Weight Loss Therapists in Los Alamitos, CA

Photo of Leslee Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslee Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
We specialize in a variety of areas including EMDR (for resolving trauma, both recent and long-standing), sex addiction, weight loss surgery, mood disorders and couples therapy.
SCHEDULE A TELEMENTALHEALTH APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW at https://schedulewithLesleeMiller.as.me. Sugarhouse Counseling Center serves clients in both Utah and California. We have therapists who are compassionate and sensitive. Evening appointments are available. Whether you are experiencing an immediate crisis, wanting to deal with ongoing difficulties, or would like increased insight, we are here to assist you. We work with individuals, couples and families. We accept many insurance plans. We work with people of all faiths. In addition, we have therapists who have special insight regarding specific needs/ concerns of LDS clients.
We specialize in a variety of areas including EMDR (for resolving trauma, both recent and long-standing), sex addiction, weight loss surgery, mood disorders and couples therapy.
SCHEDULE A TELEMENTALHEALTH APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW at https://schedulewithLesleeMiller.as.me. Sugarhouse Counseling Center serves clients in both Utah and California. We have therapists who are compassionate and sensitive. Evening appointments are available. Whether you are experiencing an immediate crisis, wanting to deal with ongoing difficulties, or would like increased insight, we are here to assist you. We work with individuals, couples and families. We accept many insurance plans. We work with people of all faiths. In addition, we have therapists who have special insight regarding specific needs/ concerns of LDS clients.
(801) 895-3428 View (801) 895-3428
Photo of Jennifer N Yates, MC, LMFT, CLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer N Yates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MC, LMFT, CLE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
If you are looking to achieve more balance in your life, you are in the right place! You will experience healing, growth and change on your therapeutic journey with me. I believe it takes a great deal of courage to seek help, and I am here for you with genuine care and compassion. I have 25 years of experience in working with individuals, adolescents, and families. I will work with you from a holistic standpoint as I firmly believe that the mind and body are connected, and that there are tools within you that we can access together to guide you.
If you are looking to achieve more balance in your life, you are in the right place! You will experience healing, growth and change on your therapeutic journey with me. I believe it takes a great deal of courage to seek help, and I am here for you with genuine care and compassion. I have 25 years of experience in working with individuals, adolescents, and families. I will work with you from a holistic standpoint as I firmly believe that the mind and body are connected, and that there are tools within you that we can access together to guide you.
(562) 573-9798 View (562) 573-9798
Photo of Deborah Bernal, BSN, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah Bernal
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSN, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I work with those who are having difficulty or trouble in relationships or in relating to a difficult person. You will find me easy to talk with as together we find solutions for your difficulties. I will encourage you as I walk beside you to systematically discover the answers that you already have within. I will not force or push but gently challenge you to become your best. This journey of counseling will have a beginning and an end. We will be a team every step of the way. I look forward to meeting with you. Let's get started. You will find the help you are seeking.
I work with those who are having difficulty or trouble in relationships or in relating to a difficult person. You will find me easy to talk with as together we find solutions for your difficulties. I will encourage you as I walk beside you to systematically discover the answers that you already have within. I will not force or push but gently challenge you to become your best. This journey of counseling will have a beginning and an end. We will be a team every step of the way. I look forward to meeting with you. Let's get started. You will find the help you are seeking.
(714) 905-5934 View (714) 905-5934
Photo of February Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
February Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Client's often first come to see me when encountering struggles with depression, anxiety, and/or relationship problems. I have extensive experience helping children, adolescents, and adults; and am not afraid to get in the arena with you as we work through what is causing pain! It is my goal to come alongside you as we loosen the strongholds that keep you from experiencing seasons of wholehearted joy and peace once again!
Client's often first come to see me when encountering struggles with depression, anxiety, and/or relationship problems. I have extensive experience helping children, adolescents, and adults; and am not afraid to get in the arena with you as we work through what is causing pain! It is my goal to come alongside you as we loosen the strongholds that keep you from experiencing seasons of wholehearted joy and peace once again!
(310) 626-4069 View (310) 626-4069
Photo of Caitlyn Jacquemart, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caitlyn Jacquemart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
Caitlyn is passionate about working with individuals who are looking to increase their self-confidence, develop healthy relationships, discover and pursue their purpose, and reach their fullest potential. With her knowledge of the mind-body connection, Caitlyn can assist with helping individuals manage their emotions, foster meaningful relationships, and enhance career and personal pursuits. She has experience working with individuals dealing with anger management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, disordered eating, attention difficulties, and low self-esteem.
Caitlyn is passionate about working with individuals who are looking to increase their self-confidence, develop healthy relationships, discover and pursue their purpose, and reach their fullest potential. With her knowledge of the mind-body connection, Caitlyn can assist with helping individuals manage their emotions, foster meaningful relationships, and enhance career and personal pursuits. She has experience working with individuals dealing with anger management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, disordered eating, attention difficulties, and low self-esteem.
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Photo of John Edward Martin, PhD, MA, Psychologist
John Edward Martin
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of conflict, stress, anger control, PTSD, depression and anxiety, as well as marital distress and breakdown. My primary approach combines evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with motivational as well as spiritual approaches to change. I also work with veterans and others dealing with traumatic memories, with the assistance of my trained and certified service dog - a gentle black Labrador. I am a certified professional trauma therapist and conduct evaluations and treatment for PTSD, and a certified professional life coach, and can work remotely via Internet in for a lower fee
I work with individuals and couples in the areas of conflict, stress, anger control, PTSD, depression and anxiety, as well as marital distress and breakdown. My primary approach combines evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with motivational as well as spiritual approaches to change. I also work with veterans and others dealing with traumatic memories, with the assistance of my trained and certified service dog - a gentle black Labrador. I am a certified professional trauma therapist and conduct evaluations and treatment for PTSD, and a certified professional life coach, and can work remotely via Internet in for a lower fee
(877) 651-3370 View (877) 651-3370
Photo of February Johnson, MSW, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
February Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Client's often first come to see me when encountering struggles with depression, anxiety, and/or relationship problems. I have extensive experience helping children, adolescents, and adults; and am not afraid to get in the arena with you as we work through what is causing pain! It is my goal to come alongside you as we loosen the strongholds that keep you from experiencing seasons of wholehearted joy and peace once again!
Client's often first come to see me when encountering struggles with depression, anxiety, and/or relationship problems. I have extensive experience helping children, adolescents, and adults; and am not afraid to get in the arena with you as we work through what is causing pain! It is my goal to come alongside you as we loosen the strongholds that keep you from experiencing seasons of wholehearted joy and peace once again!
(310) 359-9112 View (310) 359-9112
Photo of Nicole Kristine Thorn, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole Kristine Thorn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
Personal discovery and growth is one of life's greatest challenges but also provides one of life's greatest rewards. Through my own healing journey to address childhood trauma, I did many years traditional talk therapy. While I found this to be helpful, it wasn’t until I discovered somatic experiencing (SE) therapy that I began to experience a deep settling in my body and mind in a relatively short period of time. This settling of the nervous system can lead to a newfound sense of feeling present and engaged in life. One gains more capacity to experience positive emotions, tolerate negative emotions without becoming overwhelmed.
Personal discovery and growth is one of life's greatest challenges but also provides one of life's greatest rewards. Through my own healing journey to address childhood trauma, I did many years traditional talk therapy. While I found this to be helpful, it wasn’t until I discovered somatic experiencing (SE) therapy that I began to experience a deep settling in my body and mind in a relatively short period of time. This settling of the nervous system can lead to a newfound sense of feeling present and engaged in life. One gains more capacity to experience positive emotions, tolerate negative emotions without becoming overwhelmed.
(562) 735-6318 View (562) 735-6318
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(909) 318-1937 View (909) 318-1937
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(657) 214-3099 View (657) 214-3099
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(323) 417-9393 View (323) 417-9393
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(310) 742-9232 View (310) 742-9232
Photo of Patrick Cleveland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
(562) 285-9957 View (562) 285-9957
Photo of Debbie A. Freeman, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie A. Freeman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 26 years of experience. As a former Director of Clinical Services and current adjunct professor, I have trained hundreds of upcoming therapists in both the science as well as the art of providing quality, enriching therapy. I am dedicated to helping you to "process" through your challenges allowing you to build healthier relationships and having a successful life. The hardest step is getting started, so feel free to reach out and we can have a conversation. Because of my experience I will be able to zero in on what you need and the best path forward.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 26 years of experience. As a former Director of Clinical Services and current adjunct professor, I have trained hundreds of upcoming therapists in both the science as well as the art of providing quality, enriching therapy. I am dedicated to helping you to "process" through your challenges allowing you to build healthier relationships and having a successful life. The hardest step is getting started, so feel free to reach out and we can have a conversation. Because of my experience I will be able to zero in on what you need and the best path forward.
(424) 543-8473 View (424) 543-8473
Photo of Laura Pinegar, PhD, Psychologist
Laura Pinegar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90721
Not accepting new clients
After over twenty years in practice I have extensive experience in treating anxiety and depression secondary to life stress and transitions. Many of my clients are struggling with difficult relationships where they need to learn new methods of communicating, identify reoccurring and destructive patterns, or make decisions to either more fully commit to or let go of their partners. I focus on therapy to generate coping skills to deal with the changes that challenge us through our lifespan, such as separation, divorce, infertility, birth, family conflict, death or loss of a loved one, retirement, empty nest, and aging issues.
After over twenty years in practice I have extensive experience in treating anxiety and depression secondary to life stress and transitions. Many of my clients are struggling with difficult relationships where they need to learn new methods of communicating, identify reoccurring and destructive patterns, or make decisions to either more fully commit to or let go of their partners. I focus on therapy to generate coping skills to deal with the changes that challenge us through our lifespan, such as separation, divorce, infertility, birth, family conflict, death or loss of a loved one, retirement, empty nest, and aging issues.
(562) 239-4330 View (562) 239-4330

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dawn Therese Dominguez - Windows of Hope Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Windows of Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
Welcome! We offer individual, couples and family counseling in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. We specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. We offer a safe space for you to share and heal!
Welcome! We offer individual, couples and family counseling in a warm and comfortable environment! We help individuals and couples work through difficult life experiences in a nurturing and loving way, and assist your process offering compassionate communication practices and tools to work through even the most difficult life situations. We specialize in couples counseling, grief counseling, blended family counseling, anger management counseling, substance abuse counseling, depression counseling, anxiety counseling, self improvement counseling & personal growth counseling. We offer a safe space for you to share and heal!
(310) 928-2319 View (310) 928-2319
Photo of Ilana S Wasserman, LMFT, LEP, CMT, VMP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ilana S Wasserman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP, CMT, VMP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, to discover the origins of your issues.
Being a therapist not only involves the training we are provided nor the previous clients with whom we have worked. In my opinion, it involves the humility to allow one's client to feel safe enough to share the most vulnerable parts of their experiences for both of us to feel connected and moving in the same direction. My style of treatment follows my beliefs above. I will be working to put the pieces together that you may be unable to see. Once we have a pattern established, we will go at your speed, perhaps with a light nudge from me, to discover the origins of your issues.
(949) 328-5710 View (949) 328-5710
Photo of Jennifer C Cohen, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer C Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACL, LMFT, C-IAYT, RYT 500
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seal Beach, CA 90740  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
My general frame work is that you cannot separate the body from the mind nor can you separate a person from their life time of experiences, therefore working with all of these systems is a highly effective way to improve happiness, decrease anxiety and stress, and increase coping skills to manage life with more ease and improved relationships. Now offering emergency Intensive Couples Counseling! I work well with individuals and couples who are seeking to learn more holistic ways to address their emotional and relational challenges whether they be family of origin issues, trauma, chronic illness, anxiety, or depression.
(562) 454-0709 View (562) 454-0709
Photo of Seany Renfrow, PsyD, BCC, CDM, Psychologist
Seany Renfrow
Psychologist, PsyD, BCC, CDM
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I help people regain the feeling of hopefulness. Our work in therapy can help you feel the energy, enthusiasm and optimism that was part part of your identity. With therapy you will begin to feel a sense of connection and closeness with loved ones. You are not alone. With the support I can offer, you will likely feel the joy and peace that should be part of life. Therapy will help you feel empowered, live life more fulfilling and with greater ease. In my practice, I specialize in assisting people in overcoming feelings of sadness, loneliness and anxiety.
I help people regain the feeling of hopefulness. Our work in therapy can help you feel the energy, enthusiasm and optimism that was part part of your identity. With therapy you will begin to feel a sense of connection and closeness with loved ones. You are not alone. With the support I can offer, you will likely feel the joy and peace that should be part of life. Therapy will help you feel empowered, live life more fulfilling and with greater ease. In my practice, I specialize in assisting people in overcoming feelings of sadness, loneliness and anxiety.
(562) 984-0848 View (562) 984-0848
Photo of Evelyn K Co, MFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evelyn K Co
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I have provided mental health services for a wide variety of disorders and diverse populations of children and adults for over 20 years. I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in multiple states. I use a holistic approaches to facilitate therapeutic change. I infuse my work with elements from evidenced-based interventions, behavioral, cognitive, experiential and psychodynamic therapies, and art therapy. My therapeutic work facilitates the individuals' desired changes using traditional and non-traditional methods, such as art therapy, EMDR, neurofeedback, mindfulness, and interpersonal process therapy.
I have provided mental health services for a wide variety of disorders and diverse populations of children and adults for over 20 years. I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in multiple states. I use a holistic approaches to facilitate therapeutic change. I infuse my work with elements from evidenced-based interventions, behavioral, cognitive, experiential and psychodynamic therapies, and art therapy. My therapeutic work facilitates the individuals' desired changes using traditional and non-traditional methods, such as art therapy, EMDR, neurofeedback, mindfulness, and interpersonal process therapy.
(323) 403-4831 View (323) 403-4831

See more therapy options for Los Alamitos

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.