The holidays can be a particularly difficult time for those struggling with eating disorders or disordered eating issues. Experiencing an increase in thoughts about food, weight and body is very common for these individuals during this time and can be related to emotions activated around family members, or the hyper focus on food and weight perpetuated by diet culture. Whatever the source of the eating disorder or disordered eating, here are 5 tips to reduce the chance of spiraling into eating disorder thoughts and behaviors over the holidays.

It’s not surprising that animals have made their way into the psychotherapeutic process. When we bond with an animal, we create a beautiful unspoken connection. This connection can help us to heal. Animal-assisted psychotherapy works to guide clients and animals through interactions that will help the client find healing, adopt desired behaviors, overcome obstacles, and improve mental and physical well-being.