GLP-1s, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, are a class of medications originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. More recently, they've become a hot topic in the mainstream for their weight loss effects.

A quick Google search brought up the following headlines:

“Weight loss is finally easy with a prescription to GLP-1 medication”

“Join 100,000+ patients and transform your health, body, and life”.

“A natural approach to medicine”

Media and marketing promote these medications as the key to finally feeling at home in your body.

Eating disorder recovery professionals, however, tend to be much more skeptical. Many have lived through countless fad diets and “miracle” weight loss drugs, none of which delivered on their promises, some of which did more harm than good.

In this episode, Winter Groechl talks about how her perspective on GLP-1s has evolved. She shares her initial hesitation and how her stance became more nuanced and flexible as she observed both positive and negative client experiences.

We also touch on the broader question of how we, as professionals, approach intentional weight loss—acknowledging the painful reality of weight discrimination while making space for clients who hold this as a goal.

This conversation is about stepping away from dogmatic thinking and approaching clients with openness, a willingness to learn, and deep respect for the diversity of the human experience

Winter Groeschl (she/her/they/them) is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona, dedicated to providing competent, compassionate care for individuals healing from substance use disorders, eating disorders, disordered, body image issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, and more. They have experience across all levels of care in Arizona’s mental health system and draw from ACT, mindfulness, DBT/CBT, polyvagal theory, Compassion Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered approaches.

Winter practices from a social justice, weight-neutral, and inclusive lens. As a member and advocate of the LGBTQIA+ community, they are committed to creating an affirming, safe space for people from all backgrounds.

Their vision is to help each client explore their true self and connect with their capacity for growth, a restored sense of self, and lasting empowerment.

Book Recommendation:Magic Pill: The Extraordinary Benefits and Disturbing Risks of the New Weight-Loss Drugs by Johann Hari

Eating disorder recovery with Winter: https://eatingdisorderrevealed.com/

Binge eating recovery with Elka: https://elkacubacub.com/