Weight Loss Psychiatrists in Garden City, NY
![Photo of Jeffrey Desarbo - Dr. DeSarbo / ED-180 Treatment Progams, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/428df411-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. DeSarbo is a Board Certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of EATING DISORDERS and general psychiatry including mood disorders, anxiety issues, ADHD, OCD, relationship issues. In addition to psychopharmacology, he also practices CBT and existential therapy. He is the Medical Director of ED-180 Eating Disorder Treatment Programs which provides custom intensive treatment programs for patients in the Long Island/NYC area. He is also an author, a lecturer and the founder and host of the annual Long Island Conference on Eating Disorders. He oversees a full staff of therapists and clinicians at his offices.
Dr. DeSarbo is a Board Certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of EATING DISORDERS and general psychiatry including mood disorders, anxiety issues, ADHD, OCD, relationship issues. In addition to psychopharmacology, he also practices CBT and existential therapy. He is the Medical Director of ED-180 Eating Disorder Treatment Programs which provides custom intensive treatment programs for patients in the Long Island/NYC area. He is also an author, a lecturer and the founder and host of the annual Long Island Conference on Eating Disorders. He oversees a full staff of therapists and clinicians at his offices.
![Photo of Scott M. Albin, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c92103f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Albin is a Board Certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. He completed his residency and fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, and currently provides evaluation and management of mental health issues with psychotherapy and medication management in private practice.
Dr. Albin is a Board Certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. He completed his residency and fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, and currently provides evaluation and management of mental health issues with psychotherapy and medication management in private practice.
![Photo of Bella A Aronov, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed25efe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 30 years of experience as a clinical psychiatrist. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for adults and adolescents.
I have over 30 years of experience as a clinical psychiatrist. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for adults and adolescents.
I am a Board certified Adult Psychiatrist practicing for last 20 years in Queens. Trained at Albert Einstein college of Medicine and Long island Jewish Hospital. Teach Medical students and Psychiatric residents. Work with major Psychiatric disorder including Depression ,Anxiety disorder, Eating disorder, and Bipolar disorder. Always provide the most comfortable and emphatic environment to discuss any issues and enjoy coordinating the care between Psychotherapist and Psychiatrist. I believe combining Psychotherapy and Medication gives the best possible outcome. I understand every person is unique and needs individualized treatment.
I am a Board certified Adult Psychiatrist practicing for last 20 years in Queens. Trained at Albert Einstein college of Medicine and Long island Jewish Hospital. Teach Medical students and Psychiatric residents. Work with major Psychiatric disorder including Depression ,Anxiety disorder, Eating disorder, and Bipolar disorder. Always provide the most comfortable and emphatic environment to discuss any issues and enjoy coordinating the care between Psychotherapist and Psychiatrist. I believe combining Psychotherapy and Medication gives the best possible outcome. I understand every person is unique and needs individualized treatment.
![Photo of Jean Luther Painson - Inner Focus Psychiatry LLC, MS, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a9e12b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Focus Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
Thank you for reading my profile. Yo hablo tambien el Español. I offer Video and Phone sessions, and your medications will be at the pharmacy the same day. Please note I am not in-network with any insurances at this time. As a board-certified psych NP, I'm licensed by the NY state to evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. In combination with psychotherapy, I can also prescribe medications when indicated as they can be very helpful in alleviating your daily symptoms.
Thank you for reading my profile. Yo hablo tambien el Español. I offer Video and Phone sessions, and your medications will be at the pharmacy the same day. Please note I am not in-network with any insurances at this time. As a board-certified psych NP, I'm licensed by the NY state to evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. In combination with psychotherapy, I can also prescribe medications when indicated as they can be very helpful in alleviating your daily symptoms.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Sarah Taylor, PhD, , FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6908709d-5ac9-4730-87ee-de269a715c4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
Our area of specialty includes treating general medical conditions, acute and chronic mental health conditions, and weight loss management services.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
Our area of specialty includes treating general medical conditions, acute and chronic mental health conditions, and weight loss management services.
Complete Health clinics mission is to provide excellent Medical and Psychiatric care to patients and family. Our goal is to provide quality care to multiple communities and States. We offer onsite and telepsychiatry options to fit your needs. We are a multispecialty clinic that acts as a one stop point so that you can reserve time and energy for other important things that matters. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best of technology to provide excellent care to our patients.
![Photo of Ketie D Saintelus, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c02a00bc-fa6b-48ca-bf49-917bc9c150f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ketie D Saintelus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550
I manage a variety of psychiatry issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, opioid abuse, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder Binge eating, weight loss, ADHD, and personality disorders.
Hello, my name is Ketie Saintelus, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 23 years of Nursing experience providing family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Mental Illness is real and it can take a toll on you. It is time to take charge of your life, stop procrastinating, do no be afraid and seek help. Simply ask me how? I am here to hear you, to help you feel well, to help you smile, and to help you appreciate you and fall in love with you all over again.
I manage a variety of psychiatry issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, opioid abuse, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder Binge eating, weight loss, ADHD, and personality disorders.
Hello, my name is Ketie Saintelus, I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I have 23 years of Nursing experience providing family-centered healthcare to patients of all ages. Mental Illness is real and it can take a toll on you. It is time to take charge of your life, stop procrastinating, do no be afraid and seek help. Simply ask me how? I am here to hear you, to help you feel well, to help you smile, and to help you appreciate you and fall in love with you all over again.
![Photo of Deborah A Cosgrove, MS, PMHCNS-, BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c332736-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Has someone suggested that you may need to take medication for what you're experiencing? Scary thought for most people. I'm a Nurse Practitioner with advanced training in therapy and medication management of all mood disorders. I strongly believe that total remission of your symptoms is possible. Research has shown that therapy in addition to medications for those who need them works best. Medication is prescribed as a last resort. I don't take prescribing medication lightly and do not believe in a one pill cure-all. There are many options we can explore.
Has someone suggested that you may need to take medication for what you're experiencing? Scary thought for most people. I'm a Nurse Practitioner with advanced training in therapy and medication management of all mood disorders. I strongly believe that total remission of your symptoms is possible. Research has shown that therapy in addition to medications for those who need them works best. Medication is prescribed as a last resort. I don't take prescribing medication lightly and do not believe in a one pill cure-all. There are many options we can explore.
![Photo of Farina Sial - Stay Ageless Health Clinic, RPA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7777899b-0f33-4cc4-9146-71a18c7ae789/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stay Ageless Health Clinic
Physician Assistant, RPA-C
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803 (Online Only)
Farina Sial is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Neuroscience. Farina completed her undergraduate studies in Biochemistry from University of Missouri, Columbia, MO. She then earned her degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College, NY. Furthermore, she enhanced her education by completing her MBA in Health Management from Hofstra University in Uniondale, NY. She is has a very keen interest & many years of medical experience in treating Neuro-Psych conditions which can affect day to day life, such as ADHD and Anxiety & Depression.
Farina Sial is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Neuroscience. Farina completed her undergraduate studies in Biochemistry from University of Missouri, Columbia, MO. She then earned her degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College, NY. Furthermore, she enhanced her education by completing her MBA in Health Management from Hofstra University in Uniondale, NY. She is has a very keen interest & many years of medical experience in treating Neuro-Psych conditions which can affect day to day life, such as ADHD and Anxiety & Depression.
![Photo of Mary Asiedu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02cb6a65-c2a3-45f9-9a5c-04f7d4d2b742/1/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health across all demographics. I partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment in life!
I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health across all demographics. I partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment in life!
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Long Island Psychiatrist & Online Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07f38d44-6a6c-472e-b1d2-3bda67dbd60d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Long Island Psychiatrist & Online Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11042 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare) . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist ? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria, or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare) . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist ? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria, or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
NOVA Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
![Photo of Dr. Amanda Lefkowitz, DNP, MA, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6497a7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amanda Lefkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmore, NY 11710
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I’d like to welcome you to my practice. I am experienced in diagnosing, assessing, and providing inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. I prescribe medications within the context of a holistic and culturally sensitive approach. From genetic testing to bio-psycho-social assessment of your situation, I am dedicated to making thoughtful and informed treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. I recognize the value of healing within the context of a positive, supportive and safe relationship. I collaborate extensively with other health care providers in your team.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and I’d like to welcome you to my practice. I am experienced in diagnosing, assessing, and providing inpatient and outpatient psychiatric care. I prescribe medications within the context of a holistic and culturally sensitive approach. From genetic testing to bio-psycho-social assessment of your situation, I am dedicated to making thoughtful and informed treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. I recognize the value of healing within the context of a positive, supportive and safe relationship. I collaborate extensively with other health care providers in your team.
![Photo of Reagan Anusionwu - Telepsychiatry: Rave Psychiatry, PC, PMHNP, LCSW-R, LMSW, LMHC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4beceeb8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatry: Rave Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW-R, LMSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Malverne, NY 11565
At Rave Psychiatry, We offer exceptional and convenient care utilizing tele-psychiatry, tele-therapy and traditional in-office visits; thereby giving client’s the option to choose on which method to see a psychiatric provider. Our team of 10+ Psychiatric providers are experienced, licensed and nationally certified, professional mental health providers that pride on working with each client in order to provide team oriented and consistent care at all times. We serve clients from NY via a secure Telepsychiatry platform through a HIPPA compliant platform that is approved by American Telemedicine Association.
At Rave Psychiatry, We offer exceptional and convenient care utilizing tele-psychiatry, tele-therapy and traditional in-office visits; thereby giving client’s the option to choose on which method to see a psychiatric provider. Our team of 10+ Psychiatric providers are experienced, licensed and nationally certified, professional mental health providers that pride on working with each client in order to provide team oriented and consistent care at all times. We serve clients from NY via a secure Telepsychiatry platform through a HIPPA compliant platform that is approved by American Telemedicine Association.
![Photo of Tatyana Goykhberg - South Shore Psychiatry, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27af483f-f0f0-46c5-81e9-6d01a2b733ad/3/320x400.jpeg)
South Shore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse licensed in NY specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and a number of other psychiatric conditions. Appointments are available for initial evaluations and follow-up appointments for patients in NY. Office appointments are available. We offer a unique perspective to patient care as we provide a holistic approach, emphasizing a connection between the mind and body.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse licensed in NY specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and a number of other psychiatric conditions. Appointments are available for initial evaluations and follow-up appointments for patients in NY. Office appointments are available. We offer a unique perspective to patient care as we provide a holistic approach, emphasizing a connection between the mind and body.
![Photo of Aafaque Akhter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ad25bdb-d70e-4058-9b49-e874d1fd6f39/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Harvard-trained, board-certified Psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience serving New Hyde Park, NY, and New York City, I specialize in helping individuals overcome personal, psychological, and family challenges. I work with those struggling with conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, or Anxiety, providing a compassionate and holistic approach to treatment. By combining psychotherapy and medication management, I address each individual's unique needs, focusing on key aspects like sleep, nutrition, and overall well-being.
As a Harvard-trained, board-certified Psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience serving New Hyde Park, NY, and New York City, I specialize in helping individuals overcome personal, psychological, and family challenges. I work with those struggling with conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, or Anxiety, providing a compassionate and holistic approach to treatment. By combining psychotherapy and medication management, I address each individual's unique needs, focusing on key aspects like sleep, nutrition, and overall well-being.
![Photo of Larissa Yossefi, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59131512-7b5f-4f7f-b658-ca60048c767e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Larissa Yossefi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Albertson, NY 11507
Looking for effective trauma therapy that respects your unique journey? I specialize in a holistic approach that combines CBT, EMDR, and the polyvagal systemic method to help you leverage your strengths and navigate life transitions such as pregnancy, childbirth, and school changes. My therapy is built on a foundation of respect, trust, and self-reflection, helping you understand your past and develop the skills needed to move forward with confidence.
Looking for effective trauma therapy that respects your unique journey? I specialize in a holistic approach that combines CBT, EMDR, and the polyvagal systemic method to help you leverage your strengths and navigate life transitions such as pregnancy, childbirth, and school changes. My therapy is built on a foundation of respect, trust, and self-reflection, helping you understand your past and develop the skills needed to move forward with confidence.
![Photo of Scott Krakower, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/147d44f5-3eba-4a36-b1a9-4c7ded529d9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
![Photo of Zhanna Berman, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, CHES, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fd601a8-e643-4485-8c24-a797e0c104f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zhanna Berman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, CHES
Verified Verified
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Why is this happening to ME? To my child? Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
Why is this happening to ME? To my child? Is this Just How it is? After all, I’ve done everything right. I’ve tried different doctors; numerous medications and not only am I not getting better but I’m having to deal with these side effects! If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Hope can be one of the hardest things to hold on to when you are struggling. I know that mental illness is more than a set of symptoms. They are conditions that affect everyone differently. This is why I develop a concierge treatment plan utilizing the latest science to provide precision and care for my patients. Hope is here!
![Photo of Natacha Joseph - Empire-State NP in Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68544d0a-e5f4-4f39-9806-b5e3fb2962aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empire-State NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hempstead, NY 11550
I'm Natacha Joseph, MS, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric practitioner dedicated to helping clients through individualized integrative psychiatric treatment plans. These plans include both traditional and non-traditional/off-label uses of psychotropic medications and supplements. With nearly fifteen years of nursing experience and education in various areas of patient care, both medically and psychiatrically, I have extensive experience in a multitude of healthcare settings, including hospital medicine, home health care, and inpatient and outpatient clinical services.
I'm Natacha Joseph, MS, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric practitioner dedicated to helping clients through individualized integrative psychiatric treatment plans. These plans include both traditional and non-traditional/off-label uses of psychotropic medications and supplements. With nearly fifteen years of nursing experience and education in various areas of patient care, both medically and psychiatrically, I have extensive experience in a multitude of healthcare settings, including hospital medicine, home health care, and inpatient and outpatient clinical services.
See more therapy options for Garden City
Nearby Weight Loss Psychiatrists Searches for Garden City
See More Weight Loss PsychiatristsWeight Loss Psychiatrists
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.