Weight Loss Therapists in Granada Hills, CA
![Photo of Maribel Munguia Dugas, LCSW, PPSC, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/794b829c-6e2a-4376-9477-fae3e5f8f4a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maribel Munguia Dugas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Granada Hills, CA 91344
As a Bilingual Latina provider, I am mindful of how our culture and upbringing can impact our sense of self and how we handle challenges. Do you feel stuck? Do you sometimes "know" what to do but don't follow or feel like you can't? I am mindful of culture and the physical, social and other factors impact our mental health. Allow me to help you get "unstuck" through EMDR and utilize an individually tailored approach that will give you the best outcomes. I support couples, individuals and families. Take the time to grow for yourself and your loved ones. I see my work as a calling and my spiritual gift to be of service.
As a Bilingual Latina provider, I am mindful of how our culture and upbringing can impact our sense of self and how we handle challenges. Do you feel stuck? Do you sometimes "know" what to do but don't follow or feel like you can't? I am mindful of culture and the physical, social and other factors impact our mental health. Allow me to help you get "unstuck" through EMDR and utilize an individually tailored approach that will give you the best outcomes. I support couples, individuals and families. Take the time to grow for yourself and your loved ones. I see my work as a calling and my spiritual gift to be of service.
![Photo of Lisa Arslanian, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5123b7a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Arslanian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Granada Hills, CA 91344 (Online Only)
I work with individuals struggling with sadness, anxiety, self-doubt, self-worth, shame, boundary-setting, self-acceptance, and feeling not good enough. I utilize a systematic approach to help clients build daily coping skills and understand the underlying reasons for their struggles. With greater insight and awareness, clients are able to find their truest voice and build a life that echoes their best self. I also work with couples looking to cultivate healthy communication skills, a richer relational experience, a revived vibrancy. I commonly work with life transitions, parenting questions, and identity conflicts.
I work with individuals struggling with sadness, anxiety, self-doubt, self-worth, shame, boundary-setting, self-acceptance, and feeling not good enough. I utilize a systematic approach to help clients build daily coping skills and understand the underlying reasons for their struggles. With greater insight and awareness, clients are able to find their truest voice and build a life that echoes their best self. I also work with couples looking to cultivate healthy communication skills, a richer relational experience, a revived vibrancy. I commonly work with life transitions, parenting questions, and identity conflicts.
![Photo of Bella Levin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ad784a5-b6d6-4d85-bbfa-1737ecc4221b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bella Levin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granada Hills, CA 91344 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, or challenges in your work and personal relationships? You deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space where your voice is heard, and your feelings are validated. I offer gentle exploration of your life's challenges, helping you ask the questions that lead to growth. Together, we'll work to help you take control of your symptoms, regulate your emotions, and find the courage to heal, empowering you to move forward and realize your dreams.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, or challenges in your work and personal relationships? You deserve a safe, nonjudgmental space where your voice is heard, and your feelings are validated. I offer gentle exploration of your life's challenges, helping you ask the questions that lead to growth. Together, we'll work to help you take control of your symptoms, regulate your emotions, and find the courage to heal, empowering you to move forward and realize your dreams.
![Photo of Ani Kirakosyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba78e3f4-96ad-4aa6-95f8-20d3d86e6366/2/320x400.png)
My style is warm and empathetic, but also direct and honest. I strive to create an atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable enough to share their thoughts, feelings and experiences without feeling judged or ashamed. I value building a strong therapeutic alliance with each of my clients so that we can work together to reach the most beneficial outcomes.
My style is warm and empathetic, but also direct and honest. I strive to create an atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable enough to share their thoughts, feelings and experiences without feeling judged or ashamed. I value building a strong therapeutic alliance with each of my clients so that we can work together to reach the most beneficial outcomes.
![Photo of Angela Lovesmith, CPC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4187153f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If today is the day you decide "excuses only sound good to those who make them", and you just can't make them anymore; then today is the day to make big changes and I am here to help you! As a Certified Professional Life Coach, I work with clients who will dig deep and work through the underlining issues that have held them back. We will explore possibilities clearing any obstacles you may struggle with changing your "Impossible" to "Possible". I am experienced, thoughtful, patient and insightful. I can help you overcome your challenges keeping you focused and motivated.
If today is the day you decide "excuses only sound good to those who make them", and you just can't make them anymore; then today is the day to make big changes and I am here to help you! As a Certified Professional Life Coach, I work with clients who will dig deep and work through the underlining issues that have held them back. We will explore possibilities clearing any obstacles you may struggle with changing your "Impossible" to "Possible". I am experienced, thoughtful, patient and insightful. I can help you overcome your challenges keeping you focused and motivated.
![Photo of Nicoli Tucker, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cba7b90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist I have a longstanding interest in helping clients heal their psychological issues against the background of their faith orientation. I graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary where integration of faith and psychology is primary and I continue to read a diverse number of classics in spiritual and theological literature. I am an Oblate at St. Andrew's Abbey a Catholic Benedictine Monastery. I have experience with clients from protestant, orthodox, Jewish, Christian and Roman Catholic denominations. I am familiar with issues facing pastors priests and religious. I also run a spiritual growth group on Tuesday nights.
As a therapist I have a longstanding interest in helping clients heal their psychological issues against the background of their faith orientation. I graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary where integration of faith and psychology is primary and I continue to read a diverse number of classics in spiritual and theological literature. I am an Oblate at St. Andrew's Abbey a Catholic Benedictine Monastery. I have experience with clients from protestant, orthodox, Jewish, Christian and Roman Catholic denominations. I am familiar with issues facing pastors priests and religious. I also run a spiritual growth group on Tuesday nights.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Kathleen E. Slijepcevic, PhD, MFT, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ff73f8d-f7f5-4517-b0ee-3cd9211833e6/6/320x400.png)
Dr. Kathleen E. Slijepcevic
Psychologist, PhD, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
My experience is evaluating and treating children, teens and adults who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, chronic pain, autistic spectrum disorder, grief, weight loss, parenting issues, relationship therapy, family conflicts, military and aerospace clientele; and assessment and assistance with social security insurance and disability.
Finding a psychologist who works well for you or your family takes courage and determination! So pat yourself on the back that you are taking that difficult first step. I am a dually licensed Clinical Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist practicing the last 25 years with adults, children, and adolescents, specializing in the family, couples, and the individual. I treat my patients with compassion, confidentiality and understanding. If you have tried to feel better and find yourself still struggling, then please contact a health professional and start healing today.
My experience is evaluating and treating children, teens and adults who experience anxiety, depression, mood disorder, ADHD, chronic pain, autistic spectrum disorder, grief, weight loss, parenting issues, relationship therapy, family conflicts, military and aerospace clientele; and assessment and assistance with social security insurance and disability.
Finding a psychologist who works well for you or your family takes courage and determination! So pat yourself on the back that you are taking that difficult first step. I am a dually licensed Clinical Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist practicing the last 25 years with adults, children, and adolescents, specializing in the family, couples, and the individual. I treat my patients with compassion, confidentiality and understanding. If you have tried to feel better and find yourself still struggling, then please contact a health professional and start healing today.
![Photo of Amber Crume, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1562de67-b6d4-40bb-bf13-770a9768c6ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
I've treated people presenting a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, PTSD/ PTSI, addiction/ co-occurring disorders, overeating/ weight loss, adjustment, family violence, DCFS, divorce, separation, and co-parenting, work stress, physical injury/ chronic illness, aging.
My name is Amber Lee Crume, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. My greatest hope is to help people achieve a greater sense of happiness and well-being. I love being a therapist and helping you learn more about yourself, your relationships, and new proven strategies and techniques to address life's most challenging obstacles. The process really does work!
I've treated people presenting a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, PTSD/ PTSI, addiction/ co-occurring disorders, overeating/ weight loss, adjustment, family violence, DCFS, divorce, separation, and co-parenting, work stress, physical injury/ chronic illness, aging.
My name is Amber Lee Crume, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. My greatest hope is to help people achieve a greater sense of happiness and well-being. I love being a therapist and helping you learn more about yourself, your relationships, and new proven strategies and techniques to address life's most challenging obstacles. The process really does work!
![Photo of Penny Randall - Circle One Hypnotherapy & Shamanic Healing, CHT, Rev](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e65608d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I assist my clients with a wide variety of issues: grief /loss, unhappiness, forgiveness of self/others, relationship/communication strategies, insomnia, stress reduction, smoking cessation, performance, menopause, weight loss, eating disorders, fears and phobias, confidence/self-esteem, procrastination, ADHD, pain management, fertility, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, IBS, and other blocks.
Energy follows thought. What are your thoughts? Do you have self-defeating negative mental chatter? Do you have habits, fears, perceptions, beliefs, attitudes, which hinder you from being "all you can be"? As a hypnotherapist I use hypnosis as part of a multidisciplinary approach to help my clients rewrite the stories in their sub-conscious mind. I also employ my 30 plus years as a Shamanic Healer to assist my clients in being all they were created to be. Reiki and Chakra balancing are also employed when appropriate. Powerful assistance comes with Past Life Regression and Soul Retrieval.
I assist my clients with a wide variety of issues: grief /loss, unhappiness, forgiveness of self/others, relationship/communication strategies, insomnia, stress reduction, smoking cessation, performance, menopause, weight loss, eating disorders, fears and phobias, confidence/self-esteem, procrastination, ADHD, pain management, fertility, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, IBS, and other blocks.
Energy follows thought. What are your thoughts? Do you have self-defeating negative mental chatter? Do you have habits, fears, perceptions, beliefs, attitudes, which hinder you from being "all you can be"? As a hypnotherapist I use hypnosis as part of a multidisciplinary approach to help my clients rewrite the stories in their sub-conscious mind. I also employ my 30 plus years as a Shamanic Healer to assist my clients in being all they were created to be. Reiki and Chakra balancing are also employed when appropriate. Powerful assistance comes with Past Life Regression and Soul Retrieval.
![Photo of Andrea A Squibb - Hypnotherapy And Wellness, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc1ea36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have also enjoyed helping clients with Exam Anxiety, Smoking Cessation, Sports Performance, Weight Loss, TMJ and IBS.
Sleep Better, Worry Less and Enjoy Life More! With the help of Hypnosis, CBT-I for Insomnia, Guided Imagery, NLP, Mindfulness and other related modalities, personal insight and professional experience, I provide clients a safe place to be heard, free fears, reduce anxieties, weed out unwanted behaviors, grow, improve and conquer insomnia. I love empowering others to achieve their goals and dreams and helping people better understand themselves and the world we live in so that they can experience more of the joy life has to offer. I also have a 6 Week Online Sleep Recovery Course at courses.hypnotherapyandwellness.com
I have also enjoyed helping clients with Exam Anxiety, Smoking Cessation, Sports Performance, Weight Loss, TMJ and IBS.
Sleep Better, Worry Less and Enjoy Life More! With the help of Hypnosis, CBT-I for Insomnia, Guided Imagery, NLP, Mindfulness and other related modalities, personal insight and professional experience, I provide clients a safe place to be heard, free fears, reduce anxieties, weed out unwanted behaviors, grow, improve and conquer insomnia. I love empowering others to achieve their goals and dreams and helping people better understand themselves and the world we live in so that they can experience more of the joy life has to offer. I also have a 6 Week Online Sleep Recovery Course at courses.hypnotherapyandwellness.com
![Photo of Aylene Lazar, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4173c1b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aylene Lazar
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364 (Online Only)
), Specialities include weight loss/maintenance, self-esteem, personal growth, relationship difficulties and stress-reduction.
A therapist's main role is to earn your trust and develop a good rapport so that you will feel safe and comfortable to share about yourself. Receiving validation for your thoughts and feelings regarding your experience helps you to begin the healing process. You can begin to handle toxic situations/relationships and learn to set boundaries with others. Counseling encourages you to take care of "you" and teaches you how to improve your self-esteem. You learn to regulate and tolerate emotions causing anxiety & depression. You can begin to replace harmful habits with new healthier behaviors. I can see anyone in the state of CA online
), Specialities include weight loss/maintenance, self-esteem, personal growth, relationship difficulties and stress-reduction.
A therapist's main role is to earn your trust and develop a good rapport so that you will feel safe and comfortable to share about yourself. Receiving validation for your thoughts and feelings regarding your experience helps you to begin the healing process. You can begin to handle toxic situations/relationships and learn to set boundaries with others. Counseling encourages you to take care of "you" and teaches you how to improve your self-esteem. You learn to regulate and tolerate emotions causing anxiety & depression. You can begin to replace harmful habits with new healthier behaviors. I can see anyone in the state of CA online
![Photo of Mim (Miriam B) Collins - Mim Collins, Psy.D., M.F.T., PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5e5060-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mim Collins, Psy.D., M.F.T.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valley Village, CA 91607
I have worked for many years with candidates preparing for the life altering procedure of Weight Loss Surgery.
I provide an environment for people to gain a deeper understanding of their lives. Most of us want to feel we are understood. Feeling an emotional connection allows us, not only to feel understood, but cared for and accompanied on the pathway to change. Most of us have difficulty undertaking the process alone. Effective therapy can be a vehicle toward that experience, and toward more fulfilling relationships in our lives. Effective therapy is what I do.
I have worked for many years with candidates preparing for the life altering procedure of Weight Loss Surgery.
I provide an environment for people to gain a deeper understanding of their lives. Most of us want to feel we are understood. Feeling an emotional connection allows us, not only to feel understood, but cared for and accompanied on the pathway to change. Most of us have difficulty undertaking the process alone. Effective therapy can be a vehicle toward that experience, and toward more fulfilling relationships in our lives. Effective therapy is what I do.
![Photo of Cinda Roffman, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8571f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Is there something about yourself that if that one thing were better, your life would work better? I can help you change that one thing. Through the use of affirmations, you are able to change your thinking and effect change in your life. Weight management, smoking cessation, test preparation, sports performance, anxiety and stress reduction are a few of the areas that I can help you with. I excel in and I am trained in: Emotional Freedom Technique, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Weight Management, and Therapeutic Imagery.
Is there something about yourself that if that one thing were better, your life would work better? I can help you change that one thing. Through the use of affirmations, you are able to change your thinking and effect change in your life. Weight management, smoking cessation, test preparation, sports performance, anxiety and stress reduction are a few of the areas that I can help you with. I excel in and I am trained in: Emotional Freedom Technique, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Weight Management, and Therapeutic Imagery.
![Photo of Terry Brussel-Rogers, CCht](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81a114d9-da08-4dc8-8736-826ae91d5f67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Terry Brussel-Rogers created the Seven Keys to Self-Actualization, a systematic program that uses self-hypnosis within a customized framework to enable you to overcome the present challenges in your life and move beyond them to Self-Actualization. You CAN realize your highest potential [and as a hypnotherapist, coach, or healing professional, help your clients reach theirs] in areas physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual as well as financial!
Terry Brussel-Rogers created the Seven Keys to Self-Actualization, a systematic program that uses self-hypnosis within a customized framework to enable you to overcome the present challenges in your life and move beyond them to Self-Actualization. You CAN realize your highest potential [and as a hypnotherapist, coach, or healing professional, help your clients reach theirs] in areas physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual as well as financial!
![Photo of Susanne Bech Simonsen M.s Health Psychology](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53ea32f5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I do ONLINE SESSIONS. Quit smoking - easy and without gaining weight. 1-2 sessions. I believe that if you change your thoughts, you can change anything in your life! Your history is never your destiny. With more than 35 years of experience in the field, I have treated people with all kinds of issues. My experience includes owning and running a drug and alcohol treatment facility with 300 inpatients. In my practice the number 1 priority is to let go of the past, sleep good, feel good and eat good from session 1 - this creates a good foundation for the further treatment. Session in your home is possible
I do ONLINE SESSIONS. Quit smoking - easy and without gaining weight. 1-2 sessions. I believe that if you change your thoughts, you can change anything in your life! Your history is never your destiny. With more than 35 years of experience in the field, I have treated people with all kinds of issues. My experience includes owning and running a drug and alcohol treatment facility with 300 inpatients. In my practice the number 1 priority is to let go of the past, sleep good, feel good and eat good from session 1 - this creates a good foundation for the further treatment. Session in your home is possible
![Photo of Melina Sattari, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bca11ea2-1981-4a22-88e5-ee26433c3ed5/3/320x400.jpeg)
I understand each of us has our own journey of growth in this lifetime, so I am very respectful of my client’s individual circumstances, struggles, identify issues, current functions and needs. I guide and assist my clients to understand the underlying issues of their discomfort and help develop plans and strategies that serve to reach their highest good in their journey to become whole.
I understand each of us has our own journey of growth in this lifetime, so I am very respectful of my client’s individual circumstances, struggles, identify issues, current functions and needs. I guide and assist my clients to understand the underlying issues of their discomfort and help develop plans and strategies that serve to reach their highest good in their journey to become whole.
![Photo of Jarred Trusty, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a0de20-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jarred Trusty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
![Photo of Lisa Spindle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9364b624-7c94-4877-983b-5f4bea2f7678/1/320x400.png)
I am a contagiously energetic Licensed Clinical Social Work with a history of working with a variety of people encountering life changes. My education and experience has led me to work with adults, young adults, teens and military service members. Life happens to us all, no matter the age or issue, and sometimes we need help with figuring things out. I'm passionate about helping others to excell, and offer nonjudegmental care, based on ethical practices to assist with improving the quality of your life.
I am a contagiously energetic Licensed Clinical Social Work with a history of working with a variety of people encountering life changes. My education and experience has led me to work with adults, young adults, teens and military service members. Life happens to us all, no matter the age or issue, and sometimes we need help with figuring things out. I'm passionate about helping others to excell, and offer nonjudegmental care, based on ethical practices to assist with improving the quality of your life.
![Photo of Zachary L Hollis, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f44f616b-d256-4357-9c37-67a31097b6c2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Zachary L Hollis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Being biracial of African American & Mexican descent along with my training and experiences has fostered me to approach every situation with an open mind, to be mindful and present while being flexible and empathetic. After graduating with a BA degree in Media Studies Communications from University of Tampa and prior to pursuing a career as a psychotherapist, I spent several years playing professional basketball overseas. I am also an active SAG-AFTRA member in the film and television industry. My diverse background is what I bring to the therapeutic space so together we can form healthy ways to cope with challenges without limits.
Being biracial of African American & Mexican descent along with my training and experiences has fostered me to approach every situation with an open mind, to be mindful and present while being flexible and empathetic. After graduating with a BA degree in Media Studies Communications from University of Tampa and prior to pursuing a career as a psychotherapist, I spent several years playing professional basketball overseas. I am also an active SAG-AFTRA member in the film and television industry. My diverse background is what I bring to the therapeutic space so together we can form healthy ways to cope with challenges without limits.
![Photo of Carole H Field, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b9ae90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Love has to be with elevated conditions", Martin Luther King. I pride my office on a few values: 1) unconditional love and 2)No baloney counseling . I love you, but we need to get to the point! :)
"Love has to be with elevated conditions", Martin Luther King. I pride my office on a few values: 1) unconditional love and 2)No baloney counseling . I love you, but we need to get to the point! :)
See more therapy options for Granada Hills
Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Granada Hills
- Canoga Park
- Encino
- Lake Balboa
- North Hollywood
- Northridge
- Sherman Oaks
- Stevenson Ranch
- Sylmar
- Tarzana
- Van Nuys
- West Hills
- Woodland Hills
Weight Loss Therapists
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.