Alicia Pinelli, RSW, MSW
Personal Journey
My journey with body image and self esteem is one I have been on my entire life. It was a battle that I had with myself, feeling as thought my body was the enemy for most of my childhood and adolescence. When I entered University, I started to struggle more and more with this image, wanting to do anything I could to "win" against my body. This led me to one of the most difficult experiences of my life, developing Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa. I was constantly complimented for my weight loss, being told how "inspirational" I was for being so "brave" when in reality, who I am as a person felt like it was slowly fading away. Coming to terms with my eating disorder was not easy and recovery felt like an unobtainable goal. However, over time, with support and being gentle with myself, I started my healing journey that led me down the path to where I am today. Recovery was possible.
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Credentials
I completed my Master of Social Work at McMaster University, with a focus in Critical Analysis. During my time in this program, I completed my research and thesis which looks at the experiences of Trans* and Non-Binary individuals within Eating Disorder Recovery. I first discovered my passion and connection to the field of Body Image, Self Esteem and Disordered Eating while completing my Honours Bachelor of Social Work at York University. I was afforded the amazing opportunity to complete my placement with the National Eating Disorder Information Centre, where I was able to build my knowledge and foundation, provide education and outreach, and grow my network of support. In addition, I hold a Graduate Certificate in Psychosocial Rehabilitation from Mohawk College, and a Diploma of Social Service Work from Loyalist College.
I also hold additional trainings and certifications in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Art Therapy as my main modalities. I am continuously participating in additional professional development trainings so that I can stay current on evidence-based modalities for providing support for individuals in all steps of their journey.
I also hold additional trainings and certifications in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Art Therapy as my main modalities. I am continuously participating in additional professional development trainings so that I can stay current on evidence-based modalities for providing support for individuals in all steps of their journey.
Therapeutic Approach
All of the supports at Art of Thriving take a non-dieting, body positive, health at every size approach. The goal is not to change your body, but to build your relationship with it.
In order to do this we operate from a psychosocial rehabilitative lens, which takes a collaborative approach where we will work together to build an individualized wellness plan for your journey that suit your own needs, style and life. I have a passion for combining traditional therapy methods such as CBT, and Motivational Interviewing with creative interventions that can be done in person or through teletherapy. Regardless which treatment method you connect with, the important aspect is keeping you at the center of all we do. So whenever you are ready, I am here, and we can embark on this journey together! |