Beyond the Couch
Beyond the Couch is a podcast exploring the intersection of Asian Pacific Islander South Asian American (APISA) identity and mental health. Hosted by three therapists, Diana Liao, LMHC, Samantha Waldman, LMHC, and Christie Kim, LMHC, our mission is to demystify therapy and uplift stories from our community. Join us every Wednesday as we delve into essential topics from identity and perfectionism to courageous stories of healing and collective care with fellow therapists, experts, and community members.
Beyond the Couch is a proud initiative of Bridges Mental Health, is a stigma-free hub for Asians, Pacific Islanders, and South Asian Americans (APISA) to discuss, navigate, and seek mental health care. Find a therapist, join our therapist community, and follow us on Instagram @bridgesmentalhealth.
Beyond the Couch
Unlearning Diet Culture and Reconnecting with Cultural Heritage with Laura Iu
This week, Christie sits down with Laura Iu to explore the complexities of diet culture and thin privilege, particularly within Asian American communities. They discuss navigating messages from two cultures, unlearning harmful Eurocentric beauty standards, and reconnecting with ideas of beauty from one's cultural heritage. Together they discuss their own relationships with makeup and appearance, as well as how food is discussed among their families. Additionally, Laura shares how she works alongside her patients in exploring body dysmorphia, desirability, talking to elders about food, and inviting curiosity into one’s relationship with food and body.
Laura Iu (she/her), R.D., is a registered dietitian nutritionist, certified intuitive eating counselor, and yoga guide in New York City. She is the owner of Laura Iu Nutrition, a weight inclusive private practice, that offers counseling to help people ditch the diet and nourish a positive relationship with their mind, body and food. Connect with Laura on Instagram @laura.iu
Mentioned in this episode:
- Intuitive Eating
- Kimmie Singh, RD
- Sonya Renee Taylor
- What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat by Aubrey Gordon
Bridges Mental Health connects Asian, Pacific Islander, South Asian Americans (APISA) with culturally responsive mental health professionals and resources. We hope to make mental health care more accessible and approachable across the Asian diaspora.
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