Abstract

This study examined university counseling center therapists' perspectives on discussing nutrition in therapy. Despite the established link between nutrition and mental health, minimal research has explored how therapists approach these discussions. This study used interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to analyze semi-structured interviews with 10 university counseling center therapists from the Mountain West region. Four overarching themes emerged: a deficit view of nutrition, perceived utility, ethical practice, and holistic care. Therapists unanimously recognized the connection between nutrition and mental health and primarily discussed nutrition with clients presenting with eating disorders or disordered eating, those who express interest, or as part of intake assessments to rule out factors contributing to distress. Their decisions depended on various factors, including client safety, maintaining the therapeutic alliance, and adhering to their scope of practice. These findings highlighted factors influencing nutrition discussions in therapy. Greater awareness of these factors may inform training initiatives, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and improve client care by integrating nutrition into holistic mental health treatment.

Degree

EdS

College and Department

David O. McKay School of Education; Counseling Psychology and Special Education

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/