Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Supatra Tovar.
Hi Dr. Tovar, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am Dr. Supatra Tovar and I am a clinical psychologist, registered dietitian, and fitness expert. I was lucky to have grown up in Boulder, Colorado, and was a very active and athletic kid. The stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains fostered a deep connection with nature, movement, and personal well-being. This innate passion for health and activity naturally steered me towards pursuing a degree in pre-med/biology at the University of Colorado Boulder, laying the foundational stones for my lifelong commitment to understanding the human body and its intricate functions.
In 1999, my journey took a pivotal turn when I moved to Los Angeles, a city teeming with diversity and opportunities. It was here that I embraced the role of a Pilates instructor, discovering not just a profession but a calling. The personal stories of my clients, particularly those battling disordered eating and eating disorders, touched me deeply, igniting a desire to contribute more profoundly to their healing journeys.
This profound connection led me to California State University Los Angeles, where I pursued a Master of Science in Nutritional Science. My time at CSULA was transformative, enriched further by a clinical internship with Sodexo, where I gained invaluable firsthand experience in the field of nutrition and dietetics.
However, my ambition to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals struggling with eating disorders knew no bounds. Recognizing the need for a wider scope of practice, I sought to deepen my expertise by pursuing a doctorate at the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University. My doctoral work concentrated on the use of mindfulness interventions for bariatric surgery-related eating disorders—a testament to my belief in holistic, compassionate care.
My clinical journey was further shaped by a pre-doctoral internship in community mental health with the Institute for Multicultural and Education Services and a post-doctoral training in private practice with Dr. Richard LaBrie. These experiences honed my skills and deepened my understanding of the complexities of mental health, preparing me for the challenges of private practice.
Today, I am based in Pasadena, California, where I run a successful private practice. Licensed in California, Colorado, and Illinois and working with clients in all three states, I dedicate my clinical work to aiding those suffering from eating disorders, disordered eating, trauma, depression, and anxiety. My approach is characterized by empathy, scientific rigor, and a relentless pursuit of holistic well-being for my clients.
Beyond my clinical practice, I am committed to reaching a broader audience through my online course, “Deprogram Diet Culture.” This innovative program is designed to liberate individuals from the cycles of failed dieting, empowering them to heal their relationship with food and embrace a diet-free life.
My forthcoming book, Deprogram Diet Culture: Rethink Your Relationship with Food, Heal Your Mind, and Live a Diet-Free Life, set to release in September 2024, encapsulates my vision and years of research and practice, offering readers a comprehensive guide to reclaiming their health and happiness.
My journey from the athletic fields of Boulder to the forefront of clinical psychology and nutritional science reflects a deep-seated passion for fostering health and wellness in all its forms. It is a testament to the power of education, empathy, and enduring commitment to the well-being of others—a journey that continues to inspire and evolve with each life I am privileged to touch.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to where I stand today was anything but smooth! Reflecting on my educational and professional journey, it’s evident that the path was long, intricate, and filled with its own set of challenges. My academic pathway spanned over a decade, beginning with four rigorous years of undergraduate study in pre-med/biology, followed by Pilates certification training—a period that marked my initial foray into the world of health and wellness. This phase was instrumental in shaping my understanding of physical health and the profound impact of movement on our well-being.
The quest for deeper knowledge led me to three years of graduate study in nutritional science at California State University Los Angeles, a time that was both enriching and demanding. This phase, plus my work on my master’s thesis, was critical in laying the groundwork for my understanding of nutrition and its pivotal role in mental and physical health, especially for those battling eating disorders. My clinical internship with Sodexo during this period was an eye-opener to the real-world applications of nutritional science, further fueling my passion for this field.
However, the most demanding part of my journey was without a doubt my doctoral training at the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, followed by a year of post-doctoral training. This nearly five-year-long endeavor was a testament to my dedication and perseverance. As I humorously noted in my 2019 commencement speech, the doctoral process lasted “117,756,000 seconds. 1,962,600 minutes. 32,710 hours. 1,363 days. 195 weeks.
That’s exactly 3 years, 8 months, 23 days, 22 hours, and give or take 30 minutes,” which I described as a period spent “in pain.” This hyperbolic reflection was not just for comedic effect but to underscore the relentless grind of academic and professional development—encompassing endless reading, stringent deadlines, comprehensive exams, presentations at conferences, the arduous process of dissertation writing, and the never-ending pursuit of knowledge without immediate financial reward.
Yet, despite the formidable challenges and moments of doubt, the journey was profoundly rewarding. The struggles along the way were not merely obstacles but stepping stones that shaped me into the professional I am today. They instilled in me resilience, a deeper understanding of my field, and an unwavering commitment to my calling. The pain, as I mentioned, was worth every second because it was fueled by a love for what I do—a passion for helping others heal and lead healthier, happier lives.
In essence, while the road was indeed long and winding, filled with trials and tribulations, it was this very journey that refined my skills, honed my expertise, and ultimately, allowed me to make a tangible difference in the lives of those I work with. Every challenge faced was an opportunity for growth, and I stand today as a testament to the power of persistence, passion, and the profound impact of dedicating one’s life to the service of others.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Dr. Supatra Tovar & Associates, my mission extends beyond the confines of a traditional private practice. Rooted in a deep-seated commitment to healing, my team and I offer a sanctuary for those struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, trauma, depression, and anxiety. From our base in Pasadena, California, our practice has grown into a thriving hub of transformation and hope, underpinned by a holistic approach that honors the intricate connection between mind and body.
As the practice flourishes, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring emerging professionals in the field, including a psychological associate currently part of our team and another soon to join us. My role as a supervisor is something I cherish deeply; it allows me to guide these bright new therapists on their journey, sharing the wisdom and insights I’ve gathered over the years.
I strive to instill in them a sense of ethical integrity, a commitment to evidence-based practice, and, above all, the compassion that is the hallmark of our work. This mentorship ensures that the values and quality of care that define our practice are carried forward into the future of mental health care.
Parallel to the direct clinical work at my practice, I’ve established ANEW: Advanced Nutrition and Emotional Wellness. ANEW is my vision for reaching a broader audience, offering an online course that empowers individuals to break free from the cycles of diet culture and embrace a more compassionate, holistic relationship with food and their bodies.
The imminent release of my book, an expansion of ANEW’s principles, represents a significant milestone in this endeavor. It’s designed to serve as a comprehensive guide for those seeking to navigate their way to a healthier, more fulfilled life, free from the constraints of dieting.
Expanding on the foundation laid by ANEW, I am excited to embark on a new venture: the ANEW Body Insight podcast. Alongside my co-host, Chantal Donnelly, a fellow author and expert in the field of physical therapy and wellness, we aim to create a platform that celebrates and shares the diverse stories of health and wellness.
By inviting guests from various corners of the health and wellness industry, as well as individuals with compelling personal journeys, we hope to enlighten and inspire our listeners. Through these conversations, we will explore our guest’s inspirational path to their own healing, the many facets of physical, nutritional, and emotional wellness, and will offer insights and practical advice for those looking to enrich their own paths to well-being.
In essence, through my practice, ANEW, and the ANEW Body Insight podcast, I am committed to a vision of wellness that is comprehensive, inclusive, and rooted in genuine care and understanding. My aim is not only to heal but to educate, inspire, and lead by example, fostering a world where emotional and physical well-being are not just aspirations but realities for everyone.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my most cherished childhood memories takes me back to the rugged, breathtaking landscapes of the Colorado wilderness, a place that, for a spell, became the backdrop for an adventure that has since nestled itself deep in my heart. I was around 12 years old when my father and I set out on a backpacking journey that would inadvertently gift us a memory filled with laughter, bonding, and the kind of joy that only the simplicity of nature can foster. Our destination was Chihuahua Lake, a name that, to my untrained tongue, transformed into “Cheehoooahhoooah Lake.”
I still vividly recall the moment I tried to articulate the name, the way it felt foreign and amusing on my lips. My dad’s reaction was instant—a hearty, uncontrollable laughter that echoed through the wilderness, a sound so genuine and full of life that it became a cherished melody in my memory.
His amusement was so palpable that I couldn’t help but join in, and what began as a mispronunciation blossomed into a running joke that would define our entire trip. Whenever he found himself short of breath from the trek, he would exclaim, “Ahoooa!” turning our shared misadventure into a private lexicon of joy and endurance.
This trip, marked by the camaraderie and gentle teasing only a father and daughter can share, stands out amidst a tapestry of family outings into nature. The woods and mountains of Colorado were our playgrounds, a place where we could challenge ourselves, discover the untouched beauty of our surroundings, and, most importantly, where we could grow closer, bound by shared experiences and the countless steps we took side by side.
But it was this particular adventure to “Cheehoooahhoooah Lake” that remains etched in my mind as a highlight of my childhood. It symbolizes more than just a journey through the wilderness; it represents the unspoken bond between my father and me, a bond that was strengthened with every step, every laugh, and every “Ahoooa!” cried out in jest. It’s a reminder of the purity of family connections, the joy of exploring the world together, and the enduring power of a simple, shared moment to color our memories with warmth and happiness.
This memory, like the trails we traversed and the maps we navigated, is a treasure I carry with me—not just as a reminder of where I’ve been, but as a beacon for the journey still ahead. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest moments, the missteps, and the laughter they inspire, become our most precious memories, guiding us back to the essence of joy and the enduring love that binds us through time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.drsupatratovar.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsupatratovar/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drsupatratovar/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/drsupatratovar
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@my.anew.insight
- Yelp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsupatratovar/
- Other: www.anew-insight.com
Image Credits
Matt Harbicht Photography
