Weight Loss Therapists in Wilmington, MA

Photo of Dr. Rachel Grieco, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rachel Grieco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, MA 01887  (Online Only)
Welcome to Grieco Psychological Services. We are a small group practice offering therapy through Telehealth to clients. Contact me for a free consultation and phone intake. A bit about me: I own and run the practice and intake each client. As an integrative therapist, I use different modalities of treatment to tailor to each client's individual needs. I like to teach my clients about what symptoms mean and how to manage them with positive coping skills. The more you can understand about what you are experiencing, the more power you will have to make positive, lasting changes to improve your quality of life.
Welcome to Grieco Psychological Services. We are a small group practice offering therapy through Telehealth to clients. Contact me for a free consultation and phone intake. A bit about me: I own and run the practice and intake each client. As an integrative therapist, I use different modalities of treatment to tailor to each client's individual needs. I like to teach my clients about what symptoms mean and how to manage them with positive coping skills. The more you can understand about what you are experiencing, the more power you will have to make positive, lasting changes to improve your quality of life.
(978) 267-1929 View (978) 267-1929
Photo of Susan J Phipps, MEd, LMHC, CTBF, Counselor
Susan J Phipps
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, CTBF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, MA 01887
Imagine a wheel on a vehicle functioning optimally when the wheel is balanced and aligned. Out of balance the ride can be quite bumpy like our lives when increased stress, psychological distress and pain reflect imbalances in our being as we travel chaotically on life's path. Difficult challenges can arise creating obstacles too difficult to navigate alone. Life transitions provide an opportune time to seek support to reevaluate personal goals and direction. My intention is to meet each individual in the moment assisting them to navigate a manageable path on their journey to reach optimum enjoyment and success in life.
Imagine a wheel on a vehicle functioning optimally when the wheel is balanced and aligned. Out of balance the ride can be quite bumpy like our lives when increased stress, psychological distress and pain reflect imbalances in our being as we travel chaotically on life's path. Difficult challenges can arise creating obstacles too difficult to navigate alone. Life transitions provide an opportune time to seek support to reevaluate personal goals and direction. My intention is to meet each individual in the moment assisting them to navigate a manageable path on their journey to reach optimum enjoyment and success in life.
(781) 369-5750 View (781) 369-5750
Photo of Gregory Curtis - Gregory Curtis, LICSW, New Inspiration, LLC, LICSW, MSW, CCBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gregory Curtis, LICSW, New Inspiration, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CCBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, MA 01887
I work well with people throughout the age range, whether it's a child struggling in school, an adult overwhelmed by life's demands, or a senior citizen in need of support, I'm prepared and eager to help. While your relationship with your therapist is central, I focus on RESULTS: With a dynamic mix of positive psychology and evidence-based treatment, it's my mission to help you to feel better & do better in your life.
I work well with people throughout the age range, whether it's a child struggling in school, an adult overwhelmed by life's demands, or a senior citizen in need of support, I'm prepared and eager to help. While your relationship with your therapist is central, I focus on RESULTS: With a dynamic mix of positive psychology and evidence-based treatment, it's my mission to help you to feel better & do better in your life.
(339) 229-6906 View (339) 229-6906
Photo of Emilia Taliento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Taliento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, MA 01887
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, domestic violence, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, or life changes? I can assist you with developing coping skills, practicing mindfulness, and utilizing tools to manage your mental health effectively. I aim to work with clients willing to help themselves and open to the therapeutic process. This mindset will allow us to build a positive therapeutic relationship that can bring about positive changes in their lives.
(339) 675-1742 View (339) 675-1742
Photo of Janasa Austrie, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janasa Austrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, MA 01887
My ideal client is open and receptive to change, willing to address the past, and ready to heal forward. They are persistent and committed to understanding healing as a journey. They are looking for support and guidance in a safe, trusting space that will allow them to learn how to live a more fulfilling life.
My ideal client is open and receptive to change, willing to address the past, and ready to heal forward. They are persistent and committed to understanding healing as a journey. They are looking for support and guidance in a safe, trusting space that will allow them to learn how to live a more fulfilling life.
(339) 330-1280 View (339) 330-1280

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Fox-Kales, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Emily Fox-Kales
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, MA 02475
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 Corin Pilo, LMHC, Counselor
Corin Pilo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Andover, MA 01845  (Online Only)
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.
(617) 229-6972 View (617) 229-6972
Photo of Sonia Gyan, PhD, Psychologist
Sonia Gyan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bedford, MA 01730
I have successfully worked with individuals whose medical conditions are commonly worsened by stress, anxiety or low mood, including obesity, bingeing, bariatric/ weight loss surgery issues, gastrointestinal disorders, insomnia (CBTI), high blood pressure, infertility, headache etc.
Is your anxiety or stress feeling out of control? Is weight loss seeming impossible? Is insomnia contributing to daytime sleepiness and nighttime anxiety? Is your mood and/or lifestyle stopping you from taking good care of your medical condition? Are key relationships causing stress? Together, we can address the problem, using scientifically-validated treatments within a supportive and respectful environment. The mind-body connection provides an important framework for treatment. My background and training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I use other research-validated treatment approaches as they fit your situation.
I have successfully worked with individuals whose medical conditions are commonly worsened by stress, anxiety or low mood, including obesity, bingeing, bariatric/ weight loss surgery issues, gastrointestinal disorders, insomnia (CBTI), high blood pressure, infertility, headache etc.
Is your anxiety or stress feeling out of control? Is weight loss seeming impossible? Is insomnia contributing to daytime sleepiness and nighttime anxiety? Is your mood and/or lifestyle stopping you from taking good care of your medical condition? Are key relationships causing stress? Together, we can address the problem, using scientifically-validated treatments within a supportive and respectful environment. The mind-body connection provides an important framework for treatment. My background and training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I use other research-validated treatment approaches as they fit your situation.
(978) 202-5636 View (978) 202-5636
Photo of Emily McDonough, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily McDonough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 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 Lisa Wessan - Lisa Wessan Consulting, LICSW, CLYL, RM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Wessan Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CLYL, RM
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chelmsford, MA 01824
People often ask me, "What is the purpose of therapy?" I believe there are a few answers to that question. First, you come to therapy to defrost grief, unexpressed rage and other negative feelings, e.g. traumas, losses, betrayals. You also learn to re-parent yourself. Second, you come to have a better transition in your work or love life, or to improve your performance and personal relations. Finally, you get to share your dreams and goals in a safe environment, with no judgment, and to produce amazing action plans to manifest your best life ever.
People often ask me, "What is the purpose of therapy?" I believe there are a few answers to that question. First, you come to therapy to defrost grief, unexpressed rage and other negative feelings, e.g. traumas, losses, betrayals. You also learn to re-parent yourself. Second, you come to have a better transition in your work or love life, or to improve your performance and personal relations. Finally, you get to share your dreams and goals in a safe environment, with no judgment, and to produce amazing action plans to manifest your best life ever.
(978) 631-0349 View (978) 631-0349
Photo of Danielle Barry, PhD, Psychologist
Danielle Barry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02421
Waitlist for new clients
My psychology practice is focused on positive habit change, helping you build new habits and get rid of old ones that stand in the way of your goals and dreams. With support and guidance, you can learn the skills needed to lose weight, break dependence on alcohol and other substances, overcome procrastination, and develop better self-care, financial discipline, organization skills, and health habits. While making changes can be challenging, maintaining positive change is even harder. I can help you maintain motivation and focus to make positive changes permanent. You really can keep the change!
My psychology practice is focused on positive habit change, helping you build new habits and get rid of old ones that stand in the way of your goals and dreams. With support and guidance, you can learn the skills needed to lose weight, break dependence on alcohol and other substances, overcome procrastination, and develop better self-care, financial discipline, organization skills, and health habits. While making changes can be challenging, maintaining positive change is even harder. I can help you maintain motivation and focus to make positive changes permanent. You really can keep the change!
(339) 229-6615 View (339) 229-6615
Photo of Mary Jo Peterson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jo Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420  (Online Only)
The last fight you had with your partner was very different. Things took an ugly turn, and you said things you never expected to say to each other. Now you’re not sure how to recover. It feels like you’ve hit a fork in the road. It wasn’t always like this. You remember talking long into the night, sharing your vulnerabilities. Only now, you have them thrown back in your face when the arguing starts. The little digs and insults have created a chasm of hurt between you that feels uncrossable. Last night’s fight was awful, and you never want to go there again. There’s still love between you, but you need help.
The last fight you had with your partner was very different. Things took an ugly turn, and you said things you never expected to say to each other. Now you’re not sure how to recover. It feels like you’ve hit a fork in the road. It wasn’t always like this. You remember talking long into the night, sharing your vulnerabilities. Only now, you have them thrown back in your face when the arguing starts. The little digs and insults have created a chasm of hurt between you that feels uncrossable. Last night’s fight was awful, and you never want to go there again. There’s still love between you, but you need help.
(978) 547-8082 View (978) 547-8082
Photo of Sarah Vasiliauskas, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah Vasiliauskas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02421
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.
** AT THIS TIME I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** It can be so overwhelming to look for a therapist. So many options and decisions when you simply want to be helped during a difficult time in your life. You may be feeling stressed, sad, angry or just not yourself. Simply put, therapy is a unique and unusual experience; at times it can feel uncomfortable talking to a person you have just met. I encourage you to email me or call for a phone consultation. There is never any obligation following the phone call. It may be helpful to visit my website.
(617) 702-4166 View (617) 702-4166
Photo of Wendy Gladu Landry, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Gladu Landry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, MA 01803  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
Hello! My name is Wendy and would like to meet you. Are you struggling with grief and loss? Are you caring for an older adult in your life, or have a chronically ill family member, and don't know where to turn? Are you an older adult yourself, and looking for someone who might understand what you are going through? Do you struggle with infertility issues? Does Huntington's Disease affect your family? Do you feel your eating behaviors are out of control, or struggle with weight issues? Do you just need some extra support at this time, due to life's stressors?
(617) 622-5674 View (617) 622-5674
Photo of Marissa Cameron, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Cameron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelmsford, MA 01824
Are you an adolescent or adult navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, and trauma? Are you a couple struggling with communication, trust and intimacy? I specialize in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. These methods allow me to tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs, fostering a supportive and empowering environment for growth and healing. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist with a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Simmons University and a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW).
Are you an adolescent or adult navigating the challenges of anxiety, depression, and trauma? Are you a couple struggling with communication, trust and intimacy? I specialize in evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. These methods allow me to tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs, fostering a supportive and empowering environment for growth and healing. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist with a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Simmons University and a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW).
(978) 396-5948 View (978) 396-5948
Photo of Sheila Marie Tucke, MSW, LICSW, CAGS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Marie Tucke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
I have had a private therapy practice in Andover and Westford, Ma. for nearly 30 years. During this time, I have worked with those struggling with a variety of concerns including relationships, parenting, identity, work and careers, depression, anxiety, trauma, school and education, gender, and cultures. Generally, the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work come to my office in some sort of pain or discomfort as they move back and forth between their real and ideal lives.The conversations we have shed light on what is happening and to try to help reduce feelings of pain and distress.
I have had a private therapy practice in Andover and Westford, Ma. for nearly 30 years. During this time, I have worked with those struggling with a variety of concerns including relationships, parenting, identity, work and careers, depression, anxiety, trauma, school and education, gender, and cultures. Generally, the individuals, couples, and families with whom I work come to my office in some sort of pain or discomfort as they move back and forth between their real and ideal lives.The conversations we have shed light on what is happening and to try to help reduce feelings of pain and distress.
(978) 631-4505 View (978) 631-4505
Photo of Sobhan Namvar - Be Well At Black Barn Farm LLC., LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Be Well At Black Barn Farm LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
We use 10 acres of land on a farm we revived to give hope toward the pursuit of happiness and wholeness. Growth does not happen in an office; it happens while gardening, trimming hooves, picking eggs, shearing sheep, and chopping wood. We use the land to help you stretch your eyes. Maybe your search is around coping skills or developing interior athletics or just getting active again. Whatever it may be, we will support and guide you in finding wellness. We are prepared to confidentially, professionally, and in an nontraditional manner take some steps in addressing your mental health difficulties. Come join us on this journey.
We use 10 acres of land on a farm we revived to give hope toward the pursuit of happiness and wholeness. Growth does not happen in an office; it happens while gardening, trimming hooves, picking eggs, shearing sheep, and chopping wood. We use the land to help you stretch your eyes. Maybe your search is around coping skills or developing interior athletics or just getting active again. Whatever it may be, we will support and guide you in finding wellness. We are prepared to confidentially, professionally, and in an nontraditional manner take some steps in addressing your mental health difficulties. Come join us on this journey.
(617) 313-7975 View (617) 313-7975
Photo of Karin Lehr, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin Lehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02174
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychotherapist, I create a safe space for clients to feel heard and responded to in a compassionate, nonjudgmental way. Through this trusting relationship, we collaborate, build upon inherent strengths, and work toward healing and growth. I bring warmth, authenticity and direct feedback to my clients (adults college age and up), who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship/family conflicts, stress around life events and transitions, and others issues that can arise following trauma.
As a psychotherapist, I create a safe space for clients to feel heard and responded to in a compassionate, nonjudgmental way. Through this trusting relationship, we collaborate, build upon inherent strengths, and work toward healing and growth. I bring warmth, authenticity and direct feedback to my clients (adults college age and up), who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship/family conflicts, stress around life events and transitions, and others issues that can arise following trauma.
(857) 370-4428 View (857) 370-4428
Photo of Brian Jukins, EdD, EdS, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Jukins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, EdS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, MA 01803  (Online Only)
Creating meaningful change in the face of complex life stressors can feel overwhelming. Such a process can be intimidating; however, change is possible, and I’m here to help. My name is Dr. Brian Jukins and I have over 20 years of clinical and leadership experience, which I utilize to help you move beyond textbook symptom reduction and unlock your greatest potential. Together, we’ll work to generate fresh insights, heal old wounds, expose negative patterns and blocks, and chart a new path forward. This type of self-work is challenging but very rewarding, and I’ll be with you every step of the way, as my aim is to help you THRIVE!
Creating meaningful change in the face of complex life stressors can feel overwhelming. Such a process can be intimidating; however, change is possible, and I’m here to help. My name is Dr. Brian Jukins and I have over 20 years of clinical and leadership experience, which I utilize to help you move beyond textbook symptom reduction and unlock your greatest potential. Together, we’ll work to generate fresh insights, heal old wounds, expose negative patterns and blocks, and chart a new path forward. This type of self-work is challenging but very rewarding, and I’ll be with you every step of the way, as my aim is to help you THRIVE!
(339) 201-9972 View (339) 201-9972
Photo of Jennifer A Spinner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer A Spinner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Medford, MA 02155  (Online Only)
Calling ALL Couples! LGBTQ+, Heterosexual, Polyamorous, Monogamous, Monogamish, Open Relationships, ALL couples and ALL Relationships! I Can Help You! Presenting a Special Offer from Jennifer Spinner LCSW!I am a student obtaining RLT (Relational Life Therapy) Certification. I will submit a case review and am offering a special fee in return for couples willing to allow me to record as we do session. The RLT Method is Very Effective! I can save your relationship and give you hope again! I study with Terry Real who has saved many relationships! Call Now! Malden, Brockton, Boston https:/www.jenniferspinnerLCSW.com
Calling ALL Couples! LGBTQ+, Heterosexual, Polyamorous, Monogamous, Monogamish, Open Relationships, ALL couples and ALL Relationships! I Can Help You! Presenting a Special Offer from Jennifer Spinner LCSW!I am a student obtaining RLT (Relational Life Therapy) Certification. I will submit a case review and am offering a special fee in return for couples willing to allow me to record as we do session. The RLT Method is Very Effective! I can save your relationship and give you hope again! I study with Terry Real who has saved many relationships! Call Now! Malden, Brockton, Boston https:/www.jenniferspinnerLCSW.com
(339) 330-0821 View (339) 330-0821

See more therapy options for Wilmington

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.