Weight Loss Therapists in Falmouth, MA

Photo of Kevin Bolster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Bolster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, MA 02540
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 17 years of experience helping people deal with substance abuse disorder and other mental health issues. I have also, worked with people that are living with anxiety and depression. I believe that it is crucial to hold people accountable for their own recovery and we can work together to reach whatever goals you hope to achieve. I use a variety of approaches which include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution focused therapy. I can support you with creating attainable goals each week and develop a plan to take control of your life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 17 years of experience helping people deal with substance abuse disorder and other mental health issues. I have also, worked with people that are living with anxiety and depression. I believe that it is crucial to hold people accountable for their own recovery and we can work together to reach whatever goals you hope to achieve. I use a variety of approaches which include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and solution focused therapy. I can support you with creating attainable goals each week and develop a plan to take control of your life.
(508) 388-1573 View (508) 388-1573
Photo of Leslie D St Amant, GC-C, Counselor
Leslie D St Amant
Counselor, GC-C
Verified Verified
Falmouth, MA 02540
Through video counseling, I help clients work through grief “stages” and process life changes unique to their individual experience. Grief is not confined to death alone, but rather it encompasses stages of life such as: loss of normalcy (illness and otherwise), loss of job, divorce and loss of pet etc. Recognizing that grief isn’t linear, I assist clients in moving forward and living with grief to return to regular activities and achieve their life goals. As an Acsm Cpt/Cet I focus on physical changes that accompany chronic diseases and can prescribe workout regimens for all individuals- mind and body working together.
Through video counseling, I help clients work through grief “stages” and process life changes unique to their individual experience. Grief is not confined to death alone, but rather it encompasses stages of life such as: loss of normalcy (illness and otherwise), loss of job, divorce and loss of pet etc. Recognizing that grief isn’t linear, I assist clients in moving forward and living with grief to return to regular activities and achieve their life goals. As an Acsm Cpt/Cet I focus on physical changes that accompany chronic diseases and can prescribe workout regimens for all individuals- mind and body working together.
(508) 639-1539 View (508) 639-1539
Photo of Monika Bang-Campbell, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monika Bang-Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, MA 02540  (Online Only)
Telehealth appointments only. Accepting new clients. If you are wanting to experience more self awareness, connection and ability to live with inner peace from life's stressors I am here to help you on that path. Your therapeutic coaching experience is tailored to your specific emotional needs, focusing on the connection of mind, body and spirit. You will receive an integrative experience that looks at you as a whole person, not just a symptom. You are given specific tools to improve your life and experience increased awareness of self. Welcome to your healing journey.
Telehealth appointments only. Accepting new clients. If you are wanting to experience more self awareness, connection and ability to live with inner peace from life's stressors I am here to help you on that path. Your therapeutic coaching experience is tailored to your specific emotional needs, focusing on the connection of mind, body and spirit. You will receive an integrative experience that looks at you as a whole person, not just a symptom. You are given specific tools to improve your life and experience increased awareness of self. Welcome to your healing journey.
(774) 766-4011 View (774) 766-4011
Photo of Phoebe Speck, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phoebe Speck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, MA 02540
I am a caring, thoughtful, licensed therapist. I specialize in marital and interpersonal problems, individual and family relationships, trust and intimacy issues, anxiety, stress, depression, loss and grief, self-image, self-esteem and career difficulties. Please take a moment to check my website at www.therapycapecod.com
I am a caring, thoughtful, licensed therapist. I specialize in marital and interpersonal problems, individual and family relationships, trust and intimacy issues, anxiety, stress, depression, loss and grief, self-image, self-esteem and career difficulties. Please take a moment to check my website at www.therapycapecod.com
(978) 633-9939 View (978) 633-9939
Photo of Dexter Smart, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dexter Smart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, MA 02540
All people are innately good and have the ability to heal themselves. Stressors are ever present in our everyday lives and are manifested through multiple ways. While these stressors can be the genesis of our problems, they are also the catalyst to starting the healing process. After making the decision to seek counseling and wellness care, the second most critical step is who will provide this care. At Westwind Counseling & Wellness we operate from a strong multicultural perspective providing time honored psychotherapy but with a focus on your whole health guided by the core values of Resiliency, Empowerment and Restoration.
All people are innately good and have the ability to heal themselves. Stressors are ever present in our everyday lives and are manifested through multiple ways. While these stressors can be the genesis of our problems, they are also the catalyst to starting the healing process. After making the decision to seek counseling and wellness care, the second most critical step is who will provide this care. At Westwind Counseling & Wellness we operate from a strong multicultural perspective providing time honored psychotherapy but with a focus on your whole health guided by the core values of Resiliency, Empowerment and Restoration.
(508) 691-8670 View (508) 691-8670
Photo of Karin White, LICSW, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, IFS
Verified Verified
Falmouth, MA 02540
If you are feeling stuck in behaviors or attitudes that limit your ability to live a fuller life or impact your relationships, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) can help you achieve the changes you desire. IFS is the framework I use to help individuals and couples move from where they are stuck into a more desirable way of relating and being internally, with their partner, family and in the world. In my 30 + years of practice I have found that IFS is the most gentle yet profound way to guide people in this transformation. IFS is a radically different way of understanding what happens inside of ourselves.
If you are feeling stuck in behaviors or attitudes that limit your ability to live a fuller life or impact your relationships, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) can help you achieve the changes you desire. IFS is the framework I use to help individuals and couples move from where they are stuck into a more desirable way of relating and being internally, with their partner, family and in the world. In my 30 + years of practice I have found that IFS is the most gentle yet profound way to guide people in this transformation. IFS is a radically different way of understanding what happens inside of ourselves.
(774) 413-7848 View (774) 413-7848
Photo of Elizabeth Quigley - Elizabeth Quigley, LICSW, New Inspiration, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Quigley, LICSW, New Inspiration
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, MA 02540  (Online Only)
You want to feel better and do better in your life, and now, perhaps more than ever, you need someone – someone REALLY helpful – “in your corner” to help you turn things around. I’m willing and able to do just that. Together, we can do this: I use a range of solution-focused approaches: treatments that work (CBT, DBT, and whatever else works). We’ll figure out exactly how you’ve “gotten here,” plan a way out, and I’ll guide you along the way…as we activate your strengths and your inner resources to live a better life. I work with adults, teens, and families and I’m available immediately to give you the help you need and deserve.
You want to feel better and do better in your life, and now, perhaps more than ever, you need someone – someone REALLY helpful – “in your corner” to help you turn things around. I’m willing and able to do just that. Together, we can do this: I use a range of solution-focused approaches: treatments that work (CBT, DBT, and whatever else works). We’ll figure out exactly how you’ve “gotten here,” plan a way out, and I’ll guide you along the way…as we activate your strengths and your inner resources to live a better life. I work with adults, teens, and families and I’m available immediately to give you the help you need and deserve.
(339) 300-4516 View (339) 300-4516

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lori Berler, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Berler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649
Has life become overwhelming,stressful,filled with anxiety or depression? My approach is empathetic, compassionate listening in a safe, supportive, judgement-free environment that fosters a sense of self and personal growth. Together we will seek to discover coping strategies to face and overcome life's challenges. Together we will seek to move forward and heal.
Has life become overwhelming,stressful,filled with anxiety or depression? My approach is empathetic, compassionate listening in a safe, supportive, judgement-free environment that fosters a sense of self and personal growth. Together we will seek to discover coping strategies to face and overcome life's challenges. Together we will seek to move forward and heal.
(508) 232-6772 View (508) 232-6772
Photo of Heidi Hulbig O'Neil - Heidi Hulbig Mind Body Therapy, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Hulbig Mind Body Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mashpee, MA 02649  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Heidi, Founder of Heidi Hulbig Mind Body Therapy, a private practice specializing in therapeutic experiences for women. Our mission is to help women learn how to align their mental, emotional, and lived experiences in order to live more fully. In doing so, our clients learn how to use their natural strengths and resources, adopt new perspectives, and make lifestyle choices to support emotional regulation and healing. We aim to empower our clients to believe they are the experts of their lives who are capable of taking care of themselves in meaningful ways.
Hi! I'm Heidi, Founder of Heidi Hulbig Mind Body Therapy, a private practice specializing in therapeutic experiences for women. Our mission is to help women learn how to align their mental, emotional, and lived experiences in order to live more fully. In doing so, our clients learn how to use their natural strengths and resources, adopt new perspectives, and make lifestyle choices to support emotional regulation and healing. We aim to empower our clients to believe they are the experts of their lives who are capable of taking care of themselves in meaningful ways.
(774) 273-7446 View (774) 273-7446

Online Therapists

Photo of Emily Fox-Kales, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Emily Fox-Kales
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
The Feeding Ourselves approach combines psychological awareness with behavioral techniques for establishing a positive relationship to food-tools which can lead to weight loss and lasting change.
As a clinical psychologist I have over 30 years of experience treating eating disorders, body disturbances, and weight problems and am the founder and director of Feeding Ourselves. Feeding Ourselves is a comprehensive program for people who want to change the way they eat and the way they confront their weight problem. Many participants have a long history of battling extra pounds. Others may not be overweight, but suffer from compulsive over eating, binge eating or bulimia. The vulnerability they share is feeling out of control with food, and a preoccupation with eating and weight that drains their lives of valuable energy.
The Feeding Ourselves approach combines psychological awareness with behavioral techniques for establishing a positive relationship to food-tools which can lead to weight loss and lasting change.
As a clinical psychologist I have over 30 years of experience treating eating disorders, body disturbances, and weight problems and am the founder and director of Feeding Ourselves. Feeding Ourselves is a comprehensive program for people who want to change the way they eat and the way they confront their weight problem. Many participants have a long history of battling extra pounds. Others may not be overweight, but suffer from compulsive over eating, binge eating or bulimia. The vulnerability they share is feeling out of control with food, and a preoccupation with eating and weight that drains their lives of valuable energy.
(781) 325-4922 View (781) 325-4922
Photo of Leena Patel, PsyD, Psychologist
Leena Patel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hanover, MA 02339  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of weight loss, depression, and anxiety and offer individualized treatment using the principles of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address mental health barriers that impact people's ability to care for themselves.
I am a firm believer of implementing change behavior at any stage of life. Anyone can change with the right tools and support. There is always hope even when others don't feel hopeful. Hope is the fuel that propels change at any stage of life. Change breeds more hope for the future and maintains positive life changes that are sustainable and carry us through even the most difficult of times.
I specialize in the treatment of weight loss, depression, and anxiety and offer individualized treatment using the principles of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address mental health barriers that impact people's ability to care for themselves.
I am a firm believer of implementing change behavior at any stage of life. Anyone can change with the right tools and support. There is always hope even when others don't feel hopeful. Hope is the fuel that propels change at any stage of life. Change breeds more hope for the future and maintains positive life changes that are sustainable and carry us through even the most difficult of times.
(339) 255-3570 View (339) 255-3570
Photo of Ashley Dunford, PhD, Psychologist
Ashley Dunford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with a focus on the treatment of eating and weight disorders, including binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, and body image concerns, as well as obesity and bariatric surgery. I am accepting clients for telehealth (virtual only) psychotherapy and diagnostic evaluations. My therapeutic approach is rooted in cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and acceptance-based treatment. I am licensed in Massachusetts and Connecticut and provide evidence-based eating disorder and behavioral weight loss treatment for individuals and families.
I am a licensed psychologist with a focus on the treatment of eating and weight disorders, including binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, and body image concerns, as well as obesity and bariatric surgery. I am accepting clients for telehealth (virtual only) psychotherapy and diagnostic evaluations. My therapeutic approach is rooted in cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and acceptance-based treatment. I am licensed in Massachusetts and Connecticut and provide evidence-based eating disorder and behavioral weight loss treatment for individuals and families.
(781) 776-1731 View (781) 776-1731
Photo of Mandy LeComte, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandy LeComte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Dartmouth, MA 02748  (Online Only)
I treat a variety of areas / populations, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, premarital / marital, PTSD, grief and loss, military personnel and family, food addiction / weight loss surgery / eating disorders (primarily binge, compulsive, emotional eating), parenting support, school issues / IEP and 504 support, foster care and adoption.
I feel that providing a comfortable and safe environment for people to discuss their feelings and thoughts about experiences, concerns and changes they hope for in life and relationships is important. I will work to help you improve skills, insight and awareness around the areas in your life you are struggling with. I have been a clinical social worker for 20 years working within a variety of settings including schools, homes, community and residential. I have treated diverse populations of children, adolescents and adults with co-occurring disorders. I provide counseling services for adults and couples.
I treat a variety of areas / populations, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, premarital / marital, PTSD, grief and loss, military personnel and family, food addiction / weight loss surgery / eating disorders (primarily binge, compulsive, emotional eating), parenting support, school issues / IEP and 504 support, foster care and adoption.
I feel that providing a comfortable and safe environment for people to discuss their feelings and thoughts about experiences, concerns and changes they hope for in life and relationships is important. I will work to help you improve skills, insight and awareness around the areas in your life you are struggling with. I have been a clinical social worker for 20 years working within a variety of settings including schools, homes, community and residential. I have treated diverse populations of children, adolescents and adults with co-occurring disorders. I provide counseling services for adults and couples.
(401) 252-0186 View (401) 252-0186
Photo of Kathy Kommit - The Stress Reduction Center, MEd, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Stress Reduction Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
And I am a certified Life and Weight Loss Coach and offer coaching sessions online.
I am an experienced, caring and active therapist committed to helping people move towards change. Creating a trusting and safe relationship is a crucial first step and I aim to develop a comfortable and positive rapport. I have a lot of skills and effective approaches and will create an individualized treatment plan to best address your issues. I work with adults and teenagers with a variety of problems. Some of my work is short-term, targeting specific symptoms such as headaches or anxiety. Other clients benefit from more on-going exploration to address such problems as relationship difficulties or self-esteem issues.
And I am a certified Life and Weight Loss Coach and offer coaching sessions online.
I am an experienced, caring and active therapist committed to helping people move towards change. Creating a trusting and safe relationship is a crucial first step and I aim to develop a comfortable and positive rapport. I have a lot of skills and effective approaches and will create an individualized treatment plan to best address your issues. I work with adults and teenagers with a variety of problems. Some of my work is short-term, targeting specific symptoms such as headaches or anxiety. Other clients benefit from more on-going exploration to address such problems as relationship difficulties or self-esteem issues.
(978) 910-0071 View (978) 910-0071
Photo of Jennifer Zarou-Abraham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Zarou-Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
I am a certified licensed social worker specializing in the integrative holistic approach to psychotherapy, counseling and nutritional wellness with twenty-four years in private practice. I utilize my experience and applied knowledge of family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutritional wellness, weight loss and holistic healing to help create lasting and meaningful change. Treatment and healing can only be achieved by working on the entire mind body soul connection and my role is a facilitator providing a safe and comfortable space at which the healing can begin.
I am a certified licensed social worker specializing in the integrative holistic approach to psychotherapy, counseling and nutritional wellness with twenty-four years in private practice. I utilize my experience and applied knowledge of family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutritional wellness, weight loss and holistic healing to help create lasting and meaningful change. Treatment and healing can only be achieved by working on the entire mind body soul connection and my role is a facilitator providing a safe and comfortable space at which the healing can begin.
(508) 503-6713 View (508) 503-6713
Photo of Emily McDonough, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily McDonough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wakefield, MA 01880
I am passionate about providing support to people pursuing bariatric care such as medical, surgical, or behavioral weight loss, and people with ARFID and body image issues.
I am motivated to help my clients learn realistic and self-compassionate ways to thrive. I am happiest helping my clients to achieve meaningful growth, at their own pace. I earned my Master’s of Social Work in 2015 from the University of New England, after earning my Bachelor’s in the same discipline from Wheelock College (now Boston University) in 2014. I enjoy working with people of all ages and types of neurodiversity, from preteens to elders. I am lucky to be a true people person! I have been fortunate to contribute to various interdisciplinary teams throughout my career in settings such as inpatient mental health facilities,
I am passionate about providing support to people pursuing bariatric care such as medical, surgical, or behavioral weight loss, and people with ARFID and body image issues.
I am motivated to help my clients learn realistic and self-compassionate ways to thrive. I am happiest helping my clients to achieve meaningful growth, at their own pace. I earned my Master’s of Social Work in 2015 from the University of New England, after earning my Bachelor’s in the same discipline from Wheelock College (now Boston University) in 2014. I enjoy working with people of all ages and types of neurodiversity, from preteens to elders. I am lucky to be a true people person! I have been fortunate to contribute to various interdisciplinary teams throughout my career in settings such as inpatient mental health facilities,
(339) 329-9077 View (339) 329-9077
Photo of Dr. Tanesa Hill, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Tanesa Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dr. Hill treats individuals suffering from the many stressors of modern day life, with a particular emphasis on religious trauma, insomnia, weight loss, chronic pain, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety and depression. Dr. Hill also offers a customized approach for those struggling with romantic relationships, including dating.
Dr. Hill treats individuals suffering from the many stressors of modern day life, with a particular emphasis on religious trauma, insomnia, weight loss, chronic pain, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety and depression. Dr. Hill also offers a customized approach for those struggling with romantic relationships, including dating.
(857) 420-6898 View (857) 420-6898
Photo of Janice Nowicki - Janice Nowicki, LMHC-The Therapy Space, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Janice Nowicki, LMHC-The Therapy Space, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor and I 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 in developing problem solving skills and navigating life's challenges. 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 I 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 in developing problem solving skills and navigating life's challenges. 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.
(781) 488-7660 View (781) 488-7660
Photo of Omar Haque - Dignity Weight Center, MD, PhD
Dignity Weight Center
MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Insurance covered, ! No membership fees! Nothing to purchase! No Fake food! Sustainable solutions for weight loss.
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
Insurance covered, ! No membership fees! Nothing to purchase! No Fake food! Sustainable solutions for weight loss.
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
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Photo of April Renner - Building Mastery Wellness, PLLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Building Mastery Wellness, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fairhaven, MA 02719  (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.
(508) 504-1351 View (508) 504-1351
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.