Therapists in Ridgefield, CT
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![Photo of Soribel Martinez - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services , LCSW, MA, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c7c49c6-8990-40bf-86b8-44f70c24d8b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling Depressed? Are you constantly anxious and worried about your future? Are you having a difficult time developing and maintaining healthy relationships? You are not alone. Many women feel the same you do. The good new is that there is hope. We help women just like you take control over your life once and for all. I will help you identify the core causes of your symptoms of depression, anxiety, and why your relationships are not working for you. By the end of your treatment, you will be able to feel: Happier. Peaceful. Able to enjoy meaningful and healthier relationships.
Are you feeling Depressed? Are you constantly anxious and worried about your future? Are you having a difficult time developing and maintaining healthy relationships? You are not alone. Many women feel the same you do. The good new is that there is hope. We help women just like you take control over your life once and for all. I will help you identify the core causes of your symptoms of depression, anxiety, and why your relationships are not working for you. By the end of your treatment, you will be able to feel: Happier. Peaceful. Able to enjoy meaningful and healthier relationships.
![Photo of Patricia Hardy - LIFT Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6707061-fa7e-40d7-9585-644294030b82/1/320x400.png)
Your family's wellness solution. For over a decade, Lift has served as CT's premier choice for counseling, psychotherapy, concierge medical, psychological testing, and nutrition services. Equipped to meet the myriad of needs of modern families, Lift's multidisciplinary team provides psychiatric evaluations, dietary services, individual, group, couples & family therapy, eating disorder treatment, CBT, DBT, EMDR, ADHD evaluations & care, play therapy, career/effectiveness coaching, and mood and anxiety treatment, in person (Westport CT,) and remotely (CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, DC, GA, NC, PA.)
Your family's wellness solution. For over a decade, Lift has served as CT's premier choice for counseling, psychotherapy, concierge medical, psychological testing, and nutrition services. Equipped to meet the myriad of needs of modern families, Lift's multidisciplinary team provides psychiatric evaluations, dietary services, individual, group, couples & family therapy, eating disorder treatment, CBT, DBT, EMDR, ADHD evaluations & care, play therapy, career/effectiveness coaching, and mood and anxiety treatment, in person (Westport CT,) and remotely (CT, TN, VA, CO, TX, NY, FL, MA, DC, GA, NC, PA.)
Online Therapists
![Photo of Sharon R Walsh - Journey to Best Self Counseling Services PLLC, Sharon , Walsh, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/030b4214-839c-442a-a6e0-6ddf4cc7ceb3/2/320x400.png)
Journey to Best Self Counseling Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Sharon , Walsh, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Enfield, CT 06082 (Online Only)
My approach to counseling is to have a foundation of trust and unconditional positive regard while creating a safe environment. Many of my clients are looking to make changes in their lives in order to find peace, happiness, love within themselves, and their relationships. More often than not, my clients come to me because they have been feeling depressed, anxious, or struggling with self-esteem and are looking to change how they have been feeling and the quality of their lives. I offer a non-judgmental approach to getting to know my clients and helping them to determine their goals for improving the quality of their life.
My approach to counseling is to have a foundation of trust and unconditional positive regard while creating a safe environment. Many of my clients are looking to make changes in their lives in order to find peace, happiness, love within themselves, and their relationships. More often than not, my clients come to me because they have been feeling depressed, anxious, or struggling with self-esteem and are looking to change how they have been feeling and the quality of their lives. I offer a non-judgmental approach to getting to know my clients and helping them to determine their goals for improving the quality of their life.
![Photo of Connie Dufresne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a845a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients. I have over 18 years of therapeutic experience working with individuals and families. The cornerstone of my treatment style focuses on a strength based approach to support you as you examine the factors that have contribute to life stressors. I work to support you & your loved ones to develop healthy coping skills to implement. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, family conflict, trauma, school based issues or social conflict together we can develop new strategies to cope with these stressors. Together we examine negative patterns in your life to begin your journey of healing.
Accepting new clients. I have over 18 years of therapeutic experience working with individuals and families. The cornerstone of my treatment style focuses on a strength based approach to support you as you examine the factors that have contribute to life stressors. I work to support you & your loved ones to develop healthy coping skills to implement. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, family conflict, trauma, school based issues or social conflict together we can develop new strategies to cope with these stressors. Together we examine negative patterns in your life to begin your journey of healing.
![Photo of Kristina Dalao, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/487b0660-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Dalao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, women and veterans. My specialty is treating Dual Diagnosis, Trauma, Women's Issues, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and Relationship Issues. My clinical experience includes inpatient, outpatient and residential settings. I currently work from a Person-Centered approach as well as a Strength- Based perspective utilizing Motivational Interviewing, Relapse Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Trauma Informed Therapy, Brief-Solution Focused Therapy and Play Therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, women and veterans. My specialty is treating Dual Diagnosis, Trauma, Women's Issues, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and Relationship Issues. My clinical experience includes inpatient, outpatient and residential settings. I currently work from a Person-Centered approach as well as a Strength- Based perspective utilizing Motivational Interviewing, Relapse Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Trauma Informed Therapy, Brief-Solution Focused Therapy and Play Therapy.
![Photo of Leesa Sklover, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb1bbff9-14c5-4714-a470-111178c3c502/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leesa Sklover
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
![Photo of Melissa Silagy - Silagy Family Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46b08ac5-33d0-4c38-9902-3674a3931051/3/320x400.jpeg)
Silagy Family Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stratford, CT 06614
Silagy Family Counseling is a private mental health practice. Melissa Silagy is a Licensed Professional Counselor offering professional and specialized evaluative and treatment services to a wide variety of patients. She provides a myriad of services for individuals, couples, and families seeking help in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, marital discord, parent - child conflict, family conflict, trauma, grief and loss. She is a nationally certified trauma therapist specializing in sexual abuse, substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder.
Silagy Family Counseling is a private mental health practice. Melissa Silagy is a Licensed Professional Counselor offering professional and specialized evaluative and treatment services to a wide variety of patients. She provides a myriad of services for individuals, couples, and families seeking help in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, marital discord, parent - child conflict, family conflict, trauma, grief and loss. She is a nationally certified trauma therapist specializing in sexual abuse, substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder.
![Photo of Caitlyn Goggin - Comprehensive Psychiatric Care](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81eadadf-cdd5-4294-a42c-e45c698760a6/1/320x400.png)
Comprehensive Psychiatric Care is an outpatient mental health facility that has served the Eastern Connecticut community for over 30 years. CPC is a team of multi-disciplinary mental health practitioners who work together to best serve the needs of our patients. Our staff are experienced, licensed, mental health clinicians who adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards. CPC clinicians are trained in a wide variety of therapeutic orientations including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic (insight orientated) therapy, & Child Centered Play therapy. .
Comprehensive Psychiatric Care is an outpatient mental health facility that has served the Eastern Connecticut community for over 30 years. CPC is a team of multi-disciplinary mental health practitioners who work together to best serve the needs of our patients. Our staff are experienced, licensed, mental health clinicians who adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards. CPC clinicians are trained in a wide variety of therapeutic orientations including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic (insight orientated) therapy, & Child Centered Play therapy. .
![Photo of Mary Dobson, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7155d3d8-aae2-45bf-befa-93a27f964a79/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to empower you to define and claim the authentic, peaceful life you were born to lead; letting go of self-judgment, guilt, and maladaptive patterns to uncover strength and resilience. I believe in the transformational, healing power of a trusted therapeutic relationship. I possess advanced training and expertise in a variety of evidence-based modalities. Collaborative assessments and thoughtful, intentional treatment planning yield a customized course of action tailored to match your presenting problem and case disposition. I look forward to working with you, and am honored to play a role in your unfolding story!
My mission is to empower you to define and claim the authentic, peaceful life you were born to lead; letting go of self-judgment, guilt, and maladaptive patterns to uncover strength and resilience. I believe in the transformational, healing power of a trusted therapeutic relationship. I possess advanced training and expertise in a variety of evidence-based modalities. Collaborative assessments and thoughtful, intentional treatment planning yield a customized course of action tailored to match your presenting problem and case disposition. I look forward to working with you, and am honored to play a role in your unfolding story!
![Photo of Us At: - New London County Psychologists and Counselors, LMFT, LPC, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d3a6635-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
New London County Psychologists and Counselors
Psychologist, LMFT, LPC, PhD, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterford, CT 06385
With literally hundreds of therapists in New London County alone, it is hard to know who to see. There are so many different degrees, license types, and approaches. By contacting us, we'll help you find a good match with a therapist in our Waterford practice. If we cannot find you a good match within our practice, we will find you one outside of it either nearby or elsewhere in the county (evaluation required).
With literally hundreds of therapists in New London County alone, it is hard to know who to see. There are so many different degrees, license types, and approaches. By contacting us, we'll help you find a good match with a therapist in our Waterford practice. If we cannot find you a good match within our practice, we will find you one outside of it either nearby or elsewhere in the county (evaluation required).
![Photo of Kristine Schlichting - Hopewell Health Solutions Psychology Group, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8106250-ae85-4236-a80d-f33191ba212f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hopewell Health Solutions Psychology Group
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Hi! This is your first step to feeling and doing better- it is very difficult to find a place that that you can trust with your mental health. We have been in thriving for the last 14 years and the reason is that our clients are provided with an exceptional experience at HHS. We will match you with a therapist who specializes in what you are seeking and put you on the road to getting better. We also have other services in house such as medication management, psychiatric care, and outpatient group programs. We work together to address all the issues that can come up during your journey to health and wellness!
Hi! This is your first step to feeling and doing better- it is very difficult to find a place that that you can trust with your mental health. We have been in thriving for the last 14 years and the reason is that our clients are provided with an exceptional experience at HHS. We will match you with a therapist who specializes in what you are seeking and put you on the road to getting better. We also have other services in house such as medication management, psychiatric care, and outpatient group programs. We work together to address all the issues that can come up during your journey to health and wellness!
![Photo of Brittney Jackson, MSW, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93cc6391-15e6-4b08-882f-1606ddaf849f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittney Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cheshire, CT 06410 (Online Only)
Have you been thinking about making changes in your life? Are you looking for someone to support you through those changes? My name is Brittney and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My background includes working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, homelessness, relationship and family problems, and lgbtqia+ issues. I have also provided early childhood interventions that help vulnerable families and children heal from the devastating impact of trauma and chronic stress while focusing on building healthy attachments.
Have you been thinking about making changes in your life? Are you looking for someone to support you through those changes? My name is Brittney and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My background includes working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, homelessness, relationship and family problems, and lgbtqia+ issues. I have also provided early childhood interventions that help vulnerable families and children heal from the devastating impact of trauma and chronic stress while focusing on building healthy attachments.
![Photo of John Suchocki, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40195577-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
John Suchocki
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling depressed, lonely, anxious, or irritable? Are you and your partner having the same argument over and over again? I have been helping individuals create positive changes in their lives for over 20 years. I provide a relaxed, strength-based, and solution-focused atmosphere to empower individuals to meet and exceed their goals. As a licensed therapist and a certified school counselor, I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with various concerns and issues. These include anxiety, depression, OCD, alcohol and drug abuse, infidelity, divorce, school problems, and relationship / family conflicts.
Are you feeling depressed, lonely, anxious, or irritable? Are you and your partner having the same argument over and over again? I have been helping individuals create positive changes in their lives for over 20 years. I provide a relaxed, strength-based, and solution-focused atmosphere to empower individuals to meet and exceed their goals. As a licensed therapist and a certified school counselor, I have had the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with various concerns and issues. These include anxiety, depression, OCD, alcohol and drug abuse, infidelity, divorce, school problems, and relationship / family conflicts.
![Photo of Sam Schaperow, MSMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bec8b17-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Schaperow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Waterford, CT 06385
Currently taking clients for >diagnostic evaluations<, couples, & >group therapy<. I am a caring, evidence-based, and holistic (consideration of the whole) therapist looking forward to challenging cases from people needing my expertise. Making use of a wide variety of therapies, from verbal to non-verbal, devoting much time on each of the select cases I take, and engaging in colleague consultations, I am often able to help with even the most challenging of issues. I also see children, doing family therapy even for the toughest kids. You'll see the difference family support makes, rather than my just trying to "fix the kid".
Currently taking clients for >diagnostic evaluations<, couples, & >group therapy<. I am a caring, evidence-based, and holistic (consideration of the whole) therapist looking forward to challenging cases from people needing my expertise. Making use of a wide variety of therapies, from verbal to non-verbal, devoting much time on each of the select cases I take, and engaging in colleague consultations, I am often able to help with even the most challenging of issues. I also see children, doing family therapy even for the toughest kids. You'll see the difference family support makes, rather than my just trying to "fix the kid".
![Photo of Nadine Padowicz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c23ca5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
In the past 18 years I have become quite adept at working with clients who have trauma histories. Trauma can be major or it can be minor. I find that all human beings have experienced some form of trauma in their lives and this trauma often contributes to our current challenges. I use a method called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with many of my clients. This is a physiological method that is both quick and effective. So whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction, ect. I can help you both rapidly and dramatically.
In the past 18 years I have become quite adept at working with clients who have trauma histories. Trauma can be major or it can be minor. I find that all human beings have experienced some form of trauma in their lives and this trauma often contributes to our current challenges. I use a method called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with many of my clients. This is a physiological method that is both quick and effective. So whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction, ect. I can help you both rapidly and dramatically.
![Photo of Kelly Meany, LCSW, CSAT-Ca, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23959937-d437-48b1-bf70-58ad27312894/1/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone has a story to tell and sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is share their story. When your story is holding you back from becoming the greatest version of yourself then it’s time to work through any negative messages you may have been telling yourself. I believe we all have the tools we need to accomplish our goals. If it’s hysterical, it’s historical. I help you identify present day triggers and figure out where it stems from so you can free yourself from what has been holding you back. I specialize in EMDR, CBT, and I am currently getting my CSAT certification. I am licensed in both New York and Connecticut.
Everyone has a story to tell and sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is share their story. When your story is holding you back from becoming the greatest version of yourself then it’s time to work through any negative messages you may have been telling yourself. I believe we all have the tools we need to accomplish our goals. If it’s hysterical, it’s historical. I help you identify present day triggers and figure out where it stems from so you can free yourself from what has been holding you back. I specialize in EMDR, CBT, and I am currently getting my CSAT certification. I am licensed in both New York and Connecticut.
![Photo of Nina Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/148d4a7c-bdd5-419e-98e4-a9896182e0a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nina Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
Waitlist for new clients
I feel honored to do this work and have much experience working succesfully with kids of all ages, parents and adults. Finding the right therapist is much like finding the right pair of jeans....you want to make sure they fit well. Every counselor will have his/her own style which may not feel comfortable for every person. I offer a multi-step evaluation process, before we agree to longer-term work. If my style of work isn't well- matched to your needs, I'll help you find someone else who is.
I feel honored to do this work and have much experience working succesfully with kids of all ages, parents and adults. Finding the right therapist is much like finding the right pair of jeans....you want to make sure they fit well. Every counselor will have his/her own style which may not feel comfortable for every person. I offer a multi-step evaluation process, before we agree to longer-term work. If my style of work isn't well- matched to your needs, I'll help you find someone else who is.
![Photo of Debra Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b97ed54-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debra Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002 (Online Only)
After 33 years of experience with adults, children, families, and couples, and many transformational groups, I developed Heart Path Therapy® (HPT), integrating the most life changing tools. They include ancient spiritual wisdom, guided imagery, inner childwork, energy psychology (similar to EFT & EMDR), use of sound, and ancestral connection work (Family Constellations). The goal is to transform emotional and relational struggles by bringing compassion to the source and in turn empower a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life. Join an adolescent or adult HPT® GROUP, inspiring online heart opening communities.
After 33 years of experience with adults, children, families, and couples, and many transformational groups, I developed Heart Path Therapy® (HPT), integrating the most life changing tools. They include ancient spiritual wisdom, guided imagery, inner childwork, energy psychology (similar to EFT & EMDR), use of sound, and ancestral connection work (Family Constellations). The goal is to transform emotional and relational struggles by bringing compassion to the source and in turn empower a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life. Join an adolescent or adult HPT® GROUP, inspiring online heart opening communities.
![Photo of Sandra A Coakley, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e1146ec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra A Coakley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
My ideal client is looking for therapy to help them and wants to change their life for the better.
My ideal client is looking for therapy to help them and wants to change their life for the better.
![Photo of Vivian Jean Reddin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a5a4f38-08af-4c44-bf5c-86e61b5ec017/2/320x400.jpeg)
I AM TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Are you feeling stuck and ready to make life changes? Is stress ruining your fun? Are you grieving? I believe in treating people unconditionally with respect and non-judgment. Learn to slow down your thoughts to decrease anxiety and depression by focusing on what you have control over. Create more structure to decrease anxiety. Learn effective breathing and muscle relaxation to ease chronic pain and improve sleep. I incorporate Yoga into the healing practice to relieve stress and increase joy. Art and play can help children and youth express emotions when working with them.
I AM TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Are you feeling stuck and ready to make life changes? Is stress ruining your fun? Are you grieving? I believe in treating people unconditionally with respect and non-judgment. Learn to slow down your thoughts to decrease anxiety and depression by focusing on what you have control over. Create more structure to decrease anxiety. Learn effective breathing and muscle relaxation to ease chronic pain and improve sleep. I incorporate Yoga into the healing practice to relieve stress and increase joy. Art and play can help children and youth express emotions when working with them.
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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.