Weight Loss Psychiatrists in Texas
![Photo of Laurie Foley, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ac6c512-7ead-4948-bdcb-74fffb26d6a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Foley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731 (Online Only)
With 17 years of experience, I specialize in medication management for mental health and weight loss.
My ideal client faces challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or weight management. They seek a compassionate, understanding, and humorous healthcare provider to help navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, improving physical health, and developing effective coping strategies. They want personalized, culturally sensitive care that respects their unique background and preferences. Ultimately, they aim for improved well-being and quality of life, looking for a supportive partner to guide them toward resilience and hope.
With 17 years of experience, I specialize in medication management for mental health and weight loss.
My ideal client faces challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or weight management. They seek a compassionate, understanding, and humorous healthcare provider to help navigate their mental health journey. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, improving physical health, and developing effective coping strategies. They want personalized, culturally sensitive care that respects their unique background and preferences. Ultimately, they aim for improved well-being and quality of life, looking for a supportive partner to guide them toward resilience and hope.
![Photo of Sarah Fese Taylor - Complete Health Clinic, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b82fd822-cb96-4916-8e63-3ffc90946afc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Complete Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
Our area of specialty includes treating general medical conditions, acute and chronic mental health conditions, and provide 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 provide 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 Adeleye Ogunlade, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4e69c37-7482-4b1d-a211-67f2a5142e29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adeleye Ogunlade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
Accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, or mood disorders? Is ADHD making everyday life challenging? We understand. Our holistic approach blends traditional mental health treatments with innovative strategies to enhance well-being. We also recognize the significant impact that weight loss can have on mental health. By addressing your mind, body, and spirit, we focus on achieving positive outcomes across all aspects of your health. Contact us today to start your personalized journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. You deserve compassionate care that prioritizes you.
![Photo of Margarita Rice, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1c604da-e151-4909-9ddd-0622f7704e5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margarita Rice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Keller, TX 76248
I am a double board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. My education and clinical experience gives me a well-rounded perspective on physical and mental wellbeing. I see clients ages 18+, treating most psychiatric conditions. I provides holistic treatment and therapeutic interventions while focusing on medication management. This includes hormonal therapy, life style treatment, use of supplements, and medical weight loss when appropriate.
I am a double board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner. My education and clinical experience gives me a well-rounded perspective on physical and mental wellbeing. I see clients ages 18+, treating most psychiatric conditions. I provides holistic treatment and therapeutic interventions while focusing on medication management. This includes hormonal therapy, life style treatment, use of supplements, and medical weight loss when appropriate.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha - Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6467d5e7-8092-4c4b-9793-e3e747f6fc27/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wholesome Clinic - Psychiatric & Family Practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Besides mental health services, I also offer virtual urgent care, virtual primary care, and medical weight loss solutions.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Besides mental health services, I also offer virtual urgent care, virtual primary care, and medical weight loss solutions.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to Wholesome Clinic, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
![Photo of Fallon Fagan, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54dc055d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to using my knowledge of psychopharmacology to achieve the best medication treatment regimen for the patient, I also counsel patients on smoking cessation, appropriate diet, weight loss, and medical management.
I have experience with working with and treating patients with a variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I also have experience working with underserved populations in community mental health.
In addition to using my knowledge of psychopharmacology to achieve the best medication treatment regimen for the patient, I also counsel patients on smoking cessation, appropriate diet, weight loss, and medical management.
I have experience with working with and treating patients with a variety of psychiatric diagnoses, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. I also have experience working with underserved populations in community mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Ukoha, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77521cf6-23ce-486b-a11b-892c7c330014/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephanie Ukoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Besides mental health services, I also offer virtual urgent care, virtual primary care, and medical weight loss solutions.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
Besides mental health services, I also offer virtual urgent care, virtual primary care, and medical weight loss solutions.
Accepting New Patients in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon. Welcome to my practice, where healing begins and hope thrives. Whether you're seeking to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts; navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking to heal from past traumas, I provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself without judgment and explore effective strategies and interventions to manage these
![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
Dallas, TX 75201
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 Ingrid Suazo, DHA, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d17af19-bdd8-4792-ac49-b20d2252fc0d/1/320x400.png)
Ingrid Suazo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has an extensive 10-year involvement working with severely mentally ill individuals. Her great passion is bringing out the fullest potential, and guiding healing to clients across the life span.
Ingrid Suazo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has an extensive 10-year involvement working with severely mentally ill individuals. Her great passion is bringing out the fullest potential, and guiding healing to clients across the life span.
![Photo of Jordan Riney, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87309e72-0bbe-4595-a44a-c8184db7fe84/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Jordan! I am a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry for ages 4 and older. I also have in-depth experience with grief, religious trauma, emergency services personnel, healthcare workers, and disaster victims. I specialize in autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic, OCD, PTSD, binge eating disorder, and weight gain. I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi, I'm Jordan! I am a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in child/adolescent and adult psychiatry for ages 4 and older. I also have in-depth experience with grief, religious trauma, emergency services personnel, healthcare workers, and disaster victims. I specialize in autism, ODD, ADHD, depression, anxiety/panic, OCD, PTSD, binge eating disorder, and weight gain. I'm dedicated to creating a supportive environment for everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of George Attobrah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4609c2b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
NOW OFFERING ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. I offer quality and affordable mental health care with immediate appointments available. I assess and offer a detailed diagnostic evaluations for all mental disorders, and provides treatment plans that include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. You will have the direct access to personally talk to me on any issue. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders.
NOW OFFERING ONLINE APPOINTMENTS. I offer quality and affordable mental health care with immediate appointments available. I assess and offer a detailed diagnostic evaluations for all mental disorders, and provides treatment plans that include psychotropic medication management and psychotherapy services. You will have the direct access to personally talk to me on any issue. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and other mental disorders.
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![Photo of Mahta Ostadian, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54cc2b1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychiatrist, I endeavor to facilitate the growth of individual mental, emotional, and spiritual capacities, whether by optimizing effective medication for managing mood and anxiety symptoms or encouraging engagement in purposeful psychotherapy (or both). Practicing psychiatry over the past 14 years has guided me toward a realization that humanity is beautiful and that I am priviledged to have the opportunity to develop meaningful patient relationships, which, through the passage of time along with individual effort, promote personal acceptance, advancement, contentment, and peace.
As a psychiatrist, I endeavor to facilitate the growth of individual mental, emotional, and spiritual capacities, whether by optimizing effective medication for managing mood and anxiety symptoms or encouraging engagement in purposeful psychotherapy (or both). Practicing psychiatry over the past 14 years has guided me toward a realization that humanity is beautiful and that I am priviledged to have the opportunity to develop meaningful patient relationships, which, through the passage of time along with individual effort, promote personal acceptance, advancement, contentment, and peace.
![Photo of Nkechi Ukomadu - Eshcol Clinic LLC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/905ae8d2-a49a-4a5d-a2ce-c06282504be0/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are accepting patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 9 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
We are accepting patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 9 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
![Photo of Delisa Brooks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/964fc597-6b5e-4e6b-a9dd-026f66ea7093/1/320x400.png)
Delisa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009 (Online Only)
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
Delisa Brooks, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a mental health certified nurse practitioner. She has extensive experience with outpatient psychiatric clinic practice, managing a variety of mental health conditions across the lifespan. Being a dual-certified educated nurse practitioner, I utilize both family and mental health education backgrounds to meet patients’ needs with a holistic model. I establish a healthcare partnership that considers all the patient’s needs and circumstances and uses interventions from a variety of scientific disciplines to help people regain and maintain optimum health.
![Photo of Uju Nnameka, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5617d38d-0bbd-40bf-8c65-a9e3ed9c5999/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have developed a strong understanding of mental health, particularly related to ADHD, marriage counseling, personal counseling and coaching through both personal and professional experiences. My experience includes navigating the challenges associated with mental well being, such as managing focus, time management, and organization, and successfully implementing strategies to improve productivity and overall well-being.
I have developed a strong understanding of mental health, particularly related to ADHD, marriage counseling, personal counseling and coaching through both personal and professional experiences. My experience includes navigating the challenges associated with mental well being, such as managing focus, time management, and organization, and successfully implementing strategies to improve productivity and overall well-being.
![Photo of Olaide Akinyinka - The Renewed Mind Behavioral Health and Wellness , NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b7957d-d068-4dc2-96ad-eda4a4f5c7c1/1/320x400.png)
The Renewed Mind Behavioral Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
My name Olaide Akinyinka, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 8 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey! I treat teens, young adult and elderly population with a focus of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. I believe in a collaborative approach. I specialize in medication management. I am dedicated to helping clients optimize their mental health by developing a collaborative partnership with clients and tailoring treatment to meet specific needs.
My name Olaide Akinyinka, PMHNP. I am a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating patients across the lifespan. I have worked in the behavioral/medical/mental health field for over 8 years, and am here to help guide you in your healing journey! I treat teens, young adult and elderly population with a focus of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia and Bipolar disorder. I believe in a collaborative approach. I specialize in medication management. I am dedicated to helping clients optimize their mental health by developing a collaborative partnership with clients and tailoring treatment to meet specific needs.
![Photo of Ashley Toutounchi - AuraMD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f0c7a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Toutounchi has extensive training in medication management, working collaboratively with you to achieve your a sense of stability and optimal outcomes. Dr. T received her undergraduate University of North Texas, graduating with highest honors, summa cum laude. She obtained her medical degree and completed residency at the University of Texas Medical Texas at Houston and served as chief resident. She was voted by patients for "On time Doctor Award," "Patient's Choice Award" and Compassionate Doctor Recognition. She has been recognized and honored in both 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 as Top Doctors in H Texas Magazine."
Dr. Toutounchi has extensive training in medication management, working collaboratively with you to achieve your a sense of stability and optimal outcomes. Dr. T received her undergraduate University of North Texas, graduating with highest honors, summa cum laude. She obtained her medical degree and completed residency at the University of Texas Medical Texas at Houston and served as chief resident. She was voted by patients for "On time Doctor Award," "Patient's Choice Award" and Compassionate Doctor Recognition. She has been recognized and honored in both 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 as Top Doctors in H Texas Magazine."
![Photo of Dr. Deepika Bhargava, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e2e12e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a unique integrated bio-psycho-social-spiritual-nutritional approach to mental well-being. Personalized and comprehensive services in an atmosphere of respect and compassion to help create healthy communities. One-stop for all your mental health needs that includes psychiatry med management (anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, geriatric disorders, dementia); individual and family therapy (marital, addiction, anger management, behavior modification, stress management, work-life balance; adult/adolescent Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) - (mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, women's issues). TMS.
I provide a unique integrated bio-psycho-social-spiritual-nutritional approach to mental well-being. Personalized and comprehensive services in an atmosphere of respect and compassion to help create healthy communities. One-stop for all your mental health needs that includes psychiatry med management (anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, geriatric disorders, dementia); individual and family therapy (marital, addiction, anger management, behavior modification, stress management, work-life balance; adult/adolescent Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) - (mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, women's issues). TMS.
![Photo of Katie Brandon, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d33d8ec4-7896-4cfb-8b44-dfeeeef97e38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Brandon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79423
I offer appointments in Lubbock and share West Texas values. I am certified in primary psychiatry/mental health for patients 4 years and older. I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, Autism, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, panic, ADHD, addiction and more. I also provide unique, integrated treatment for patients focusing on metabolic health and inflammation alongside psychiatric treatment. I hold certification in Obesity Medicine and give serious consideration to the metabolic side effects associated with psychiatric medications.
I offer appointments in Lubbock and share West Texas values. I am certified in primary psychiatry/mental health for patients 4 years and older. I treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, Autism, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, panic, ADHD, addiction and more. I also provide unique, integrated treatment for patients focusing on metabolic health and inflammation alongside psychiatric treatment. I hold certification in Obesity Medicine and give serious consideration to the metabolic side effects associated with psychiatric medications.
![Photo of Ijeoma Ononenyi - Serene Bold Health Clinic, APRN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8392ddc0-35ef-4318-b0aa-c43470246c81/1/320x400.png)
Serene Bold Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77069
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in helping people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. I work with my clients to develop personalized care plans that meet their individual needs and goals. My ideal client is someone who's struggling with a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. If that's you, I can help. Please reach out to me to get started.
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Weight 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.