Therapists in Saint Charles County, MO

Photo of Rebecca Deason, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Deason
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wentzville, MO 63385
Imagine a place where your emotions find understanding and your struggles meet compassion. Therapy can be that place. Your journey is completely your own, and I'm here to honor and respect every part of it. In our therapeutic space, there's no judgment—just a genuine understanding of what you've been through and how you feel. Your thoughts and feelings are valued, and will play a crucial role in our sessions. We'll explore the opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation together, creating a space where your journey is met with understanding, support, and the possibility of meaningful change.
Imagine a place where your emotions find understanding and your struggles meet compassion. Therapy can be that place. Your journey is completely your own, and I'm here to honor and respect every part of it. In our therapeutic space, there's no judgment—just a genuine understanding of what you've been through and how you feel. Your thoughts and feelings are valued, and will play a crucial role in our sessions. We'll explore the opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation together, creating a space where your journey is met with understanding, support, and the possibility of meaningful change.
(573) 763-2360 View (573) 763-2360
Photo of Tyler Z. Tooley, MS, LPC, C-APT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tyler Z. Tooley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, C-APT
Verified Verified
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Waitlist for new clients
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I specialize in working with individuals (of all ages) who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, gifted, etc.) and I often work with children and teens who are in foster care or are adopted. I offer individual and family/couple sessions, play therapy, and I often integrate technology, including video and computer games, iPads, and virtual reality (VR), into sessions. To learn more about Gaming Therapy, visit my website!
I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I specialize in working with individuals (of all ages) who are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, gifted, etc.) and I often work with children and teens who are in foster care or are adopted. I offer individual and family/couple sessions, play therapy, and I often integrate technology, including video and computer games, iPads, and virtual reality (VR), into sessions. To learn more about Gaming Therapy, visit my website!
(636) 500-1966 View (636) 500-1966
Photo of Mary Kardasz, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Kardasz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63302
Hi. Thank you for taking a look at my counseling profile. I love counseling and have been practicing for 30 years. One of the things I've noticed new clients are concerned about is being able to express themselves without being judged, as well as if the experience will be awkward. In all my years of practicing, I've heard almost everything imaginable and judgment is not a part of how I work. Everything in my office is 100% confidential and safe. I know how to ask the right question and keep the conversation flowing.
Hi. Thank you for taking a look at my counseling profile. I love counseling and have been practicing for 30 years. One of the things I've noticed new clients are concerned about is being able to express themselves without being judged, as well as if the experience will be awkward. In all my years of practicing, I've heard almost everything imaginable and judgment is not a part of how I work. Everything in my office is 100% confidential and safe. I know how to ask the right question and keep the conversation flowing.
(636) 439-2451 View (636) 439-2451
Photo of Kelly Locker, MEd, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Locker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
*Winner-Best of Kirkwood, 4 consecutive years in Counseling & Mental Health, 2016-2019! Welcome. Life can be hard, but I am committed to identifying and resolving your painful problem, getting you the Results you want quickly. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Hypnotherapist, providing you a safe, comfortable and supportive environment in which to achieve your Success! My approach is holistic and integrative, which means I use a variety of techniques and interventions to target the whole person (mind, body, and spirit) and I tailor them to each client and their unique, individual needs.
*Winner-Best of Kirkwood, 4 consecutive years in Counseling & Mental Health, 2016-2019! Welcome. Life can be hard, but I am committed to identifying and resolving your painful problem, getting you the Results you want quickly. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Hypnotherapist, providing you a safe, comfortable and supportive environment in which to achieve your Success! My approach is holistic and integrative, which means I use a variety of techniques and interventions to target the whole person (mind, body, and spirit) and I tailor them to each client and their unique, individual needs.
(314) 720-6124 View (314) 720-6124
Photo of Aisha Lubinski, MA, LPC, RD, LD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aisha Lubinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63304
Sometimes we move into a season of life where we realize something needs to change. We don’t always know what that change is, but we sense that without it, we may not be able to move forward. Therapy is the exploration and healing of that season of life. We have a tendency to repeat old patterns that don’t get us to our goal, but struggle to come up with a different path. This doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. In fact, it means that a part of you believes deeply that the way you’re doing things is helpful, even though the end result doesn’t seem so wonderful! Let’s try to create a path to freedom together!
Sometimes we move into a season of life where we realize something needs to change. We don’t always know what that change is, but we sense that without it, we may not be able to move forward. Therapy is the exploration and healing of that season of life. We have a tendency to repeat old patterns that don’t get us to our goal, but struggle to come up with a different path. This doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. In fact, it means that a part of you believes deeply that the way you’re doing things is helpful, even though the end result doesn’t seem so wonderful! Let’s try to create a path to freedom together!
(314) 287-5867 View (314) 287-5867
Photo of Natalie Mucci, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Mucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
My name is Natalie Mucci (LMSW) and my passion is being able to meet people where they are and best facilitate each individual attaining their mental health goals. I have over a decade of experience utilizing a variety of therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies and helping individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and front line mental health experience during the COVID pandemic.
My name is Natalie Mucci (LMSW) and my passion is being able to meet people where they are and best facilitate each individual attaining their mental health goals. I have over a decade of experience utilizing a variety of therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies and helping individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and front line mental health experience during the COVID pandemic.
(816) 323-4628 View (816) 323-4628
Photo of Isis Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Isis Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through their struggles with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through their struggles with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
(312) 561-3208 View (312) 561-3208
Photo of Tony D Gillon Jr - Gillon Therapy and Coaching Services, MEd, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gillon Therapy and Coaching Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63301
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a series of transitions that feature successes and challenges. Whether you are dealing with a relationship conflict, birth of a new baby, career change or loss of a loved one, the ultimate goal is to reach a healthy and fulfilling life. I would love to accompany you on your journey and help you with reaching your goals and experiencing a fulfilling life.
Life is a series of transitions that feature successes and challenges. Whether you are dealing with a relationship conflict, birth of a new baby, career change or loss of a loved one, the ultimate goal is to reach a healthy and fulfilling life. I would love to accompany you on your journey and help you with reaching your goals and experiencing a fulfilling life.
(314) 742-3487 View (314) 742-3487
Photo of Dondra Agovino, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dondra Agovino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottleville, MO 63304
Not accepting new clients
Is your relationship going through a hard time? Maybe I can help. I am trained in EFT for couples, which is focused on identifying underlying patterns of conflict in order to find new ways of relating and connecting. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I help couples figure out what is keeping their relationship stuck. I work collaboratively with clients to understand the underlying patterns that are causing disruption or discord in their lives and relationships so they can experience lasting change.
Is your relationship going through a hard time? Maybe I can help. I am trained in EFT for couples, which is focused on identifying underlying patterns of conflict in order to find new ways of relating and connecting. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I help couples figure out what is keeping their relationship stuck. I work collaboratively with clients to understand the underlying patterns that are causing disruption or discord in their lives and relationships so they can experience lasting change.
(636) 923-8925 View (636) 923-8925

Online Therapists

Photo of Pam Weber, LCSW, ACHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
Individual counseling * Couples counseling * Family counseling * Adolescent counseling * Counseling for older adults and their caregivers * Addiction recovery * Weight Loss * Pam provides compassion, respect, and a heartfelt understanding for people facing life issues. Pam is knowledgeable in the areas of relationship; family dynamics; grief and loss; ADD, bipolar, anxiety, and depression; people struggling with addiction and recovery, and those who love them. The guiding principle behind Pam's work is to assist people in building more meaningful relationships with the most important people in their lives; including themselves.
Individual counseling * Couples counseling * Family counseling * Adolescent counseling * Counseling for older adults and their caregivers * Addiction recovery * Weight Loss * Pam provides compassion, respect, and a heartfelt understanding for people facing life issues. Pam is knowledgeable in the areas of relationship; family dynamics; grief and loss; ADD, bipolar, anxiety, and depression; people struggling with addiction and recovery, and those who love them. The guiding principle behind Pam's work is to assist people in building more meaningful relationships with the most important people in their lives; including themselves.
(314) 485-9974 View (314) 485-9974
Photo of Mary Jo Schneller, PhD, CPsyD, Pastoral Counselor
Mary Jo Schneller
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, CPsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fenton, MO 63026
I am extensively trained in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as marriage and family therapy, along with weight loss nutritonal coaching.
At times, we all experience challenges in our lives that make us feel out of control, out of balance, and disconnected. Despite these challenges, I believe that you can grow and heal. I believe in helping people through Faith based and practical counseling approach that responds to the needs of the whole person. I have a strong commitiment to the strengthening of individuals, marriages and families by promoting excellence in counseling. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD disorders, addictions, and sexual abuse.
I am extensively trained in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as marriage and family therapy, along with weight loss nutritonal coaching.
At times, we all experience challenges in our lives that make us feel out of control, out of balance, and disconnected. Despite these challenges, I believe that you can grow and heal. I believe in helping people through Faith based and practical counseling approach that responds to the needs of the whole person. I have a strong commitiment to the strengthening of individuals, marriages and families by promoting excellence in counseling. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD disorders, addictions, and sexual abuse.
(314) 315-4236 View (314) 315-4236
Photo of Christina J Landry, MA, LPC, CMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina J Landry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CMT
Verified Verified
Rolla, MO 65401
Waitlist for new clients
CURRENTLY I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My approach to therapy is customized based on the needs of the individual client(s) and draws upon a broad and diverse base of clinical approaches and well-established techniques while incorporating Holistic Modalities including Nutrition, Exercise, and Mindfulness. I frequently utilize Animal Assisted Therapy, so Don’t Be Surprised to see my two certified therapy dogs present at sessions! I am a Certified Master Trainer, with specialty training in Nutrition, DNA Based Wellness & Weight Management, Exercise Recovery Therapy; Life Span Wellness and Health Transformation Exercise.
CURRENTLY I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. My approach to therapy is customized based on the needs of the individual client(s) and draws upon a broad and diverse base of clinical approaches and well-established techniques while incorporating Holistic Modalities including Nutrition, Exercise, and Mindfulness. I frequently utilize Animal Assisted Therapy, so Don’t Be Surprised to see my two certified therapy dogs present at sessions! I am a Certified Master Trainer, with specialty training in Nutrition, DNA Based Wellness & Weight Management, Exercise Recovery Therapy; Life Span Wellness and Health Transformation Exercise.
(573) 229-0852 View (573) 229-0852
Photo of Jane N Rubin, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane N Rubin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ladue, MO 63124
I believe "the right" therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy. Working collaboratively, the client and I create a safe and supportive environment in which the client may address issues and behaviors, explore difficult emotions, cope with life events, resolve conflict, and identify relational patterns. My passion lies in facilitating clients in their journey toward personal growth and self-discovery. My goal is to help others gain control of their lives and inner strength by better understanding the relationship between their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors.
I believe "the right" therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy. Working collaboratively, the client and I create a safe and supportive environment in which the client may address issues and behaviors, explore difficult emotions, cope with life events, resolve conflict, and identify relational patterns. My passion lies in facilitating clients in their journey toward personal growth and self-discovery. My goal is to help others gain control of their lives and inner strength by better understanding the relationship between their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors.
(314) 649-5656 View (314) 649-5656
Photo of Abbe L Bassin, LCSW, MSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abbe L Bassin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballwin, MO 63011
My goal is to help my clients work towards achieving their highest possible state of emotional and physical well-being. My professional training and background include working with adolescents and adults in both short and longer term therapy. I value the diversity and flexibility of a generalist practice. I offer challenging insight with compassion and practical solutions aimed at developing a new awareness and fulfilling life.
My goal is to help my clients work towards achieving their highest possible state of emotional and physical well-being. My professional training and background include working with adolescents and adults in both short and longer term therapy. I value the diversity and flexibility of a generalist practice. I offer challenging insight with compassion and practical solutions aimed at developing a new awareness and fulfilling life.
(844) 937-1774 View (844) 937-1774
Photo of Mark E. Wardlow - Advanced Counseling Solutions, LPC, CCDP-D, EMDR, DBT, MARS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Advanced Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCDP-D, EMDR, DBT, MARS
Verified Verified
Farmington, MO 63640
We all encounter problems at different stages in life. Some are easy to handle, whereas others leave us hurt, confused, and hopeless. Our brain is an important organ, and it can get sick, just like any of the other organs in our body. What it takes to heal differs between person to person. We will never pretend we know exactly what you are going through, because we aren't you. But, what we can do is help! Being licensed in both Missouri and Arizona allows us to reach out to help even more people. Whether you are looking to move forward from the past, learn to live with loss, handle stress and anxiety/depression better, we can help!
We all encounter problems at different stages in life. Some are easy to handle, whereas others leave us hurt, confused, and hopeless. Our brain is an important organ, and it can get sick, just like any of the other organs in our body. What it takes to heal differs between person to person. We will never pretend we know exactly what you are going through, because we aren't you. But, what we can do is help! Being licensed in both Missouri and Arizona allows us to reach out to help even more people. Whether you are looking to move forward from the past, learn to live with loss, handle stress and anxiety/depression better, we can help!
(573) 400-2930 View (573) 400-2930
Photo of Christina Thaier, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Thaier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63104
I founded Terrace House because I believe that each of us deserves the opportunity to design a life that we love; one in which we feel at home in our bodies, in our minds, in our relationships, and in our world. I enjoy working with couples, adults, and adolescents to define and change their relationship with the problems in their lives including: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, identity exploration (including LGBTQ+), existential questions, spiritual concerns, career concerns, and relational wounds (including betrayal, divorce, and attachment.)
I founded Terrace House because I believe that each of us deserves the opportunity to design a life that we love; one in which we feel at home in our bodies, in our minds, in our relationships, and in our world. I enjoy working with couples, adults, and adolescents to define and change their relationship with the problems in their lives including: anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, identity exploration (including LGBTQ+), existential questions, spiritual concerns, career concerns, and relational wounds (including betrayal, divorce, and attachment.)
(314) 309-3502 View (314) 309-3502
Photo of Kathleen J Wallace, LPC, LCPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen J Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
I have been coming alongside individuals and families to provide understanding and motivation. I believe we are capable of finding peace emotionally and spiritually. I like using nature and activities in counseling along with art to help process our stories. We use metaphors in adventure therapy and interactive games in play therapy to grow in new ways. I have experience also as a coach, teacher, and youth leader. We have raised 2 children and had a foster son. I supervise Cathy who is a PLPC/CIT2 and enjoys working with women/teens. We all are skilled in interpersonal process therapy.
I have been coming alongside individuals and families to provide understanding and motivation. I believe we are capable of finding peace emotionally and spiritually. I like using nature and activities in counseling along with art to help process our stories. We use metaphors in adventure therapy and interactive games in play therapy to grow in new ways. I have experience also as a coach, teacher, and youth leader. We have raised 2 children and had a foster son. I supervise Cathy who is a PLPC/CIT2 and enjoys working with women/teens. We all are skilled in interpersonal process therapy.
(314) 626-4285 View (314) 626-4285
Photo of Dustin B Adamo, PhD, Psychologist
Dustin B Adamo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Available remotely in: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CN, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY. I was introduced to psychology while going through a difficult time as a young college student and seeking the help of a therapist. The experience taught me so much about myself and how to manage my emotions during difficult times that I decided to learn more about the field. One intro to psychology class turned into two more, and then just 12 short years later (with a few twists and turns along the way) I completed my PhD in counseling psychology!
Available remotely in: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CN, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY. I was introduced to psychology while going through a difficult time as a young college student and seeking the help of a therapist. The experience taught me so much about myself and how to manage my emotions during difficult times that I decided to learn more about the field. One intro to psychology class turned into two more, and then just 12 short years later (with a few twists and turns along the way) I completed my PhD in counseling psychology!
(636) 306-5279 x8 View (636) 306-5279 x8
Photo of Jennifer McColgan, MA, LPC, CCDP-D, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer McColgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCDP-D, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hillsboro, MO 63050  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed? Perhaps you feel as though you're at a crossroads and not sure what path to take? Whatever the case may be, there's something that has empowered you to seek out someone to talk with. Allow me to journey alongside you in this thing we call life! It is my priority to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and gain the insight, self-awareness, and self-acceptance you desire. I have a holistic approach and believe therapy is not a "one size fits all" model.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Perhaps you feel as though you're at a crossroads and not sure what path to take? Whatever the case may be, there's something that has empowered you to seek out someone to talk with. Allow me to journey alongside you in this thing we call life! It is my priority to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and gain the insight, self-awareness, and self-acceptance you desire. I have a holistic approach and believe therapy is not a "one size fits all" model.
(314) 403-2697 View (314) 403-2697
Photo of Naaman L Lauderdale - First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, PhD CES, ThD PSY, MAC, MA, LPCCS, Counselor
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Counselor, PhD CES, ThD PSY, MAC, MA, LPCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
(314) 947-3660 View (314) 947-3660

See more therapy options for Saint Charles County

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.