A deep rooted connection exists between feeling and feeding - one that may lead to relying on food for emotional support, leading to feelings of guilt and shame. This group will use the Food and Feelings protocol to process the ...
![](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c759abff-2274-4961-bba9-6035401b86ab/1/320x400.png)
Hosted by Tanglewood Behavioral Health Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Houston, TX 77057
A deep rooted connection exists between feeling and feeding - one that may lead to relying on food for emotional support, leading to feelings of guilt and shame. This group will use the Food and Feelings protocol to process the ...
a weekly support group for men and women with a desire to set healthy weight loss goals and process the emotions behind food choices in order to maintain weight loss and live a healthy life.
![](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f8a6af6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hosted by Debbie Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Group meets in Houston, TX 77084
a weekly support group for men and women with a desire to set healthy weight loss goals and process the emotions behind food choices in order to maintain weight loss and live a healthy life.
See more therapy options for Houston
Weight Loss Support Groups
What is the relationship between weight management and mental health?
Mental health can be significantly influenced by one's physical health, so overall improvements in one's quality of life as a result of improved physical functioning from weight loss can have an overall positive impact on an individual's mental health and allow them to engage more readily in everyday activities. In addition, many strategies used to manage weight, such as exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, are also associated with reducing the symptoms of common mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. Individuals may also benefit from the improved self-esteem and self-efficacy that can come with successful weight management.
What is the psychological approach to losing weight?
While there are no specific therapy modalities specifically for weight loss, common psychological therapies can be highly effective in helping clients make lasting lifestyle changes. This may be called the "psychological approach" to weight loss because it does not rely on physical interventions, such as medication or weight loss surgery, to help clients lose weight. Weight loss counseling can be used in addition to or instead of such physical interventions. Some clients simply seek therapy to address the challenges that may accompany weight loss in general, including negative thoughts surrounding their body, disordered eating patterns, or difficulty completing daily tasks as a result of their weight challenges. In such cases, therapists will often utilize behavioral coaching or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to help clients understand how their thoughts may be influencing their diet and physical activity patterns.
What type of therapy is commonly used in weight loss counseling?
Weight loss counseling often involves a combination of therapy and psychoeducation. Common techniques used by weight loss counselors include journaling, thought diaries, and other Cognitive Behavioral Therapy strategies that encourage clients to consider how their feelings about their weight loss impact their mental health. Weight loss counselors may also teach clients mindfulness exercises, which can be used by clients during and after eating to be more aware of physical cues from their body surrounding eating. Some clients looking for weight loss therapy may also benefit from group therapy approaches, which utilize the power of social connection and accountability to help clients adhere to their weight loss plan.
Is therapy recommended for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery?
While therapy is not a requirement for individuals undergoing bariatric surgery, many individuals undergoing weight loss surgery may benefit from seeing a counselor. Prior to surgery, counselors can help clients decide whether surgical weight loss is a good fit for them and assist in surgery preparation. Post-surgery, counselors can assist clients with the psychological component of maintaining their weight loss, as well as help clients navigate any postoperative pain. Throughout the surgical process, therapists can help clients process body-image challenges that may come with dramatic changes in weight, as well as manage symptoms of anxiety or depression that may accompany the major life changes bariatric surgery can bring.