The Power of Therapy: You Can Feel Better

Since graduate school, I have been hyped about therapy. The therapeutic process is so incredible to me. I was spending my weekends searching on YouTube to somehow find a therapy session to watch so I could practice the skills I saw. I love good therapy. I also happen to be wildly passionate about bad therapy but that’s a song for another time.

I’ve been practicing therapy for seven-ish years, and I have certainly become more comfortable. I have moved on from Youtube videos to podcasts but because of my comfort, it had been a hot minute since I intentionally practiced more skills.

The other day I had a client running late as we as humans do at times, and instead of mindlessly scrolling I decided to be mindful. To breathe deeply and decide on my intention for the session. I landed on a skill I wanted to try and practice it all day in my sessions. It made a difference, and I was exhausted.

I know anxiety therapy can be overwhelming

It was a reminder to me that those clients of mine sitting across from me on the couch are also exhausted by setting new and unfamiliar intentions. They are showing up filled to the brim with anxiety and unsure if this is worth the risk. It’s an incredible honor to be the one that gets to be with these people. They are sharing with me some of the most personal and intimate details of their lives, and that deserves to be met with kindness and compassion. I know I say this all the time but those that I work with are incredible. They transcend the former versions of themselves into something nobody could ever imagine they would become. They try and try and try. They get discouraged and want to give up but then they try again. They show up week by week investing in themselves and little by little they end becoming a different version of themselves. I’ve watched this process happen over and over again yet even still, every single time, I’m baffled. After I watch them bend and become, we sit across from each other in awe of what has transpired. It’s magic. The therapeutic process is even more incredible than I ever imagined it as a graduate student.

Even though therapy is hard, it’s worth it.

This year is really teaching me to do some of my own work and to put myself in experiences where I can remember what my clients are feeling. Making changes is hard. Managing anxiety is hard. Trying to be a better therapist is hard but when it aligns with our goals and values it’s worth the risk and effort. It’s worth it because we transcend little by little.

Looking for an anxiety Therapist in Utah?

I fully believe in the power of therapy for all of my clients and you. I know if you are here, you’re probably struggling and want to feel better. Therapy can help you feel better. I know asking for help is hard for you, and this isn’t easy, but I know it will be worth it. This Northern Utah Counseling Clinic has an anxiety therapist who can help you achieve your goals. To begin counseling, follow the steps below:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with a therapist for anxiety

3. Begin achieving your goals

Online Therapy in Utah

I know it’s already hard to reach out for help, and thinking about having to find time to travel to another appointment might seem overwhelming. I provide online therapy in Utah so that you can access a therapist as conveniently as possible. This can help you save time in your schedule while still achieving your mental health goals.

Counseling online means that if you are located in Logan, Salt Lake City, Heber, St. George, Cedar City, and more, we can work together.

Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy

Anxiety therapy isn’t the only counseling service provided at this Utah County Counseling Clinic. Other mental health services Maple Canyon Therapy provides are body image therapy, birth trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, eating disorder therapy, and binge eating disorder treatment in Utah.

Online Therapy in Utah: 4 Reasons To Try It

Before the pandemic began, my practice offered online counseling. It was revolutionary to me to have this service to offer people, as helping people have access to therapy in this beautiful, rural state is something I care so much about. What motivated me to offer this service was that I wanted to serve people in Southern Utah with specialized therapy that I didn’t feel they had access to.

I attended SUU in Cedar City for my undergraduate degree, returned after my master’s, and took a job that is nowhere near what I do now but I love Cedar City. It’s home to me. I ended up leaving Cedar City to work at an Orem specialized eating disorder treatment center. Since my first eating disorder client as a graduate student intern, I wanted to get back to working with this lovely population. As I was driving home, it struck me during my commute. I can offer online therapy to those people in Cedar City! Once I fully understood how specialized treatment for disordered eating is required, I knew that it was really sparse in Southern Utah to have an eating disorder therapist. So I did it. As we know, the pandemic happened, and everyone started offering online therapy, and it became even more revolutionary to so many people.

Why You Should Try Online Therapy in Utah

I know some people have hesitancy about doing online therapy, and I get it. Some people feel in-person therapy is the clear winner. I do love in-person therapy sessions, and I actually equally love being an online therapist. Genuinely. I have seen breakthroughs working with clients when they are in the comfort of their own space. They can let their guard down and feel grounded with the things they have in their own homes. I love seeing my client’s pets and how they express themselves by decorating their homes. Honestly, I love it, and it’s amazing. Yes, there are computer glitches with the internet, and things freeze. It does happen. You will also see me with ketchup on my face as I did in my online therapy sessions today. Here’s to being human. However, humans' connection with each other still shows up even across computer screens.

Reasons You Might Like Online Therapy in Utah

1. It might be easier to be vulnerable Online

   I have said it before, and here I am saying it again but therapy is vulnerable. For some people, it’s easier to be vulnerable in the comfort of their own home in their sweat pants. They feel like they can share more openly about what they are struggling with and when you are willing to be vulnerable, you see more progress. Imagine having your dog cuddled next to you with your weighted blanket drinking something hot while opening up about some of your anxieties. Please tell me how that is not the superior way to do therapy ;). I have had people start meeting in person, switching to online, and making much greater progress in therapy. This really is the cat’s pajamas for some people.

2. It’s just as effective as in-person therapy

   If it’s a concern for you that online therapy isn’t as effective as being in person, I’m happy to tell you it’s not true. Online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy if you have a therapist who is familiar with and comfortable with using online therapy. As previously stated, I have been using online therapy for several years and feel comfortable and competent. I think it’s important to make sure the therapist you select is comfortable using online therapy in order for it to be a positive experience. Rest assured that online therapy will give you just as positive results as seeing a therapist in person.

3. It might save you time

   One of the barriers to people coming to therapy is trying to fit time into their busy schedules to make it happen. They know they need help, but when it’s in the middle of their workday, and they don’t have the travel time to make it happen. It’s a timesaver not to have to get in the car and travel somewhere. It also helps not to feel enraged when you’re stuck in traffic.

4. It makes therapy more accessible

   I don’t know about you, but if I am going to reach out for help, I want to know that the therapist I will see knows my problem. I don’t want to take the risk of not improving or getting the help I need when I really need it by seeing someone that doesn’t have the specialty or training I need. As I mentioned before, online therapy makes people in need of help able to access it much easier, no matter where you are in Utah. Gone are the days you spend several hours in the car to make it to an appointment. It is important that you can connect with your therapist and see them consistently to make improvements. Online therapy is an incredible option to consider if you don’t have a therapist in your city who you like and who knows your problem.

Online therapy in Utah is the way to go

Having greater accessibility to therapy, saving time, effective care, and feeling more comfortable going deeper are all reasons to try online counseling. You will be surprised at how well you meet your needs and achieve your goals with online therapy.

Online therapy in Utah also means that I can work with you if you are located anywhere in Utah, including Logan, Salt Lake City, Heber, St. Geroge, Cedar City, and more.

Start working with an online therapist In Utah

Online therapy can treat various mental health issues regardless of what you are struggling with. This Utah County Counseling Clinic has an online therapist specializing in treating mental health with online therapy. To begin online counseling, follow the steps below:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with an Online Utah Therapist

3. Start feeling better

Mental Health Services Provided at Maple Canyon Therapy Services

This Northern Utah Counseling Practice offers a variety of counseling services. Mental Health Services Maple Canyon Therapy includes anxiety therapy, body image therapy, birth trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, binge eating disorder treatment, and eating disorder therapy in Utah.

Having Hope and Doing the Work In Therapy

Hope. When’s the last time you felt that? When is the last time you felt it rush through your body and completely fill you up? If it hasn’t been anytime recently, I hope it’s right around the corner for you. You deserve that. Hope might be why you’re visiting this blog, this website, or looking for a therapist. I love that you’re here. No matter how big or small your hope is in this moment, It’s enough. You are enough.

As a therapist, I’m committed to working as hard as my clients

When I was a graduate student and practicing therapy for the first time (and highly anxious I might add), I was soaking everything up that my clients brought to the table. I could not believe how lucky I was to be doing this work and sitting with these people. It felt so sacred to be listening to such personal feelings and experiences. I felt so honored to be a part of these people’s lives and inspired by them. I made a commitment to myself that I would not ask my clients to do things that I wouldn’t do myself. I would continue to do work on myself and grow personally. 7 years later, and I truly feel the same humility and privilege to work with people as I did then. However, I started to slack on doing my own work and being willing to do the same thing I asked my clients to do. Recently, I recommitted.

What I’m doing as a therapist to improve

I’ve spent the last little bit journaling, meditating, and being more present with myself. All things that I invite my clients to try. There’s something about watching someone you work with hustle hard to find relief and healing, that really inspired me to do the same thing. It has meant so much to me to recommit to it. It has increased my compassion and empathy for those that I work with as they are trying so unbelievably hard to do the work. The work really is about much more than journaling and deep breathing but it certainly represents so much of what’s going on deep inside.

Why you should continue to have hope

Hope is powerful in your recovery. It’s powerful in your life. It impacts how you show up in the world. If I were to guess, I would bet you have a great deal of hope for others in your life. You believe the people in your life will have good things happen to them, and that they will be able to get the things they want to have.

1. Hope brings more positive well-being.

   Having hope helps people feel more positive about their life and the circumstances they may be in. People that have hope are generally happier than those that don’t.

2. People with a greater sense of hope handle stress better.

   People that have a higher level of hope know that stress ends and is temporary. They are able to handle stressful situations with a more positive outlook. Hopeful people are able to cope better overall.

3. Hope can be a buffer against anxiety.

   People that have hope tend to cope better with threats with less anxiety and stress than those who don’t. Hopeful people tend to be healthier than those that don’t. Feeling less hope leads to negative mood states.

4. Hope can be motivating.

   People that have hope and believe they can achieve or resolve a challenging situation do more often than those that don’t have hope. People who don’t believe in positive outcomes don’t get them as often as hopeful people.

I hope you’re finding hope wherever you are to keep going, to reach out, and to begin doing the work that will ultimately change your life You matter. You matter to so many people. The entire universe would not be the same without you here in it with us. I believe that completely.

Looking for an anxiety therapist in Utah?

If you are looking to work on yourself and improve your anxiety, anxiety therapy can help. This Northern Utah Counseling Center has an anxiety therapist that can help. To begin counseling, follow the steps below:

1. Book a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with an anxiety specialist

3. Begin having hope and healing

Online Anxiety Therapy in Utah

I want you to have access to counseling, and I know making time out of your schedule to attend therapy isn’t always convenient. This is why I provide online therapy in Utah. This makes it, so you don’t have to travel or commute to meet a therapist.

Utilizing telehealth counseling also allows me to work with you wherever you are in Utah. I work with clients in Logan, Salt Lake City, Heber, St. George, Cedar City, and more.

Other mental health services provided in Utah County

Anxiety therapy isn’t the only counseling service provided at this Utah County Counseling Practice. Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy include binge eating disorder treatment, EMDR Therapy, birth trauma therapy, body image therapy, and eating disorder therapy in Utah.

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt is a licensed clinical social worker in Utah and the owner of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah County. Ashlee is inspired by her clients in therapy and sees their strength and resiliency. She works with women who are willing to do whatever it takes to get better. Ashlee has a bachelor’s in psychology and a bachelor’s in family life and human development from Southern Utah University. She obtained her master’s in social work from Utah State University. Ashlee loves living in Utah and enjoyed her time in Cache Valley and Southern Utah.

4 Reasons Not to Apologize for Your Body

We live in a world of health challenges and an overall focus on changing our bodies. It’s the worst for those that I work with to try and deal with. They are already hyper-focused on their bodies and how much space they take up that any more focus on it is crushing.

Your body deserves kindness

What would the world be like if there was more focus on giving our bodies the respect that they deserve? You know, rather than trying to shrink them or berate them for everything they aren’t but to give them kindness instead. This is the year that I decided to set an intention of not making apologies disclaimers for my body. What my hair looks like, what clothes I’m wearing or not wearing is something that I want to spend my energy talking about or apologizing for anymore.

You don’t have to apologize for your appearance.

I want to remind you that your body and your appearance are not something you need to give an apology for. It’s not something you need to give a disclaimer about or try and make people comfortable with. Your body is a good body, and that may be part of your work in coming to terms with. Remember your body deserves to be protected from cruelty and unkindness and even when that comes from you.

Reasons not to apologize for your body

1. It puts too much focus on appearance.

   I’m sure you are keenly aware of women's crushing pressure to be thin, sculpted, airbrushed, and flawless. This focus on appearance is unhealthy and truly makes women miserable because it’s unattainable. If I know you, you don’t want to reinforce this to other people. Sadly, when we comment on our appearance in a derogatory way, it continues to perpetuate the importance of what our bodies look like. Our bodies are so much more than something pretty to look at.

2. Your body is about more than what it looks like.

   It might be hard for you right now, but I could think of so many incredible things about your body that have nothing to do with what it looks like. Your body allows you to experience wonderful things outside of appearance. It allows you to be with the people you love and to create memories and meaning in life. Your body deserves more credit than what it looks like.

3. Your body is good regardless of what it looks like.

   Your worth and value does not change based on if you’re wearing mascara or not. It doesn’t change based on what you wear or what you weigh. Your body’s purpose is not to look good but to be good. This means being whole, happy, and fulfilled comes from other things, not from your appearance.

4. Apologizing for your body is the opposite of empowering.

   When you apologize to your body, it disempowers you and those around you. It won’t be your intention, but the women around you may look at their bodies and search for what’s “wrong” with them. Historically women have had an unspoken bond over bashing their bodies together, and nobody leaves those conversations feeling hyped about themselves. You aren’t going to feel positive after criticizing your body or apologizing for what you look like.

Working with a body image therapist in utah can help

Having a positive body image and having respect for your body is absolutely achievable no matter what your size or weight. You deserve to be kind to your body even if you aren’t madly in love with it. I recognize wholeheartedly it is difficult to overcome negative body image. Maybe you’ve already tried it on your own, and it continues to impact your life negatively. Therapy for body image facilitates healing from the experiences that have led you to mistrust and hate your body. Body image therapy can help you gain more respect for your body and to focus on it much less. Dealing with body image issues can impact your life and your functioning. It’s not something that should be minimized or dismissed but deserves help from a professional.

Start body image therapy in Utah

You don’t have to keep living, hating your body. You find relief from self-hatred and insecurity. Body image therapy can help. This Northern Utah Counseling Clinic has a body image therapist specializing in body image therapy. To begin counseling for body image, follow the steps below:

1. Book a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with a Utah therapist

3. Begin to make peace with your body

Online Therapy in Utah

I know it’s hard to make time in your busy schedule to attend therapy, and I also know how big of a different body image therapy can make in your overall well-being. I want you to be able to do this for yourself. This is why I provide online therapy in Utah. It’s safe and convenient, and I promise it’s equally as effective as coming to the office for therapy.

Online counseling allows me to work with clients in Salt Lake City, Logan, Heber, St. George, Cedar City, and more.

Other mental health services offered in Northern Utah

Body image therapy isn’t the only counseling service offered at this Utah County Counseling Center. Other mental health services offered by Maple Canyon Therapy include anxiety therapy, binge eating disorder treatment, eating disorder therapy, birth trauma therapy, and EMDR therapy in Utah.

About the author

Ashlee Hunt is a therapist and owner of Maple Canyon Therapy near Provo, Utah. She has been working with women with body image issues since 2013. Ashlee loves empowering women to respect their bodies regardless of their body image or body size. She uses a Health at Every Size Approach (HAES) as a framework for being body positive. Ashlee has two bachelor’s degrees from Southern Utah University. A bachelor’s in psychology and a bachelor’s in family life and human development. She obtained her master’s degree in social work from Utah State University. Ashlee loves Utah and exploring its surroundings. She enjoys spending time outside with her dogs and taking walks through the River Bottoms in Spanish Fork.

Thanksgiving Thoughts From an Eating Disorder Therapist

It’s the Thanksgiving season, and I was just thinking about you. Perhaps it isn’t a happy holiday for you. Maybe holidays are difficult for you. Maybe this holiday is a fresh reminder of what you’ve lost or never had but have always wanted.

Thanksgiving is difficult for people with eating disorders

If you are struggling with an eating disorder or with your relationship with food, the strong focus on food is difficult. Food might feel complicated to you and being with family might be filled with dread and anxiety. Maybe due to the pandemic, you can’t be with those that you are dying to be with after months of isolation. Those are big feels to grapple with.

I just wanted you to know I’m thinking about you. I’m thinking about how eating around other people feels self-conscious to you and how food is full of guilt and embarrassment to you. I thought about giving you a list of a game plan of things to help you cope and get through it but for me at this moment that didn’t feel right. I want to just be with you, where you are at, and honor the feelings you have. However, complicated and tangled up they may feel. If you are dealing with fresh loss, or if it has been simmering for a while, I want you to recognize you don’t have to be grateful for that on Thanksgiving or any day. You can hate this holiday and want it to be over as fast as possible and maybe even like it moments later.

Grief and loss might feel stronger on Thanksgiving

Loss is complicated. Grief is complex. There are no good or right or pretty answers. I will not be here to be the gratitude police. Please don’t be the gratitude police for yourself or anyone else either. You can appreciate and have gratitude for what you’ve got in your life without being thankful for trials and adversity. Where you are at with things is right where you are supposed to be in that moment. Maybe the next moment it will feel differently. Maybe not. Ride the wave and know you're ok right where you are. Just know I’m thinking of you.

Be good to yourself.

Start eating disorder treatment near Provo, Utah

I know the holidays can bring on a lot of triggers and make your eating disorder spiral. You don’t have to keep living that way. Eating disorder treatment can help. This Utah County Counseling Clinic has an eating disorder therapist that can help you manage eating disorder recovery. To begin counseling, follow the steps below:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with a mental health professional

3. Begin eating disorder recovery

Online Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah

I know how important it is when you are struggling with an eating disorder that you get help from a professional that understands how to help you in eating disorder recovery. I have helped many women recover from their eating disorders and want to help you no matter where you are in Utah. This is why I provide online therapy in Utah. Online counseling is safe, effective, and convenient. I assure you it’s just as effective as in-person therapy.

Online therapy allows me to work with you if you are located in Logan, St. George, Salt Lake City, Cedar City, and more.

Other mental health services provided near Provo, Utah

Eating disorder treatment isn’t the only counseling service provided at this Northern Utah Counseling Practice. Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy include binge eating disorder treatment, anxiety therapy, birth trauma therapy, body image therapy, and trauma therapy in Utah.

A Pep Talk From A Therapist

Sometimes I just get these moments where I am in complete awe and wonder at the work my clients do. It’s overwhelming and emotional to experience. 

As a therapist, I’m inspired by my clients

I love the work that I do because it doesn’t feel like work. I mean, the part where I have to get dressed, leave my house, and feel tired I’m the mornings-that certainly feels like work and always will. The part that doesn’t is the fact that it’s actually my clients working, searching, molding, and transforming. That feels like such a miracle to witness. You all do such beautiful and inspiring work. It’s such an honor to be with you. 

Why I love being a therapist

It is hard to imagine doing anything else with my life. I cannot even comprehend doing anything other than this. There’s nothing that compares to the meaning to sit with people in their struggle and watch them evolve. I don’t know if those that I work with ever really realize how strong and brave they are and how much of an impact they have on my life. There are many old-school therapeutic views (bye Freud!) that the therapist is some separate from the client they there can be no impact or influence. That is certainly not my reality. Those I work with unknowingly influence and change me. I’m thankful for it. I’m thankful to honor our shared humanity. 

A reminder to not give up hope in healing

Here is your reminder if you’ve forgotten, and I believe in you if you’re losing hope. There are many other people in your life that you will meet they will be thankful that you held onto hope. You’re gonna make it. Don’t you quit! We need you, and we want you here with us, where you belong. Your efforts are not in vain. My life is about watching people change. I’ve worked with different populations that didn’t want to change or were compelled to, so they didn’t lose it all. Even some of them changed, and so will you. If you want it, I’ll be yours. 

In the meantime, please be good to yourselves and give yourself compassion.

Looking for an anxiety therapist in Utah?

You don’t have to live in fear. Anxiety therapy can help. This Provo Utah Area Counseling Center has an anxiety therapist who can help. To begin therapy, follow these steps:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with an anxiety specialist

3. Find relief from anxiety

Online Anxiety Therapy in Utah

I know taking time out of your busy schedule to come to therapy is not easy. It is easy to put off going to therapy because you don’t have time, and let’s be honest; you feel too anxious about trying to find a therapist’s office. This is why I offer online therapy in Utah. It’s convenient and just as effective as in-person therapy.

Working with a therapist online also means I can work with you if you are located in Logan, Salt Lake City, St. George, Cedar City, and more.

Other mental health services near Provo, Utah

Anxiety therapy isn’t the only service provided at this Utah County Counseling Clinic. Other services provided at Maple Canyon Therapy include body image therapy, EMDR therapy, Birth Trauma therapy, binge eating disorder treatment, and eating disorder treatment in Utah.

LDS Missionaries and Eating Disorders: It's Time to Talk About It.

“Do the best you can until you know better.  Then when you know better do better.”  -Maya Angelou

I don’t know about you, but when there’s something really important to me that I want to talk about, I have a hard time doing it. I want it to be eloquent enough to be understood in the way that it feels in my heart and in my head. Sometimes I get a tiny bit perfectionistic and put off saying it because I worry it won’t sound right so I end up not saying it at all. This is exactly how what I’m about to write feels to me. I really want you to understand how important this is, and I want you to understand that it’s coming from a loving place and not a place of criticism. I just want a little help in making a change. Thank you for being here.

If you  have lived in Utah, you are likely somewhat familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and might be familiar with the young people that are sent out to do missionary service. If you aren’t, I’ll catch you up. LDS (abbreviated for writing purposes) missionaries voluntarily are sent out on their missions at the age of 18 for men and 19 for women. They serve for 18-24 months, and it is most often some distance away from home and from their families. Missionaries are assigned all over the world, and often are funded for their service by themselves, their families, and their local church congregation.

LDS missionaries might be vulnerable to developing eating disorders

Being a missionary is a significant sacrifice for those that choose to go. They are often putting off their education or careers to do something pretty hard with their lives. It takes a great deal of bravery to go somewhere different, to leave behind what is familiar and comfortable, and to have limited contact with family and friends. Many missionaries report this to be an important experience for their lives. They spend the 18 to 24 months focusing on service to others, developing grit, and strengthening their spirituality. Developmentally, 18-21-year-olds are at a vulnerable period of their lives. They are attempting to: have a better understanding of themselves, greater concern for others, work for more emotional stability, learn to develop more serious relationships, and become more comfortable with themselves. Missionary service has been a protective factor for some during this developmental period. However, for some, it’s not, and that’s ok but it’s something we need to talk about.

I want to talk to you about these missionaries and their development of eating disorders while they are serving their missions. I want to talk about it because it feels like we are being too quiet about it or maybe some of us don’t realize this is going on. That’s why I’m here. Working as a therapist and treating eating disorders, I see plenty of clients that developed an eating disorder during their missionary service. Is it missionary service that causes an eating disorder? I don’t think so. Eating disorders are complicated mental illnesses with multiple contributing factors. However, serving a mission can be a stressful experience, and it can be isolating, and it can be anxiety-provoking.

It’s important to understand the mental health of LDS missionaries

I want to help you understand some of their experiences and maybe what we could do better in serving them. They are some of my favorite people to work with because they really are so special. I’ve been inspired to be a better person because of my work with these clients. Here are some of my thoughts and suggestions.

Missionaries don’t need the fear of weight gain instilled in them. These young missionaries are sent to 140 different countries around the world. Even when they are serving in their native country, this is a stressful experience. There is a new culture and or language to learn on top of the stress of leaving home for the first time for many. Every place has a different culture around food and eating, and missionaries are trying to adapt. Missionaries are getting the message while in the Missionary Training Center (MTC) or from church leaders that weight gain is something to be avoided and to be aware of. People try with good intentions to give advice on how to avoid it. A. Is this really our biggest concern for missionaries? That they might change their body size? They’re sacrificing their time, education, money, and careers to take care of other people and we don’t need to be worrying about their weight. Another area that I want us all to please consider is that 18-21-year-olds are in the period of late adolescence. Puberty is not finished for this age group. Puberty = body changes and weight gain. They likely should be gaining some weight while they are away because their body is still maturing and changing. This is healthy and appropriate so let’s not give the message that if they come home weighing more, they did something wrong. They’ve got enough pressure on their shoulders to try and manage something that they don’t need to worry about. Please don’t make comments on missionaries changing body or their weight gain. Let’s also work on not commenting on anyone’s weight or body size.

Those with an eating disorder tend to have traits of perfectionism and are high achieving.

Those that are wanting to sacrifice and serve other people in missionary work, especially sister missionaries, tend to be high achievers naturally. These people are already probably doing pretty well in other areas of their lives. Good grades, success in sports, model employees, etc. are all qualities these missionaries already have.  Their personality traits already tend to be perfectionistic and when combined with missionary service it can lead to troubles for some. Missionary work can be a rewarding experience but it can also be a significant stressor.

This is a perfect storm as the lifestyle of being a missionary is pretty strict. Again, I’m not saying this is a wrong approach but I’m merely outlining why this works out. Missionaries are expected to have every hour of their day outlined with something purposeful that they will do. Self-care is not something that is focused on during this stage of life as missionaries’ whole goal is to take care of others. Missionaries have their study time, exercise, wake up and bedtime outlined every day. They are never allowed to be alone during those 18-24 months unless they’re in the bathroom. Missionaries are assigned to a geographical area during periods of their mission that they aren’t allowed to leave and only have a set amount of miles they can drive during the month. Missionaries may feel that they can’t take breaks or they feel the need to skip meals so they can focus on teaching other people or finding people to teach. They can experience enormous amounts of guilt if they aren’t doing that all the time. This structure can trigger perfectionism part in these people, and they can become perfectionistic about what they eat and their weight or they may feel a lack of control with all the other areas of their life and turn to restriction, binging, purging, and overexercising to control what they can control.

We cannot determine an eating disorder based on outer appearance.

This is important for you to understand: eating disorders come in all shapes and sizes. People can be at deadly stages of their eating disorder and appear normal or “overweight”. Large or small-sized bodies can all be really struggling in their disorder. Some missionaries may be restricting and appear to be a normal weight or above weight. They can be binging and purging and be in a larger body, and you will not know it. It doesn’t matter because some serious health risks are associated with these behaviors, and weight is not the only factor. Missionaries may be complimented on weight loss that could result from disordered behavior, which sadly reinforces continued unhealthy behaviors.

Some returned missionaries I have worked with didn’t feel they needed help or could reach out for help because their bodies didn’t appear to fit the mold. I want you all to know that there is no mold. There are serious health risks associated with being underweight and serious health risks for being normal or “overweight” and using eating disorder behaviors. We need to be concerned about all of them.

Missionaries can hide their eating disorders/disordered eating well.

Eating disorders require some amount of secrecy to thrive. Eating disorders are also a shameful experience (we will get to that later), and behaviors can go unnoticed. It’s not just that way for missionaries but for anyone struggling with an eating disorder. I have worked with many parents that have been shocked that their child had been struggling for years with an eating disorder. Missionary work can be an isolating experience,  and although missionaries all have a mission companion, they can hide the behaviors even from them.

“Fasting” can be disguised as restriction with a spiritual purpose when the intention is actually to restrict or compensation for food they felt out of control eating before. Throwing up secretly after meals can go unnoticed by their companions as well. Mission companions might feel like something weird is going on, but if you are unfamiliar with eating disorders, you may not notice. Please remember that these mission companions are young as well and inexperienced or may not have a lot of self-awareness themselves that this is going on.  This is another frightening thing about eating disorders and missionaries. Missionaries can be well into their disorder, and nobody notices.

There is a significant amount of shame present.

Brene Brown, a well-known shame researcher, defines shame as “ The intensely painful feeling or experience of believing that we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging – something we've experienced, done, or failed to do makes us unworthy of connection.”  Shame is never useful or helpful. It’s a paralyzing emotion that targets who we are as a person and not our actions. Guilt: “I made a bad decision”. Shame: “I am bad”.

Missionaries struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating are experiencing some deep shame for things outside of their eating disorder but certainly for that as well. Missionaries that end up being sent home early for their eating disorders struggle even more with shame. The returned missionaries that I work with feel shame for the fact that they weren’t able to “keep it together” with food and eating while they serve their missions. They believe that there must be something wrong with them or that God must be so disappointed them. This is heartbreaking every time I hear it. These lovely people have sacrificed so much more than the average person for this experience and end up leaving feeling that they aren’t good enough and that even God couldn’t be proud of them.

Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression may show up in missionary service.

Anxiety and depression are common in those that I work with experiencing eating disorders. Nearly all of the clients I have worked with have some form of anxiety. Before missionaries leave for missionary services they may not think they have these struggles but anxiety and depression show up in the midst of service.

I would like to normalize this heavily. Missionaries spend 18-24 months every day talking to strangers and being open about something extremely personal. This is a vulnerable experience, and being vulnerable so often can make anyone anxious. Being away from family and friends is hard and when you aren’t vibing with your mission companion it feels really isolating and depressing. Missionaries start to feel shame for experiencing these emotions as well even though they are totally normal and appropriate for the situation.

However, just because it is normal I don’t want to minimize the significance of these mental illnesses. Missionaries don’t develop eating disorders because they are a little homesick and aren’t getting along with their companion. These things aren’t just going to go away with a little more faith and prayer. Onto that next….

Eating disorders don’t go away with just faith and prayer.

While research does suggest that spiritual beliefs do aid in the recovery of eating disorders, it is not the only factor in recovery. Missionaries have relied profoundly on their spiritual beliefs, prayer, and faith in God to succeed in their service. They have even tried to use these skills to stop their eating disorder behaviors and find it unsuccessful which further exacerbates the shame they are feeling.

Eating disorders are complex and complicated mental and physical illnesses. Recovery requires working with a team of highly trained professionals. Therapists and dietitians with specialized training in eating disorders are essential in recovery, along with medical providers.

Please don’t accuse missionaries or anyone else that if they just prayed harder, showed more faith, or read their scriptures that their anxiety, depression, and eating disorders will go away. They developed for a variety or reasons and, because of that, will need a little extra help in recovery.

How do I help a loved one with an eating disorder?

Eating disorders aren’t just happening among some missions around the world but are likely happening in every mission. Although I haven’t had the opportunity to get the stats on missionaries with eating disorders, the statistic in general state that 30 million people in just the USA experience an eating disorder, and even that is likely under-reported. Encountering a missionary with an eating disorder is not a rare occurrence, and we owe it to those suffering to do better at spotting it and getting them to help early on. Here are some of my suggestions:

1. Don’t comment on weight gain or weight loss in a missionary (or anyone). It’s incredibly unhelpful to comment on a missionary’s weight gain or weight loss. It places more emphasis on their bodies, which may increase pressure to be a certain size.

2. Don’t demonize weight gain in missionaries. Their bodies are still changing and are still in puberty. Please don’t forget that these people are still teenagers or young adults who have bodies that are still changing and growing. Of course, it’s possible and even healthy for them to gain weight. Their bodies are not done growing.

3. Don’t expect an eating disorder to be a result of a lack of faith or spirituality, and don’t reinforce that it will go away with having increased spirituality. Try and notice what messages you are portraying with what you are speaking about when it comes to eating disorders. Spirituality may be an important part of recovery for some people, but it’s not all of it. Eating disorders don’t develop because of a lack of faith.

4. Remember those with eating disorders are experiencing a lot of shame. Be gentle and loving when approaching this. It costs nothing to be gentle and kind to those struggling. You don’t have to understand what they are going through in order to be supportive. Be aware they are already feeling shame and like there is something wrong with them.

5. Eating disorders are complex and complicated mental illnesses so please seek help from a trained eating disorder professional early on. Waiting and trying to figure out how to manage an eating disorder on your own ends up prolonging recovery. Find a therapist and dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders. Eating disorders require specific training and finding someone you connect with as soon as possible will make a difference.

6. Eating disorders are often kept secret for a long time. Provide an open and accepting approach if you notice signs of an eating disorder. Eating disorders are more common than we realize, and we may be tempted to make a joke or make light of them because we don’t understand how painful they are. If you see someone struggling, show you are open and safe to talk to.

7. If a missionary is sent home because of their eating disorder, they will feel an increased amount of shame. Remember to be sensitive. Eating disorders require therapeutic and medical intervention and take time to recover from. if a missionary is struggling with an eating disorder, it may be better for them to be is home where they can devote time and energy to getting better.

Be aware that anxiety and depression are commonly diagnosed with an eating disorder, and missionaries may be experiencing these for the first time during their missions. Depression and anxiety may be the first symptom to be noticed with an eating disorder as previously mentioned, eating disorders aren’t always apparent. Missions are stressful and may provoke anxiety and depression. This isn’t the result of not having enough faith or diligence; it’s a healthy reaction to stress.

Eating disorder treatment in utah can help.

The most important thing to know is that eating disorders require treatment. A missionary isn’t going to just grow out of it. They might become better at hiding it, but they don’t just snap out of it. Eating disorder treatment can be life-changing for missionaries experiencing an eating disorder. Effectively treating an eating disorder consistent with working with a therapist, dietitian, medical provider, and often a psychiatrist.

Eating disorders are a complex mental health issue and require specialized care and a team approach. Recovering from an eating disorder requires the support of family members and friends. This is one of the most important parts of healing, but really someone struggling with an eating disorder requires all of them to get better.

Begin eating disorder treatment in Utah

You don’t have to keep living stuck in the cycle of an eating disorder. There is hope that you can fully recover and ditch your eating disorder for good. This Provo Utah Area Counseling Clinic has an eating disorder therapist specializing in eating disorder treatment. To begin therapy, follow the steps below:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with a mental health professional

3. Start eating disorder recovery

Online Therapy in Utah for Eating Disorder Treatment

I realize having access to a therapist specializing in eating disorder treatment is absolutely essential when trying to recover. This is why I provide online therapy in Utah. This allows you to securely and conveniently receive counseling without leaving home and traveling to a specialist.

Online counseling allows me to work with you wherever you are across the state, including Salt Lake City, Logan, St. George, Cedar City, Heber, and more.

Other mental health services at Maple Canyon Therapy

Eating disorder treatment isn’t the only mental health service provided at this Northern Utah Counseling Center. Other mental health services provided at Maple Canyon Therapy include body image therapy, binge eating disorder treatment, birth trauma therapy, EMDR Therapy, and anxiety therapy in Utah.

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt is a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah County. Ashlee has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a bachelor’s degree in family life and human development from SUU. She has a master’s degree in social work from Utah State University. Ashlee is passionate about helping women recover from their eating disorders and uses a body-positive approach to helping women heal. She has worked in an eating disorder treatment center and has worked with all levels of care but has a specialty in working with binge eating disorder. When Ashlee is not doing therapy, she’s probably at the back of Barnes in Noble in Orem looking at interior design books.

You Are Good Enough Now: Thoughts From An Anxiety Therapist

One of the most common themes that show up in therapy among the women that I work with is not being good enough. Honestly, most of the time those that I work with don’t necessarily realize at first how much of what they do and struggle with is as a result of not feeling like they are good enough. They have experiences that have reinforced the fact that they aren’t good enough. They really hold onto these experiences, again without even realizing how much it’s impacted them.

As I am sitting across from these lovely people, it's an interesting experience. It’s hard for me to see what these women are seeing themselves. I feel like as a therapist I get to know my client’s struggles pretty intimately. They share their mistakes, the terrible things that have happened to them and I think they are amazing and incredible. They don’t see it though. They seem to believe everyone else around them is doing much better than they are.

You don’t have to be perfect to be good enough now

The need to be perfect can be absolutely overwhelming and paralyzing. Many perfectionists that I work with don’t even realize they are perfectionistic because they are of the mindset if they can’t be completely perfect they aren’t even going to try. This is still perfectionism, and it can be taxing on your mental health. I know when you are trying to perfect all the time you are really trying to manage your anxiety. When you deal with perfectionism you may not realize that it doesn’t actually help your anxiety long term. The effects are only short-lived.

You are good enough regardless of what you have or haven’t accomplished. It’s ok to be human, and it’s good enough.

If you’re struggling with perfectionism, anxiety therapy can help

If you struggle with being perfectionism, anxiety therapy can help you unpack all of the negative beliefs that you have about yourself. I’m sure that doens’t sound like much fun but it’s something that can be life-changing and help you feel better about yourself. Anxiety therapy can help you challenge these beliefs you hold onto and help you work through past experiences that might be at the core of your perfectionism.

Looking for an anxiety therapist located in Utah?

You don’t have to keep struggling with perfectionism. Therapy can help. This Utah County Counseling Clinic has an anxiety therapist who can help! To begin therapy follow these steps below:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with an anxiety specialist

3. Begin feeling better

Other counseling services offered at Maple Canyon Therapy

Anxiety Therapy isn’t the only counseling service I provide at this Provo Utah Area Counseling Practice. Other mental health services offered at Maple Canyon Therapy include EMDR therapy, birth trauma, eating disorder therapy, body image therapy, and binge eating disorder treatment in Utah.

Why I like EMDR Therapy

There are so many things that I love about being a therapist. There isn’t anything in the world that I would rather do with my life than therapy as a career. It certainly has its challenges, and there are difficult aspects about it but overall the people I work with inspire me. I am in awe of how brave and resilient they are, and being able to witness their transformation and healing is honestly mind-blowing. I feel so lucky that I get to be the one that gets to sit with them and hear some of the most painful parts of their lives. However, my FAVORITE part of being a therapist is doing EMDR with clients.

Let’s talk about EMDR

EMDR is a type of trauma therapy that we now use in a variety of different ways. The gist is that it uses eye movements that are similar to the state you are in when you are dreaming, and it helps do deep processing and quickly. What I love about it is that my clients learn more about themselves faster using EMDR, and it frees them from their prisons. EMDR can be used for just about any struggle that you have, and it’s incredibly effective. I get so excited watching my clients gain new insights and start feeling better about their memories and experiences.

I have nearly told every single person in my life that they should find an EMDR therapist that has been trained in EMDR and do it. If you struggle with past experiences, memories you’re stuck on, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, bad body image, past relationships, unwanted sexual experiences, get triggered, nightmares, etc, then you need EMDR in your life, and prepare for your life to be changed!

EMDR is amazing, and it’s hard.

It is my obligation to tell you that EMDR is hard work. It’s not a walk in the park to have to bring up past painful experiences and focus on them for any amount of time. There is a reason your brain is having a difficult time moving on and why you still think about them or avoid thinking about them. You have to re-experience some pretty rough things when doing EMDR, and it’s exhausting for your brain to do all the work. After an EMDR session, my clients are pretty wiped out and will need some extra self-care.

You might not be ready now for EMDR but we can work to get you there

Another important note is that sometimes those I work with aren’t in what is called the “window of tolerance”, meaning they aren’t in the right headspace to do this kind of processing. When my clients aren’t in the window of tolerance to do EMDR, it’s because they are either feeling too much too strong ( ie, panic attacks) or they aren’t feeling anything at all because they’ve numbed out so much. We have to work together to help the client be able to self-soothe and prepare so EMDR isn’t an overwhelming experience and they feel flooded with emotions.

Another aspect that people like about EMDR is that they don’t necessarily have to recount many details of the memory or experience to the therapist. Many people shy away from therapy because they just aren’t the type to want to talk about that (that’s another post for another day) and the good news with EMDR is that it’s your brain doing all the work, and the therapist is just guiding you through it.

Ready to work with an EMDR therapist in Utah?

You don’t have to keep reliving the best over and over. EMDR therapy can help. This Provo Area Counseling Center has an EMDR therapist who can help you feel better. To begin therapy, follow these steps:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with a trauma therapist

3. Begin feeling good again

EMDR Therapy Online in Utah

I know it’s hard to make another appointment and take the risk to work on yourself. I get that you feel anxious and wonder if EMDR will even work. I am passionate about EMDR and would love for you to give it a shot. I want to make it as convenient as possible, which is why I provide online therapy in Utah. This makes it so you don’t even have to leave your house to start healing your trauma.

Online counseling also means we can work together wherever you are located in Utah, Logan, Salt Lake City, Heber, St. George, Cedar City, and more.

Other mental health services in Utah County

EMDR therapy isn’t the only counseling service provided at this Northern Utah Counseling Practice. Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy include anxiety therapy, eating disorder therapy, birth trauma, binge eating disorder treatment, and body image therapy in Utah.

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt is a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah County. Ashlee has a master’s degree in social work from Utah State University and two bachelor’s, one in psychology and one in family life and human development, from Southern Utah University. Ashlee has been trained in EMDR therapy for several years and utilizes it for more than just trauma. She uses EMDR for Eating Disorders and to help clients move past the negative beliefs they are stuck in. When Ashlee is not doing therapy, she is probably still working her way down the drink menu at Fiiz in Spanish Fork.

6 Reasons Why Therapy Hasn't Worked

As a therapist, I have spoken to people that tell me “Um therapy doesn’t work". The most common people that tell me that are actually people that have never been to therapy. Sorry to put you on blast ;). However, there are other people that have been to a therapist with high hopes of feeling better and working through some things, and it just didn’t work. I don’t want people to have that experience. Going to therapy is such a personal experience and such a big risk to take. I want it to be a good experience so I have come up with some of the reasons why therapy hasn’t worked. Check it out!

1. Your relationship with your therapist is off. 

One of the most essential ingredients for the magic of therapy to work is your relationship with your therapist. Above all else, that is the secret sauce. Research states that up to 70 percent of the reason why people get better and improve regardless of what their presenting problem is, is how comfortable, safe, and open you feel like you can be with your therapist. If therapy isn’t working for you, the first step is to check out your relationship with your therapist. As a therapist, I am always appreciative of feedback from those I work with about what is working and what isn’t. This is about you and your needs and lets your therapist know what you like and don’t like. Many of those I work with want to be the perfect client and don’t want to say anything. Please speak up. We want to help but don’t always know what will work best for you without you telling us. 

2. The therapist doesn’t have the training or specialty you need. 

When you are struggling with anxiety and are looking to find relief from anxiety symptoms, make sure you have an anxiety therapist with that training and specialty. We are each passionate about different things, and we each have a specific thing we are good at treating in therapy. Ensure your therapist has the training and experience necessary to help you with your anxiety. Therapists have the opportunity to have more training and education as that part of keeping their license. We are all learning and improving just as you are working to improve your life but you also have the right to a therapist that knows your problem and how to help really well. 

3. You aren’t quite ready to work through things in therapy.

Honestly, the majority of those that I work with aren’t coming in my door, absolutely enthusiastic about looking at painful things in their lives. They know that something is off, and they need help but that doesn’t mean they want to rip the bandaid off and dig in just yet. They just know they are anxious and want to feel better. Make sure you understand THAT IS TOTALLY OK! It’s expected, and it’s part of our job to help you navigate through it. We are here to help you make progress to get to that point and help you. In the end, if you aren’t ready, then you aren’t ready. I would like to be a magician and change that for you but as therapists, we aren’t THAT special, unfortunately :). Sometimes taking a break from therapy for a while can be helpful if you are feeling stuck. 

4. You aren’t clear on what your therapy goals are. 

Another important aspect of therapy is that both you and your therapist know what you are working toward. Otherwise, we are both wandering aimlessly through therapy, and that certainly isn’t the best use of your time and money. Make sure that you are actually clear about what you are wanting out of therapy. Some people just want someone to listen and validate because they don’t get that in other places while other people want some skills and perspective on their problem. There is no right answer but in order for therapy to be the most helpful you need to know what you want out of the process. Sometimes I think my clients want one thing but they have actually been hoping for something else. I do my best work when I know what your hopes and dreams are out of the process. 

5. You haven’t been applying what you’ve discussed. 

Usually, a part of therapy is trying new things in order to help you with your problem. I often give clients books to read, podcasts to listen to, skills to try, recommendations to see additional professionals, and other assignments to try. I only get to see my clients for one hour of the many hours of the week and doing these other things in between our sessions can be pretty crucial. If you haven’t been applying some of those things your therapist has suggested, that may be another place to start to make therapy more useful. Your ability to practice coping skills for anxiety outside of your one-hour session a week is important to your success.

6. You aren’t seeing an actual therapist. 

Make sure the person you are seeing is actually a therapist and has a license to practice. We have a lot of coaching services out there and even some therapists also practice as coaches. It can be confusing and easy to get lost in the process. Coaches have their purpose in effectively helping people. Some coaches have lived experience with anxiety but no disrespect, but this isn’t enough to treat anxiety.

Therapists have specialized training in using researched treatment models to help you with your problems. I know therapists that use coaches to help their clients between sessions, which is great. However, you might wanna make sure the person you are seeing is a licensed mental health professional.

Looking for an anxiety therapist in Utah?

You don’t have to live with anxiety. I know if you’ve had a bad past experience in therapy you might be hesitant to try again. I assure you that this Provo Area Counseling Practice has an anxiety therapist that can help! To begin therapy, follow the steps below:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with an anxiety specialist

3. Begin feeling better

Online Therapy in Utah

If you struggle with anxiousness, I get that thinking about finding a therapist’s office seems super scary. I know it’s difficult to reach out for help when you have anxiety. This is why I provide Online Therapy in Utah, so you don’t have to leave the comfort of your house. You can stay in your sweatpants and meet with an online anxiety therapist.

Online Counseling allows me to work with clients in Logan, Salt Lake City, Heber, Cedar City, St. George, and more.

Other mental health services near Provo, Utah

Anxiety treatment isn’t the only counseling service provided at this Utah County Counseling Clinic. Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy include EMDR therapy, therapy for birth trauma, eating disorder treatment, body image therapy, and binge eating disorder treatment in Utah.

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt is a licensed clinical social worker and Maple Canyon Therapy founder outside Provo, Utah. Ashlee has two bachelor’s degrees from Southern Utah University. One degree in psychology and another in family life and human development. Ashlee obtained her master’s in social work from Utah State University. Ashlee loves working with women who struggle with anxiety and helping them let go of needing to be seen as having it all together. She utilizes a person-centered, humanistic approach in working with clients. When Ashlee isn’t doing therapy, she enjoys swimming at the Clyde Recreation Center in Springville.