Group Therapy

Fat Affirming Specialty Series: Dating While Fat

Dating While Fat is a closed 6-week virtual psychotherapy group for women navigating dating, body image, visibility, shame, rejection sensitivity, intimacy, and relational patterns while living in larger bodies.

This group is designed for women who may feel stuck between wanting connection and wanting protection — including those avoiding dating due to body shame or anxiety, struggling with vulnerability or self-worth, feeling “behind” relationally, or exhausted by navigating dating in a weight-centric culture.

This is a fat-affirming, trauma-informed process and support-oriented group grounded in relational therapy, interpersonal process, self-compassion, attachment-informed work, and psychoeducation. Topics may include:
• dating anxiety and avoidance
• rejection sensitivity
• body image and visibility fears
• boundaries and communication
• intimacy and desirability
• dating apps and relational patterns
• self-worth and shame resilience

The group is not focused on weight loss, dieting, or “fixing” bodies in order to deserve connection.

Group Details:
• Wednesdays at 2pm PST
• June 10 – July 15
• Held virtually via Zoom

Participants will be screened prior to enrollment to support group fit, readiness, and cohesion. No materials are required beyond a private space, internet access, and willingness to engage thoughtfully in group discussion.

Details:

  • Where: Telehealth (Zoom)

  • Date & Time: Wednesdays 2:00–3:00pm. June 10th - July 15th (6 weeks).

  • Other: Open to Oregon residents ages 18+; Most insurances accepted.

    Reach out to schedule an intake today!

GET STARTED

Group Therapist

Dr. Alisa Karmel, PsyD

Dr. Alisa Karmel (she/her) is a psychologist and licensed therapist who specializes in supporting people in larger bodies. She works with clients struggling with body dissatisfaction, emotional eating, binge eating, and the psychological impact of weight stigma — especially within medical and healthcare settings. Her approach is weight-inclusive, trauma-informed, and rooted in dismantling shame.

A group of eight young adults participating in a discussion or study group in a bright living room with white walls, wooden floor, and minimal decor, sitting on a carpet, sofa, and floor.
Three women sharing a joyful moment under an umbrella on a sunny day
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Group therapy can help with…

  • Learn Coping Strategies

  • Build Self-Awareness

  • Increase Confidence

  • Develop Healthy Boundaries

  • Grow in a Safe Space

  • Feel Less Alone

  • Gain New Perspectives

  • Improve Communication

  • Receive Support

  • Practice Social Skills