others & the world around you? Do you feel stuck in old self-defeating patterns & want to overcome doubt & shame? We all face these challenges at times. There is nothing wrong with you. I'd love to help you be more present & lead a life aligned with your strengths & values. I have helped many folks with their mood, life transitions, relationships & trauma. Together, we can heal & release old patterning that opens a new path that transforms your mindset & leads you to embody your truest authentic self.
Do you crave a deeper, loving connection to yourself, others & the world around you? Do you feel stuck in old self-defeating patterns & want to overcome doubt & shame? We all face these challenges at times. There is nothing wrong with you. I'd love to help you be more present & lead a life aligned with your strengths & values. I have helped many folks with their mood, life transitions, relationships & trauma. Together, we can heal & release old patterning that opens a new path that transforms your mindset & leads you to embody your truest authentic self.
(380) 204-5712 View (380) 204-5712
Crystal Thomas, Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, LICSW
Online Only
Queer-affirming therapist in Ohio, Illinois, and DC. My approach to therapy is eclectic and tailored to fit each person I encounter. In general, I favor a relational approach that emphasizes attachment. I understand how our earliest experiences and relationships can shape us, and I am deeply interested in what your early experiences and relationships taught you about the world. I also draw from third wave CBT modalities in order to assist you in unlearning those early lessons when needed. In this way, you can feel free to reshape living strategies which helped you to survive your past, but which are no longer serving you.
Queer-affirming therapist in Ohio, Illinois, and DC. My approach to therapy is eclectic and tailored to fit each person I encounter. In general, I favor a relational approach that emphasizes attachment. I understand how our earliest experiences and relationships can shape us, and I am deeply interested in what your early experiences and relationships taught you about the world. I also draw from third wave CBT modalities in order to assist you in unlearning those early lessons when needed. In this way, you can feel free to reshape living strategies which helped you to survive your past, but which are no longer serving you.
(614) 368-7176 View (614) 368-7176
Dr. Kate Hibbard Gibbons
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Life can be unrelenting with a multitude of demands, and it can be hard to manage when you’re feeling out of balance in several areas. You may find yourself reaching for a sense of control through eating, weight, isolation, self-medicating, over-scheduling, perfectionism and more, leading to guilt and shame, creating a never-ending cycle of struggle. Moving toward your values, you will find balance, healing, and growth. I believe therapy can be a safe place to make connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that have been feared and avoided. I will help you to become empowered to shape your story and live authentically.
Life can be unrelenting with a multitude of demands, and it can be hard to manage when you’re feeling out of balance in several areas. You may find yourself reaching for a sense of control through eating, weight, isolation, self-medicating, over-scheduling, perfectionism and more, leading to guilt and shame, creating a never-ending cycle of struggle. Moving toward your values, you will find balance, healing, and growth. I believe therapy can be a safe place to make connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that have been feared and avoided. I will help you to become empowered to shape your story and live authentically.
(614) 983-1058 View (614) 983-1058
Amy Nims
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
Life can be chaotic, and wonderful, and challenging, and sorrowful - sometimes all at once. With a compassionate and humorous lens, I can help you navigate so you can reach goals you have in mind. In this space your authentic self will be honored and we will focus on your capabilities.
Life can be chaotic, and wonderful, and challenging, and sorrowful - sometimes all at once. With a compassionate and humorous lens, I can help you navigate so you can reach goals you have in mind. In this space your authentic self will be honored and we will focus on your capabilities.
(614) 468-8184 View (614) 468-8184
Emily Tegenkamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LISW
Online Only
Welcome–I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create an accepting and validating environment where you can explore your strengths and values to help navigate life’s challenges. I approach each session with curiosity and openness, striving to understand your unique experiences and priorities for counseling. My practice focuses on working with individuals grieving the loss of a loved one, particularly those impacted by suicide loss. I also enjoy working with young adults, those experiencing and anticipating life transitions, individuals who are neurodivergent, and people with disabilities and their families.
Welcome–I’m glad you’re here. My goal is to create an accepting and validating environment where you can explore your strengths and values to help navigate life’s challenges. I approach each session with curiosity and openness, striving to understand your unique experiences and priorities for counseling. My practice focuses on working with individuals grieving the loss of a loved one, particularly those impacted by suicide loss. I also enjoy working with young adults, those experiencing and anticipating life transitions, individuals who are neurodivergent, and people with disabilities and their families.
(773) 801-5734 View (773) 801-5734
Marjorie Grafton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, CST
Columbus, OH 43221
Therapeutically, I have always been drawn to the way we relate to the body. Your body is your home, but many of us feel disconnected from ourselves due to the pressures and oppression we face in the modern world. I have worked with clients on many of these spots of disconnection ranging from eating disorders to chronic illness to sexuality and pleasure. Using the tenets of Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness, and sex therapy approaches, I hope to make this space feel a little more like home again.
Therapeutically, I have always been drawn to the way we relate to the body. Your body is your home, but many of us feel disconnected from ourselves due to the pressures and oppression we face in the modern world. I have worked with clients on many of these spots of disconnection ranging from eating disorders to chronic illness to sexuality and pleasure. Using the tenets of Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness, and sex therapy approaches, I hope to make this space feel a little more like home again.
(614) 654-4370 x106 View (614) 654-4370 x106

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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.