Weight Loss Therapists in Miami Beach, FL

Photo of Alessana Fordin, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Alessana Fordin
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Specializing in guiding clients towards meaningful and enduring transformations in their lives is my focus—be it navigating the aftermath of a marriage, achieving weight loss goals, conquering addictions or eating disorders, fostering and sustaining relationships, or mastering anger management.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
Specializing in guiding clients towards meaningful and enduring transformations in their lives is my focus—be it navigating the aftermath of a marriage, achieving weight loss goals, conquering addictions or eating disorders, fostering and sustaining relationships, or mastering anger management.
If you're facing challenges within your relationships or want to enact positive changes in your life but find yourself stuck, there's a path forward. Overcoming feelings of depression and anxiety, along with learning to manage anger effectively, are entirely within your reach. Break away the barriers that prevent you from living a life filled with satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy. As a highly trained psychotherapist, I employ a holistic and personalized approach tailored to your individual needs. For further details, I invite you to visit my website at www.lotuscounseling.com.
(305) 834-4115 View (305) 834-4115
Photo of Bradley Kerschensteiner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bradley Kerschensteiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140
I recognize how difficult it can be to ask for help. I also firmly believe that this is the most critical first step in the healing and change process. I provide psychotherapy services for adult individuals and couples in a professional, collaborative and confidential environment. Call today and let me help you cultivate greater mental, emotional and spiritual health in your personal life, relationships and the workplace.
I recognize how difficult it can be to ask for help. I also firmly believe that this is the most critical first step in the healing and change process. I provide psychotherapy services for adult individuals and couples in a professional, collaborative and confidential environment. Call today and let me help you cultivate greater mental, emotional and spiritual health in your personal life, relationships and the workplace.
(786) 201-4543 View (786) 201-4543
Photo of Netta Shaked - Dr. Netta Shaked, PhD, PhD, Doctor, Psychologist
Dr. Netta Shaked, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, Doctor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY specializing in FAMILY LAW/CUSTODY & HIGH CONFLICT, ADHD evals & treatment, GIFTED testing, ANXIETY and DEPRESSION. You're here because something is off. Maybe you're hurt, or maybe you're in the midst of a real crisis. I applaud you for getting this far. Choose who you work with wisely. CHOOSE A DOCTOR. CHOOSE A DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY. IT'S FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH. I am Dr. Netta Shaked, SOUTH BEACH PSYCHOLOGIST®. I am a FL & NY licensed psychologist providing services, in-person or online, in English, Spanish & Hebrew. I am easy to relate to, warm and compassionate. FREE PARKING
DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY specializing in FAMILY LAW/CUSTODY & HIGH CONFLICT, ADHD evals & treatment, GIFTED testing, ANXIETY and DEPRESSION. You're here because something is off. Maybe you're hurt, or maybe you're in the midst of a real crisis. I applaud you for getting this far. Choose who you work with wisely. CHOOSE A DOCTOR. CHOOSE A DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY. IT'S FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH. I am Dr. Netta Shaked, SOUTH BEACH PSYCHOLOGIST®. I am a FL & NY licensed psychologist providing services, in-person or online, in English, Spanish & Hebrew. I am easy to relate to, warm and compassionate. FREE PARKING
(786) 942-9425 View (786) 942-9425
Photo of Daisy Papp
Daisy Papp
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
(305) 834-4575 View (305) 834-4575
Photo of Esther Neuman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther Neuman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
I believe that you are the hero of your story and that you have many strengths that can guide you in overcoming life's obstacles and challenges. I have experience in helping clients with stress & anxiety, relationship issues, divorce adjustment, going through divorce or separation, teens, family conflicts, pregnancy and post pregnancy, children, & parenting issues. I am a therapist with over 10 years of professional experience. I feel that the therapeutic experience doesn't just end with the session and I make myself available in between sessions if necessary as well. I also work as a life coach helping navigate life events.
I believe that you are the hero of your story and that you have many strengths that can guide you in overcoming life's obstacles and challenges. I have experience in helping clients with stress & anxiety, relationship issues, divorce adjustment, going through divorce or separation, teens, family conflicts, pregnancy and post pregnancy, children, & parenting issues. I am a therapist with over 10 years of professional experience. I feel that the therapeutic experience doesn't just end with the session and I make myself available in between sessions if necessary as well. I also work as a life coach helping navigate life events.
(305) 749-9169 View (305) 749-9169
Photo of Jonathan Putty, MS, CMHC
Jonathan Putty
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
I am enthusiastically committed to helping you navigate life’s challenges and reach a higher level of emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, direct communication, and evidence-based techniques that are tailored to each person’s unique set of needs and circumstances. As we work together, my goal is to assist you in overcoming negative patterns and processes so that you can reach a greater sense of understanding and peace. It is not always an easy journey, but we will partner to “clear the path” together.
I am enthusiastically committed to helping you navigate life’s challenges and reach a higher level of emotional well-being. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, direct communication, and evidence-based techniques that are tailored to each person’s unique set of needs and circumstances. As we work together, my goal is to assist you in overcoming negative patterns and processes so that you can reach a greater sense of understanding and peace. It is not always an easy journey, but we will partner to “clear the path” together.
(786) 983-6304 View (786) 983-6304
Photo of Saimir Thano, PhD, Psychologist
Saimir Thano
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109
Do you desire a meaningful relationship with yourself and others? Are life challenges impacting your quality of life? If so, you are not alone and therapy can provide you with the guidance and support needed to move toward mental, physical, and emotional balance for a healthier more successful life. I believe creating a strong therapeutic relationship is of paramount importance in the process of change and a key ingredient towards your progress in therapy. While being supportive, I’ll also challenge you to acknowledge and confront unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviors that are interfering with your personal goals.
Do you desire a meaningful relationship with yourself and others? Are life challenges impacting your quality of life? If so, you are not alone and therapy can provide you with the guidance and support needed to move toward mental, physical, and emotional balance for a healthier more successful life. I believe creating a strong therapeutic relationship is of paramount importance in the process of change and a key ingredient towards your progress in therapy. While being supportive, I’ll also challenge you to acknowledge and confront unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviors that are interfering with your personal goals.
(949) 312-5747 View (949) 312-5747
Photo of Shoshanah E. Glucksman, LMFT, LMHC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shoshanah E. Glucksman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140  (Online Only)
You've already succeeded, you took the first step, you reached out to find solutions to the unsettling emotions and challenges you've been experiencing. As a Licensed Marriage & Family/Mental Health counslor and trauma specialist, I work with you collaboratively, advocating and supporting you to strengthen your voice and become more assertively present in your life. I often work with clients that feel stuck, helping them create a life that is vibrant and alive. Imagine being present without needing to numb the pain when triggers or challenges arise. Let me guide you whether as an individual a couple or family.
You've already succeeded, you took the first step, you reached out to find solutions to the unsettling emotions and challenges you've been experiencing. As a Licensed Marriage & Family/Mental Health counslor and trauma specialist, I work with you collaboratively, advocating and supporting you to strengthen your voice and become more assertively present in your life. I often work with clients that feel stuck, helping them create a life that is vibrant and alive. Imagine being present without needing to numb the pain when triggers or challenges arise. Let me guide you whether as an individual a couple or family.
(305) 487-8385 View (305) 487-8385
Photo of Lindsay Bira - Dr. Lindsay Bira, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lindsay Bira
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
I help you gain control over difficult issues QUICKLY to feel happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. First, we need the right understanding of the issue ... then I use research-based approaches to maximize benefit in as few sessions as possible. Many of my clients are high-functioning, working professionals who are experiencing symptoms they just can't shake - we work together to solve that and get you back to feeling good in your life. Even just 1 session of good therapy should feel very helpful.
I help you gain control over difficult issues QUICKLY to feel happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. First, we need the right understanding of the issue ... then I use research-based approaches to maximize benefit in as few sessions as possible. Many of my clients are high-functioning, working professionals who are experiencing symptoms they just can't shake - we work together to solve that and get you back to feeling good in your life. Even just 1 session of good therapy should feel very helpful.
(305) 340-0327 View (305) 340-0327
Photo of Dr. Gulsah Cetin, PhD, MS, CFARS, FARS, LMHC
Dr. Gulsah Cetin
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, PhD, MS, CFARS, FARS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140
My primary interest in therapy has been helping people discover and be their true "self." This involves examining who you truly are, the relationships you're in, and identifying barriers that hinder you from achieving the life you desire. I view therapy as a self-discovery journey—an attentive and supportive exploration of your actions, thoughts, emotions, and relationships, influenced by your life experiences. Additionally, I am trained in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy to enhance the therapeutic process.
My primary interest in therapy has been helping people discover and be their true "self." This involves examining who you truly are, the relationships you're in, and identifying barriers that hinder you from achieving the life you desire. I view therapy as a self-discovery journey—an attentive and supportive exploration of your actions, thoughts, emotions, and relationships, influenced by your life experiences. Additionally, I am trained in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy to enhance the therapeutic process.
(786) 507-8661 View (786) 507-8661
Photo of Crystal Louise Perdue - Crystal Perdue, Therapy and Coaching, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Perdue, Therapy and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33109  (Online Only)
Want change, fear discomfort? Lacking confidence to move forward in achieving your goals? Uncertain where to begin in creating a routine with healthy habits? I can help you by teaching you skills to communicate with confidence and assertion, which will allow you to accomplish your goals and make decisions based on your strengths, not fear. I will help you establish healthy lifestyle habits that will be long-lasting. You will begin recognizing negative thinking patterns that are creating obstacles in achieving your goals, replacing them with accurate thoughts with a positive spin allowing you to present a better version of yourself.
Want change, fear discomfort? Lacking confidence to move forward in achieving your goals? Uncertain where to begin in creating a routine with healthy habits? I can help you by teaching you skills to communicate with confidence and assertion, which will allow you to accomplish your goals and make decisions based on your strengths, not fear. I will help you establish healthy lifestyle habits that will be long-lasting. You will begin recognizing negative thinking patterns that are creating obstacles in achieving your goals, replacing them with accurate thoughts with a positive spin allowing you to present a better version of yourself.
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Photo of Norman Goldwasser, PhD, Psychologist
Norman Goldwasser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
My experience of well over 30 years of clinical practice has encompassed a wide range of issues and clients, including Narcissistic Personality; goal-oriented marital therapy; multi-modal treatment of OCD and other anxiety-related disorders; substance abuse and behavior addictions, including sex, gambling, spending, and internet addictions; Adult and adolescent ADD; divorce mediation and co-parenting; and trauma, and trauma-related phobias. With 25 years of intensive training and experience as an EMDR clinician and consultant, I use EMDR extensively, and use it to achieve timely and effective achievement of clients' goals.
My experience of well over 30 years of clinical practice has encompassed a wide range of issues and clients, including Narcissistic Personality; goal-oriented marital therapy; multi-modal treatment of OCD and other anxiety-related disorders; substance abuse and behavior addictions, including sex, gambling, spending, and internet addictions; Adult and adolescent ADD; divorce mediation and co-parenting; and trauma, and trauma-related phobias. With 25 years of intensive training and experience as an EMDR clinician and consultant, I use EMDR extensively, and use it to achieve timely and effective achievement of clients' goals.
(561) 288-8095 View (561) 288-8095
Photo of Elsa M Orlandini - Miami Psychology Group, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
Miami Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
(305) 676-9667 View (305) 676-9667
Photo of Tatiana Litviakova, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tatiana Litviakova
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
My life’s greatest passion is to study the complexity of the mind/consciousness and human suffering in order to find better ways to alleviate the pain that so many suffer. However, the variety and extent of pain that many people experience on a daily basis is, very often, far beyond the scope of a human psyche to handle. Over 8 years in the fields of trauma therapy and recovery, I am offering my clients my knowledge and experience in handling the pain of trauma of any kind, be it of depression or anxiety, PTSD/CPTSD, family or relationship issues, or abuse and neglect. Trauma has many faces, but healing has one - you happy face.
My life’s greatest passion is to study the complexity of the mind/consciousness and human suffering in order to find better ways to alleviate the pain that so many suffer. However, the variety and extent of pain that many people experience on a daily basis is, very often, far beyond the scope of a human psyche to handle. Over 8 years in the fields of trauma therapy and recovery, I am offering my clients my knowledge and experience in handling the pain of trauma of any kind, be it of depression or anxiety, PTSD/CPTSD, family or relationship issues, or abuse and neglect. Trauma has many faces, but healing has one - you happy face.
(786) 983-6045 View (786) 983-6045
Photo of Rivkah H. Simon, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Rivkah H. Simon
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
Maximize your potential! Sadness, depression,anxiety, adjustment or performance stress? Let"s reach your goals. Using therapeutic tools/ coaching techniques that have been part of my practice for 20 years,working together, we can achieve the best YOU possible. Each person that walks into my office is a unique individual and I create a treatment plan based on their needs, goals, and experiences. I utilize a combination of psychodynamic listening with practical techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, active listening, coaching and EMDR (for past or current trauma). I have extensive experience with eating disorders, depression and anxiety.
Maximize your potential! Sadness, depression,anxiety, adjustment or performance stress? Let"s reach your goals. Using therapeutic tools/ coaching techniques that have been part of my practice for 20 years,working together, we can achieve the best YOU possible. Each person that walks into my office is a unique individual and I create a treatment plan based on their needs, goals, and experiences. I utilize a combination of psychodynamic listening with practical techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, active listening, coaching and EMDR (for past or current trauma). I have extensive experience with eating disorders, depression and anxiety.
(786) 453-8141 View (786) 453-8141
Photo of Annie Shapiro - Annie Shapiro, Pre-Licensed Professional
Annie Shapiro
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
As a former Division 1 athlete and personal trainer, I adopt a holistic, full-body approach to mental health. Many of my clients seek therapy to tackle psychological symptoms stemming from both mental and physical imbalances. Together, we address common challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders, alongside the mental aspect of health issues like IBS, chronic pain, insomnia, and more. Let’s collaborate to help you become your best self on every level.
As a former Division 1 athlete and personal trainer, I adopt a holistic, full-body approach to mental health. Many of my clients seek therapy to tackle psychological symptoms stemming from both mental and physical imbalances. Together, we address common challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders, alongside the mental aspect of health issues like IBS, chronic pain, insomnia, and more. Let’s collaborate to help you become your best self on every level.
(786) 321-7767 View (786) 321-7767
Photo of Anna Marchenko, LMHC, MA, EdM, CCHt
Anna Marchenko
LMHC, MA, EdM, CCHt
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Anna Marchenko is a licensed mental health counselor with specialized training in trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), addiction, family counseling, and hypnotherapy. She earned her double Master's degree from Columbia University, New York. She continued her post-graduate education at International Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy and worked at Mount Sinai Hospital and CSEDNY of NY before going into full-time private practice. She provides psychotherapy in a variety of areas, including stress, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, adjustment, performance psychology, creative and work blocks, sexuality, and interpersonal issues.
Anna Marchenko is a licensed mental health counselor with specialized training in trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), addiction, family counseling, and hypnotherapy. She earned her double Master's degree from Columbia University, New York. She continued her post-graduate education at International Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy and worked at Mount Sinai Hospital and CSEDNY of NY before going into full-time private practice. She provides psychotherapy in a variety of areas, including stress, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, adjustment, performance psychology, creative and work blocks, sexuality, and interpersonal issues.
(305) 526-4405 View (305) 526-4405
Photo of Dr. Nicholas Ruben Scheidt, MS, PsyD, AADP, NRHSP, Doctor, Psychologist
Dr. Nicholas Ruben Scheidt
Psychologist, MS, PsyD, AADP, NRHSP, Doctor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Are you feeling stuck, unable to move forward because of the challenges in your life? Let me help you to put the pieces back together in your life and move towards what is most meaningful for you. I've served our community for over fifteen years helping people improve their lives at my Lincoln Road office. With training and experience serving diverse populations providing therapy in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, I strive to help clients gain a better understanding of the difficulties they face and to provide them with tools they can utilize to help them make lifelong changes.
Are you feeling stuck, unable to move forward because of the challenges in your life? Let me help you to put the pieces back together in your life and move towards what is most meaningful for you. I've served our community for over fifteen years helping people improve their lives at my Lincoln Road office. With training and experience serving diverse populations providing therapy in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, I strive to help clients gain a better understanding of the difficulties they face and to provide them with tools they can utilize to help them make lifelong changes.
(786) 837-6649 View (786) 837-6649
Photo of Ella Fies, RCSWI
Ella Fies
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33141
Hi there! My name is Ella (RCSWI) and I am so happy that you are here! My clients and I often use parts work/ Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) if it is requested. Furthermore, I offer therapy via Zoom, walking sessions or in a park. Much of my work has been with parents and children who have been involved with different policing systems. Whether that be family policing or the criminal legal system. Therefore I have a lot of experience working with PTSD, anxiety and other systems related trauma.
Hi there! My name is Ella (RCSWI) and I am so happy that you are here! My clients and I often use parts work/ Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) if it is requested. Furthermore, I offer therapy via Zoom, walking sessions or in a park. Much of my work has been with parents and children who have been involved with different policing systems. Whether that be family policing or the criminal legal system. Therefore I have a lot of experience working with PTSD, anxiety and other systems related trauma.
(786) 998-9738 View (786) 998-9738
Photo of Alexis R Brown, PhD, Psychologist
Alexis R Brown
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140  (Online Only)
We are all facing new and challenging times. As a licensed clinical psychologist for over 40 years, I am here to help. I provide a warm, caring, and safe environment where my clients can begin to cope with their isolation, depression, anxiety, loneliness, confusion, and many other issues. I offer teletherapy to my patients who are unable to come to the office for treatment or who would prefer to use teletherapy. I am highly trained and experienced working with adults on family relationship issues, financial stress, domestic abuse, etc. Not only am I professionally experienced, but also personally, as a mother of 4, grandmother of 8.
We are all facing new and challenging times. As a licensed clinical psychologist for over 40 years, I am here to help. I provide a warm, caring, and safe environment where my clients can begin to cope with their isolation, depression, anxiety, loneliness, confusion, and many other issues. I offer teletherapy to my patients who are unable to come to the office for treatment or who would prefer to use teletherapy. I am highly trained and experienced working with adults on family relationship issues, financial stress, domestic abuse, etc. Not only am I professionally experienced, but also personally, as a mother of 4, grandmother of 8.
(561) 600-5689 View (561) 600-5689
1

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.