The Language of the Body

[Abstract] This dissertation presents a qualitative study of the psychotherapist's experience of her body while working with clients who have eating disorders. The heuristic research model was selected because it seeks to discover meaning through investigating the subjective nature of an experience while utilizing the primary researcher's personal knowledge and involvement with the topic. Relevant literature reviewed revealed no qualitative studies focusing on this topic. Data was gathered from the researcher's self "search and comprehensive interviews with eleven female psychotherapists who specialize in the treatment of eating disorders. The analysis of data resulted in the following themes: (1) experience of somatic sensations, (2) body experience in relationship to self: (3) body experience in relationship to clients in psychotherapy, (4) personal and professional insights gained through the utilization of body experience, and (5) physical appearance in relationship to psychotherapeutic work. A full picture of the experience under study was presented through individual depictions, a composite depiction, individual portraits, and a creative synthesis. Limitations of this study, suggestions for further research, and social and clinical implications were addressed.