In today’s episode, Trisha and I answer a listener's question about food, weight loss and the fear of slipping back into diet culture.

The question comes from a listener who wants to get fit and strong and improve her health, but also feels confused about how weight loss actually works without calorie counting, restriction and obsessing over food again. We talk about overeating, fat storage, portion sizes, hunger, body trust and the fear many women have of “getting it wrong” when they stop dieting.

We also explore the difference between healthy structure and diet culture, why so many women feel stuck in the all-or-nothing cycle, and how to approach weight loss in a slower, calmer and more sustainable way without becoming consumed by food.

As always, Trisha McHale brings her grounded psychotherapist perspective — helping unpack what’s happening beneath these patterns and why rebuilding trust, consistency and self-awareness matters so much.

Click play and let’s dive in.

To apply for membership to Thrive Academy, Jessica’s coaching program, go to www.jessicacooke.ie/thrive

To contact Trisha McHale for more information on Therapy and Counselling services:

galway@mindandbodyworks.com 091 725 750

About Trisha McHale:

Trisha is a Psychotherapist and Director of Mind & Body Works Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre, based in Galway, with centres in Galway and Dublin. Their team of over 50 Psychotherapists and Psychologists work with adults, couples, adolescents, and children, offering therapies including CBT, EMDR, and Art Therapy. They also run a low-cost counselling service.