Weight Loss Therapists in Boston, MA
![Photo of Deborah B Unger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c62ee2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah B Unger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
I am licensed in NY, MA, and TX. I have been a Licensed Master Social Worker for over 10 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Sports Performance, Memory Loss, Weight Loss, Substance Abuse, and Career challenges. I am Certified in Problem Solving Therapy (PST). I also helped many people who have experience caring for loved one who was dying and then the grieving process thereafter.
I am licensed in NY, MA, and TX. I have been a Licensed Master Social Worker for over 10 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Sports Performance, Memory Loss, Weight Loss, Substance Abuse, and Career challenges. I am Certified in Problem Solving Therapy (PST). I also helped many people who have experience caring for loved one who was dying and then the grieving process thereafter.
![Photo of Corin Pilo, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5803db6-03bf-42ce-9a4a-78154afe0c81/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please E-MAIL for quickest response! (I am accepting new patients, 18+. Unfortunately, I am unable to keep up with the volume of phone calls at this time. E-mails will be answered within 3 business days.) Realizing you need help and seeking treatment is not easy to handle alone. I will take the steps with you throughout the process and provide the comfort necessary for you to succeed. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental environment and help you achieve your desired goals. I have extensive experience in obesity, binge eating disorder, weight loss surgery, as well as sports psychology, anxiety and mood disorders.
Please E-MAIL for quickest response! (I am accepting new patients, 18+. Unfortunately, I am unable to keep up with the volume of phone calls at this time. E-mails will be answered within 3 business days.) Realizing you need help and seeking treatment is not easy to handle alone. I will take the steps with you throughout the process and provide the comfort necessary for you to succeed. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental environment and help you achieve your desired goals. I have extensive experience in obesity, binge eating disorder, weight loss surgery, as well as sports psychology, anxiety and mood disorders.
![Photo of Ashley Dunford, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c485861-b5f3-4fd0-b7b5-46b6aad62e26/1/320x400.png)
Commonly treated: Binge Eating, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Food Addiction, Weight loss for/after bariatric surgery, Behavioral weight loss for obesity, Management of chronic gastrointestinal or metabolic disease, Body image, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Stress, Life Transitions.
Taking patients for telehealth (virtual only) psychotherapy! Email is the quickest way to reach me. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, collaborative, and directive, rooted in CBT, acceptance-based, interpersonal, and psychodynamic approaches. I am licensed in MA and CT. My psychotherapy and diagnostic specialties include a range of treatment options for various conditions. These include eating disorders, body image, weight management and bariatric surgery, sleep disorders, chronic illness management, and internalizing disorders such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Platform: Simple Practice HIPAA compliant.
Commonly treated: Binge Eating, Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, Food Addiction, Weight loss for/after bariatric surgery, Behavioral weight loss for obesity, Management of chronic gastrointestinal or metabolic disease, Body image, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Stress, Life Transitions.
Taking patients for telehealth (virtual only) psychotherapy! Email is the quickest way to reach me. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, collaborative, and directive, rooted in CBT, acceptance-based, interpersonal, and psychodynamic approaches. I am licensed in MA and CT. My psychotherapy and diagnostic specialties include a range of treatment options for various conditions. These include eating disorders, body image, weight management and bariatric surgery, sleep disorders, chronic illness management, and internalizing disorders such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Platform: Simple Practice HIPAA compliant.
![Photo of April Renner - Building Mastery Wellness, PLLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/350197f8-de1d-4f10-8277-14b5df7e037f/2/320x400.png)
Building Mastery Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101 (Online Only)
I offer a multitude of services for DBT, ADHD, and WLS (Weight Loss Surgery) and am open to creative treatment planning and coaching models.
Neurodiversity/Neurodivergent Friendly - I offer a unique client-centered telehealth counseling experience utilizing DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), strength-based, and expressive approaches. Clients can expect to learn mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance as well as skills for executive functioning issues. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider so my proficiency regarding ADHD, Executive Functioning Disorders, and Emotional Regulation Disorders is up to speed with current knowledge and effective treatments.
I offer a multitude of services for DBT, ADHD, and WLS (Weight Loss Surgery) and am open to creative treatment planning and coaching models.
Neurodiversity/Neurodivergent Friendly - I offer a unique client-centered telehealth counseling experience utilizing DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), strength-based, and expressive approaches. Clients can expect to learn mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance as well as skills for executive functioning issues. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider so my proficiency regarding ADHD, Executive Functioning Disorders, and Emotional Regulation Disorders is up to speed with current knowledge and effective treatments.
![Photo of Janice Nowicki - Janice Nowicki, LMHC-The Therapy Space, LLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a3ee91b-2a03-43d3-869d-b1590e37de9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Nowicki, LMHC-The Therapy Space, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02101 (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor and have been working with individuals and families for over 30 years in a variety of settings. I provide a safe and trusting environment to assist clients to develop problem solving skills and navigate life. I actively listen to understand and am passionate in helping individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, career, school, family, substance abuse, low mood, chronic illness, fatigue, pain, weight loss, grief, loss, and aging.
I am a licensed mental health counselor and have been working with individuals and families for over 30 years in a variety of settings. I provide a safe and trusting environment to assist clients to develop problem solving skills and navigate life. I actively listen to understand and am passionate in helping individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, career, school, family, substance abuse, low mood, chronic illness, fatigue, pain, weight loss, grief, loss, and aging.
![Photo of Dunya Sullivan- Eating Disorders, MClinPs, CTA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b2f9d43-28d4-42b1-b95b-0f69c07a45a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist and a TA psychotherapist (transactional analysis). I work with a variety of psychological challenges but I am specialized in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders (bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, binge-eating disorder). The individuals I work with often come to therapy having tried many behavioral interventions that brought little change (being more disciplined with their diet, exercising more/less, creating plans etc.).
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist and a TA psychotherapist (transactional analysis). I work with a variety of psychological challenges but I am specialized in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders (bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, binge-eating disorder). The individuals I work with often come to therapy having tried many behavioral interventions that brought little change (being more disciplined with their diet, exercising more/less, creating plans etc.).
![Photo of Brendan Kennedy, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/175fbd34-05c5-4dbb-bd4b-755da1deee25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Use the website link on this page to book a session. As a therapist, I understand the importance of providing individualized, holistic care to those struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. My goal is to empower my clients to overcome these challenges and improve their overall well-being. To achieve this, I utilize a combination of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and an eclectic approach that takes into account each client's unique circumstances and needs. CBT is a highly effective therapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
Use the website link on this page to book a session. As a therapist, I understand the importance of providing individualized, holistic care to those struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. My goal is to empower my clients to overcome these challenges and improve their overall well-being. To achieve this, I utilize a combination of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and an eclectic approach that takes into account each client's unique circumstances and needs. CBT is a highly effective therapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
![Photo of Tricia Coffey, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a1d1033-1ae3-4567-90f5-e7c54bc0d11d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tricia Coffey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215 (Online Only)
Balance in life can only be achieved when we start taking care of both our mental and physical health. I take an integrative approach to address clients' cognitive, emotional and physical needs. Whether that is challenging your anxious/negative thoughts, addressing your chronic pain, changing disruptive relationship patterns, avoiding work burnout or taking steps towards better nutrition and physical routines, we will address the whole you each session. I have worked in the therapy field for eleven years and have experience treating a variety of conditions including; anxiety, depression, life- transitions and trauma responses.
Balance in life can only be achieved when we start taking care of both our mental and physical health. I take an integrative approach to address clients' cognitive, emotional and physical needs. Whether that is challenging your anxious/negative thoughts, addressing your chronic pain, changing disruptive relationship patterns, avoiding work burnout or taking steps towards better nutrition and physical routines, we will address the whole you each session. I have worked in the therapy field for eleven years and have experience treating a variety of conditions including; anxiety, depression, life- transitions and trauma responses.
![Photo of Heather Cash, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/393024bb-fb62-4252-b919-0485f731c5a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-awareness and self-reflection to gain insights into patterns and behaviors, developing effective coping strategies and problem-solving skills to navigate challenges, fostering the cultivation of healthy and supportive relationships, promoting self-compassion and self-acceptance, addressing and processing past traumas or unresolved issues, and facilitating the development of personal values, meaning, and purpose in life.
I create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their thoughts and emotions, fostering self-awareness and self-reflection to gain insights into patterns and behaviors, developing effective coping strategies and problem-solving skills to navigate challenges, fostering the cultivation of healthy and supportive relationships, promoting self-compassion and self-acceptance, addressing and processing past traumas or unresolved issues, and facilitating the development of personal values, meaning, and purpose in life.
![Photo of Matthew Warren - Harbor Christian Counseling, LMHC, LSWA, CMHIMP, MDiv, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86cce142-bff7-470e-a362-b390fc31ddc4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Harbor Christian Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, LSWA, CMHIMP, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02215
We are all designed uniquely and live uniquely. Every person that we encounter is shaped by the interwoven threads of mind, body, and spirit as well as relationships, work, education, culture, community, and history. As such, Harbor Christian Counseling (HCC) seeks to care for the whole person through services that take into account this full range of formative influences. Caring for the whole person also means that we partner with our clients to address unwanted or problematic behaviors while gradually moving deeper to explore root issues that might be hampering growth.
We are all designed uniquely and live uniquely. Every person that we encounter is shaped by the interwoven threads of mind, body, and spirit as well as relationships, work, education, culture, community, and history. As such, Harbor Christian Counseling (HCC) seeks to care for the whole person through services that take into account this full range of formative influences. Caring for the whole person also means that we partner with our clients to address unwanted or problematic behaviors while gradually moving deeper to explore root issues that might be hampering growth.
![Photo of Rhea D Antonio, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5373d4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rhea D Antonio
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
Life experiences, transitions, and relationships provide both an opportunity to be challenged and to grow. In my practice, I welcome adults, couples, adolescents and families who wish to improve the quality of any dimension of their lives - from professional, family and parenting relationships to emotional, interpersonal, or physical challenges. Drawing upon specialized training focused on gaining insight (psychodynamic), building skills to manage emotions and behaviors (cognitive behavioral) and understanding relationships (family systems/relational), I work closely with individuals to develop understanding and identify goals that address the distinct factors that may be inhibiting life pursuits or interfering with personal, academic, or professional satisfaction and success.
Life experiences, transitions, and relationships provide both an opportunity to be challenged and to grow. In my practice, I welcome adults, couples, adolescents and families who wish to improve the quality of any dimension of their lives - from professional, family and parenting relationships to emotional, interpersonal, or physical challenges. Drawing upon specialized training focused on gaining insight (psychodynamic), building skills to manage emotions and behaviors (cognitive behavioral) and understanding relationships (family systems/relational), I work closely with individuals to develop understanding and identify goals that address the distinct factors that may be inhibiting life pursuits or interfering with personal, academic, or professional satisfaction and success.
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![Photo of Will Dempsey - Heads Held High Counseling, LICSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4265a47-4465-4dd9-9e47-6e63ec9d36b5/1/320x400.png)
Heads Held High Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
![Photo of Vivien Roman-Hampton - Activated By Wellness, LICSW, CCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3e46167-67cc-48a3-bf43-370407194a30/1/320x400.png)
Activated By Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
There are times in our life where we reach a point when we realize something may not be manageable anymore or has gotten bigger than we expected but you are here and you are taking the steps to implement change. Coming into a therapy session provides a safe space to explore this and challenge yourself to identify what is going on and how we can work together to accomplish that. We serve clients 16 years old and up.
There are times in our life where we reach a point when we realize something may not be manageable anymore or has gotten bigger than we expected but you are here and you are taking the steps to implement change. Coming into a therapy session provides a safe space to explore this and challenge yourself to identify what is going on and how we can work together to accomplish that. We serve clients 16 years old and up.
![Photo of Jackie Mascher, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40323092-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I understand that seeking a therapist is an act of profound courage and wellness, and I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your concerns. I work with you at your own pace to recognize, validate, and support your natural strengths while gently challenging you to identify, understand, and alleviate symptoms, suffering, and barriers to fulfillment.
I'm a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I understand that seeking a therapist is an act of profound courage and wellness, and I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your concerns. I work with you at your own pace to recognize, validate, and support your natural strengths while gently challenging you to identify, understand, and alleviate symptoms, suffering, and barriers to fulfillment.
![Photo of Leandro Olszanski, LPC, MEd, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4528d35-47c3-4f7a-92cd-1675eab62b53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embarking on the journey of couples therapy can often evoke feelings of uncertainty and vulnerability. Discussing the intricacies of your relationship isn't always straightforward, even for the most experienced couples. My goal is to establish a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment where both partners feel empowered to explore their current challenges and work together towards meaningful change. I believe in tailoring our therapeutic approach to fit your unique needs as a couple. Every relationship is distinctive, and I am dedicated to adapting our methods to support you in navigating your present struggles.
Embarking on the journey of couples therapy can often evoke feelings of uncertainty and vulnerability. Discussing the intricacies of your relationship isn't always straightforward, even for the most experienced couples. My goal is to establish a safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative environment where both partners feel empowered to explore their current challenges and work together towards meaningful change. I believe in tailoring our therapeutic approach to fit your unique needs as a couple. Every relationship is distinctive, and I am dedicated to adapting our methods to support you in navigating your present struggles.
![Photo of Amanda Urato - Amanda Urato, LMHC, New Inspiration Counseling, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf8c2907-7be9-4c91-ab7d-eed8f38517cb/3/320x400.jpeg)
I will guide you towards FEELING better and DOING better in your life–especially in your relationships! My belief and my experience shows me that we have within us deep wells of strengths, and the capacity to heal and move forward in our lives. But it sure helps to have someone in your corner: Together, we will understand your patterns (your internal patterns, and the patterns in your relationships). With my support, with new insights, and perhaps some new skills, you'll be read to make some positive changes: ...real progress, that lasts!
I will guide you towards FEELING better and DOING better in your life–especially in your relationships! My belief and my experience shows me that we have within us deep wells of strengths, and the capacity to heal and move forward in our lives. But it sure helps to have someone in your corner: Together, we will understand your patterns (your internal patterns, and the patterns in your relationships). With my support, with new insights, and perhaps some new skills, you'll be read to make some positive changes: ...real progress, that lasts!
![Photo of Andrew Walker, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/374d81e2-108c-4c09-a043-a6b79ac0e8e1/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist providing psychotherapy and psychological assessment services to people who are navigating challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and other concerns. My therapeutic approach is tailored to your specific needs. However, broadly speaking it can include helping you learn practical CBT-based skills to address your daily challenges and provide a safe and supportive environment for your deeper exploration based on Jungian depth psychology and other approaches. My specialized training in neuropsychology allows me to bring a strong science-based approach to our time together.
I am a licensed psychologist providing psychotherapy and psychological assessment services to people who are navigating challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and other concerns. My therapeutic approach is tailored to your specific needs. However, broadly speaking it can include helping you learn practical CBT-based skills to address your daily challenges and provide a safe and supportive environment for your deeper exploration based on Jungian depth psychology and other approaches. My specialized training in neuropsychology allows me to bring a strong science-based approach to our time together.
![Photo of Kelsey Spinks - Kelsey Rosario & Partners, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be8e921e-fe43-4192-a5a8-d89c77b9227a/5/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Rosario & Partners
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114 (Online Only)
We specialize in women's health and wellness; our subspecialties include career coaching, self-confidence, boundary-setting techniques/assertive communication, and general anxiety disorders. We foster a space of open-mindedness, empathy, humor, and understanding with enthusiasm for helping women find what works best for their personal and professional lives. We will explore your areas of concern and collaboratively create a treatment plan. We have witnessed positive results in clients with a more profound sense of self, increased self-compassion, and a more value-based lifestyle conducive to their goals and aspirations.
We specialize in women's health and wellness; our subspecialties include career coaching, self-confidence, boundary-setting techniques/assertive communication, and general anxiety disorders. We foster a space of open-mindedness, empathy, humor, and understanding with enthusiasm for helping women find what works best for their personal and professional lives. We will explore your areas of concern and collaboratively create a treatment plan. We have witnessed positive results in clients with a more profound sense of self, increased self-compassion, and a more value-based lifestyle conducive to their goals and aspirations.
![Photo of Monica Gil - Life Balancing Acts, LLC., MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48c14ec6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We make our plans, we think we have everything covered, and suddenly Life happens. Sometimes it's an unexpected break up in a relationship; or maybe unforeseen health news for you or someone close to you; unexpected changes in your family due to immigration laws. At Life Balancing Acts, we understand the emotional stress that those circumstances may cause. CONSEJERIA/ TERAPIA EN ESPANOL INDIVIDUAL/ PAREJA.; TELETERAPIA EN ESPANOL. *** ACEPTAMOS NUEVOS CLIENTES PARA JUEVES.
We make our plans, we think we have everything covered, and suddenly Life happens. Sometimes it's an unexpected break up in a relationship; or maybe unforeseen health news for you or someone close to you; unexpected changes in your family due to immigration laws. At Life Balancing Acts, we understand the emotional stress that those circumstances may cause. CONSEJERIA/ TERAPIA EN ESPANOL INDIVIDUAL/ PAREJA.; TELETERAPIA EN ESPANOL. *** ACEPTAMOS NUEVOS CLIENTES PARA JUEVES.
![Photo of Molly S Radke, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c7902fd-d0c1-4cdf-8dc0-53bdb8c8f4af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi my name is Molly Radke and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have a Masters of Counseling from Gordon-Conwell in Massachusetts and a BA in psychology from Northwestern College in Minnesota. I have a diverse background of experience working with all ages and modalities. I have helped people with many issues find more stability and happiness. I usually do a combination of skills work (DBT and CBT) and processing issues with clients. I find this combination to give the best balance of structure and insight. I genuinely believe that life is hard and we all need help from others to get through.
Hi my name is Molly Radke and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have a Masters of Counseling from Gordon-Conwell in Massachusetts and a BA in psychology from Northwestern College in Minnesota. I have a diverse background of experience working with all ages and modalities. I have helped people with many issues find more stability and happiness. I usually do a combination of skills work (DBT and CBT) and processing issues with clients. I find this combination to give the best balance of structure and insight. I genuinely believe that life is hard and we all need help from others to get through.
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Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Boston
- Allston
- Belmont
- Brighton
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- Cambridge
- Jamaica Plain
- Medford
- Newton Centre
- Quincy
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- Watertown
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.