Identity and Eating Disorders with Psychologist Fran

On this week’s episode I am delighted to be introducing you to our next special guest and clinical psychologist from the Mind Body Well clinic, Fran Beilharz. Fran has a Doctorate of Clinical Psychology with a thesis on Body Dysmorphic Disorder and perceptual distortions in body image. With special interests in body dysmorphic disorder, body image concerns, mood and anxiety management, general wellbeing, eating disorders and disordered eating. This is where Fran is passionate about incorporating evidence- based practices when working with a range of mental health concerns. With trainings in different therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapies (CBT and CBT-E), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Drawing on tools of self-compassion, mindfulness, interpersonal techniques, collaborative and client- centred approaches. Really valuing the role of lived experience within clinical practice.

That is why on this week’s episode I am really excited to be speaking about the topic of identity and eating disorders. With Fran really utilising the role of curiosity within eating disorder treatment to help people understand the different parts of identity. This is where Fran goes through what can happen when an eating disorder consumes a large part of our identity and how to de-identify with it. To allow people to then be able to explore the different aspects within ourselves so that we can begin to live the life that we truly want to live. So on that note, please enjoy our lovely guest Fran!

Podcast Summary:

1. Perception of self as part of your identity

2. Identity is split up into a pie chart

3. Identifying too closely with the eating disorder

4. Everyone’s sense of identity is unique

5. De-identifying with an eating disorder

6. Exploring new interests and allowing change

Links to Fran

Mind Body Well website: https://www.mindbodywell.com.au/

Links from the episode:

BodyMatters Australasia Website: https://bodymatters.com.au/

BodyMatters Instagram: bodymattersau

Butterfly Foundation Helpline: Call their National Helpline on 1800 33 4673. You can also chat online or email