We live in a weight-normative society that emphasizes body mass index (BMI) and weight as primary markers of health (Tylka et al., 2014). While there has been progress in recognizing body size as a marginalized identity in counseling education, many counselors and counselor educators continue to uphold weight-normative perspectives (Boggs et al., 2023). Approaching clients through this lens can inadvertently cause harm by perpetuating stereotypes, discrimination, weight cycling, and weight regain. The resulting stress and shame have been linked to negative health outcomes and may lead clients to avoid further treatment (Cook et al., 2020; Nutter et al., 2020). This roundtable discussion invites counselors to explore the benefits of adopting a weight-inclusive approach for both students and clients. Presenters will provide education on relevant terminology and weight-inclusive frameworks while leading attendees in a critical examination of current practices. Together, participants and presenters will collaboratively identify strategies for integrating a weight-inclusive perspective into counseling practice to promote equity and well-being.

Learning Objectives:
• Participants will assess the impact of weight-normative and weight-inclusive counseling approaches on client well-being.
• Through discussion, participants will evaluate the benefits of a weight-inclusive approach for both clients (improved self-esteem, body image) and counselors (reduced bias, more effective interventions).
• Participants will articulate strategies to integrate a weight-inclusive framework into counseling, counselor education curriculum, and supervision.

Presenter: Kari Slater, MS
Kari Slater (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and a doctoral student in Counselor Education and Supervision at Adams State University. She specializes in treating eating disorders, operates a private practice, provides supervision to counselors pursuing licensure, and trains graduate counseling students in two online programs. Kari is a strong advocate for weight-inclusive practices in both education and counseling.

Presenter: Callie Wheeler, MA
Callie Wheeler is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor independently licensed in the states of Ohio, Washington State, and Colorado. Her pronouns are she/her/hers. She is currently a doctoral student at Adams State University in the Counselor Education and Supervision Program. Callie specializes in the areas of OCD, grief, and substance abuse. She provides supervision to students and counselors seeking licensure in the State of Ohio. Callie is an advocate for change and the equal rights and treatment of all peoples.