Therapists in Newport, NC
![Photo of Lori Brinkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf5d312-fcb4-4044-9b1e-83a14ab4c7f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
![Photo of Che Hurt Ward, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d5b417d-899e-4bd0-a924-b4b639316039/2/320x400.jpeg)
Its a TOXIC WORLD, social media and COVID have devastated our lives and caused so much pain. Its hard to know where to turn and who can actually understand or help. Having somewhere to go where you are understood and accepted is the first step. What comes after is amazing!
Its a TOXIC WORLD, social media and COVID have devastated our lives and caused so much pain. Its hard to know where to turn and who can actually understand or help. Having somewhere to go where you are understood and accepted is the first step. What comes after is amazing!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/999a6bce-a933-460f-b5ce-72c2af2e0a05/1/320x400.png)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
![Photo of Lisa Fitzpatrick, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0502e8ff-e93f-41b2-b9aa-7a2d509ea05f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Fitzpatrick
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
Hello! I'm thrilled to have you here. From daily worries to depression, anxiety, or trauma-related concerns I'm here to help you every step of the way. I recognize that seeking support can seem daunting, especially if you're uncertain about therapy's fit for you. Doubts and uncertainties are common! You might value your self-sufficiency and independence, yet find yourself overwhelmed by emotions or the demands of life. You might be someone who prides themselves on being self-sufficient and independent, yet finds themselves struggling to manage everything. Despite doubts, you crave relief and healthier coping.
Hello! I'm thrilled to have you here. From daily worries to depression, anxiety, or trauma-related concerns I'm here to help you every step of the way. I recognize that seeking support can seem daunting, especially if you're uncertain about therapy's fit for you. Doubts and uncertainties are common! You might value your self-sufficiency and independence, yet find yourself overwhelmed by emotions or the demands of life. You might be someone who prides themselves on being self-sufficient and independent, yet finds themselves struggling to manage everything. Despite doubts, you crave relief and healthier coping.
![Photo of Ashlea Staunch-Humphries - Ashlea Staunch-Humphries, LCSW (Remote NC only), LCSW, NC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cbf3afe-9887-4b10-8ffc-0de349b6545a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashlea Staunch-Humphries, LCSW (Remote NC only)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morehead City, NC 28557 (Online Only)
Ashlea utilizes dynamic, client-centered therapeutic methods to uncover the root causes of distress and transform negative patterns that arise from personal trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, court and medical issues, and relationship conflicts. As a court-certified, abuse and trauma expert, her clinical experience and certifications include: EMDR Levels 1 & 2, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman, Forensic Interviewing, Nia Blue Belt, mindfulness, and Transcendental Meditation (TM). She is a cancer survivor who connects from the heart.
Ashlea utilizes dynamic, client-centered therapeutic methods to uncover the root causes of distress and transform negative patterns that arise from personal trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, court and medical issues, and relationship conflicts. As a court-certified, abuse and trauma expert, her clinical experience and certifications include: EMDR Levels 1 & 2, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman, Forensic Interviewing, Nia Blue Belt, mindfulness, and Transcendental Meditation (TM). She is a cancer survivor who connects from the heart.
![Photo of Robin Jones, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4b6389b-ac2d-4ef9-84e2-3883826e1228/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Havelock, NC 28532 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed psychologist, PsyPACT member, and former adjunct faculty of Craven Community and Lenoir Community College. I work under the umbrella of Alpha Neurobehavioral Clinic in Jacksonville, NC. I help individuals ages 20 and older to manage conditions such as generalized anxiety, health anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, panic attacks, PTSD and emotional eating. I also help individuals with things such as communication skills, building boundaries, life transitions, being a military spouse, weathering the throes of peri-menopause and menopause, adopting a vegan lifestyle, grief and much more!
I am a licensed psychologist, PsyPACT member, and former adjunct faculty of Craven Community and Lenoir Community College. I work under the umbrella of Alpha Neurobehavioral Clinic in Jacksonville, NC. I help individuals ages 20 and older to manage conditions such as generalized anxiety, health anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, panic attacks, PTSD and emotional eating. I also help individuals with things such as communication skills, building boundaries, life transitions, being a military spouse, weathering the throes of peri-menopause and menopause, adopting a vegan lifestyle, grief and much more!
Online Therapists
![Photo of Jean Hansson, MSW, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422be7aa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
I am a psychotherapist with many years on mental health experience. My clientele is adults, 16 and up. Areas of practice focus are anxiety and depression, chronic pain, grief, traumatic loss, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and adult ADHD. I'm trained in the therapy modalities of hypnotherapy, EMDR Exposure (CBT), and Emotional Freedom Technique - an energy psychology method. In helping clients break old habits, I'm a licensed provider of Trim Life, a weight loss program using hypnosis. Another program is Clean Break for smoking cessation.
![Photo of Rwenshaun Miller - Good Stress Company PLLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6218729e-f8aa-4d63-ada2-89400a14e7ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Good Stress Company PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, NC 27983
We understand that it takes courage to begin the process of therapy and to address your challenges. Our goal is to provide compassionate, supportive and non-judgmental support in a safe and nurturing environment. We use both professional and personal experiences to help individuals reach goals. We would like you to know that you are not alone. With the right mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual skill-set, you can go from living to thriving, experiencing life in a much healthier way.
We understand that it takes courage to begin the process of therapy and to address your challenges. Our goal is to provide compassionate, supportive and non-judgmental support in a safe and nurturing environment. We use both professional and personal experiences to help individuals reach goals. We would like you to know that you are not alone. With the right mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual skill-set, you can go from living to thriving, experiencing life in a much healthier way.
![Photo of Catherine Colardo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2497becf-bf97-4581-85c8-10c517a9706a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Colardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, and making change alone can be a real struggle; however you are not alone! I want to do life with you and provide support. I have learned that one of the most important factors of success is making a connection and feelings comfortable with the person you choose to work with. In addition, I feel like you are the expert of your life and you have the answers within yourself; however sometimes it take someone coming along beside you to provide the support needed to help guide you to find those answers. I would love to get to know you and to have the opportunity to be a support for you!
Life can be challenging, and making change alone can be a real struggle; however you are not alone! I want to do life with you and provide support. I have learned that one of the most important factors of success is making a connection and feelings comfortable with the person you choose to work with. In addition, I feel like you are the expert of your life and you have the answers within yourself; however sometimes it take someone coming along beside you to provide the support needed to help guide you to find those answers. I would love to get to know you and to have the opportunity to be a support for you!
![Photo of Melissa Kemlage, MEd, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e0c88ec-6dec-4acd-ba8b-cc555987b8b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Kemlage
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
YOU CAN BE HAPPY! Everyone experiences tough times at some point in their life and as a result may struggle with being healthy and may exhibit some type of negative behaviors, such as addiction, depression, anxiety, school or employment issues, self-sabotage, withdrawal and avoidance. With gentle guidance in a safe environment, you can find an emotional and mental balance and improve your daily functioning with continued progress and stability. We will work on identifying and changing dysfunctional behaviors and develop effective coping strategies to find harmony and peace in your life.
YOU CAN BE HAPPY! Everyone experiences tough times at some point in their life and as a result may struggle with being healthy and may exhibit some type of negative behaviors, such as addiction, depression, anxiety, school or employment issues, self-sabotage, withdrawal and avoidance. With gentle guidance in a safe environment, you can find an emotional and mental balance and improve your daily functioning with continued progress and stability. We will work on identifying and changing dysfunctional behaviors and develop effective coping strategies to find harmony and peace in your life.
![Photo of Renee Watson Adams - Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa743568-306d-408b-a207-36e53cf3c522/3/320x400.jpeg)
Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
![Photo of Dr. Myshalae Jamerson Euring, PhD, LCMHC, CRC, NCC, QS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/827b05d3-fe9e-4777-a866-0cb9a90cb352/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Myshalae Jamerson Euring
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CRC, NCC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winterville, NC 28590 (Online Only)
Thank you for reaching out! I'm now offering LCMHC-A clinical supervision! I know it can be difficult to make the decision to start therapy, and I'm honored that you've taken the first step by contacting me. Let's begin your healing journey so you can start living your best life! I offer individual and group therapy, clinical supervision, and corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion training.
Thank you for reaching out! I'm now offering LCMHC-A clinical supervision! I know it can be difficult to make the decision to start therapy, and I'm honored that you've taken the first step by contacting me. Let's begin your healing journey so you can start living your best life! I offer individual and group therapy, clinical supervision, and corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion training.
![Photo of Fareiza Blunt, LCSWA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1b01ad6-f2e1-497b-a1fa-a6dc750ba280/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fareiza Blunt
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28540 (Online Only)
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and safe space to express themselves and embark on a healing journey. My specialization lies in supporting the perinatal population dealing with challenges such as stress, trauma, anxiety/depression, fertility issues, grief, body image/self-esteem concerns, and various life adjustments both before and after childbirth. I firmly believe in the importance of a robust support system during the prenatal and postpartum stages for both women and men.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and safe space to express themselves and embark on a healing journey. My specialization lies in supporting the perinatal population dealing with challenges such as stress, trauma, anxiety/depression, fertility issues, grief, body image/self-esteem concerns, and various life adjustments both before and after childbirth. I firmly believe in the importance of a robust support system during the prenatal and postpartum stages for both women and men.
![Photo of Teresa Vaughan, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22f4e0a3-43ed-44f8-a78c-fc81c88bd782/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
Welcome to Gaining Clarity Counseling Services! All are welcome here! I take pride in being real. While techniques and interventions are important, the relationship between therapist and client is essential for positive outcomes. I have particular interest and experience in working with those impacted by traumatic experiences. I have come to recognize that much of client distress stems from unresolved trauma (grief, abuse, mistreatment, etc.). Together, we will address root causes and equip you with the tools necessary for sustainable lifestyle change. Please note services are 100% virtual at this time.
![Photo of Kayla Reilly - Evolution Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59afd40f-67b5-4486-9845-226641f80132/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evolution Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Are you anxious, depressed, or struggling in your relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you ready to make positive changes in your life? We have many therapists who specialize in many areas such as anxiety/depression, trauma, relationships, and more. Scheduling is easy and we have a care coordinator who will walk you through every step of the way. We also offer Clinical Supervision for qualifying LCSWAs!
Are you anxious, depressed, or struggling in your relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you ready to make positive changes in your life? We have many therapists who specialize in many areas such as anxiety/depression, trauma, relationships, and more. Scheduling is easy and we have a care coordinator who will walk you through every step of the way. We also offer Clinical Supervision for qualifying LCSWAs!
![Photo of Brooke L. Musick, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f60b2063-93b3-43d9-a27a-f38a583a81f4/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you find peace and healing as you face life's struggles. Therapy is your space to let go, think out loud, learn and grow. It's a place just for you; a place to address your needs and goals.
My goal is to help you find peace and healing as you face life's struggles. Therapy is your space to let go, think out loud, learn and grow. It's a place just for you; a place to address your needs and goals.
![Photo of Linda Sue Fuller, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00b3427d-55fb-417b-a398-662ae362769d/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
My clients can expect an environment free of judgment, full of understanding and empathy, where they can face the challenges that they have in a supportive environment. My personal background allows me to look at client issues from a different view and offer real world healing that meets the client where they are. My client’s come from various backgrounds, but all seeking to better understand themselves and a better way of coping. Because I’m seeing clients virtually, they feel freer to share more intimate and personal concerns that might be harder to talk about in person.
![Photo of Ashley Turner, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95e1106b-72da-4105-bccb-eaf5ccc6cd96/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Turner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562 (Online Only)
With 30 years of counseling experience, I hope to provide safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings. My therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I received my undergraduate degree in 1992 from Virginia Tech in Family and Child Development and my masters degree in Counseling from Radford University in 1994.
With 30 years of counseling experience, I hope to provide safe space for clients to process their thoughts and feelings. My therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I received my undergraduate degree in 1992 from Virginia Tech in Family and Child Development and my masters degree in Counseling from Radford University in 1994.
![Photo of Derek Prescott, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87a24d6b-f4e1-4430-8965-d0d9090c64e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek Prescott
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP
Verified Verified
Hubert, NC 28539
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
![Photo of Joseph Rengifo - Wilmington Mental Health, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b3a32f4-7ef5-468b-8e8a-a75816bb4b25/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wilmington Mental Health
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
See more therapy options for Newport
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.