As therapists, we receive diversity and cultural awareness training on topics related to religion, gender identity, and ethnicity. Current training is silent on body diversity. In this workshop we will explore how we size up our clients with our body biases. Are we, unknowingly, causing harm to our clients who live in larger bodies? Let’s examine the conflation of health with body size, the adoption of BMI as an indicator of health, and the subsequent impacts of weight stigma. We will explore how weight-inclusivity can promote overall wellbeing.

The presentation is in service to the diverse, intersectional identities of individuals who seek therapy. Further, it acknowledges the privilege that some identities hold whilst examining the biases of these identities. The presenter will foster an environment of respect and inclusion. The presentation will examine disparities in treatment, while addressing unjust practices that harm those with marginalized identities.

The workshop is suitable for all levels of clinicians. The workshop is designed to encourage open conversations about the biases that we hold about body shape and weight, how those biases can influence our responses to clients who express dissatisfaction with their body, and if we are unknowingly causing harm with our responses. The goals are to increase awareness of the impacts of weight stigma and encourage weight inclusivity when working with clients in larger bodies.