Body Justice

Allyson Inez Ford, MA, LPCC

Hi! I'm Allyson, a licensed therapist specializing in eating disorders and OCD. My mission is to create a world where all bodies can thrive by promoting messages of body justice, recovery skills and mental health tips from the perspective of a mixed race, queer and neurodivergent therapist, an eating disorder survivor and activist. Social justice is an integral part of my work. I believe that all parts of our identity (race, gender, abilities, size, sexual orientation, etc) impact how we perceive our bodies and the bodies of others, unpacking this is the key to personal and collective healing.

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#87
July 31 · 39 min
87. Repairing Disconnection in Your Body as a Mixed Race Person with Raina LeGrand, LCSW
In this episode of Body Justice Podcast, Allyson sits down with Raina LeGrand, LCSW, a therapist and somatic practitioner to talk about the intersection of mixed race identity and body image. Allyson & Raina dig into how growing up without language for mixed race experiences shapes body image, the role of monoracism and belonging wounds, and how building critical mixed race consciousness supports healing. Raina shares her personal journey through disordered eating, body image struggles and explains how somatic therapy helped her reconnect with her body and her relationships. Allyson & Raina also explore the power of community and mirroring for mixed race folks, the historical trauma tied to racial purity and colonial violence, and practical somatic tools for tracking sensation and building a felt sense of safety in the body. Episode Breakdown: 0:00 — Intro 0:39 — Meet Raina LeGrand 3:24 — Body Image & Mixed Race Identity 7:58 — Building Mixed Race Consciousness 10:02 — Personal Journey & Disconnection 18:58 — The Power of Community 23:22 — Historical Trauma & Racial Purity 25:37 — Somatic Therapy Reflections 31:20 — Practical Somatic Skills 37:40 — Closing & Resources Connect: Allyson Inez Ford, LPCC (host of Body Justice)Website- become a client: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.comInstagram: @bodyjustice.therapist Raina LeGrand, LCSWInstagram: @mixedracebelonging https://www.mixedracebelonging.com/collective Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.
#86
June 26 · 39 min
86. Breaking Cycles Without Breaking Bonds: Navigating Low Contact Relationships in Immigrant Families with Dr. Han Ren
In this deeply personal and powerful episode of Body Justice Podcast, Allyson sits down with Dr. Han Ren, licensed psychologist, author, and children of immigrants specialist, to explore one of the most complex emotional landscapes many of us are facing right now: maintaining relationships with family members whose values have fundamentally shifted, particularly within immigrant and collectivist family systems. In this episode, we discuss: Dr. Han Ren's personal experience navigating a parent's radicalization and what that's meant for their relationship Why estrangement and low-contact decisions hit differently in immigrant and collectivist families, and why the grief is so layered How nervous system dysregulation, and intergenerational trauma can keep harmful family dynamics in place The role of political polarization and MAGA rhetoric in fracturing immigrant family bonds What "low contact" actually looks like in practice and how to protect yourself while still showing up Intergenerational trauma, breaking cycles, and raising kids with more emotional literacy than we had Dr. Han Ren's new book, The Hyphenated Life, and what it means to live in the in-between spaces of intersectional identity Resources & Links: Host: Allyson Inez Ford, LPCC📸 Instagram: @bodyjustice.therapist🌐 Website: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com Guest: Dr. Han Ren, Licensed Psychologist & Author📸 Instagram: @drhanren📖 Book: The Hyphenated Life, out now! Body Justice is a podcast exploring the intersection of social justice and eating disorders. New episodes drop regularly. Subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to hear this. Available on all major podcasting platforms! Disclaimer: Please note that this podcast is meant for educational purposes only- it is not a substitute for 1-1 therapy or medical advice. Listening to this podcast does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Please seek the help of a local therapist or emergency room if you are in crisis or in need of 1-1 support!
#85
June 12 · 40 min
85. When the Eating Disorder is the Armor: Trauma, Sexual Violence & Healing with Dr. Giulia Suro, PhD, CEDS
In this powerful episode, Allyson sits down with Dr. Giulia Suro, a clinical psychologist and Senior Director of Research at Monte Nido, a national eating disorder treatment company. Giulia shares recent findings from one of the largest naturalistic eating disorder research datasets in the country and what the data reveals about the undeniable link between sexual trauma and eating disorders. What We Cover Key findings: ~50% of adults and ~40% of adolescents entering eating disorder treatment meet active criteria for PTSD at admission Why sexual trauma is the most common traumatic experience in this population (60% of adults; 85% of those with PTSD) How eating disorders function as trauma responses including avoidance, numbing, dissociation and protection The bidirectional relationship between trauma and eating disorder symptoms What is included under sexual violence and how technology has made sexual violence more rampant Why simultaneous treatment of trauma and eating disorders is supported by the research and why waiting to process trauma until 'after' ED recovery is not always the best option Navigating OCD, intrusive thoughts and trauma Key Takeaways The eating disorder is often doing the job of trauma avoidance- you can't separate them in treatment Sexual trauma doesn't require a firm "no" - powerlessness, inequity and vulnerability create the conditions for harm and perpetration Self-blame after trauma is often an attempt to create predictability and prevent future harm Recovery is a feminist process: naming the systems that failed you can fuel healing As a provider, unless someone is actively suicidal with intent, plan and means, don't wait to start trauma work For trauma survivors, the worst day is already over, which is both a strength and source of grief. Resources & Links Giulia's website: www.giuliasuro.com Giulia's Instagram: @giuliasurrophd Allyson's Instagram: @bodyjustice.therapist Allyson's website: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com Disclaimer The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment or medical advice. Nothing discussed in this episode constitutes a therapeutic relationship between the hosts, guests, and listeners.
#81
May 22 · 45 min
84. "If I'm as small as I can be, maybe my disability will matter less" a Body Image Story with Jen Caspari, PhD
Episode 84 of Body Justice is all about Jen Caspari's lived experience navigating cerebral palsy and how being disabled impacted her body image over the course of her life. She discusses various insights and strategies that have helped her build a more peaceful relationship to her body despite living in a world that is often not accommodating. Jenn also has professional experience as a psychologist supporting many clients living with chronic illness, chronic pain and disabilities- she is a wealth of knowledge! More about Jenn: Jennifer Caspari, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist currently working in Vancouver, BC, who specializes in general and health psychology. She is passionate about helping clients live full and meaningful lives, including those living with acute or chronic illness and chronic pain. She lives with cerebral palsy, and when not meeting with clients, greatly enjoys writing, including a Psychology Today blog, Living Well When Your Body Doesn't Cooperate, and for The Globe and Mail column, Ask A Therapist. Dr. Caspari also values providing training to health professionals and is the creator and instructor of a chronic pain course with PESI, a national leader in continuing education to mental health professionals. In her free time, Dr. Caspari enjoys spending time with loved ones, feeling the sun on her face, listening to audiobooks while moving her body, watching cooking and baking shows, and eating delicious food. You can find her on social media @moxie_mindset. Jenn's Book: You Are More Than Your Body. Disclaimer: this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for individual therapy or medical advice. As always, you can find the host of this podcast, Allyson, on her website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bodyjustice.therapist.⁠⁠⁠
#83
April 20 · 31 min
83. Dignity in Food Access Matters: Healing from an Eating Disorder while Food Insecure with Filmmaker and Food Justice Organizer, Elizabeth Ayiku
Episode 83 of Body Justice Podcast is something we all need to hear. There are not enough stories of people going through recovery from an eating disorder while food insecure- despite food insecurity being a top reason for eating disorder development. Elizabeth shares her powerful story and how her experience led her to founding a virtual food pantry- grounded in dignity and choice. About Elizabeth Ayiku: Elizabeth is a filmmaker, food justice organizer, and founder of Me Little Me Foundation, a nonprofit advancing food equity and providing free, culturally competent support to historically marginalized communities. Based in Los Angeles, she works to dismantle systemic barriers to mental health and well being, with a focus on meeting basic needs first. She founded the Me Little Me Foundation in response to her own lived experience with food insecurity, racial inequity, and a deep understanding of the gaps in support for marginalized communities. Her personal journey fuels her unwavering commitment to social justice and community care. Links to resources discussed: Me Little Me Foundation Me Little Me Narrative Feature film, based on Elizabeths journey recovering from an eating disorder. You can watch the film on Amazon, Apple or Pluto TV (free) Disclaimer: this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for individual therapy or medical advice. As always, you can find the host of this podcast, Allyson, on her website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@bodyjustice.therapist.⁠⁠⁠
#82
April 6 · 40 min
82. When Disordered Eating Becomes Policy: from 'Ultra Processed Foods' to 'Longevity Medication' with Deb Benfield, M.Ed., RDN, LDN
Episode 82 of Body Justice Podcast is a follow up conversation with Deb Benfield, a registered dietitian and author of Aging Body Liberation, about the intersection of diet culture and ageism; as well as the covert ways disordered eating is becoming embedded into policy in the U.S. We discuss our thoughts on: ultra-processed foods, seed oils, longevity medication and more. More about Deb: Deb Benfield, M.Ed., RDN, LDN, RYT, is a Registered Dietitian, nutrition therapist, and body image coach with 40 years of experience helping people heal their relationship with food, movement, and their bodies. Her work sits at the intersection of anti-ageism, body liberation, and trauma-informed care, offering a radically compassionate alternative to anti-aging, diet, and wellness culture, especially for those in midlife and beyond. After turning 60, Deb began questioning the dominant narratives around aging, vitality, and beauty—and quickly realized how many resources still centered weight loss and youthful appearance as ultimate goals. In response, she created what she couldn’t find: a framework for nourishing the body that honors inner wisdom, prioritizes quality of life, and embraces the full spectrum of aging. She’s the author of Unapologetic Aging: How to Mend and Nourish Your Relationship with Your Body and offers individual and group coaching to help others age unapologetically—on their own terms. Disclaimer: this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for individual therapy or medical advice. As always, you can find the host of this podcast, Allyson, on her website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ or IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@bodyjustice.therapist.⁠⁠⁠ Educational resources mentioned: Maintenance Phase- Ultra Processed Foods Episodes Emily Oster- Seed Oils Emily Oster- Microplastics
#84
March 20 · 46 min
81. When Diet Culture and Ageism Collide: Aging Body Liberation with Deb Benfield, M.Ed., RDN, LDN, RYT
Episode 81 of Body Justice Podcast is all about the intersection of diet culture and ageism. We discuss how these systems impact our relationship to food and body, especially as we age. We explore how the skincare industry has emerged as the new diet culture and how it is rooted in a socialized fear of aging. Deb shares her own lived experience as a woman in her late 60s, a professional in the eating disorder field with decades of experience- and how she aims to challenge these harmful systems in her work with clients and anyone who follows her work. More about Deb: Deb Benfield, M.Ed., RDN, LDN, RYT, is a Registered Dietitian, nutrition therapist, and body image coach with 40 years of experience helping people heal their relationship with food, movement, and their bodies. Her work sits at the intersection of anti-ageism, body liberation, and trauma-informed care, offering a radically compassionate alternative to anti-aging, diet, and wellness culture, especially for those in midlife and beyond. After turning 60, Deb began questioning the dominant narratives around aging, vitality, and beauty—and quickly realized how many resources still centered weight loss and youthful appearance as ultimate goals. In response, she created what she couldn’t find: a framework for nourishing the body that honors inner wisdom, prioritizes quality of life, and embraces the full spectrum of aging. She’s the author of Unapologetic Aging: How to Mend and Nourish Your Relationship with Your Body and offers individual and group coaching to help others age unapologetically—on their own terms. Disclaimer: this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for individual therapy or medical advice. As always, you can find the host of this podcast, Allyson, on her website: ⁠⁠⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠⁠⁠ or IG: ⁠⁠⁠@bodyjustice.therapist.⁠⁠⁠
#80
February 27 · 56 min
80. Even When the Truth is Painful, it's Still Important: Unlearning Zionism as a Jewish Dietitian, a conversation with Natalie Katz, RDN, MPH
Episode 80 of Body Justice podcast is a compassionate and honest exploration of one person's journey of unlearning Zionism. Our guest is Natalie Katz, a Jewish eating disorder dietitian. In this episode we cover: What Zionism is and how it connects to colonialism and other forms of oppression The historical context of Zionism within the Jewish and other religious communities An exploration of how Zionism hijacks the core values of Judaism Natalie's journey to developing critical consciousness outside of Zionism-led propaganda The connection between Zionism and the rise of anti-Jewish hatred Systemic oppression and scapegoating of Jewish people Why all of this matters for eating disorders About Natalie: Natalie is a registered dietitian and the founder of Feeding Your Soul Nutrition an outpatient insurance-based nutrition group practice specializing in eating disorder and non-diet nutrition care. Since 2017, she has grown the practice into a team of registered dietitians who provide compassionate, weight-inclusive support to clients of all ages, both virtually and in person. Natalie also provides clinical and business consultation to fellow clinicians in hopes of increasing eating disorder informed and inclusive care. Visit Natalie's website here: https://feedingyoursoulnutrition.com/ _______________________________________________________________ Disclaimer: this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for individual therapy or medical advice. As always, you can find the host of this podcast, Allyson, on her website: ⁠⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠⁠ or IG: ⁠⁠@bodyjustice.therapist.⁠⁠
February 6 · 54 min
79. [Part Two] When it Feels Like Someone Else is Running Your Body: Understanding Dissociative Identity (DID) & Eating Disorders with Monika Orstroff, LICSW, CEDS-S
In this episode of Body Justice Podcast, Allyson Inez Ford, LPCC sits down with Monika Orstroff, LICSW, CEDS-S, Executive Director of ⁠MEDA⁠ for part two of an honest and deeply informed conversation about dissociative identity disorder (DID) and eating disorders. Monika shares her lived experience of being diagnosed with DID in 1993 (when it was still called 'multiple personalities disorder'), breaks down what DID actually is (and what it is not), and explains why dissociative systems are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and stigmatized. Together, we explore how DID can shape eating disorder recovery, why treatment often fails when clinicians ignore or pathologize parts, and what it looks like to support safety, collaboration, and internal communication, without fear-based demands and expectations of neuronormativity. Learn more about Monika’s work at ⁠healingmyparts.org⁠. You can also find her other resources through Healing My Parts, including her podcast and Substack. _______________________________________________________________ Disclaimer: this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for individual therapy or medical advice. As always, you can find the host of this podcast, Allyson, on her website: ⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠ or IG: ⁠@bodyjustice.therapist.⁠
#78
January 19 · 46 min
78. When it Feels Like Someone Else is Running Your Body: Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Eating Disorders with Monika Orstroff, LICSW, CEDS-S
In this episode of Body Justice Podcast, Allyson Inez Ford, LPCC sits down with Monika Orstroff, LICSW, CEDS-S, Executive Director of MEDA for an honest and deeply informed conversation about dissociative identity disorder (DID) and eating disorders. Monika shares her lived experience of being diagnosed with DID in 1993 (when it was still called 'multiple personalities disorder'), breaks down what DID actually is (and what it is not), and explains why dissociative systems are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and stigmatized. Together, we explore how DID can shape eating disorder recovery, why treatment often fails when clinicians ignore or pathologize parts, and what it looks like to support safety, collaboration, and internal communication, without fear-based demands and expectations of neuronormativity. Learn more about Monika’s work at healingmyparts.org. You can also find her other resources through Healing My Parts, including her podcast and Substack. _______________________________________________________________ Disclaimer: this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for individual therapy or medical advice. As always, you can find the host of this podcast, Allyson, on her website: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com or IG: @bodyjustice.therapist.
#77
January 4 · 45 min
77. Feeling Claustrophobic in Your Own Body: a PDA and AuDHD Perspective on Eating Disorder Recovery with Livia Sara
What happens when hunger feels like a demand, and demands feel like threats? In this episode, Allyson Ford, MA, LPCC (@bodyjustice.therapist) is joined by Livia (@livlabelfree) for a neurodivergent-affirming conversation about PDA and eating disorders. While PDA is often labeled “Pathological Demand Avoidance,” the neurodiversity affirming movement invites a different frame: Persistent Drive for Autonomy: a nervous-system response rooted in the need for safety and agency. Together, we talk about: Why standard eating disorder treatment can mirror ED rigidity (protocol over person) How being labeled “defiant” or “treatment resistant” can miss the real need underneath Reframing “control” as safety and survival adaptation Why “recovery” can feel vague, pressurized, or even coercive; and how “discovery” offers a more spacious alternative What affirming care can look like for PDA-ers with eating disorders Find Livia’s work: @livlabelfree | livlabelfree.com Connect with Allyson: @bodyjustice.therapist Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not provide individual therapeutic, psychological, or medical advice. For personalized support, please consult a qualified licensed professional.
#76
Nov 28, 2025 · 38 min
76. Do I Want to be Seen or Do I Want to Hide? Exploring Bulimia, Trauma and being the Eldest Daughter in a Latine Family with Naomi Tapia, AMFT
In episode 76 Allyson interviews guest speaker, Naomi Tapia, an associate therapist in CA with lived experience, specializing in eating disorders and body image, specifically in Latine culture. Naomi so graciously shares her own story of an eating disorder, trauma, SI, grief and loss. Naomi talks about what led her to healing, and shares so much great wisdom. Find Naomi on her IG @mylatinatherapist Content warning: this episode does include mentions of SA and suicidality. Please listen at your own discretion and make sure to give yourself permission to take breaks, use coping skills or even skip this episode if listening to it would be harmful to your mental health right now. About our guest speaker: Naomi Tapia-Abrego, M.S., AMFT #128232, is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and a member of a new practice, Warrior Path Therapy. As the eldest daughter of Mexican immigrants and a first-generation college graduate, she brings cultural depth, lived experience, and a little sass to every session. Fat, queer, and unapologetically herself, Naomi works virtually with Millennial and Gen Z clients navigating boundary-setting, family dynamics, disordered eating, imposter syndrome, and the many struggles that come with being a child of immigrants. She believes healing starts when we stop shrinking ourselves and finally take up the space we deserve. This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Please seek the support of a local therapist if you are currently struggling and in need of treatment. To find out more about what therapeutic services I offer visit my website at: ⁠www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com⁠ As always, you can find me on IG ⁠@bodyjustice.therapist
#75
Nov 7, 2025 · 59 min
75. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Eating Disorders: a Medical Perspective with Dr. Gaudiani, MD, CEDS-S, FAED
In the field of Eating Disorders, we are seeing an increasing occurrence of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) in our clients. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Jennifer Gaudiani to learn more about this overlap, signs and symptoms of MCAS , how it impacts healing from an eating disorder and treatment. Resources mentioned in the show: Four part blog series on MCAS and EDs by Dr. G Gaudiani Clinic MCAS Questionnaires (RASH-PF and Q) About Dr. Jennifer Gaudiani Jennifer L. Gaudiani, MD, CEDS-S, FAED, is the Founder and Medical Director of the Gaudiani Clinic. Board Certified in Internal Medicine, she completed her undergraduate degree at Harvard, medical school at Boston University School of Medicine, and her internal medicine residency and chief residency at Yale. Dr. Gaudiani served as the Medical Director at the ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders prior to founding the Gaudiani Clinic, which is a Denver-based outpatient medical clinic dedicated to people with eating disorders and disordered eating. The Gaudiani Clinic is a HAES (Health At Every Size)®-informed provider and embraces treating people of all shapes, sizes, ages, and genders. The Gaudiani Clinic is licensed to practice in over 35 US states via telemedicine and offers international professional consultation and education. Dr. Gaudiani has lectured nationally and internationally, is widely published in the scientific literature as well as on blogs, is a Fellow of the Academy for Eating Disorders, and is a recent former member of the editorial board of the International Journal of Eating Disorders and the Academy for Eating Disorders Medical Care Standards Committee. Dr. Gaudiani’s first book, Sick Enough: A Guide to the Medical Complications of Eating Disorders (Routledge, 2018) is available on Amazon. _______________________________________________________________ This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute a provider-patient relationship. Please seek the support of a local therapist if you are currently struggling and in need of treatment. To find out more about what therapeutic services I offer visit my website at: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com As always, you can find me on IG @bodyjustice.therapist
#74
Oct 17, 2025 · 45 min
74. Pain that Pierces the Soul: Healing from Sexual Trauma & Eating Disorders with Seema Sharma, PHD
In this episode of Body Justice, Allyson discusses sexual trauma and eating disorders with trauma therapist Seema Sharma, SEP, CST, MBA, PHD. Content warning: discussions of sexual abuse are explicitly discussed. Please listen with care and make sure you are resourced enough to proceed. It's normal for these conversations to bring up a lot of complicated feelings. Our hope is that you also feel less alone, and gain some insights into what the healing process can look like. We'll explore what makes sexual trauma healing different than other traumas, the soul wounding that comes with sexual abuse, types of sexual trauma, helpful therapy approaches, the connection to eating disorders and more. As always, you can find me on my website: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com and my Instagram: @bodyjustice.therapist. About our guest: Seema Sharma, SEP, CST, LMFT is the founder of Holistic Trauma Therapy. Introduced to holistic healing as a young adult, she has devoted her life to exploring global healing traditions often overlooked in the West, traveling through Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Europe. With over 25 years of senior leadership experience at prestigious global companies, Seema brings a rare insight into the intersection of corporate culture, workplace trauma, and resilience. Her practice is redefining the way therapy is approached — integrating evidence-based methods with a whole-person focus on mind, body, and spirit. She specializes in sexual abuse trauma, childhood trauma, cultural trauma, religious trauma, and workplace trauma. Seema holds a Master’s in Integral Counseling Psychology and is a PhD candidate in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology, with an emphasis on the Contemplative Neuroscience of Consciousness Studies. As an integrative, depth-oriented, and experiential psychotherapist, Seema has extensive training in trauma and dissociation and guides clients on the path toward wholeness. Whether you are seeking somatic therapy, sex therapy, EMDR, or depth work, you can learn more at https://wwwholistictraumatherapy.com.
#73
Oct 3, 2025 · 45 min
73. No Body is Disposable: How Disability Justice & Emergent Strategy Changed My Life with Angela Montijo, LCSW
Episode 73 of Body Justice is all about how life changing disability justice and emergent strategy are as frameworks for how we show up in the world and how we are in relationship with one another. Our guest, Angela Montijo, is a licensed clinical social worker who also has lived experience as a pysch survivor. Angela shares insights from social justice movements and how they incorporates them into her practice as a social worker. Angela also sheds light on how to hold both truths: the mental health industrial complex is the site of a LOT of harms- and there are pockets of true healing that we can be apart of, which creates a ripple effect of change. As always, you can find me on IG @bodyjustice.therapist or my website: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com More about Angela: Angela Montijo, LCSW (she/they) is a healing-centered relational facilitator, writer, and creator rooted in youth justice, community care, and liberation work. As a first-gen Latine woman raised in Inglewood, Angela’s personal journey fuels her passion for building spaces that challenge oppressive systems. With 10+ years of experience in juvenile justice, mental health, and education, she leads with emergent strategy and restorative practices, centering those most impacted. Angela designs and facilitates workshops that provoke thought, deepen connection, and spark collective imagination—always prioritizing people over rigid protocols. Find Angela on her IG @angelaalchemy
#72
Sep 19, 2025 · 41 min
72. Care vs. Control: The Contradictions of Psychiatry with Grace Kim, PMHNP-BC
In episode 72, Allyson chats with psychiatric nurse practitioner and lived experience advocate, Grace Kim PMHNP-BC, about the contradictions of psychiatry, as well as what psychiatry in eating disorder care can look like. There is so much (understandable) skepticism when it comes to psychiatric medications, how can we hold both the ways that it can be useful and life saving, as well as the ways it can create more harm and distress? You'll hear us cover: Care vs. Control in Psychiatry Science vs. Subjectivity in Psychiatry Liberation vs. Oppression in Psychiatry Medication Supports for Eating Disorders How to hold client skepticism through an anti-oppression lens Grace's personal experience with EDs, Korean beauty standards and psychiatric support. About our guest: Grace Kim, PMHNP-BC (she/her) is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering virtual and in-person care for adults across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Her practice is grounded in a collaborative, trauma-informed approach that recognizes healing is often non-linear and actively rejects coercive models of care. She specializes in mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, identity exploration, and disordered eating, providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy. Grace earned her Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and her Master of Science in Nursing from Yale University. Website Instagram: @psychnpgrace As a reminder, this podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not meant for individual medical or therapeutic advice. Please consult with your providers for specific treatment options. If you're interested in becoming a client at my practice, ED and OCD Therapy, please reach out! We see therapy clients in CA, WA, UT & FL, as well as recovery coaching clients worldwide. We would be honored to support you. Allyson's Website Allyson's Instagram Lastly, it would mean the world to me if you left Body Justice a review, either on Apple or Spotify. This helps the show reach more people, and I need your help. I appreciate your support <3
#72
Aug 29, 2025 · 51 min
71. Reclaiming the Black Body: Understanding Eating Imbalances and Healing for Black Folks with Alishia McCullough, LCMHC
Episode 70 of Body Justice is truly a gift of wisdom from my dear friend and colleague, Alishia McCullough. In this episode we talk about some of the core concepts from her book, Reclaiming the Black Body. In this episode we explore: How EDs show up for Black girls/women Shifting terminology from Eating Disorders to Eating Imbalances Adultification Bias and the Hypersexualization of Black women and femmes The ties between colonization, the trans Atlantic slave trade and eating imbalances The trafficking of Saartjie Baartman and the conflation of fatness and blackness Intergenerational body trauma Maternal disdain and rejection of daughters as a survival tactic from enslavement What healing looks like through this lens, what it means to truly Reclaim the Black Body About Alishia: Alishia McCullough (LCMHC) is a millennial Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist and owner of Black and Embodied Consulting PLLC. She specializes in somatic therapy, trauma healing, and eating disorder treatment with a focus on cultivating embodiment and fostering anti-oppression. In 2020, Alishia co-founded the Amplify Melanated Voices Movement, a global movement to elevate the voices of Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color online and in-person. Alishia currently runs the self-paced online course Reimagining Eating Disorders 101. She was awarded the 2023 Alumni Award from the Department of Psychology for the noteworthy contributions she has made to the field. An accomplished writer, Alishia is the author of a collection of poems called Blossoming, and Reclaiming the Black Body now available in bookstores nationwide. In her work, Alishia centers the intersectional narratives of Black, Brown, Indigenous, Asian, dual-heritage, and individuals indigenous to the Global South, andor those who have been racialized as 'ethnic minorities' experiencing mental and emotional distress. She also specializes in working with those living with eating disorders, upholding the values of body justice and fat liberation. She was one of the Mental Health Influencers in Meta's 2022 Well-Being Collective. Alishia's work has been featured in Bustle, WordInBlack, STAT News, BlackGirlNerds, Essence, Reckon, Wondermind, Pen America and Forbes. *As always this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute individual medical or therapeutic advice. Please reach out if you are interested in becoming a therapy or coaching client: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com or visit my instagram for more info: @bodyjustice.therapist
#71
Aug 15, 2025 · 39 min
70. Building Hope in Dark Times & Cultivating Relative Safety (solo episode)
Episode 69 is a solo episode from me. I want to offer you all some insights around building hope- how it's messy and dark, not easy and joyful. We'll explore how hope is a relational concept, how it grows through action, and we'll draw on wisdom from BIPOC activists and how they remained hopeful during times of political unrest and oppression. We'll also explore the concept of relative safety, and practice cultivating it in our own bodies. The purpose of this episode is to offer education and tools to help us navigate hard collective and personal times. You are not alone. Find me on my website to work with me or a member of my team- we offer therapy in CA, WA, UT & FL, as well as recovery coaching for eating disorders and OCD worldwide. www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com I am also on IG @bodyjustice.therapist Thank you for supporting Body Justice! *This podcast is not individual medical or therapeutic advice, it is for educational purposes only!
#70
Jul 28, 2025 · 43 min
69. Infertility, Weight Stigma & Eating Disorder Recovery with Sarah Jane Thomas, LMFT
Episode 68 is a very special and tender episode. Listen in to hear my colleague and friend share her vulnerable and important story of navigating infertility in a fat body. Sarah shares not only her experience but also her wisdom, ways of coping and resources for anyone else navigating this difficult journey. Infertility is hard enough, but navigating the weight stigma in the medical field when you just want your child, is brutal. As always, you can find me on my website: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com or on IG @bodyjustice.therapist. About Sarah: Sarah Jane Thomas (she/her) is a licensed therapist who works virtually with folks navigating body image, trauma, and recovery from diet culture. Her California-based practice centers fat liberation, body autonomy, and the kind of therapy that actually honors your whole messy, beautiful self. Sarah identifies as fat, queer, neurodivergent—and also happens to be in the middle of a solo fertility journey. So when it comes to talking about weight stigma in the infertility world, she brings both personal and professional truth. She’s passionate about calling out the harm in “weight loss before care” policies and advocating for inclusive reproductive support that doesn’t shame people for their bodies. She’s also working on something new: Body Rebel Club, a coaching space and community for folks reclaiming body trust on their own terms—open to people anywhere in the world. It’s launching soon, so head to bodyrebelclub.com and follow @bodyrebelclub on Instagram to be the first to know. If you're in California and looking for therapy that honors lived experience and liberation, visit sarahjanethomas.org or follow@embodiedself_therapy on Instagram to connect. **This epsiode is for educational purposes only. It is not individual medical or therapeutic advice.
#69
Jul 11, 2025 · 31 min
68. Interpersonal Violence and Eating Disorders with Ericka Leonard, LCSW
Tune in to episode 67 of Body Justice where Ericka Leonard and I discuss the connection between Interpersonal Violence (domestic violence) and Eating Disorders. As always, you can find out more about my work as an Eating Disorder and OCD therapist via my website: https://www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com In this episode we cover: What IPV is and how it can trigger eating disorders/body image distress How perpetrators weaponize mental health struggles against survivors Relationship red flags & love bombing What healing looks like Resources for IPV Personal experiences related to IPV Resources mentioned: https://www.thehotline.org Strong Hearts Native Hotline RAINN Power and Control Wheel About Ericka Leonard LCSW: Ericka Leonard, LCSW-C, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Maryland, Virginia, and DC. She owns a private practice and specializes in complex trauma treatment (primarily using a relational approach and EMDR) as well as eating disorders. and has years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. Prior to opening her own private practice in 2021, Ericka’s experience as a Social Worker included serving as the Program Director of a residential eating disorder program for adolescents, as well as working as the lead clinical therapist/Assistant Director at a domestic violence shelter. Additionally, Ericka worked as a Forensic Interviewer for a local Child Advocacy Center. Prior to entering the field of Social Work, Ericka was a middle school French and Spanish teacher. In her free time, Ericka enjoys traveling, running, playing with her dog, and Crossfit. Find her via her website: www.joiedevivretherapy.com *Please note that this podcast is meant for educational and informational purposes only. It is not individual medical or therapeutic advice.

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