Weight Loss Therapists in Kaufman, TX

Photo of Karen M. Miller, LCSW-S, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen M. Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MSW
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142  (Online Only)
I believe in the power of a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship, working together with clients to explore your unique strengths and challenges to foster lasting change. Known as "The Couples Therapist" I not only provide couples therapy; I offer the therapeutic experience to individuals and groups. Life lessons and chapters of life have equipped me to work with ALL people, I'm elated to be in a place to share not only my clinical expertise but life lessons with you through therapy, life consulting and women groups. Let the next pages of your life consist of healing, growing & developing. TURN to your next chapter!
I believe in the power of a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship, working together with clients to explore your unique strengths and challenges to foster lasting change. Known as "The Couples Therapist" I not only provide couples therapy; I offer the therapeutic experience to individuals and groups. Life lessons and chapters of life have equipped me to work with ALL people, I'm elated to be in a place to share not only my clinical expertise but life lessons with you through therapy, life consulting and women groups. Let the next pages of your life consist of healing, growing & developing. TURN to your next chapter!
(469) 812-5943 View (469) 812-5943
Photo of Donna Rial-Baker, DMin, MEd, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna Rial-Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, DMin, MEd, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142
Dr. Rial-Baker is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Ministry. She is a practical, interactive therapist who uses an array of therapeutic techniques. Her treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. She incorporates a blend of conventional, spiritual, and alternative approaches, drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, she works with clients to help them to build upon their strengths to bring life and blessings into all that they experience.
Dr. Rial-Baker is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Ministry. She is a practical, interactive therapist who uses an array of therapeutic techniques. Her treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns. She incorporates a blend of conventional, spiritual, and alternative approaches, drawing upon a variety of styles and techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, she works with clients to help them to build upon their strengths to bring life and blessings into all that they experience.
(469) 464-9940 View (469) 464-9940
Photo of Diane M Gard, PhD, BFK, NFK, Psychologist
Diane M Gard
Psychologist, PhD, BFK, NFK
Verified Verified
Kaufman, TX 75142
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
(903) 767-4190 View (903) 767-4190

Online Therapists

Photo of Kathryn Foster, PhD, Psychologist
Kathryn Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
Hypnosis can be useful for weight loss, smoking cessation, adapting to change, surviving break ups, enhancing creativity, decreasing anxiety and depression.
Hi. I understand that when you're hurting, you need understanding and sensitivity. I fit therapy to my individual client's personality and needs so it will work! We can use talk therapy, including cognitive-behavioral, hypnosis, sensorimotor psychotherapy (see more on my website.) I tend to be an active therapist and have worked extensively with abused, depressed, and anxious persons, and also specialize in couples therapy and dissociative disorders. With a Ph.D. in psychology and masters in couples/family therapy, I've done psychotherapy for 32 years. Please don't hesitate to write me.
Hypnosis can be useful for weight loss, smoking cessation, adapting to change, surviving break ups, enhancing creativity, decreasing anxiety and depression.
Hi. I understand that when you're hurting, you need understanding and sensitivity. I fit therapy to my individual client's personality and needs so it will work! We can use talk therapy, including cognitive-behavioral, hypnosis, sensorimotor psychotherapy (see more on my website.) I tend to be an active therapist and have worked extensively with abused, depressed, and anxious persons, and also specialize in couples therapy and dissociative disorders. With a Ph.D. in psychology and masters in couples/family therapy, I've done psychotherapy for 32 years. Please don't hesitate to write me.
(817) 438-0711 View (817) 438-0711
Photo of Kenyatta Martin, LPC, Counselor
Kenyatta Martin
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75241  (Online Only)
Please Click on Website link to schedule. Thank you. Family Therapy, and Couples Therapy that address: trauma, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, stress, negative thinking, depression, chronic pain, addictions, and so much more.
Please Click on Website link to schedule. Thank you. Family Therapy, and Couples Therapy that address: trauma, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, stress, negative thinking, depression, chronic pain, addictions, and so much more.
(346) 545-4996 View (346) 545-4996
Photo of Mary Schaaf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Schaaf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springtown, TX 76082
I have specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy across several specific areas such as weight loss management, domestic abuse, trauma and depression.
I am best able to help people who are seeking to recover from life experiences that have caused hurt, relationship and work problems and a decline in personal growth. Persons seeking recovery from a problematic past of drug or alcohol use, obesity, chronic disease, trauma, relationship problems, domestic violence, child protective services involvement, self destructive behavior, grief and loss or situational stress would be an ideal client to work with. I work best with clients who are curious about how to manage complex problems, curious about change and interested in investing in themselves, their children or family.
I have specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy across several specific areas such as weight loss management, domestic abuse, trauma and depression.
I am best able to help people who are seeking to recover from life experiences that have caused hurt, relationship and work problems and a decline in personal growth. Persons seeking recovery from a problematic past of drug or alcohol use, obesity, chronic disease, trauma, relationship problems, domestic violence, child protective services involvement, self destructive behavior, grief and loss or situational stress would be an ideal client to work with. I work best with clients who are curious about how to manage complex problems, curious about change and interested in investing in themselves, their children or family.
(817) 409-6474 View (817) 409-6474
Photo of Janice Terry - Janice Terry Counseling Services, LCSW-S, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Terry Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
I have over 20 years of experience. My specialities include intensive one on one therapy, trauma and family and marriage counseling. I work with children, adolescents and adults. I am a Clinical Social Work Supervisor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I address addiction, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleep, sports, and weight loss management. I teach coping skills, communication skills, healthy relationships, positive mindset & help motivate clients to make change. I have a certification in PTSD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia. I use CBT to assist clients in meeting their needs and goals.
I have over 20 years of experience. My specialities include intensive one on one therapy, trauma and family and marriage counseling. I work with children, adolescents and adults. I am a Clinical Social Work Supervisor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I address addiction, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleep, sports, and weight loss management. I teach coping skills, communication skills, healthy relationships, positive mindset & help motivate clients to make change. I have a certification in PTSD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia. I use CBT to assist clients in meeting their needs and goals.
(903) 730-6226 View (903) 730-6226
Photo of Scott Allen Smith, MA, LPC, CH, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Allen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CH, CLC
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
(469) 770-7333 View (469) 770-7333
Photo of Leslie M Faris, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie M Faris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244
I work with persons at all stages of weight loss surgery, from pre-contemplation to living with gastric alterations.
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
I work with persons at all stages of weight loss surgery, from pre-contemplation to living with gastric alterations.
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
(682) 334-8932 View (682) 334-8932
Photo of Dr. Vick Perry - Ease of Mind Wellness, LLC, PsyD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Ease of Mind Wellness, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76177
On this journey call life, there are many ups and downs, twists and turns. Everyone needs someone to talk to in a comfortable non-judgmental safe atmosphere, a place providing warmth, compassion, and respect. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have learned to ask amazing questions and then listen. My primary focus is helping women who are working through issues of depression, anxiety, grief/bereavement, obesity/ weight loss, chronic pain, relationship matters, everyday stressors, or work-life balance issues. A holistic comprehensive approach is tailored to consider the whole person, while exploring the interactions between the mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of life.
On this journey call life, there are many ups and downs, twists and turns. Everyone needs someone to talk to in a comfortable non-judgmental safe atmosphere, a place providing warmth, compassion, and respect. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have learned to ask amazing questions and then listen. My primary focus is helping women who are working through issues of depression, anxiety, grief/bereavement, obesity/ weight loss, chronic pain, relationship matters, everyday stressors, or work-life balance issues. A holistic comprehensive approach is tailored to consider the whole person, while exploring the interactions between the mental, physical, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of life.
(817) 406-3978 x1852 View (817) 406-3978 x1852
Photo of Dr. Robin Washington-White, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Robin Washington-White
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Desoto, TX 75115  (Online Only)
She designed a life she loves! Do you love the life you are living? Are you happy? Have you reached your full potential? Or are you ready to change your life? Are you ready to be a better, healthier, happier you? Dr. Robin focuses exclusively on Women’s Issues (health, relationships, career, personal growth, self-care, emotional eating, weight loss, stress, depression, anxiety and loss).
She designed a life she loves! Do you love the life you are living? Are you happy? Have you reached your full potential? Or are you ready to change your life? Are you ready to be a better, healthier, happier you? Dr. Robin focuses exclusively on Women’s Issues (health, relationships, career, personal growth, self-care, emotional eating, weight loss, stress, depression, anxiety and loss).
(469) 804-9074 View (469) 804-9074
Photo of Glynis Park, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glynis Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 6 to 12 and Adults.
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 6 to 12 and Adults.
(469) 824-9647 View (469) 824-9647
Photo of Kim Kays, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Kays
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
For help with weight loss, please visit www.
I help men and women dealing with, "Now what?" You know, when life doesn't go according to plan, which it rarely does. It often sounds something like this: Now what should I do that I feel anxious or depressed? ...that I can't seem to lose this weight? ...that my situation feels hopeless? ...that my past continues to haunt me? ...that I don't feel good about myself? ...that I (or someone I love) drink(s) too much? ...that I struggle with food? ...that my relationship isn't what I hoped for? Now what should I do that I'm questioning how I've spent my life? In other words, "This isn't how it was supposed to be; this wasn't the plan."
For help with weight loss, please visit www.
I help men and women dealing with, "Now what?" You know, when life doesn't go according to plan, which it rarely does. It often sounds something like this: Now what should I do that I feel anxious or depressed? ...that I can't seem to lose this weight? ...that my situation feels hopeless? ...that my past continues to haunt me? ...that I don't feel good about myself? ...that I (or someone I love) drink(s) too much? ...that I struggle with food? ...that my relationship isn't what I hoped for? Now what should I do that I'm questioning how I've spent my life? In other words, "This isn't how it was supposed to be; this wasn't the plan."
(972) 441-7952 x312 View (972) 441-7952 x312
Photo of Clara N. Aragon - Living Well Family and Child Institute, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,, Licensed Professional Counselor
Living Well Family and Child Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 25 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 20 years in Educational and Family counseling. Active in court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., generational trauma, youth/adolescents, and couples). Therapy focuses on decreasing the effects of generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 25 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 20 years in Educational and Family counseling. Active in court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., generational trauma, youth/adolescents, and couples). Therapy focuses on decreasing the effects of generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
(214) 628-7225 View (214) 628-7225
Photo of May Ukiri - Verve Counseling & Wellness, PhD, MS, LPC, MFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Verve Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC, MFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
We specialize in OCD & Trauma treatment; we also have several years of experience treating hundreds of clients for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, & weight loss counseling. Our mission is to bring you affordable and quality mental health services. You might feel like you have no one to turn to who can understand what you’re going through, but you are not alone. Our services will promote an increase in life satisfaction, self-esteem, self-respect, respect of others, a healthier lifestyle, and address issues that relate to improving ones quality of life.
We specialize in OCD & Trauma treatment; we also have several years of experience treating hundreds of clients for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, & weight loss counseling. Our mission is to bring you affordable and quality mental health services. You might feel like you have no one to turn to who can understand what you’re going through, but you are not alone. Our services will promote an increase in life satisfaction, self-esteem, self-respect, respect of others, a healthier lifestyle, and address issues that relate to improving ones quality of life.
(469) 772-9335 View (469) 772-9335
Photo of Dr. Belinda Newcomer, PhD , LPC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Belinda Newcomer
Counselor, PhD , LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stress, motivation, weight loss, unresolved trauma, emotional eating or anxiety? I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping people identify, and change troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with anxiety, trauma, low motivation, weight loss, and athletic goals. Clients appreciate my laidback, informal, and casual demeanor. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable during the intake process and feel increased positivity after every session. Let's work together to improve your overall energy and self-esteem. It may only take a couple of sessions to get you back on track.
Are you struggling with stress, motivation, weight loss, unresolved trauma, emotional eating or anxiety? I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping people identify, and change troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with anxiety, trauma, low motivation, weight loss, and athletic goals. Clients appreciate my laidback, informal, and casual demeanor. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable during the intake process and feel increased positivity after every session. Let's work together to improve your overall energy and self-esteem. It may only take a couple of sessions to get you back on track.
(475) 325-5919 View (475) 325-5919
Photo of Katherine Pang - Lakewood Wellness Partners, PhD, Psychologist
Lakewood Wellness Partners
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Heath, TX 75032  (Online Only)
We are committed to providing you with solution-focused techniques to allow you to move forward into a healthier mental lifestyle and develop ways to overcome your concerns and challenges. Offices in Rockwall and by telehealth.
We are committed to providing you with solution-focused techniques to allow you to move forward into a healthier mental lifestyle and develop ways to overcome your concerns and challenges. Offices in Rockwall and by telehealth.
(214) 272-2011 View (214) 272-2011
Photo of Roberto Guerrero - Valor Therapy, PLLC, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valor Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wills Point, TX 75169  (Online Only)
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over ten years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over ten years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
(214) 833-8162 View (214) 833-8162
Photo of Wade Christian Peterson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wade Christian Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Justin, TX 76247  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of Complex Psychological Trauma including relational trauma from abusive relationships, PTSD, and all forms of addiction including sex and other process addictions (such as pornography, gambling, and food). I have a great deal of experience working with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I assist individuals in gaining understanding of symptoms and establishing skills to set and maintain appropriate boundaries both internally and externally, identify codependency, address denial, and improve conflict management tools.
I specialize in the treatment of Complex Psychological Trauma including relational trauma from abusive relationships, PTSD, and all forms of addiction including sex and other process addictions (such as pornography, gambling, and food). I have a great deal of experience working with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder. I assist individuals in gaining understanding of symptoms and establishing skills to set and maintain appropriate boundaries both internally and externally, identify codependency, address denial, and improve conflict management tools.
View
Photo of Dr. Michael Contreras, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Michael Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
(817) 849-6835 View (817) 849-6835
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.