- 1817 Queen Anne Ave, Suite 202, Seattle, WA
- 707-440-9288
- ian@ianmackelvie.com
- 707-440-9288
- ian@ianmackelvie.com
A space to reveal deeper insights about how we perceive ourselves and our bodies. These concerns intersect with the foods we eat, the way we look, and even our identities. Through therapy we can understand the roots of these concerns, and begin the healing process we need to feel whole again.
Eating disorders, body obsessions, and body dysphoria rarely start with the body. They often begin with a deeper sense of overwhelm. A need to feel safe, to feel in control, to quiet something that feels too big or too unformed inside.
Maybe you restrict, binge, or obsess over food. Maybe your image in the mirror feels unbearable or unreal. Maybe you vacillate between discipline and collapse, trying to manage emotions through routines, numbers, or rituals. Maybe you’re just tired of the constant noise in your head.
The concept we develop about what bodies look like here in the US is distorted and we know it has negative impacts on our self perception. In my work it’s useful because it helps ground me in the knowledge that we are all struggling with somekind of body image issue.
Nourishment of our bodies starts with how we nourish ourselves emotionally. While treating these issues I have found that most often they result from how we see ourselves early on, and how the environment either reinforced these patterns or truly nourished us. Breakthroughs can truly occur when we can finally digest those early memories, and not feel like we have to hold them.
My approach goes beyond symptom management. Together, we’ll explore what lives underneath the food rules, the body checking, the pressure to disappear or control. We’ll look at what shaped your relationship with your body and how that’s impacted your sense of self.
Clients also like that we I work with the body directly. Some were never able to use their body to set boundaries before. Others used their body set boundaries, but were not able to use their words to speak up. Discovering how our whole character works at either hampering us or supporting us is key.
I check my emails and office line Monday thru Friday, and typically reach out within 24 hours to let you know if I have availability. You won’t be left wondering.
After a brief conversation, and an explanation of my process, we can find a time that works for both of us.
Whether in person or remote, making a commitment to therapy takes guts. Together, we will explore your wants and find the path to get there.
Yes. I meet people where they are. The goal is to understand what function the behaviors serve and begin developing inner resources that help you feel more choice and clarity over time.
Both. While we want to reduce harm and improve health, my focus is on the emotional and relational roots, often involving self-worth, control, shame, or disconnection from the body. But this can also plunge deeper into Family of Origin (FOO!) issues. Addressing these can change not just symptoms, but how you live.
Yes, when needed. I support integrative care and can help coordinate with other professionals if you want to build a treatment team.
Use the Contact Form to give me some brief details of what you’re experiencing. You can also call or email me. I try to respond to all contacts and inquiries within 24 hours, Monday thru Thursday.
