Therapists in Polk County, GA
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Georgia below.Online Therapists
![Photo of Stephanie Westbrook - Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC, MS, LPC, CPCS , CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65e00a3c-5eef-4791-99c0-2f9ea3c5c9c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Center For Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS , CCTP
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269 (Online Only)
smoking cessation, weight loss).
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
smoking cessation, weight loss).
Do you feel stuck, as though no matter what you do, you always end up in the same space? Do you continue on with your daily responsibilities, but don't feel fulfilled or enthusiastic about life? Every day feels the same and the things that once excited you are now memories. So what now? What's next? Do you continue down the same path or do you start making changes? Today is the day to take the first step, in the right direction and, "Create A Life That You Love."
![Photo of Jackie Faass, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83cc1d27-cc74-4598-a296-66e6c4839db7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Though I work with a wide range of clients and a variety of presenting issues, I am particularly drawn to creatives struggling with anxiety and depression. I practice with a feminist focus, striving for equality, advocacy, and equity between all clients and their relationships. My previous experience as an art teacher and artist grants me a deep love for the arts as a tool for healing, which I often use in my practice. I also enjoy working as an ally and advocate for equitable treatment for those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. My clients include adult (18+ yrs.) individuals and couples.
Though I work with a wide range of clients and a variety of presenting issues, I am particularly drawn to creatives struggling with anxiety and depression. I practice with a feminist focus, striving for equality, advocacy, and equity between all clients and their relationships. My previous experience as an art teacher and artist grants me a deep love for the arts as a tool for healing, which I often use in my practice. I also enjoy working as an ally and advocate for equitable treatment for those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. My clients include adult (18+ yrs.) individuals and couples.
![Photo of Stephanie Westbrook - Lotus Center for Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3969bb18-15e0-44c3-892e-e9417b0e513b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lotus Center for Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214 (Online Only)
Have you been meeting your goals and achieving success, but still feel unhappy and dissatisfied? Do you often feel as though you are just going through life but are not truly present savoring the day? Are you spending too much time scrolling on social media watching people’s lives opposed to living your own? Is today the day you take the first step towards getting “unstuck” and out of this rut? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are in the right place! We can help you move out of the mud and into the sunshine! You were born to thrive and enjoy life. Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.
Have you been meeting your goals and achieving success, but still feel unhappy and dissatisfied? Do you often feel as though you are just going through life but are not truly present savoring the day? Are you spending too much time scrolling on social media watching people’s lives opposed to living your own? Is today the day you take the first step towards getting “unstuck” and out of this rut? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are in the right place! We can help you move out of the mud and into the sunshine! You were born to thrive and enjoy life. Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.
![Photo of Danielle R. Bonich - Chapelhill Counseling Center, LCSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c4423fa-2245-4ea4-be50-af62a065ebc4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chapelhill Counseling Center is a faith-sensitive counseling practice featuring fully licensed clinicians who accept most forms of insurance. We offer counseling from a Christian perspective all the while maintaining an ethical position where the views of the counselors are not imposed upon the client. For clients that choose to integrate their Christian faith into the therapeutic process, they will find our counselors more than equipped to do so.
Chapelhill Counseling Center is a faith-sensitive counseling practice featuring fully licensed clinicians who accept most forms of insurance. We offer counseling from a Christian perspective all the while maintaining an ethical position where the views of the counselors are not imposed upon the client. For clients that choose to integrate their Christian faith into the therapeutic process, they will find our counselors more than equipped to do so.
![Photo of Theresa J Holt - Helping Other Live Together Inc., EdD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4869d68f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
![Photo of Keisha Reaves - Push Thru Therapy, NCC, LPC, CPCS, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f48b3fe5-99a2-41f4-8acb-381198258a2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Push Thru Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CPCS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with past traumas that impact your relationships or daily life? Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of work, family, and your own personal needs? Recovering from a breakup and finding it hard to move forward? At Push Thru Therapy, we understand that everyone’s journey is unique. Our dedicated group practice is committed to supporting individuals through various life challenges, no matter how big or small. We provide a safe and welcoming space where all clients, including women, mothers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, can explore and address their concerns.
Are you struggling with past traumas that impact your relationships or daily life? Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of work, family, and your own personal needs? Recovering from a breakup and finding it hard to move forward? At Push Thru Therapy, we understand that everyone’s journey is unique. Our dedicated group practice is committed to supporting individuals through various life challenges, no matter how big or small. We provide a safe and welcoming space where all clients, including women, mothers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, can explore and address their concerns.
![Photo of Ingrid Jennifer Lacey, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, GLCMA, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f9dfe65-9c35-4bc2-92cd-0cb39a301d76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ingrid Jennifer Lacey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, GLCMA, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30312
I am not currently accepting new clients. Hello! Is something holding you back from living life to your fullest potential? Feeling stuck? Anxious? Depressed and unable to thrive in your current life situation? As a licensed professional clinical counselor and board certified somatic psychotherapist, I will address your concerns with an integrated approach to support your journey on the path towards a life worth living.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Hello! Is something holding you back from living life to your fullest potential? Feeling stuck? Anxious? Depressed and unable to thrive in your current life situation? As a licensed professional clinical counselor and board certified somatic psychotherapist, I will address your concerns with an integrated approach to support your journey on the path towards a life worth living.
![Photo of Jesaira Glover - Create Your Own Oasis , MA, LPC, NCC, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/657163e2-53c7-4104-bcb7-e23fd1639736/2/320x400.jpeg)
Create Your Own Oasis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30328
Are you currently navigating a difficult time in your life? Do you find it hard to manage change? Are you struggling to find your own voice? Do you seek validation from unhealthy sources? Can you identify healthy relational boundaries at work and home? Has work become a toxic environment? If you have answered yes to many of these questions, consider talking to someone who will create a space for you to evolve into your authentic self.
Are you currently navigating a difficult time in your life? Do you find it hard to manage change? Are you struggling to find your own voice? Do you seek validation from unhealthy sources? Can you identify healthy relational boundaries at work and home? Has work become a toxic environment? If you have answered yes to many of these questions, consider talking to someone who will create a space for you to evolve into your authentic self.
![Photo of Lavonia Brown - LSB Consulting Services, LLC, PhD, MS, LPCC, CDS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50f7903f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
LSB Consulting Services, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MS, LPCC, CDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Locust Grove, GA 30248
Phd(c) Lavonia Brown is a Professional Mental Health Counselor in private practice owner for LSB Consulting & Counseling Services. In this role, Mrs. Brown provides emotional support and counsel to children, adolescents, and young adults to help overcome the effects of stressful and traumatic life experiences on the client's emotional well-being. Mrs. Brown's approach to counseling incorporates an empathic, holistic, playful, providing genuine healing and a faith-based approach to psychotherapy with clients and families. By collaborating and forming relationships with school-based counselors, social workers, parents and teachers.
Phd(c) Lavonia Brown is a Professional Mental Health Counselor in private practice owner for LSB Consulting & Counseling Services. In this role, Mrs. Brown provides emotional support and counsel to children, adolescents, and young adults to help overcome the effects of stressful and traumatic life experiences on the client's emotional well-being. Mrs. Brown's approach to counseling incorporates an empathic, holistic, playful, providing genuine healing and a faith-based approach to psychotherapy with clients and families. By collaborating and forming relationships with school-based counselors, social workers, parents and teachers.
![Photo of Bryn Chafin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2144e875-01fc-4dce-b22e-349e7246e6c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking balance? I am a trained social worker who works with women, men, couples, and adolescents. You may struggle with situations and issues in your life including but not limited to coping with strong emotions, thinking poorly of yourself, a traumatic event or experiencing frustration in relationships. Therapy, to me, is a collaborative process in which one is able to reflect on thought processes, emotional states, roles in a system, and ineffective behaviors while in a safe and secure environment. I try to create a collaborative alliance with my clients that allows them to understand themselves better and find balance.
Seeking balance? I am a trained social worker who works with women, men, couples, and adolescents. You may struggle with situations and issues in your life including but not limited to coping with strong emotions, thinking poorly of yourself, a traumatic event or experiencing frustration in relationships. Therapy, to me, is a collaborative process in which one is able to reflect on thought processes, emotional states, roles in a system, and ineffective behaviors while in a safe and secure environment. I try to create a collaborative alliance with my clients that allows them to understand themselves better and find balance.
![Photo of Gathering Precious Stones Llc, LPC, CPCS, NCCH, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b322e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gathering Precious Stones Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCCH, CAMS
Verified Verified
McDonough, GA 30253
It is my passion to help others find the value in their lives; while discovering the core of life's issues. Over 20 years experience in the field. I offer a non-judgement space for healing, for children, adolescents, and adults.
It is my passion to help others find the value in their lives; while discovering the core of life's issues. Over 20 years experience in the field. I offer a non-judgement space for healing, for children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of Travis Sanderson, MS, CMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4883bbae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Travis Sanderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Blue Ridge, GA 30513 (Online Only)
Travis believes in a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust to help individuals and families achieve their goals. He has specialization in clinical psychology, children and adolescents, substance, Couples and Families, Depression and Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Addiction, trauma, outdoor recreation, and mental health counseling. As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients on their personal journeys. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, and ultimately developing a life in which they feel they can thrive.
Travis believes in a healthy therapeutic relationship built on trust to help individuals and families achieve their goals. He has specialization in clinical psychology, children and adolescents, substance, Couples and Families, Depression and Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Addiction, trauma, outdoor recreation, and mental health counseling. As a mental health counselor, it has always been my privilege to work alongside clients on their personal journeys. Each individual has such a personal experience in which their life has been based. I believe in meeting clients where they are at, working toward personal goals, and ultimately developing a life in which they feel they can thrive.
![Photo of Laura Lebovitz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b0fd673-3595-490c-8b55-0b8a53bfafb6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Lebovitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097 (Online Only)
We all go through struggles. Sometimes it can feel difficult to go on the journey to peace, resiliency, and health on our own. Torridon Counseling can help you tap into your inner strength and harness it to create the strongest and healthiest you. Let’s go on that journey together.
We all go through struggles. Sometimes it can feel difficult to go on the journey to peace, resiliency, and health on our own. Torridon Counseling can help you tap into your inner strength and harness it to create the strongest and healthiest you. Let’s go on that journey together.
![Photo of Lisa Ibekwe - The Comfy Place, MSW, LCSW, CAMSII, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cd60ce0-1b95-41ff-b548-97c3af58a550/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Comfy Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAMSII, LICSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Hiram, GA 30141
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new & sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. We are a group of therapists dedicated to helping kids, teens, adults, couples, & families heal. We understand that life has many ups & downs so we aim to create a safe space where people can have FUN, get REAL, and HEAL. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life.
Welcome to The Comfy Place! We know that seeking out therapy can be a new & sometimes uncomfortable experience, but we appreciate you considering us to help you on your journey. We are a group of therapists dedicated to helping kids, teens, adults, couples, & families heal. We understand that life has many ups & downs so we aim to create a safe space where people can have FUN, get REAL, and HEAL. We want everyone to feel like they are a part of our Comfy Place family where we welcome all with open arms no matter where they are on their walk in life.
![Photo of Jennifer P., LPC, CMHIMP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9888ce28-9354-4d50-9cbe-cb0c38c0e4d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer P.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30316 (Online Only)
Would you believe that many of our personal problems stem from our early childhood experiences? As an integrative mind-body psychotherapist, Jennifer helps clients navigate through a range of issues including abandonment, conflictual relationships and healing the inner wounded child. Jennifer enjoys working with clients on their shadow self, whether it be facing challenges related to depression, childhood issues which now require tools necessary, as an adult, to re-parent oneself or simply lifestyle and nutritional guidance. Her goal, from a holistic approach, is to meet each of her clients where they are.
Would you believe that many of our personal problems stem from our early childhood experiences? As an integrative mind-body psychotherapist, Jennifer helps clients navigate through a range of issues including abandonment, conflictual relationships and healing the inner wounded child. Jennifer enjoys working with clients on their shadow self, whether it be facing challenges related to depression, childhood issues which now require tools necessary, as an adult, to re-parent oneself or simply lifestyle and nutritional guidance. Her goal, from a holistic approach, is to meet each of her clients where they are.
![Photo of Kim McFarland - Play Therapy and Counseling Center: Kim McFarland, LCSW, RPT-S, Teacher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c4b5225-368e-4780-abdd-1a10518a8d01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Play Therapy and Counseling Center: Kim McFarland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, Teacher
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Young Harris, GA 30582 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my therapy sessions, I step away from the traditional "talk-only" approach. Instead, I invite you into a world where therapy is interactive and dynamic, engaging more than just our conversation skills. Clients are from any life stage, ready to engage deeply in therapy beyond conventional talk. They're proactive individuals, from energetic children to reflective seniors, all seeking a therapeutic experience that's as varied and dynamic as life itself.
In my therapy sessions, I step away from the traditional "talk-only" approach. Instead, I invite you into a world where therapy is interactive and dynamic, engaging more than just our conversation skills. Clients are from any life stage, ready to engage deeply in therapy beyond conventional talk. They're proactive individuals, from energetic children to reflective seniors, all seeking a therapeutic experience that's as varied and dynamic as life itself.
![Photo of Lisa C Bryan, LPC, NCC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be83182-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa C Bryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
Are you nervous, having panic attacks, shortness of breath, or maybe your heart is racing and you can't explain it; it could potentially be anxiety. Maybe for lack of better coping skills you have increased your use of alcohol or drugs. Maybe your family is telling you you are addicted to or abusing alcohol or drugs, but you don't know what else to do. Some people don't understand what is happening to their body and are fearful of where to go or how to get help.
![Photo of Aleta L. Sisson - Aleta L. Sisson, MA, LPC, LCMHC, LCPC, MA, LPC, LCMHC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff8f246-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aleta L. Sisson, MA, LPC, LCMHC, LCPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, GA 30528
I am licensed in GA, VT, & MT, practicing for 33 years. I specialize in treating Post-traumatic Stress DO using EMDR, a trauma therapy which transforms lives, allowing people to put the past in the past and live fully in the present. I am certified as an Emotionally Focused Couple’s therapist (EFT), the only research supported couples therapy. I assist with traumatic grief from sudden loss, which completely disorients and is rarely understood. To empower clients, I emphasize overall health & the benefits of optimal nutrition, exercise, & stress reduction, actions they can take on their own to improve their lives.
I am licensed in GA, VT, & MT, practicing for 33 years. I specialize in treating Post-traumatic Stress DO using EMDR, a trauma therapy which transforms lives, allowing people to put the past in the past and live fully in the present. I am certified as an Emotionally Focused Couple’s therapist (EFT), the only research supported couples therapy. I assist with traumatic grief from sudden loss, which completely disorients and is rarely understood. To empower clients, I emphasize overall health & the benefits of optimal nutrition, exercise, & stress reduction, actions they can take on their own to improve their lives.
![Photo of Heather Rosemarie Coll, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77b8114a-aa28-4348-8f87-568abbea17f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Rosemarie Coll
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodstock, GA 30188 (Online Only)
Are you interested in reaching your full potential and seeking solutions for a better tomorrow? With the use of EMDR, you can neutralize the past, eradicate unwanted symptoms such as anxiety and depression, increase self-esteem, and create the life you want. For the last fifteen years, I have successfully shifted clients who reported not feeling a benefit with traditional talk therapy. I am progressive in the therapy approaches I utilize and am partial to modalities that are evidence-based and well researched, such as EMDR, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM), & Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).
Are you interested in reaching your full potential and seeking solutions for a better tomorrow? With the use of EMDR, you can neutralize the past, eradicate unwanted symptoms such as anxiety and depression, increase self-esteem, and create the life you want. For the last fifteen years, I have successfully shifted clients who reported not feeling a benefit with traditional talk therapy. I am progressive in the therapy approaches I utilize and am partial to modalities that are evidence-based and well researched, such as EMDR, Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories (RTM), & Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).
![Photo of Amanda Masters, MA, CHT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66295b49-880e-4296-8835-e8a18e88b8f9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Masters
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
I am a person-centered, holistic therapist who views all of my clients as the expert to their own lives. I feel that the therapeutic relationship is most successful with the use of empathetic, compassionate, nonjudgmental communication between the counselor and the client(s). I enjoy incorporating an array of therapeutic techniques and approaches, as I believe all clients are beautifully unique.
I am a person-centered, holistic therapist who views all of my clients as the expert to their own lives. I feel that the therapeutic relationship is most successful with the use of empathetic, compassionate, nonjudgmental communication between the counselor and the client(s). I enjoy incorporating an array of therapeutic techniques and approaches, as I believe all clients are beautifully unique.
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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.