Weight Loss Therapists in Cleveland Heights, OH
![Photo of Yvette Suzanne Williams - Yvette The Coach M.A., CMLC | Narcissistic Abuse , MA, CMLC, CDC, CHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff1bb3a6-b3f6-40f0-b964-9306a996b979/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yvette The Coach M.A., CMLC | Narcissistic Abuse
MA, CMLC, CDC, CHC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
NARCISSISTIC EMOTIONAL/Psychological abuse & IPV! Dealing with an abusive, hostile, high-profile professional, threatening the entire ecological system of yr life? Your partner, spouse, boss, co-worker, family member? Putting you down and/or threatening you & in the next breath telling you how much they love you? Are you drained, devalued, debilitated to exhaustion? Trivial demands? Isolation? Are you smothered? Is your hair falling out? Are your adrenals pumping? Are you denied sleep? Devouring your will is what the abuser wants so they can control. You must not have any space or feel emotion in the relationship: especially anger.
NARCISSISTIC EMOTIONAL/Psychological abuse & IPV! Dealing with an abusive, hostile, high-profile professional, threatening the entire ecological system of yr life? Your partner, spouse, boss, co-worker, family member? Putting you down and/or threatening you & in the next breath telling you how much they love you? Are you drained, devalued, debilitated to exhaustion? Trivial demands? Isolation? Are you smothered? Is your hair falling out? Are your adrenals pumping? Are you denied sleep? Devouring your will is what the abuser wants so they can control. You must not have any space or feel emotion in the relationship: especially anger.
![Photo of Tiona L Gosha, RN, MACPC, BSN, LPCC, S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8697182-c48f-40c2-9486-afe0a0b9e2dc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life experiences can leave you feeling shattered! I am here to help you feel whole again. My ideal client is one who comes to be heard, seeking a way to cope with personal challenges that are effecting their interpersonal relationships, career, physical, emotional or spiritual functionality. I have over 16 years in Clinical Pastoral Counseling. I have worked in the healthcare field as Registered Nurse since 1983. Which has groomed me to work with clients in matters of the heart.
Life experiences can leave you feeling shattered! I am here to help you feel whole again. My ideal client is one who comes to be heard, seeking a way to cope with personal challenges that are effecting their interpersonal relationships, career, physical, emotional or spiritual functionality. I have over 16 years in Clinical Pastoral Counseling. I have worked in the healthcare field as Registered Nurse since 1983. Which has groomed me to work with clients in matters of the heart.
![Photo of Otimbum Wilson Jr, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b155302a-6ad8-4cc5-9dec-605b6d8cbe38/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile! This means that you are contemplating the beginning of your therapeutic journey, and this is a beautiful first step. I am a firm believer that ANYBODY can benefit from therapy no matter one's age, gender or race. I have experience working in a multitude of settings such as school based counseling, Methadone clinic, community agency work, and private practice. I have experience working with individuals (children, teenagers and adults), families, and couples. I have experience serving diverse populations with a wide range of mental health concern.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile! This means that you are contemplating the beginning of your therapeutic journey, and this is a beautiful first step. I am a firm believer that ANYBODY can benefit from therapy no matter one's age, gender or race. I have experience working in a multitude of settings such as school based counseling, Methadone clinic, community agency work, and private practice. I have experience working with individuals (children, teenagers and adults), families, and couples. I have experience serving diverse populations with a wide range of mental health concern.
![Photo of Carol A Leslie - Carol A Leslie - Hypnotherapy-Wellness-Reiki, ACHT, CWC, OT-Ret, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df81cf1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carol A Leslie - Hypnotherapy-Wellness-Reiki
Occupational Therapist, ACHT, CWC, OT-Ret
Not Verified Not Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Carol A Leslie ACHT, CWC, OT-ret - Hypnotherapy is prime treatment for trauma, anxiety, panic, chronic conditions and negative behaviors! Additional strategies offered to those with emotional, or physical, dysfunction. Eliminate the negative impact on your mental state, work, school, home or sabotaged wellness goals! 20 years' leadership in Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic enabled me to treat all aspects of mental illness plus emotional impact of Crohn's, IBD, transplant, PTSD, and chemical dependency. Retired Occupational Therapist, and Wellness Coach, I also look at all systems in a person's life, their "mind-body occupation."
Carol A Leslie ACHT, CWC, OT-ret - Hypnotherapy is prime treatment for trauma, anxiety, panic, chronic conditions and negative behaviors! Additional strategies offered to those with emotional, or physical, dysfunction. Eliminate the negative impact on your mental state, work, school, home or sabotaged wellness goals! 20 years' leadership in Psychiatry at the Cleveland Clinic enabled me to treat all aspects of mental illness plus emotional impact of Crohn's, IBD, transplant, PTSD, and chemical dependency. Retired Occupational Therapist, and Wellness Coach, I also look at all systems in a person's life, their "mind-body occupation."
![Photo of Cherie A White - Cherie A. White Inc., PCC-s, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c735d36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone has experienced emotional distress at some point in his or her life. A good indicator of when it's time to seek professional help, is when stress becomes overwhelming and unmanageable. Recognizing that you need help is the first step toward restoring a healthy life balance.
Everyone has experienced emotional distress at some point in his or her life. A good indicator of when it's time to seek professional help, is when stress becomes overwhelming and unmanageable. Recognizing that you need help is the first step toward restoring a healthy life balance.
![Photo of Patricia Lynn Saddle, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4980289d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Lynn Saddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Looking to make changes but not sure how to move forward? Perhaps I can help. My experience working in business, healthcare, college counseling, and mental health has given me a range of skills and the ability to work with issues related to adolescents and adults dealing with life transitions. My role as a counselor is to empower clients so they can move forward. Depending on the situation, my approach ranges from a gentle nudge to direct suggestions. I specialize in working with students, adult clients, adults with perfectionist thinking and ADHD, and high functioning autism. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Looking to make changes but not sure how to move forward? Perhaps I can help. My experience working in business, healthcare, college counseling, and mental health has given me a range of skills and the ability to work with issues related to adolescents and adults dealing with life transitions. My role as a counselor is to empower clients so they can move forward. Depending on the situation, my approach ranges from a gentle nudge to direct suggestions. I specialize in working with students, adult clients, adults with perfectionist thinking and ADHD, and high functioning autism. LGBTQ+ friendly.
![Photo of Renee J Jennings, MA, MSW, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60c01ee4-789b-4156-9983-36a0a615374c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee J Jennings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
As a transpersonal, body and gestalt psychotherapist, EMDR and Comprehensive Energy Psychology practitioner, meditation teacher and hypnotherapist, I offer an embodied and integrated approach to therapy, coaching, consultation, and teaching. Our problems and difficulties are opportunities for growth and wisdom, our innate intelligence always knows exactly what we need to transform or heal. Often, we need to undergo a process of compassionately encountering what it is that we find unacceptable, terrifying, or seemingly impossible for us to bear or let go. Paradoxically, these are the things that can lead us into deeper relationship with our true self.
As a transpersonal, body and gestalt psychotherapist, EMDR and Comprehensive Energy Psychology practitioner, meditation teacher and hypnotherapist, I offer an embodied and integrated approach to therapy, coaching, consultation, and teaching. Our problems and difficulties are opportunities for growth and wisdom, our innate intelligence always knows exactly what we need to transform or heal. Often, we need to undergo a process of compassionately encountering what it is that we find unacceptable, terrifying, or seemingly impossible for us to bear or let go. Paradoxically, these are the things that can lead us into deeper relationship with our true self.
![Photo of Dr. Psyche (Huanzhen) Xu Clinical Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bcc6ace-2e4f-4bd8-9522-0038a5c7bf0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Psyche (Huanzhen) Xu Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for reviewing my page, and a round of applause to you for showing up for your psychological wellbeing today. I am Dr. Psyche and I came from a multicultural background. My personal life experience and my precious encounters with a diverse clientele have taught me one of the most important elements of any effective interpersonal interactions - flexibility. I strive to offer a flexible space for the exploration of "self", a voice that may have been drowned out over time by the constant distractions surrounding us and changes that we endured, yet a voice so important that guide your actions and create the life you are living.
Thank you for reviewing my page, and a round of applause to you for showing up for your psychological wellbeing today. I am Dr. Psyche and I came from a multicultural background. My personal life experience and my precious encounters with a diverse clientele have taught me one of the most important elements of any effective interpersonal interactions - flexibility. I strive to offer a flexible space for the exploration of "self", a voice that may have been drowned out over time by the constant distractions surrounding us and changes that we endured, yet a voice so important that guide your actions and create the life you are living.
![Photo of Suzanne Gord, MSEd, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4abda55-ed6b-4e87-bc77-2210dda0be7c/1/320x400.png)
Suzanne Gord
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106 (Online Only)
If you’re looking for a peaceful space to help you sort out stressful thoughts and discover new insights, I can help. As a person-centered counselor, I believe you have the potential to find the answers you seek. My role is to collaborate and guide you along the way. I’m a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). This means I have specialized training in exploring the causes and treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. Along with talk therapy, I use techniques such as mindfulness, movement, grounding, and breathwork.
If you’re looking for a peaceful space to help you sort out stressful thoughts and discover new insights, I can help. As a person-centered counselor, I believe you have the potential to find the answers you seek. My role is to collaborate and guide you along the way. I’m a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). This means I have specialized training in exploring the causes and treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. Along with talk therapy, I use techniques such as mindfulness, movement, grounding, and breathwork.
![Photo of Tom Gigliotti, LISW-S, ACHT, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cb3230a-c8d1-4b76-b9fb-98587f0c7963/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tom Gigliotti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, ACHT, SAP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44121
I have 38 years experience as a life change specialist. If you want to feel better today book an appointment now. The experience I have as teacher and research specialist will give you the life you want today. My clients come from all walks of life and have indicated what they most like is my client-centered approach to treatment. If you are ready to do a deep dive into life and and create the life you have been aspiring to by removing blocks to healthy living then call me and set up an appt. I provide video mental health tips also on my YouTube channel which is (use the character (at) tomgigliotti6677.
I have 38 years experience as a life change specialist. If you want to feel better today book an appointment now. The experience I have as teacher and research specialist will give you the life you want today. My clients come from all walks of life and have indicated what they most like is my client-centered approach to treatment. If you are ready to do a deep dive into life and and create the life you have been aspiring to by removing blocks to healthy living then call me and set up an appt. I provide video mental health tips also on my YouTube channel which is (use the character (at) tomgigliotti6677.
![Photo of Jeffrey Michael Turell - Strive Mental Health and Wellness LLC, MD, MPH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c2a2811-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you suffering while also getting the runaround? Are you given recommendations without being told how or where to accomplish them? Strive offers mental health services with a holistic perspective. We encourage optimized nutrition, physical activity, and sleep hygiene as the foundation for your mental health. Nutrition services and group fitness classes are available onsite. Next we address your mental health concerns, which may include medication, counseling, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation(TMS), or acupuncture. Substance treatment services, including Suboxone for opiate addiction, are available.
Are you suffering while also getting the runaround? Are you given recommendations without being told how or where to accomplish them? Strive offers mental health services with a holistic perspective. We encourage optimized nutrition, physical activity, and sleep hygiene as the foundation for your mental health. Nutrition services and group fitness classes are available onsite. Next we address your mental health concerns, which may include medication, counseling, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation(TMS), or acupuncture. Substance treatment services, including Suboxone for opiate addiction, are available.
15 Second Videos
Yvette The Coach M.A., CMLC | Narcissistic Abuse
Otimbum Wilson Jr
Carol A Leslie - Hypnotherapy-Wellness-Reiki
Psyche (Huanzhen) Xu Clinical Psychologist
Suzanne Gord
Tom Gigliotti
![Photo of Tracy Carol Doran, LPCC-S, ATR-BC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b59d0da-39d8-4e09-a498-de21bd0b393d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervision endorsement, Board Certified Art Therapist, and graduate of clinical training program at the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. I provide a safe, supportive space in which healing can begin and utilize a holistic, person centered approach. I focus on each individual's strengths and provide support to enhance coping skills. I use holistic, expressive therapies to increase self-esteem, self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts, and promote personal growth.
I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervision endorsement, Board Certified Art Therapist, and graduate of clinical training program at the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland. I provide a safe, supportive space in which healing can begin and utilize a holistic, person centered approach. I focus on each individual's strengths and provide support to enhance coping skills. I use holistic, expressive therapies to increase self-esteem, self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts, and promote personal growth.
![Photo of Lauren M Morgan, LPC, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2ba031-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist with special training in the attachment theory-based modality of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I believe in building a relationship with clients where they feel safe and accepted, yet challenged to grow. Through this therapeutic relationship, individuals, couples, and families can heal and develop new perspectives and practices they can use throughout their entire lives. I utilize an array of techniques, including psycho-education, genograms, role plays, art therapy, and communication exercises, but I feel the most important aspect to therapy is developing a unique relationship with each client.
I am an Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist with special training in the attachment theory-based modality of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I believe in building a relationship with clients where they feel safe and accepted, yet challenged to grow. Through this therapeutic relationship, individuals, couples, and families can heal and develop new perspectives and practices they can use throughout their entire lives. I utilize an array of techniques, including psycho-education, genograms, role plays, art therapy, and communication exercises, but I feel the most important aspect to therapy is developing a unique relationship with each client.
![Photo of Diana Marquez Lyons - Diana Marquez Lyons LISW, LCSW, ACMHP, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce15b10-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Marquez Lyons LISW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACMHP, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
"Being happy is of the utmost importance. Success in anything is through happiness." My treatment approach is holistic, encompassing the mind, body and spirit connection and traditional therapeutic orientation. Recognizing that each person is unique, I utilize a client centered and a humanistic approach. Providing a safe, respectful, compassionate, supportive and confidential environment is vital to the process of healing and empowering the individual. I have expertise in treating Grief and Loss, Death and Dying, Divorce and Separation, Addiction and Recovery, Sexual Abuse, Depression, Anxiety and Parenting.
"Being happy is of the utmost importance. Success in anything is through happiness." My treatment approach is holistic, encompassing the mind, body and spirit connection and traditional therapeutic orientation. Recognizing that each person is unique, I utilize a client centered and a humanistic approach. Providing a safe, respectful, compassionate, supportive and confidential environment is vital to the process of healing and empowering the individual. I have expertise in treating Grief and Loss, Death and Dying, Divorce and Separation, Addiction and Recovery, Sexual Abuse, Depression, Anxiety and Parenting.
![Photo of Christine N Orr, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c683002-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine N Orr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
Not accepting new clients
My orientation is cognitive-behavioral psychology which focuses on the individual's current patterns of thinking and behaving that perpetuate the emotional dysfunction. Historical issues are addressed when cognitive and/or behavioral change is blocked. Typical presenting problems are generalized anxiety, anxiety and panic attacks (e.g. agoraphobia and specific phobias), depression, and relationship issues.
I also specialize in workers' compensation claims as well as non-work related disabilities and disability evaluations.
My orientation is cognitive-behavioral psychology which focuses on the individual's current patterns of thinking and behaving that perpetuate the emotional dysfunction. Historical issues are addressed when cognitive and/or behavioral change is blocked. Typical presenting problems are generalized anxiety, anxiety and panic attacks (e.g. agoraphobia and specific phobias), depression, and relationship issues.
I also specialize in workers' compensation claims as well as non-work related disabilities and disability evaluations.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Karen S Raven, MEd, LPCC-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d6019d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen S Raven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44118
In the safety of the therapeutic relationship, my clients come to identify, understand, and respect the experiences that have brought them to this point in their lives. They develop a new relationship with their past, enabling them to be comfortable with themselves, confident in their decisions, and in charge of their life's direction. Through a compassionate and thoughtful approach, clients find positive and lasting changes.
In the safety of the therapeutic relationship, my clients come to identify, understand, and respect the experiences that have brought them to this point in their lives. They develop a new relationship with their past, enabling them to be comfortable with themselves, confident in their decisions, and in charge of their life's direction. Through a compassionate and thoughtful approach, clients find positive and lasting changes.
![Photo of Billie J Gilliam, LPCC-S , LICDC-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b80a1f5-8538-4ab1-b2a6-76c5c6445c21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Surviving life is existing. Thriving is living. Freedom is a incremental process. Counseling creates space for incremental freedom. I prefer a three prong approach, where meaning of a thing/event, visceral body/emotional experiences and historical messages are explored in current behaviors, thoughts and feelings. In this process, you will be able to manage the unknown standing firm, having confidence despite uncertainty.
Surviving life is existing. Thriving is living. Freedom is a incremental process. Counseling creates space for incremental freedom. I prefer a three prong approach, where meaning of a thing/event, visceral body/emotional experiences and historical messages are explored in current behaviors, thoughts and feelings. In this process, you will be able to manage the unknown standing firm, having confidence despite uncertainty.
![Photo of Natasha Brown, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cf307c2-3954-4905-bb81-caab63e45b7c/2/320x400.png)
Natasha Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44121
If your marriage is struggling I can help you! I believe many of our greatest joys as well as our life challenges come from our relationships with those who are important to us. When these relationships struggle, we struggle. While seeking outside help during these challenging times can be difficult, you don't have to struggle alone. I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals in a way that allows them to move forward in their lives and relationships with more hope, happiness and understanding.
If your marriage is struggling I can help you! I believe many of our greatest joys as well as our life challenges come from our relationships with those who are important to us. When these relationships struggle, we struggle. While seeking outside help during these challenging times can be difficult, you don't have to struggle alone. I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals in a way that allows them to move forward in their lives and relationships with more hope, happiness and understanding.
![Photo of Abel Oriri - Able Counseling & Associates, Inc., LPCC, NCC, PhD(c), Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f3718fb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Able Counseling & Associates, Inc.
Counselor, LPCC, NCC, PhD(c)
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44121
While I may not change past ( personal, relationship, marriage, family or business) situations, I can help you to better understand and resolve your current situation and guide you to a happier and successful personal and professional life. By applying complementary individual, couple, family or group therapy techniques to unearth long-standing patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a meaningful and purposeful life. My team also provide EAP Consultations, Critical Incident Training & Response worldwide (24/7) Benefits:
While I may not change past ( personal, relationship, marriage, family or business) situations, I can help you to better understand and resolve your current situation and guide you to a happier and successful personal and professional life. By applying complementary individual, couple, family or group therapy techniques to unearth long-standing patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a meaningful and purposeful life. My team also provide EAP Consultations, Critical Incident Training & Response worldwide (24/7) Benefits:
![Photo of Jennifer R Brumfield, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-S, ICADC, SAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff1f610-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer R Brumfield
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-S, ICADC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44106 (Online Only)
I have been an active member of my community for most of my life. I began caring for others at age 15 by working as a nursing assistant in a local nursing home. I have volunteered as an Emergency Medical Technician and was a foster parent for nearly 100 children over a 13 year time span. I am passionate about helping people of all ages reach their personal or professional goals. I specialize in EMDR however; I utilize many types of therapy that is tailored to each individual client.Please make an appointment so we can discuss how I can help you and your family.
I have been an active member of my community for most of my life. I began caring for others at age 15 by working as a nursing assistant in a local nursing home. I have volunteered as an Emergency Medical Technician and was a foster parent for nearly 100 children over a 13 year time span. I am passionate about helping people of all ages reach their personal or professional goals. I specialize in EMDR however; I utilize many types of therapy that is tailored to each individual client.Please make an appointment so we can discuss how I can help you and your family.
See more therapy options for Cleveland Heights
Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Cleveland Heights
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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.