Body Image Support in Guelph

Heal Your Relationship With Your Body and Food Guelph

For many people, food feels like a fight—which may involve restricting food, overeating, or bouncing between the two – often with a harsh self-talk from a loud inner-critic and dislike, possibly even hatred, of the image reflected in the mirror. If this is you, you’re not alone, and you’re not beyond hope! Dr. Alyssa Shepherd offers somatic, nervous system-based care to help you find relief, peace and steadier self-regulation. This is not talk-based therapy; we work through the body to access patterns that drive actions and desires.

How This Care Works

Dr. Alyssa’s primary modality in working with these challenges is Neuro Emotional Technique (NET), a gentle, evidence-informed somatic approach that uses muscle testing, meridian points, and breath to connect with the body’s stored stress patterns so they can resolve. Sessions may also include use of Dolphin Neurostim (™) therapy, a targeted, low-level current applied to specific points to calm stress and support emotional regulation. Craniosacral therapy and chiropractic adjustments may be included on a case-by-case basis in addition to simple, supportive practices to use between visits. Your care is unique to you and is tailored to your goals.

What Patients Often Notice

As your nervous system settles, many people describe feeling more at ease and emotionally “lighter” as they let go of stressors they’ve been carrying. This work can help you notice:

• Food is less charged—easier nourishment for under-eating; steadier self-regulation for overeating
• Reduced cravings and more mindful choices; trigger foods lose their “pull”
• Feeling more okay with what you see in the mirror
• Greater conscious control of actions and desires instead of being driven by old patterns

What to Expect

NET sessions are typically 30-60 minutes. Dr. Alyssa asks for a commitment of six visits to work toward meaningful change, aligning with published NET research showing significant brain-function shifts after a short series. Many people feel some shift within a single session. Parents and supporters can also receive care; strict confidentiality is maintained for each person, and families can discuss comfort levels before booking.

Why Work With Dr. Alyssa

Dr. Alyssa is a Level 2 NET practitioner with multi-year training and a warm, judgment-free approach. Her background in classical ballet (25 years at a high level) gives her nuanced insight into body image pressures while keeping care grounded and practical. The office blends somatic tools, gentle bodywork, and thoughtful referrals when needed. Curious about NET? Explore our Neuro Emotional Technique page.

Schedule Your Appointment

Ready to create shift – to feel more at ease in your body, with your reflection, and with food? Book an appointment through the online portal here (insert hyperlink) or email Dr. Alyssa Shepherd to request an appointment or ask about possible same-day openings.