Weight Loss Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Eleni Marcantonis - Overeaters Solutions, PsyD, Psychologist
Overeaters Solutions
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Overeaters Solutions is the premier psychology-based weight management practice dedicated solely to weight loss and weight management. We are specialists in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is the breakthrough approach for permanent weight loss and creating a healthy lifestyle. At OS we believe that managing your weight and managing your life are intricately woven.
Overeaters Solutions is the premier psychology-based weight management practice dedicated solely to weight loss and weight management. We are specialists in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is the breakthrough approach for permanent weight loss and creating a healthy lifestyle. At OS we believe that managing your weight and managing your life are intricately woven.
(212) 724-3530 View (212) 724-3530
Photo of Mari Terzaghi, PhD, ABMPP, ASPPB, CHT, Psychologist
Mari Terzaghi
Psychologist, PhD, ABMPP, ASPPB, CHT
Not Verified Not Verified
New York, NY 10036
I treat anxiety disorder/mood disorders weight loss smoking cessation .
Life is not an event but a dynamic process. Stress is a prevalent factor of modern urban life. It touches everyone. It can cause anguish and depression making life seem indomitable challenge instead of a process tat offers enrichment and joy. If you are suffering from stress, anxiety or depression, psychotherapy is something for you to consider. Whether you are seeking immediate relief from symptoms or want life-enhancing change, I am qualified to respond to your needs. My comprehensive training and experience treatment a wide range of emotional problems.
I treat anxiety disorder/mood disorders weight loss smoking cessation .
Life is not an event but a dynamic process. Stress is a prevalent factor of modern urban life. It touches everyone. It can cause anguish and depression making life seem indomitable challenge instead of a process tat offers enrichment and joy. If you are suffering from stress, anxiety or depression, psychotherapy is something for you to consider. Whether you are seeking immediate relief from symptoms or want life-enhancing change, I am qualified to respond to your needs. My comprehensive training and experience treatment a wide range of emotional problems.
(212) 819-1214 View (212) 819-1214
Photo of Candice Seti, Psychologist
Candice Seti
Psychologist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
WINNER: Best Weight Loss Service of 2023! All Services available online via video conferencing! I specialize in working with individuals struggling with weight loss and weight management. I provide an alternative strategy to weight loss based on cognitive therapy that allows people to change their life and their relationship with food, instead of just dieting. Learn more at www.MeOnlyBetter.com.
WINNER: Best Weight Loss Service of 2023! All Services available online via video conferencing! I specialize in working with individuals struggling with weight loss and weight management. I provide an alternative strategy to weight loss based on cognitive therapy that allows people to change their life and their relationship with food, instead of just dieting. Learn more at www.MeOnlyBetter.com.
(646) 490-9468 View (646) 490-9468
Photo of Deborah B Unger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah B Unger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024  (Online Only)
I am licensed in NY, MA, and TX. I have been a Licensed Master Social Worker for over 10 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Sports Performance, Memory Loss, Weight Loss, Substance Abuse, and Career challenges. I am Certified in Problem Solving Therapy (PST). I also helped many people who have experience caring for loved one who was dying and then the grieving process thereafter.
I am licensed in NY, MA, and TX. I have been a Licensed Master Social Worker for over 10 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Sports Performance, Memory Loss, Weight Loss, Substance Abuse, and Career challenges. I am Certified in Problem Solving Therapy (PST). I also helped many people who have experience caring for loved one who was dying and then the grieving process thereafter.
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Photo of Dr. Anna Gyarmathy, PhD, MSc, MPH
Dr. Anna Gyarmathy
PhD, MSc, MPH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Having a PhD in psychology and being trained extensively in weight loss, neurodiversity, executive functioning, and problem solving, I can help you get your life back on track and help you achieve your true potential so that you become the wonderful person that you indeed are.
Clients that work best with me include people who are overweight or obese and want to lose weight or are before or after bariatric surgery, people who are (neuro)diverse in need of executive functioning coaching or navigating the (neuro)typical world, couples who have relationship difficulties and need help solving relationship problems and getting through a tough phase of their lives.
Having a PhD in psychology and being trained extensively in weight loss, neurodiversity, executive functioning, and problem solving, I can help you get your life back on track and help you achieve your true potential so that you become the wonderful person that you indeed are.
Clients that work best with me include people who are overweight or obese and want to lose weight or are before or after bariatric surgery, people who are (neuro)diverse in need of executive functioning coaching or navigating the (neuro)typical world, couples who have relationship difficulties and need help solving relationship problems and getting through a tough phase of their lives.
(332) 378-5162 View (332) 378-5162
Photo of Sherie L Seff, LCSWR, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherie L Seff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
My experience with weight loss surgery, and long term weight loss maintenance, is one of my areas of expertise.
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
My experience with weight loss surgery, and long term weight loss maintenance, is one of my areas of expertise.
My name is Sherie L. Seff and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in Trauma, Weight Loss Surgery, Eating Disorders and Sexual Abuse. I am trained in AEDP, Core Self Reclamation Therapy/Fierce Love with a psychodynamic/relational background which I believe paves the way for long term personal growth, success and healing. My office is located in the Columbus Circle area convenient to all major subway lines. I have flexible office hours including Saturdays and Sundays. I offer reasonable session fees based on mental health, and financial need. I can be reached at 646-265-3633.
(646) 600-5012 View (646) 600-5012
Photo of William Wiener, PhD, Psychologist
William Wiener
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
I have an expertise in working with anxiety, panic, weight loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anger management, and relationships.
I help clients to clarify goals, and to make meaningful life changes. I have 15 years of experience helping clients to work through problems and helping them find more fulfillment, comfort, and happiness in their lives. We collaborate to find effective strategies that will help you to reach your goals. I practice cognitive-behavior therapy and take a holistic approach to working with clients.
I have an expertise in working with anxiety, panic, weight loss, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anger management, and relationships.
I help clients to clarify goals, and to make meaningful life changes. I have 15 years of experience helping clients to work through problems and helping them find more fulfillment, comfort, and happiness in their lives. We collaborate to find effective strategies that will help you to reach your goals. I practice cognitive-behavior therapy and take a holistic approach to working with clients.
(646) 600-5140 View (646) 600-5140
Photo of Monica Bilboul, PhD, Psychologist
Monica Bilboul
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I conduct psychological assessments prior to weight loss surgery (ie.
I incorporate a "team" approach in which patient and therapist actively engage in treatment. A professional, warm, and genuine type atmosphere is provided with the goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle with enhanced coping skills. A cognitive behavioral approach is emphasized, which is problem-focused and direct. Problematic belief systems and behaviors, which are negatively impacting emotional well-being, are targeted.
I conduct psychological assessments prior to weight loss surgery (ie.
I incorporate a "team" approach in which patient and therapist actively engage in treatment. A professional, warm, and genuine type atmosphere is provided with the goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle with enhanced coping skills. A cognitive behavioral approach is emphasized, which is problem-focused and direct. Problematic belief systems and behaviors, which are negatively impacting emotional well-being, are targeted.
(917) 243-9106 View (917) 243-9106
Photo of Ivy D Marcus, PhD, CDE, Psychologist
Ivy D Marcus
Psychologist, PhD, CDE
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021
My work in health psychology focuses on treating all eating disorders, such as bulimia and binge eating, and helping people with both weight loss and weight management.
As a cognitive behavioral psychologist, I believe that everyone holds the potential and capability to significantly improve their life. Insight is important in setting the foundation for positive change, but CBT psychotherapy has been proven to be effective in helping people learn to implement the tools necessary to achieve their goals. I treat a wide range of difficulties, but have specialized expertise in relationship issues of all kinds: marital, couples, parent-child, and friendship, for example. I also specialize in many aspects of behavioral medicine. My patients report feeling safe and comfortable working with me in a warm, trusting, professional environment.
My work in health psychology focuses on treating all eating disorders, such as bulimia and binge eating, and helping people with both weight loss and weight management.
As a cognitive behavioral psychologist, I believe that everyone holds the potential and capability to significantly improve their life. Insight is important in setting the foundation for positive change, but CBT psychotherapy has been proven to be effective in helping people learn to implement the tools necessary to achieve their goals. I treat a wide range of difficulties, but have specialized expertise in relationship issues of all kinds: marital, couples, parent-child, and friendship, for example. I also specialize in many aspects of behavioral medicine. My patients report feeling safe and comfortable working with me in a warm, trusting, professional environment.
(646) 490-9959 View (646) 490-9959
Photo of Jennifer Shana Stone - Jennifer Shana Stone, MS, LCSW-R, MS, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Shana Stone, MS, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
My practice specializes in treating adults and adolescents with depression, confidence concerns, anxiety, and weight loss goals. My approach is integrative, pulling from different models to best suit your needs. We will work together to identify goals that will enhance your life and address areas that may be holding you back. My active approach is focused on learning about the way you think to change the way you feel and what you do. I like to think of it as being a 'detective' of your mind. My ultimate goal is to help you learn how to be your own therapist.
My practice specializes in treating adults and adolescents with depression, confidence concerns, anxiety, and weight loss goals. My approach is integrative, pulling from different models to best suit your needs. We will work together to identify goals that will enhance your life and address areas that may be holding you back. My active approach is focused on learning about the way you think to change the way you feel and what you do. I like to think of it as being a 'detective' of your mind. My ultimate goal is to help you learn how to be your own therapist.
(646) 553-6416 View (646) 553-6416
Photo of Lynn Glasman, PhD, Psychologist
Lynn Glasman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
weight loss, improved work-life balance, meditation/mindfulness practices) and relationships.
As your therapist, I will help you know yourself in a deeper way. In doing so, you will be better equipped to enact changes in your life that will lead to greater happiness and a sense of well-being. We cannot erase negative past experiences. We can, however, work together to help you to better understand and to respond to these experiences in more constructive ways. Using a variety of therapeutic approaches, I will help you to become more aware of your long standing, negative behavioral patterns which are getting in your way of resolving challenges and of establishing and meeting your goals in life.
weight loss, improved work-life balance, meditation/mindfulness practices) and relationships.
As your therapist, I will help you know yourself in a deeper way. In doing so, you will be better equipped to enact changes in your life that will lead to greater happiness and a sense of well-being. We cannot erase negative past experiences. We can, however, work together to help you to better understand and to respond to these experiences in more constructive ways. Using a variety of therapeutic approaches, I will help you to become more aware of your long standing, negative behavioral patterns which are getting in your way of resolving challenges and of establishing and meeting your goals in life.
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Photo of Tanya Siff, PhD, Psychologist
Tanya Siff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10119  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include: * Depression * Addictions * Anxiety * 12-Step Recovery * Eating Disorders * Stress Management * Marriage Counseling * Infertility * Work & Career issues * Child & Adolescent Behavior Problems * Emotional Trauma * Relational Issues * Spirituality and Religion * Weight Loss Counseling.
Overcome your personal obstacles and maximize your potential. I can help you gain awareness and control of your emotions, build improved relationships with others, and effect positive practical changes in your life. Treatment can be brief or long-term. Both in-person or video therapy is available from the comfort of your home.
Areas of expertise include: * Depression * Addictions * Anxiety * 12-Step Recovery * Eating Disorders * Stress Management * Marriage Counseling * Infertility * Work & Career issues * Child & Adolescent Behavior Problems * Emotional Trauma * Relational Issues * Spirituality and Religion * Weight Loss Counseling.
Overcome your personal obstacles and maximize your potential. I can help you gain awareness and control of your emotions, build improved relationships with others, and effect positive practical changes in your life. Treatment can be brief or long-term. Both in-person or video therapy is available from the comfort of your home.
(347) 289-7904 View (347) 289-7904
Photo of Dr. Vera V. Daniels, PhD
Dr. Vera V. Daniels
PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Hello, My name is Dr. Vera Daniels, owner of a health and wellness center in NYC. I am in business for over 10 years. My special skill set and treatment technique aims to help an individual identity and change concerning emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I can help you with anxiety or stress, depression, anger mangement, life improvement goals, specific fears or phobias, addiction, weight loss, gender identity, and other challenges.
Hello, My name is Dr. Vera Daniels, owner of a health and wellness center in NYC. I am in business for over 10 years. My special skill set and treatment technique aims to help an individual identity and change concerning emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I can help you with anxiety or stress, depression, anger mangement, life improvement goals, specific fears or phobias, addiction, weight loss, gender identity, and other challenges.
(347) 507-2975 View (347) 507-2975
Photo of Jayme Albin - Cognitive behavior & EMDR therapy NYC, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Cognitive behavior & EMDR therapy NYC
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
She specializes in anxiety ( phobias, panic, GAD, OCD), Depression/ Bipolar, Weight loss/maintenance, relationship, adjustment problems, ADHD/ADD attention problems and behavior problem Trauma/ PTSD.
Are you looking to develop a healthy, positive mind set about yourself, relationships and achieve goals? Master anxiety and stress to perform, feel and think at your best? The unique programs I offer combine the latest scientific researched strategies of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Yoga therapy and utilize advances in technology (biofeedback,virtual reality and neurofeedback. I am a recognized expert in treating anxiety, phobias, PTSD, stress, body image and weight issues. Contact me www.cbt-newyork.com Make lifelong changes, Authored: "The Idiots Guide to Cognitive Behavior Therapy", Penguin, 2014.and" Virtual Reality & Biofeedback for Fear of Flying Phobia"
She specializes in anxiety ( phobias, panic, GAD, OCD), Depression/ Bipolar, Weight loss/maintenance, relationship, adjustment problems, ADHD/ADD attention problems and behavior problem Trauma/ PTSD.
Are you looking to develop a healthy, positive mind set about yourself, relationships and achieve goals? Master anxiety and stress to perform, feel and think at your best? The unique programs I offer combine the latest scientific researched strategies of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Yoga therapy and utilize advances in technology (biofeedback,virtual reality and neurofeedback. I am a recognized expert in treating anxiety, phobias, PTSD, stress, body image and weight issues. Contact me www.cbt-newyork.com Make lifelong changes, Authored: "The Idiots Guide to Cognitive Behavior Therapy", Penguin, 2014.and" Virtual Reality & Biofeedback for Fear of Flying Phobia"
(646) 392-7196 View (646) 392-7196
Photo of Eleni Marcantonis, PsyD, Psychologist
Eleni Marcantonis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
In addition to having extensive experience in treating individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, panic, eating disorders and self-esteem issues, my practice also focuses on relationship problems, maladaptive relationship patterns, weight loss, career changes, couples' issues, as well as change of life issues, such as divorce, retirement and bereavement.
Do you want to make changes in your life and in your relationships but aren't sure how? Have your recently experienced the loss of a relationship, job change or a death and are experiencing feelings of anxiety or sadness? As a Cognitive Behavioral therapist, educated at the Wright Institute and Harvard University, my goal is to present clients with the most effective methods to create change. My practice is dedicated to focusing on an individual's overall well-being and to assist one in overcoming obstacles that prevent them from constructively pursuing and attaining their goals with greater success.
In addition to having extensive experience in treating individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, panic, eating disorders and self-esteem issues, my practice also focuses on relationship problems, maladaptive relationship patterns, weight loss, career changes, couples' issues, as well as change of life issues, such as divorce, retirement and bereavement.
Do you want to make changes in your life and in your relationships but aren't sure how? Have your recently experienced the loss of a relationship, job change or a death and are experiencing feelings of anxiety or sadness? As a Cognitive Behavioral therapist, educated at the Wright Institute and Harvard University, my goal is to present clients with the most effective methods to create change. My practice is dedicated to focusing on an individual's overall well-being and to assist one in overcoming obstacles that prevent them from constructively pursuing and attaining their goals with greater success.
(212) 724-3530 View (212) 724-3530
Photo of Alma Villegas-Schwalbenberg, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Alma Villegas-Schwalbenberg
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10168
Waitlist for new clients
Compassion, Competence and Commitment define my practice. Your mental health is important to me. I've been working with children, adolescents and families for over 15 years. Feeling stressed out, depressed or anxious? Are you ready for change? I can help you using proven, effective therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I provide testing services such as: psycho-educational, neuropsychological, job fitness, parental fitness, and weight loss surgery evaluations. I also run social skills training, bereavement and anger management workshops for children and adults alike.
Compassion, Competence and Commitment define my practice. Your mental health is important to me. I've been working with children, adolescents and families for over 15 years. Feeling stressed out, depressed or anxious? Are you ready for change? I can help you using proven, effective therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I provide testing services such as: psycho-educational, neuropsychological, job fitness, parental fitness, and weight loss surgery evaluations. I also run social skills training, bereavement and anger management workshops for children and adults alike.
(646) 762-5476 View (646) 762-5476
Photo of Lauren M Puma, PhD, ACC, Psychologist
Lauren M Puma
Psychologist, PhD, ACC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10005  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a compassionate Therapist and Transformational Life Coach at Wellness Road Psychology, I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and major life transitions (i.e., job loss, death of a loved one, weight loss surgery, adjustment to college life) to process pain, overcome challenges, and reclaim control over their lives. I also empower my clients to improve their health conditions (i.e., obesity, diabetes, sleep problems, and chronic pain), so that they can live life more fully. I am passionate about supporting people in creating sustainable habits that promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
As a compassionate Therapist and Transformational Life Coach at Wellness Road Psychology, I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, stress, and major life transitions (i.e., job loss, death of a loved one, weight loss surgery, adjustment to college life) to process pain, overcome challenges, and reclaim control over their lives. I also empower my clients to improve their health conditions (i.e., obesity, diabetes, sleep problems, and chronic pain), so that they can live life more fully. I am passionate about supporting people in creating sustainable habits that promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
(347) 786-7669 View (347) 786-7669
Photo of Ivana Ross, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ivana Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
In addition, I hold a certificate in clinical hypnotherapy and concentrate on applying brief, solution focused hypnotherapy to help with a variety of issues: weight loss, chemical dependency, anxiety and phobias.
I believe that positive reinforcement and approach in life can help people with individual and interpersonal challenges. I specialize in Marriage and Family therapy, couples counseling, anxiety, depression and anger management. I am a clinical fellow of The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, where I expand my professional expertise (in addition to my clinical work) to optimize therapeutic services provided to my patients. As a member of the American Academy of Psychotherapists, I am a creator of the EMDR workshop: Learning How Repressed Memories are Accessed using EMDR.
In addition, I hold a certificate in clinical hypnotherapy and concentrate on applying brief, solution focused hypnotherapy to help with a variety of issues: weight loss, chemical dependency, anxiety and phobias.
I believe that positive reinforcement and approach in life can help people with individual and interpersonal challenges. I specialize in Marriage and Family therapy, couples counseling, anxiety, depression and anger management. I am a clinical fellow of The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy, where I expand my professional expertise (in addition to my clinical work) to optimize therapeutic services provided to my patients. As a member of the American Academy of Psychotherapists, I am a creator of the EMDR workshop: Learning How Repressed Memories are Accessed using EMDR.
(646) 941-7906 View (646) 941-7906
Photo of Caprice Royal, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caprice Royal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a certified wellness and life coach working with individuals on goals such as weight loss, stress reduction, and control of chronic health issues.
I believe that therapy is a great tool to help people manage their lives and I find that most of my clients make real progress,reduce their emotional suffering, and begin a process of self discovery that can create positive change. My practice is individualized to meet the specific needs of my clients and I am trained and experienced in the areas of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and emotional stress due to life changes and loss. I also work with people who have weight loss issues and difficulty with emotional eating.
I am also a certified wellness and life coach working with individuals on goals such as weight loss, stress reduction, and control of chronic health issues.
I believe that therapy is a great tool to help people manage their lives and I find that most of my clients make real progress,reduce their emotional suffering, and begin a process of self discovery that can create positive change. My practice is individualized to meet the specific needs of my clients and I am trained and experienced in the areas of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and emotional stress due to life changes and loss. I also work with people who have weight loss issues and difficulty with emotional eating.
(917) 791-1207 View (917) 791-1207
Photo of Tammy St Clair, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammy St Clair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
In 2005 I had a life changing weight loss procedure and have lost, and maintained, a 110 pound loss.
Life before and after weight loss can be difficult. No matter how you've lost a significant amount of weight, your life changes. Most of my clients have had, or are thinking about having, Lap-Band, Bypass, Sleeve, or Balloon weight loss procedures. I also counsel those who don't qualify, or do not desire surgery. In order to maintain the weight loss, one's behavior must change. Our thinking must change. How we see ourselves must change. I should know - I am a product of all these lifestyle changes myself.
In 2005 I had a life changing weight loss procedure and have lost, and maintained, a 110 pound loss.
Life before and after weight loss can be difficult. No matter how you've lost a significant amount of weight, your life changes. Most of my clients have had, or are thinking about having, Lap-Band, Bypass, Sleeve, or Balloon weight loss procedures. I also counsel those who don't qualify, or do not desire surgery. In order to maintain the weight loss, one's behavior must change. Our thinking must change. How we see ourselves must change. I should know - I am a product of all these lifestyle changes myself.
(914) 368-2231 View (914) 368-2231
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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.