Weight Loss Therapists in Park Ridge, IL

Photo of Ritu Trivedi-Purohit - Center for Behavioral Health & Wellness,LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Center for Behavioral Health & Wellness,LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
All services will be provided via Teletherapy and phone sessions due to COVID-19 pandemic. All sessions are conducted via a confidential telehealth platform.
All services will be provided via Teletherapy and phone sessions due to COVID-19 pandemic. All sessions are conducted via a confidential telehealth platform.
(847) 868-3916 x3 View (847) 868-3916 x3
Photo of Paulina Malysko, LCPC, Counselor
Paulina Malysko
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068  (Online Only)
Life can get very difficult at times and we all need some extra support sometimes. I believe in the importance of meeting the client where they are and creating a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment. I enjoy learning from others and offering active listening and guidance. I have over six years of experience working with substance abuse issues as well as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and self-development. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral approach in therapy. I am also fluent in Polish. Therapy involves challenging oneself, learning about oneself, and striving to make positive changes in order for growth to happen!
Life can get very difficult at times and we all need some extra support sometimes. I believe in the importance of meeting the client where they are and creating a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment. I enjoy learning from others and offering active listening and guidance. I have over six years of experience working with substance abuse issues as well as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and self-development. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral approach in therapy. I am also fluent in Polish. Therapy involves challenging oneself, learning about oneself, and striving to make positive changes in order for growth to happen!
(847) 232-6890 View (847) 232-6890
Photo of Meghann Richko, LCPC, CYT, Yoga, Fitness, Counselor
Meghann Richko
Counselor, LCPC, CYT, Yoga, Fitness
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Meghann Richko is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Yoga Therapist, and Fitness Professional. Her emphasis is on methods for managing a variety of conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress reduction, eating disorders, body image issues, mental and emotional disorders, improving nutrition, muscular skeletal issues, stress related illnesses, injury rehab and prevention, preventative health, and the psychological aspects of pain and pain management.
Meghann Richko is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Yoga Therapist, and Fitness Professional. Her emphasis is on methods for managing a variety of conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, stress reduction, eating disorders, body image issues, mental and emotional disorders, improving nutrition, muscular skeletal issues, stress related illnesses, injury rehab and prevention, preventative health, and the psychological aspects of pain and pain management.
(847) 278-2185 x8 View (847) 278-2185 x8
Photo of Dr. Lisa Page, PsyD, Counselor
Dr. Lisa Page
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
I am a Health Psychologist who approaches clients with empathy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an influence of Adlerian theory, to be goal-oriented and positive-focused in treating depression, anxiety, physical illnesses, sleep problems, weight management, recovery from substance use and other lifestyle conditions. I help people overcome their fears and resistance to change through the use of Motivational Interviewing (MI). This helps remove barriers to achieving goals and achieving them successfully. My purpose in my work is to help each client become the best version of their 'self'.
I am a Health Psychologist who approaches clients with empathy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an influence of Adlerian theory, to be goal-oriented and positive-focused in treating depression, anxiety, physical illnesses, sleep problems, weight management, recovery from substance use and other lifestyle conditions. I help people overcome their fears and resistance to change through the use of Motivational Interviewing (MI). This helps remove barriers to achieving goals and achieving them successfully. My purpose in my work is to help each client become the best version of their 'self'.
(773) 900-6173 View (773) 900-6173
Photo of Melissa Marie Waterfield-Copeland, MA, MBA, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Marie Waterfield-Copeland
Counselor, MA, MBA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Life is messy. Relationships are messy. Parenting . . . really messy. Whatever it is that's going on, perhaps your situation is leaving you anxious, depressed, discouraged, and maybe even a little hopeless at times. I Imagine you're here because you don't want to feel this way anymore. You're ready for something - anything, really - to change. Maybe someone encouraged you to reach out because they're worried about you. Maybe you're worried too. The good news is it doesn't have to be this way. It's your life to live. Let's work together to find out who YOU are and what matters most to you.
Life is messy. Relationships are messy. Parenting . . . really messy. Whatever it is that's going on, perhaps your situation is leaving you anxious, depressed, discouraged, and maybe even a little hopeless at times. I Imagine you're here because you don't want to feel this way anymore. You're ready for something - anything, really - to change. Maybe someone encouraged you to reach out because they're worried about you. Maybe you're worried too. The good news is it doesn't have to be this way. It's your life to live. Let's work together to find out who YOU are and what matters most to you.
(847) 416-1119 View (847) 416-1119
Photo of Analeise Parchen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Analeise Parchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
(773) 832-5650 View (773) 832-5650
Photo of Angelika Danek, LCSW, CRADC, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelika Danek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
(773) 830-3743 View (773) 830-3743
Photo of Jen Schroeder, PsyD, Psychologist
Jen Schroeder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Not accepting new clients
I work with individuals across the lifespan however my specialties are working with women and health care/mental health professionals. My Ideal clients are interested in deeper, longer-term work, and are open to emotional exploration and mind-body approaches. My areas of specialization include complex issues related to trauma, abuse or neglect, grief, loss, separation, life transition, relationship difficulties, dissociation, emotional regulation, sexuality, body image concerns, and fertility issues. I also have significant experience working with cancer survivors and their families as well as in the area of relational violence.
I work with individuals across the lifespan however my specialties are working with women and health care/mental health professionals. My Ideal clients are interested in deeper, longer-term work, and are open to emotional exploration and mind-body approaches. My areas of specialization include complex issues related to trauma, abuse or neglect, grief, loss, separation, life transition, relationship difficulties, dissociation, emotional regulation, sexuality, body image concerns, and fertility issues. I also have significant experience working with cancer survivors and their families as well as in the area of relational violence.
(847) 868-3322 View (847) 868-3322

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Diane Copeland, PsyD, Psychologist
Diane Copeland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
I have particular expertise in helping people struggling with overeating, weight management, and weight loss surgery to learn skills for lasting weight maintenance; both individually and in groups.
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
I have particular expertise in helping people struggling with overeating, weight management, and weight loss surgery to learn skills for lasting weight maintenance; both individually and in groups.
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(847) 512-8399 View (847) 512-8399
Photo of Dr. Lisa Oldson, MD, Coach
Dr. Lisa Oldson
MD, Coach
Verified Verified
Glenview, IL 60025  (Online Only)
At Smart Weight Loss Coaching, our online (Zoom) live webinar program is packed with information about the latest science. Lisa Oldson, MD leads the groups and shares cutting edge research about excess weight, how to lose it, and how to keep it off. This isn't your first rodeo, and we get that. We don't waste your time with weight loss basics, nor with unhelpful advice like, "Eat less and move more." This program is grounded in science, with mindset coaching, skills & strategies layered on top, to help women achieve long term success.
At Smart Weight Loss Coaching, our online (Zoom) live webinar program is packed with information about the latest science. Lisa Oldson, MD leads the groups and shares cutting edge research about excess weight, how to lose it, and how to keep it off. This isn't your first rodeo, and we get that. We don't waste your time with weight loss basics, nor with unhelpful advice like, "Eat less and move more." This program is grounded in science, with mindset coaching, skills & strategies layered on top, to help women achieve long term success.
(847) 262-4644 View (847) 262-4644
Photo of Asif A Khan, PsyD, Psychologist
Asif A Khan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60659
I can help with smoking cessation, weight loss, and habit disorders such as gambling or porn addiction.
Do you want to overcome depression or anxiety and feel confident? Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself getting angry quickly? Sometimes life transitions get difficult to manage. I have been helping people with these problems for 20 years and we can work collaboratively and holistically. We will focus on physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your personality. We will figure out your best qualities and strengths, your personal resources and virtues to realize your true potential that will help you heal.
I can help with smoking cessation, weight loss, and habit disorders such as gambling or porn addiction.
Do you want to overcome depression or anxiety and feel confident? Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself getting angry quickly? Sometimes life transitions get difficult to manage. I have been helping people with these problems for 20 years and we can work collaboratively and holistically. We will focus on physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your personality. We will figure out your best qualities and strengths, your personal resources and virtues to realize your true potential that will help you heal.
(630) 473-3156 View (630) 473-3156
Photo of Kerrie Weber, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kerrie Weber
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I also treat anxiety, depression, social phobia, low self-esteem, body image and disordered eating, weight loss, work-life balance, life transitions, postpartum, grief and loss, and divorce/break up recovery.
When life's challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a happy and productive life can be difficult. Asking for help through these times is not easy, but it's truly a sign of strength. I help individuals work through emotional problems by identifying and changing limiting and negative patterns in their life, and establishing healthier ways to cope with stress. This ultimately leads to improved self-esteem, empowerment, enriched relationships, and fulfillment. I work collaboratively with my clients, and establish a trusting therapeutic relationship providing compassion and support. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their personal goals.
I also treat anxiety, depression, social phobia, low self-esteem, body image and disordered eating, weight loss, work-life balance, life transitions, postpartum, grief and loss, and divorce/break up recovery.
When life's challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a happy and productive life can be difficult. Asking for help through these times is not easy, but it's truly a sign of strength. I help individuals work through emotional problems by identifying and changing limiting and negative patterns in their life, and establishing healthier ways to cope with stress. This ultimately leads to improved self-esteem, empowerment, enriched relationships, and fulfillment. I work collaboratively with my clients, and establish a trusting therapeutic relationship providing compassion and support. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their personal goals.
(773) 417-5871 View (773) 417-5871
Photo of Gregory J Harms, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Gregory J Harms
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I also do pre-surgical evaluations for clients considering weight loss or pain management surgeries.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
I also do pre-surgical evaluations for clients considering weight loss or pain management surgeries.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
(773) 985-3895 View (773) 985-3895
Photo of Lara Jakobsons, PhD, Psychologist
Lara Jakobsons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan -- children starting at age 2, tweens, adolescents, college students, young adults and adults. My specialties include anxiety, OCD, parenting, ADHD, tics, binge eating, and weight management. To achieve your goals, I offer evidence-based therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Exposure Plus Response Prevention (EXRP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan -- children starting at age 2, tweens, adolescents, college students, young adults and adults. My specialties include anxiety, OCD, parenting, ADHD, tics, binge eating, and weight management. To achieve your goals, I offer evidence-based therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Exposure Plus Response Prevention (EXRP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(224) 507-1792 View (224) 507-1792
Photo of Tarah Galloway, MAAT, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Tarah Galloway
Counselor, MAAT, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of feeling stuck, anxious, and overwhelmed? Tired of wearing a "mask" and pretending to be happy? Maybe your brain "knows" what you're supposed to do, but you just can't seem to do it. You really don't want to feel this way, but haven't been able to change it. And you're exhausted! I get it. Long story short: Been there. Done that. Not there anymore. I now help my clients heal the ROOT causes of their symptoms, not just "cope" with them. Imagine being able to respond to stressful situations calmly & effortlessly. Imagine being your authentic self without having to "pretend." It's possible. Let me help!
Are you tired of feeling stuck, anxious, and overwhelmed? Tired of wearing a "mask" and pretending to be happy? Maybe your brain "knows" what you're supposed to do, but you just can't seem to do it. You really don't want to feel this way, but haven't been able to change it. And you're exhausted! I get it. Long story short: Been there. Done that. Not there anymore. I now help my clients heal the ROOT causes of their symptoms, not just "cope" with them. Imagine being able to respond to stressful situations calmly & effortlessly. Imagine being your authentic self without having to "pretend." It's possible. Let me help!
(847) 305-3452 View (847) 305-3452
Photo of Bess Surmenkow, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Bess Surmenkow
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice, with offices in Northbrook, Chicago, and Schaumburg. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples consciously resolve the obstacles that keep them from reaching their full potential. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate space in which we can work collaboratively to explore the challenges you are facing. It is my goal to facilitate a supportive therapeutic relationship in which healing, insight and growth can take place.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in private practice, with offices in Northbrook, Chicago, and Schaumburg. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples consciously resolve the obstacles that keep them from reaching their full potential. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate space in which we can work collaboratively to explore the challenges you are facing. It is my goal to facilitate a supportive therapeutic relationship in which healing, insight and growth can take place.
(847) 380-2554 View (847) 380-2554
Photo of Rachel Lurie, LMFT, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Lurie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Does your weight interfere with your ability to feel good about yourself? Does your eating feel out of control or a constant source of anxiety? Have you tried diets, only to end up feeling like a failure? No matter where you are in your relationship with food, I can help you calm the vicious cycle of binging and dieting, allowing your body to return to a healthy and natural weight for you. Problems with eating affect every aspect of our lives, from relationships, to physical activity, and most importantly, to the seemingly simple act of enjoying one's own company.
Does your weight interfere with your ability to feel good about yourself? Does your eating feel out of control or a constant source of anxiety? Have you tried diets, only to end up feeling like a failure? No matter where you are in your relationship with food, I can help you calm the vicious cycle of binging and dieting, allowing your body to return to a healthy and natural weight for you. Problems with eating affect every aspect of our lives, from relationships, to physical activity, and most importantly, to the seemingly simple act of enjoying one's own company.
(773) 435-9222 View (773) 435-9222
Photo of Tiffany Taft - Oak Park Behavioral Medicine LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Oak Park Behavioral Medicine LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Living with a chronic medical illness can be challenging. Depression, anxiety, fears, loss of identity, and doubt are all common, and physicians are continuing to acknowledge that how we feel mentally affects our physical symptoms. Navigating the medical system, treatments, and socializing can be stressful. We're dedicated to helping children (6-17) and adults navigate life with a chronic illness, with all of the social and emotional parts that may not be addressed in your doctor visits. Our team includes: Tiffany Taft PsyD, Emily Edlynn PhD, Emily Hahn LCSW, Alix Kramer MSW, and Clark Bray MSW.
Living with a chronic medical illness can be challenging. Depression, anxiety, fears, loss of identity, and doubt are all common, and physicians are continuing to acknowledge that how we feel mentally affects our physical symptoms. Navigating the medical system, treatments, and socializing can be stressful. We're dedicated to helping children (6-17) and adults navigate life with a chronic illness, with all of the social and emotional parts that may not be addressed in your doctor visits. Our team includes: Tiffany Taft PsyD, Emily Edlynn PhD, Emily Hahn LCSW, Alix Kramer MSW, and Clark Bray MSW.
(312) 651-6862 View (312) 651-6862
Photo of Patricia Graham - Graham Psychological Consulting, Inc, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Graham Psychological Consulting, Inc
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60076
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic, integrating mind body and spirit, through a variety of modalities. My personal belief system influences my work. Specifically, I believe that as individuals, we continually bring forth new possibilities. People come to therapy with wounds. But it is in the wounds that the light shines in. In therapy, we learn we need not fear the places where one feels stuck, overwhelmed or enslaved. My diverse background has deepened my understanding for those wrestling with existential, spiritual and religious belonging, life transitions, sexual orientation, relational challenges and childhood traumas.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic, integrating mind body and spirit, through a variety of modalities. My personal belief system influences my work. Specifically, I believe that as individuals, we continually bring forth new possibilities. People come to therapy with wounds. But it is in the wounds that the light shines in. In therapy, we learn we need not fear the places where one feels stuck, overwhelmed or enslaved. My diverse background has deepened my understanding for those wrestling with existential, spiritual and religious belonging, life transitions, sexual orientation, relational challenges and childhood traumas.
(773) 501-3557 View (773) 501-3557
Photo of Lisa Ann Ditchek - Ditchek Psychological Services, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Ditchek Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niles, IL 60714  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who will offer you a safe, caring, and supportive environment. In my 20 + years of clinical experience, I believe having a mutual and reciprocal therapeutic relationship is one of the first steps for growth and change. I value your input and will work with you as a team to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have a strong background in treating children, adolescents and adults with issues related to mood, relationships, adjustments to life transitions, anxiety, work or school performance, medical issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, stress, parenting, and other psychological disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who will offer you a safe, caring, and supportive environment. In my 20 + years of clinical experience, I believe having a mutual and reciprocal therapeutic relationship is one of the first steps for growth and change. I value your input and will work with you as a team to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have a strong background in treating children, adolescents and adults with issues related to mood, relationships, adjustments to life transitions, anxiety, work or school performance, medical issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, stress, parenting, and other psychological disorders.
(847) 920-7895 View (847) 920-7895
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.