Understanding Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating & Body Image Disturbance
- Jimmy Gross
- Aug 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 21
Eating disorders and body image issues affect people from all walks of life, often silently undermining physical health and emotional well-being. Whether it's a clinical eating disorder like anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder — or more subtle forms of disordered eating — these struggles are deeply connected to how we see and value ourselves.
Disordered Eating vs. Eating Disorders
Disordered eating includes irregular eating behaviors that may not meet the criteria for a specific eating disorder diagnosis but still disrupt a person’s relationship with food and body. This can include chronic dieting, food restriction, emotional eating, or an unhealthy obsession with "clean" eating. Over time, these patterns can severely impact a person's mental and physical health.
Body Image Disturbance
Body image disturbance goes beyond simply disliking one’s appearance. It often involves obsessive thoughts, distorted self-perception, and intense anxiety around weight, shape, or appearance. These experiences are common in people with eating disorders but can affect anyone and interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and self-esteem.
How Mindi Gonzales, LPC - Senior Clinician at Desta Therapy Can Help
Mindi Gonzales, Licensed Professional Counselor at Desta Therapy, LLC, offers compassionate, trauma-informed care to a variety of individuals. In addition, she specializes in helping clients navigate eating and body-related concerns. With a warm, client-centered approach, Mindi works collaboratively to help these clients:
Understand the roots of their struggles with food and body image
Heal from trauma and internalized messages that fuel disordered behaviors
Build a healthier relationship with food, body, and self
Develop coping strategies rooted in self-compassion and empowerment
Whether you're seeking recovery from a diagnosed eating disorder or hoping to explore a more peaceful relationship with your body, Mindi provides a safe, affirming space to begin that journey.
If you're ready to take the next step, connect with Mindi Gonzales, LPC through Desta Therapy’s website and begin the path toward healing and self-acceptance. You’re not alone — and support is within reach.
