Weight Loss Therapists in Canyon Lake, TX
![Photo of Jessica (Formerly Bylsma) Lichy - Aspire Center for Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, CIMPH, CFTP, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2be7784a-4e20-44c7-ae11-d428547d4cce/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aspire Center for Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, CIMPH, CFTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Canyon Lake, TX 78132
Hi! I'm Jess. Thank you for the opportunity to be your psychotherapist! Have you been experiencing disconnection in relationships or with yourself? Are you saying yes when you want to say no, lay in bed at night with racing thoughts, feeling burned out, or are reminded of old traumatic events without warning? You do not have to stay stuck in survival mode! I will meet you where you are in your story, and move our work at a pace that feels best for you. I initially collaborate with clients to decrease overwhelming feelings of emotional and physical distress while increasing the ability to cope effectively.
Hi! I'm Jess. Thank you for the opportunity to be your psychotherapist! Have you been experiencing disconnection in relationships or with yourself? Are you saying yes when you want to say no, lay in bed at night with racing thoughts, feeling burned out, or are reminded of old traumatic events without warning? You do not have to stay stuck in survival mode! I will meet you where you are in your story, and move our work at a pace that feels best for you. I initially collaborate with clients to decrease overwhelming feelings of emotional and physical distress while increasing the ability to cope effectively.
![Photo of Jolene Des Roches, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f82ea586-737e-422b-9010-f38084a9d0d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jolene Des Roches
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canyon Lake, TX 78130
I identify as creative, innovative, and authentic. Along with providing direct care to clients, my experience has also been leading clinical teams in diverse community mental health settings. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology, am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, and a National Certified Counselor. My specialties include trauma recovery for individuals and couples. I consider myself an innovative therapist. I utilize holistic psychotherapy approaches such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I identify as creative, innovative, and authentic. Along with providing direct care to clients, my experience has also been leading clinical teams in diverse community mental health settings. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology, am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, and a National Certified Counselor. My specialties include trauma recovery for individuals and couples. I consider myself an innovative therapist. I utilize holistic psychotherapy approaches such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sara Hamilton, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47a565b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Do you frequently ask yourself "Why do I keep doing this?!" If so, we are likely to be a good fit. I seek to help my clients better understand their emotional needs and respond to them in healthy ways so that they feel better at work, at play, in relationships, and in their own skin. My particular interest is with those seeking to lose weight, and working with those clients from a Health At Every Size perspective. After working with hundreds of weight loss surgery clients, I have a unique understanding among mental health professionals of the challenges that come before and after bariatric surgery.
Do you frequently ask yourself "Why do I keep doing this?!" If so, we are likely to be a good fit. I seek to help my clients better understand their emotional needs and respond to them in healthy ways so that they feel better at work, at play, in relationships, and in their own skin. My particular interest is with those seeking to lose weight, and working with those clients from a Health At Every Size perspective. After working with hundreds of weight loss surgery clients, I have a unique understanding among mental health professionals of the challenges that come before and after bariatric surgery.
![Photo of Nikkala Kordzik, MA, LPC, RPT, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15661ff7-856a-4ff2-9b4e-43bec8598c3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nikkala Kordzik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130
I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and adults, who are experiencing anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and life transitions, as well as career and substance use concerns. I also provide play therapy services to children and teenagers, and counsel Texas clients in-office and via telehealth. I offer flexible counseling appointment times, including daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. I provide individualized and holistic counseling techniques, and help clients create solutions to meet their goals and needs. Visit my website at www.solutionfocusedcounselingtexas.com and call me at (830) 376-2657, today to schedule an appointment!
I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and adults, who are experiencing anxiety, ADD/ADHD, and life transitions, as well as career and substance use concerns. I also provide play therapy services to children and teenagers, and counsel Texas clients in-office and via telehealth. I offer flexible counseling appointment times, including daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. I provide individualized and holistic counseling techniques, and help clients create solutions to meet their goals and needs. Visit my website at www.solutionfocusedcounselingtexas.com and call me at (830) 376-2657, today to schedule an appointment!
![Photo of Shon M. Chess, MS, LMFT, LPC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ccce178-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shon M. Chess
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78132
I believe connecting with a therapist is the beginning of resolving many life concerns. Providing a therapeutic relationship grounded in respect and acceptance is my cornerstone to successful outcomes for more than 20 years. My areas of special interest and expertise include, adolescents-self esteem, adults, marital and family issues, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)-minority population concerns, mood disorders, crisis counseling, LGBTQ issues, trauma, PTSD and addictions issues. Let your journey to a healthier you start now!
I believe connecting with a therapist is the beginning of resolving many life concerns. Providing a therapeutic relationship grounded in respect and acceptance is my cornerstone to successful outcomes for more than 20 years. My areas of special interest and expertise include, adolescents-self esteem, adults, marital and family issues, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)-minority population concerns, mood disorders, crisis counseling, LGBTQ issues, trauma, PTSD and addictions issues. Let your journey to a healthier you start now!
![Photo of Delight M. Renken, MA, LPC-S, S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3cc540-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Delight M. Renken
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78132
I offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Are you wondering how counseling can help you? Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and a specific issue comes up. You and I would consider short term, solution-focused counseling as a strategy to work on your concern. Is there a relationship in your life that feels strained? Our counseling process would likely include working
to improve communication patterns and re-discovering the needs of all concerned. For more chronic issues like depression and anxiety, developing coping skills and improving self-talk and self-image can create significant relief in your life.
I offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Are you wondering how counseling can help you? Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and a specific issue comes up. You and I would consider short term, solution-focused counseling as a strategy to work on your concern. Is there a relationship in your life that feels strained? Our counseling process would likely include working
to improve communication patterns and re-discovering the needs of all concerned. For more chronic issues like depression and anxiety, developing coping skills and improving self-talk and self-image can create significant relief in your life.
![Photo of Kathleen Loisel, MA, LPC-S, BSN, RYT-200](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82dcd0f7-8f91-445b-85ed-7650ca253303/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Loisel
MA, LPC-S, BSN, RYT-200
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78132
Waitlist for new clients
In my experience, I've found that people come to therapy when they are in a crisis situation or encounter something that seems too overwhelming to face on their own. I approach my work in a collaborative way that promotes self-awareness, understanding, support and discovery, promoting safety and understanding. By focusing strengths, I hope to assist my clients in finding healthy ways to cope with stressors, achieve desired changes, better understand how they relate to others and the world, develop personal potential and empower in a gentle, purposeful manner.
In my experience, I've found that people come to therapy when they are in a crisis situation or encounter something that seems too overwhelming to face on their own. I approach my work in a collaborative way that promotes self-awareness, understanding, support and discovery, promoting safety and understanding. By focusing strengths, I hope to assist my clients in finding healthy ways to cope with stressors, achieve desired changes, better understand how they relate to others and the world, develop personal potential and empower in a gentle, purposeful manner.
![Photo of Jocelyn Sipes - Back Porch Therapy, PLLC, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e7ae4d9-0973-4934-aa4a-298d5ba6af20/2/320x400.jpeg)
Back Porch Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130 (Online Only)
You have many choices when it comes to picking a counselor/therapist, but what is the most important thing to consider when choosing? Does the person appear to be kind? Do they have the qualifications to serve you? Does he/she make you feel comfortable and ease the anxiety you might be feeling regarding sharing such personal information so quickly? How does the office environment feel (telehealth or in the office)? More importantly, how quickly do you feel your exact problem is being addressed?
You have many choices when it comes to picking a counselor/therapist, but what is the most important thing to consider when choosing? Does the person appear to be kind? Do they have the qualifications to serve you? Does he/she make you feel comfortable and ease the anxiety you might be feeling regarding sharing such personal information so quickly? How does the office environment feel (telehealth or in the office)? More importantly, how quickly do you feel your exact problem is being addressed?
![Photo of Corrie Perkins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27c7306a-19d4-4d56-8def-834cbebb2f44/3/320x400.jpeg)
Corrie Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78131 (Online Only)
Welcome. Seeking help involves great courage. At times, we all feel a little off, unbalanced and in need of some support. If you’re reading this because: you’re struggling with life in the military, you’ve experienced a trauma or grief that has you stuck, life is feeling overwhelming, you can’t seem to relax or control your worrisome thoughts, or maybe you and your partner aren’t able to connect or communicate emotionally or intimately, I’m here to help. I can support you in feeling heard while processing the uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, all without judgment. Together let's find healthy balance, new coping skills and growth.
Welcome. Seeking help involves great courage. At times, we all feel a little off, unbalanced and in need of some support. If you’re reading this because: you’re struggling with life in the military, you’ve experienced a trauma or grief that has you stuck, life is feeling overwhelming, you can’t seem to relax or control your worrisome thoughts, or maybe you and your partner aren’t able to connect or communicate emotionally or intimately, I’m here to help. I can support you in feeling heard while processing the uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, all without judgment. Together let's find healthy balance, new coping skills and growth.
![Photo of Shannon Schimelpfening, LPC-S, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f519203-35bf-446e-9463-d77f47176cf5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Schimelpfening
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78132
Are you, or your child or teen, experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or difficulty with life transitions? I work with families to help identify areas of concern and provide solutions to problems. My specialty is working with children and teens, but I also provide services to young adults and adult women. I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety and depression learn coping strategies and learn to explore thought patterns to help provide relief from symptoms. I love helping women navigate through various life stages (from motherhood to empty nest and beyond).
Are you, or your child or teen, experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, low self-esteem, relationship issues, or difficulty with life transitions? I work with families to help identify areas of concern and provide solutions to problems. My specialty is working with children and teens, but I also provide services to young adults and adult women. I enjoy helping those who are experiencing anxiety and depression learn coping strategies and learn to explore thought patterns to help provide relief from symptoms. I love helping women navigate through various life stages (from motherhood to empty nest and beyond).
![Photo of Alisa A Brzek Veteran, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ab00dfb-f999-454c-808b-c69e95578d87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alisa A Brzek Veteran
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Veterans, First Responders, Medical and Flight professionals, Civilian Trauma Survivors, Sexual Assault & Abuse Survivors...I am here for you. Are you experiencing: PTSD, anxiety, anger, irritation, panic attacks, nightmares, cannot go where you used to go, using drugs and alcohol to cope, fighting with your significant other, feeling guilty or shameful? Are you carrying secrets that you think nobody will understand? Have you lost yourself or your purpose? Are you isolating from friends/family, or experience self-loathing? You are not crazy or damaged...you have experienced trauma and I can help you.
Veterans, First Responders, Medical and Flight professionals, Civilian Trauma Survivors, Sexual Assault & Abuse Survivors...I am here for you. Are you experiencing: PTSD, anxiety, anger, irritation, panic attacks, nightmares, cannot go where you used to go, using drugs and alcohol to cope, fighting with your significant other, feeling guilty or shameful? Are you carrying secrets that you think nobody will understand? Have you lost yourself or your purpose? Are you isolating from friends/family, or experience self-loathing? You are not crazy or damaged...you have experienced trauma and I can help you.
![Photo of Edgar Napoles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/247c79a6-d0e6-4e13-84a2-dbd9243ecb2c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Edgar Napoles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130 (Online Only)
Are you trying to find a balance in life? Trying to decrease your stress levels? Are you attempting to find reasoning to your past experiences and choices? Are you seeking support for current life challenges or deeper interpersonal issues such as trauma, depression or anxiety? I strive to help you feel comfort, encouraged and empowered. I aim to help you find the best results for your emotional and mental health needs.
Are you trying to find a balance in life? Trying to decrease your stress levels? Are you attempting to find reasoning to your past experiences and choices? Are you seeking support for current life challenges or deeper interpersonal issues such as trauma, depression or anxiety? I strive to help you feel comfort, encouraged and empowered. I aim to help you find the best results for your emotional and mental health needs.
![Photo of Donna Clark Stutes - Donna Clark Stutes, MS, LPC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d703fb1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Clark Stutes, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
I am a collaboratively oriented counselor. I believe that successful change is dependent on your enthusiastic participation in the process. I see myself as a sort of guide and someone who can offer alternative perspectives which may lead you to new ways of thinking about and acting on your circumstances. I believe that ultimately you contain the solutions to the things you bring to therapy. I will do my best to help you access those solutions and find your best possible outcome.
I am a collaboratively oriented counselor. I believe that successful change is dependent on your enthusiastic participation in the process. I see myself as a sort of guide and someone who can offer alternative perspectives which may lead you to new ways of thinking about and acting on your circumstances. I believe that ultimately you contain the solutions to the things you bring to therapy. I will do my best to help you access those solutions and find your best possible outcome.
![Photo of Naomi Coleman Medina, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d854061-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Naomi Coleman Medina
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
I believe that we are influenced by social and biological forces, but our life is not fixed because of them. Together we will explore and discover skills and a mindset to cope, resolve, and/or transition into the new chapter that waits. Through our work together, my hope is that you will find meaning and grow from there, not allowing fences that others – or ones you have placed around yourself - to hold you back.
I believe that we are influenced by social and biological forces, but our life is not fixed because of them. Together we will explore and discover skills and a mindset to cope, resolve, and/or transition into the new chapter that waits. Through our work together, my hope is that you will find meaning and grow from there, not allowing fences that others – or ones you have placed around yourself - to hold you back.
![Photo of Keyna Omenukor, PMHNPBC, NP-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74c16f94-e770-4657-9e87-4bf558d4a006/2/320x400.jpeg)
Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is equipped with the necessary skills to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to all ages. Her area of specialty includes Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Trauma. She also offers supportive therapy. Dr Keyna graduated from Walden University with Masters & Doctorate degree in Nursing, and Brandman University with her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. If you feel stressed and overwhelmed with life reach out to her.
Keyna Omenukor is a Dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is equipped with the necessary skills to deliver compassionate and empathic mental care to all ages. Her area of specialty includes Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Trauma. She also offers supportive therapy. Dr Keyna graduated from Walden University with Masters & Doctorate degree in Nursing, and Brandman University with her Post-Doctorate degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree. If you feel stressed and overwhelmed with life reach out to her.
![Photo of Eric A Schmidt, PhD, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36e2ea2e-8f64-4216-94a0-74cbe78f7f30/1/320x400.jpeg)
You're probably reading this because you're considering counseling. I think that's a great first step. No matter who you choose, I hope you meet with someone. Here's a litte about me; I hope this makes your job of selecting someone a little easier.
You're probably reading this because you're considering counseling. I think that's a great first step. No matter who you choose, I hope you meet with someone. Here's a litte about me; I hope this makes your job of selecting someone a little easier.
![Photo of Tammy DeGroat, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58919065-7a91-4152-aea6-01dfe3662f1b/4/320x400.jpeg)
Tammy DeGroat
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130 (Online Only)
With over 14 years of specialized training and experience in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use; your teen can heal, learn to cope, and gain tools to get through whatever it is that is bringing them to seek therapy. They may not be fully ready, however I will meet them where they're at, and guide them in working through their challenges.
With over 14 years of specialized training and experience in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use; your teen can heal, learn to cope, and gain tools to get through whatever it is that is bringing them to seek therapy. They may not be fully ready, however I will meet them where they're at, and guide them in working through their challenges.
![Photo of Patricia Mai Michlik, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee061c30-be2a-48bb-b633-78312664aa31/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Mai Michlik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I love collaborating with my clients to achieve their personal goals & develop creative strategies to cope with life's stressors. I have been an LPC for over 13 years, & worked with seniors, adults, teens, & children from any location in TX via teletherapy (video/phone) who struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, Spirituality, relationship issues, stress/anger management, coping skills, family conflict, marital/premarital issues, cultural/ethnic issues, self-esteem, academic challenges, LGBTQ, Autism/ADHD, Emotional Disturbance & much more. Some therapeutic modalities I utilize include:
Hello! I love collaborating with my clients to achieve their personal goals & develop creative strategies to cope with life's stressors. I have been an LPC for over 13 years, & worked with seniors, adults, teens, & children from any location in TX via teletherapy (video/phone) who struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, Spirituality, relationship issues, stress/anger management, coping skills, family conflict, marital/premarital issues, cultural/ethnic issues, self-esteem, academic challenges, LGBTQ, Autism/ADHD, Emotional Disturbance & much more. Some therapeutic modalities I utilize include:
![Photo of Gillian Amaro, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db2013e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gillian Amaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Welcome! I work with counselors, parents, & high achievers looking to find joy and renewed energy - for themselves & the people they serve. I also enjoy working with couples and adult families who are having difficulty navigating current or past communication conflicts, terminal illness, grief & loss, parenting, boundaries, life transitions, and premarital work. You may struggle with self-care, perfectionism, over-giving to your work, taking your stress out on others, having difficulty completing tasks, or having difficulty staying present with others. You may feel "stuck", numb, drained, overwhelmed, anxious, worthless or guilty.
Welcome! I work with counselors, parents, & high achievers looking to find joy and renewed energy - for themselves & the people they serve. I also enjoy working with couples and adult families who are having difficulty navigating current or past communication conflicts, terminal illness, grief & loss, parenting, boundaries, life transitions, and premarital work. You may struggle with self-care, perfectionism, over-giving to your work, taking your stress out on others, having difficulty completing tasks, or having difficulty staying present with others. You may feel "stuck", numb, drained, overwhelmed, anxious, worthless or guilty.
![Photo of Heather Ingram, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eae6079-d9fd-4c2f-ae37-c3cea7875aaf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Heather Ingram, originally from Chicago, obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Argosy University in Schaumburg, Illinois. Throughout her training, Dr. Ingram worked in a variety of settings around Chicago including Elgin Mental Health Center on the Unfit to Stand Trial Unit, Bridge View-Challenger Therapeutic Day School, Women In Need Growing Stronger domestic violence shelter, and Gateway Foundation residential substance abuse treatment center. During her work in Boston, Dr. Ingram worked at Walden Behavioral Care eating disorder clinic, where she worked in inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient levels of care.
Dr. Heather Ingram, originally from Chicago, obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Argosy University in Schaumburg, Illinois. Throughout her training, Dr. Ingram worked in a variety of settings around Chicago including Elgin Mental Health Center on the Unfit to Stand Trial Unit, Bridge View-Challenger Therapeutic Day School, Women In Need Growing Stronger domestic violence shelter, and Gateway Foundation residential substance abuse treatment center. During her work in Boston, Dr. Ingram worked at Walden Behavioral Care eating disorder clinic, where she worked in inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient levels of care.
See more therapy options for Canyon Lake
Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Canyon Lake
- Alamo Heights
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- Kyle
- New Braunfels
- San Antonio
- San Marcos
- Schertz
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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.