It all starts with a couple of questions to better understand how we really feel about our bodies, even thoughts we don't realize could be harmful. "One of the first things I ask is in regard to self-talk, I ask what kind of thoughts clients have when thinking about their body," says Madeleine DiLeonardo, MEd, LPC, NCC, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Mind Body and Soul by DiLeonardo Wellness. "For example, how they are treating themselves when they are trying on clothes, getting ready in the morning, or making decisions about food. A lot of times, clients don't realize that the narratives they have created about their bodies are very negative, and this constant cycle of negative self-talk directly impacts self-worth."
O'Neill has a similar approach: "I like to start by asking about the relationship the individual has with their body. When they think about their body, what thoughts come to mind? What feelings come to mind? How do they deal with those thoughts and feelings? What do they tell themselves about those thoughts and feelings? When have they felt the most comfortable with their body? When have they felt the least comfortable?"