Weight Loss Therapists in Midlothian, TX
![Photo of Lifeologie Midlothian - Lifeologie Midlothian, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b1ee9f6-5b6e-4271-9231-abfba5eff4c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Creative Solutions to Stuck Problems® is what we provide. Our counselors work with adults, kids, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. The mission of Lifeologie Counseling is to help you address and overcome any emotional issues, communication problems, relationship struggles, or personal traumas that you may be facing or have faced. Our counselors bring to each session enthusiasm, honesty, common sense, professionalism, and a sense of humor. Contact us today to get started on your new path.
Creative Solutions to Stuck Problems® is what we provide. Our counselors work with adults, kids, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. The mission of Lifeologie Counseling is to help you address and overcome any emotional issues, communication problems, relationship struggles, or personal traumas that you may be facing or have faced. Our counselors bring to each session enthusiasm, honesty, common sense, professionalism, and a sense of humor. Contact us today to get started on your new path.
![Photo of Deborah J Crocetti, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23c25029-3fbf-416f-9960-30854e73fd6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah J Crocetti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, TX 76065
Has your life gotten messy? Are you finding it hard to enjoy doing the things you used to love? Does it feel like it takes all night to fall asleep leaving you exhausted the following day? I can help you to restore balance, enhance relationships, and tap into personal strengths. Do you suffer from feelings of low self image, anxiety, fatigue, and overall distress? Let's work together and put the "happy" back into your days. Everyone should live to their full potential and maximize personal happiness.
Has your life gotten messy? Are you finding it hard to enjoy doing the things you used to love? Does it feel like it takes all night to fall asleep leaving you exhausted the following day? I can help you to restore balance, enhance relationships, and tap into personal strengths. Do you suffer from feelings of low self image, anxiety, fatigue, and overall distress? Let's work together and put the "happy" back into your days. Everyone should live to their full potential and maximize personal happiness.
![Photo of Trisha M Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cccdb79-9c5e-4b6d-bf25-6046298c877f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi I'm Trish the Dish! I'm a Mental Health Therapist and wellness advocate! I love lifting weights, CrossFit, and blowing off steam through exercise. I love hearing people's stories, and making a positive impact! Life is too short to feel as though you are constantly struggling. Support, knowledge, and new coping tools could be the life game changer you need towards moving forward and living your best quality of life.
Hi I'm Trish the Dish! I'm a Mental Health Therapist and wellness advocate! I love lifting weights, CrossFit, and blowing off steam through exercise. I love hearing people's stories, and making a positive impact! Life is too short to feel as though you are constantly struggling. Support, knowledge, and new coping tools could be the life game changer you need towards moving forward and living your best quality of life.
![Photo of Rachel Payne, MEd, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f323eb4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Payne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Midlothian, TX 76065
I believe every person is a unique make up of mind, body, and soul. I work to partner with clients to find the best ways to improve each area. I understand that every person is different and hope to tailor a specific treatment plan to help. Please email or call to schedule an initial evaluation if you have experienced any depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, or any other issue you'd like to address.
I believe every person is a unique make up of mind, body, and soul. I work to partner with clients to find the best ways to improve each area. I understand that every person is different and hope to tailor a specific treatment plan to help. Please email or call to schedule an initial evaluation if you have experienced any depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, or any other issue you'd like to address.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Carol R Wadsworth, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a595987-9ca0-4523-99f8-c5a32649ac37/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help adults navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, weight loss, parenting, and life transitions. Together, we may explore ways to strengthen your relational skills, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and deepen your spiritual awareness. We'll explore how your relationships shape your journey, and how discovering meaning and purpose, even in hardship, can fuel your growth. With 25 years of experience, my commitment to you is to provide therapeutic value with skill, warmth, and professionalism.
I help adults navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, weight loss, parenting, and life transitions. Together, we may explore ways to strengthen your relational skills, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and deepen your spiritual awareness. We'll explore how your relationships shape your journey, and how discovering meaning and purpose, even in hardship, can fuel your growth. With 25 years of experience, my commitment to you is to provide therapeutic value with skill, warmth, and professionalism.
![Photo of Dr. James M, DBA , NLP, CMLC, ScD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4abd5fef-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. James I have a DBA in Business Administration, and Sc.D in Science. I'm a Certified NLP Therapist. I'm also a Certified Master Life Coach. I have a DM in Metaphysics from Universal Life Church . I'm here to serve you, I'm looking forward to helping you grow and improve.Go to aunlp.org and look me up. This is the NLP state wide site for Therapist. NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. NLP is an approach to Psychotherapy and Behavioral change.It is based on the relationship between behavioral patterns and patterns of thought. We also help change mental and emotional behavior patterns. Looking forward to meeting you.
I'm Dr. James I have a DBA in Business Administration, and Sc.D in Science. I'm a Certified NLP Therapist. I'm also a Certified Master Life Coach. I have a DM in Metaphysics from Universal Life Church . I'm here to serve you, I'm looking forward to helping you grow and improve.Go to aunlp.org and look me up. This is the NLP state wide site for Therapist. NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. NLP is an approach to Psychotherapy and Behavioral change.It is based on the relationship between behavioral patterns and patterns of thought. We also help change mental and emotional behavior patterns. Looking forward to meeting you.
![Photo of Evelyn Jackson, LCSW-S, MBA, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53019741-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evelyn Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MBA, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75054
Everyone will experience an emotional challenge at some point; shame, grief, loss, anger, fear, trauma, loneliness, loss of direction, purpose, or connectedness. Take the first brave step towards a more fulfilling life experience.
Everyone will experience an emotional challenge at some point; shame, grief, loss, anger, fear, trauma, loneliness, loss of direction, purpose, or connectedness. Take the first brave step towards a more fulfilling life experience.
![Photo of Shanequiwa Sledge, LPC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f1dae56-a9b3-493c-9cc2-560e33215b23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shanequiwa Sledge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104 (Online Only)
Hello my name is Shanequiwa Sledge. I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed chemical dependency counselor intern. My experience is in trauma, grief, and loss; as well as, child and family/relationship dynamics. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience in working with a variety of traumas and other life adjusting experiences. I have worked with children within the school system, children and families in underserved communities, survivors and families of domestic violence and other abuse; and I have worked with severe mental illness in a behavioral health hospital.
Hello my name is Shanequiwa Sledge. I am a licensed professional counselor and a licensed chemical dependency counselor intern. My experience is in trauma, grief, and loss; as well as, child and family/relationship dynamics. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience in working with a variety of traumas and other life adjusting experiences. I have worked with children within the school system, children and families in underserved communities, survivors and families of domestic violence and other abuse; and I have worked with severe mental illness in a behavioral health hospital.
![Photo of LaDawnya Hooks Gonzalez, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0f8775-f182-4555-9285-2b3ca203adaf/2/320x400.jpeg)
LaDawnya Hooks Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Do you feel isolated, scrutinized, and uncomfortable in your own skin? Does it take maximum effort to accomplish minor tasks? Do personal issues come between you and your professional goals? Have you experienced traumatic events that continue to weigh heavily on you long after the event has passed? You are not lazy, unmotivated, or unfocused. These may be symptoms of anxiety, depression, and unresolved trauma, including those caused by the repeated micro-aggressions experienced by sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic minorities. Yes, therapy can help.
Do you feel isolated, scrutinized, and uncomfortable in your own skin? Does it take maximum effort to accomplish minor tasks? Do personal issues come between you and your professional goals? Have you experienced traumatic events that continue to weigh heavily on you long after the event has passed? You are not lazy, unmotivated, or unfocused. These may be symptoms of anxiety, depression, and unresolved trauma, including those caused by the repeated micro-aggressions experienced by sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic minorities. Yes, therapy can help.
![Photo of Vania V Legington, LCSW, -S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5fb8bb1-ba87-4cd1-bfad-480af66c5fc3/2/320x400.png)
Professionally: I am a board approved supervisor for LMSW associates working towards their clinical license. I am open for taking on supervisees at this time. For potential clients: Feeling depressed, anxious or off? Wondering how you got here in your life? Are you looking around to find joy, peace and self-love? Then let's talk. If you want to be more confident in who you are, set and reach goals for yourself and your family then consider mental health sessions with me. Together we can clear out the cloudy view and gain a clear understanding of what is needed to live your full life as you want and need.
Professionally: I am a board approved supervisor for LMSW associates working towards their clinical license. I am open for taking on supervisees at this time. For potential clients: Feeling depressed, anxious or off? Wondering how you got here in your life? Are you looking around to find joy, peace and self-love? Then let's talk. If you want to be more confident in who you are, set and reach goals for yourself and your family then consider mental health sessions with me. Together we can clear out the cloudy view and gain a clear understanding of what is needed to live your full life as you want and need.
![Photo of Tiffancy Barnes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dda69e4-4465-420e-9f17-9dcaf681fe6b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffancy Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Desoto, TX 75115 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Tiffancy. Do you find yourself overwhelmed by all the things? Are you feeling down and uninterested in doing things that once brought you joy? Is wine o’clock or any other happy hr situation going on more than it use too? I help those with all the suffering with anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
Hi, I’m Tiffancy. Do you find yourself overwhelmed by all the things? Are you feeling down and uninterested in doing things that once brought you joy? Is wine o’clock or any other happy hr situation going on more than it use too? I help those with all the suffering with anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Karen M. Miller Counseling-Life Coaching, MS, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2d1fa00-8756-4c7e-b020-91d8995b79f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen M. Miller Counseling-Life Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Hill, TX 75104 (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!
![Photo of Tiffanie Hampton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bc57e70-1f44-4449-9e70-39382c3787d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffanie Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Hello! My name is Tiffanie Hampton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with 15 years of experience. I have worked with a broad spectrum of people, including military veterans, LGBTQIA+, marriage, divorce, and everything from fertility issues to end-of-life issues, including grief. I enjoy helping couples find spontaneity in their relationships again, supporting folks who want to manage anxiety before it has a chance to take over and assisting families who may be coping with major life changes. I have a straightforward approach and use humor to make people feel comfortable and human in the space.
Hello! My name is Tiffanie Hampton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Texas with 15 years of experience. I have worked with a broad spectrum of people, including military veterans, LGBTQIA+, marriage, divorce, and everything from fertility issues to end-of-life issues, including grief. I enjoy helping couples find spontaneity in their relationships again, supporting folks who want to manage anxiety before it has a chance to take over and assisting families who may be coping with major life changes. I have a straightforward approach and use humor to make people feel comfortable and human in the space.
![Photo of Tami L Hendrix - Gilmore, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01cef964-9df7-4da9-88af-06c9a33d5c09/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tami L Hendrix - Gilmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
I believe in the benefits of the therapeutic process and have a passion for learning and helping others. Knowledge can be empowering and a key factor in problem solving, understanding and healing. "When we know better we do better." Maya Angelou. I also believe that you are the expert in your life and we will work together to find answers. I use an integrative approach to therapy that includes Attachment work, EMDR, CBT, IFS and Wilderness/Nature Therapy. EMDR and Wilderness Therapy help with stress associated with traumatic memories and have been successful with PTSD, phobias, anxiety, OCD, and traumatic events.
I believe in the benefits of the therapeutic process and have a passion for learning and helping others. Knowledge can be empowering and a key factor in problem solving, understanding and healing. "When we know better we do better." Maya Angelou. I also believe that you are the expert in your life and we will work together to find answers. I use an integrative approach to therapy that includes Attachment work, EMDR, CBT, IFS and Wilderness/Nature Therapy. EMDR and Wilderness Therapy help with stress associated with traumatic memories and have been successful with PTSD, phobias, anxiety, OCD, and traumatic events.
![Photo of Fredda Ackerman, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbf8294-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Fredda Ackerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Our basic theory is that therapy can help a client deal with current issues -and works best when the client and therapist join together to work on these issues. I don't believe therapy should take a lifetime, but I hope to be your therapist, as needed, through out your life.
I specialize in "Relationship Issues" - through Counseling and Coaching. My goal is to help the Couple decide what is best for them, & help them accomplish that.. . In Couples Coaching, the partners learn life skills that will change their relationship. Couples Coaching focuses on proven skills and techniques for the quickest, solution to couples' issues.
Our basic theory is that therapy can help a client deal with current issues -and works best when the client and therapist join together to work on these issues. I don't believe therapy should take a lifetime, but I hope to be your therapist, as needed, through out your life.
I specialize in "Relationship Issues" - through Counseling and Coaching. My goal is to help the Couple decide what is best for them, & help them accomplish that.. . In Couples Coaching, the partners learn life skills that will change their relationship. Couples Coaching focuses on proven skills and techniques for the quickest, solution to couples' issues.
![Photo of Marilyn Sturdivant, DSW, LCSW-S, DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49e6c5d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn Sturdivant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-S, DBT-C
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75054 (Online Only)
I believe in helping others change self defeating thoughts and destructive behavioral patterns, in order to aid them in living a life in which they can find happiness. Making changes to improve your life can be difficult but very rewarding. I have a collaborative approach to change and I consider it a privilege to collaborate with people as they make those changes, and to help them navigate through the many challenges of life. It is my honor to empowering others, and helping them to identify their strengths. I am a military veteran familiar with military culture and the common struggles that come with a military commitment.
I believe in helping others change self defeating thoughts and destructive behavioral patterns, in order to aid them in living a life in which they can find happiness. Making changes to improve your life can be difficult but very rewarding. I have a collaborative approach to change and I consider it a privilege to collaborate with people as they make those changes, and to help them navigate through the many challenges of life. It is my honor to empowering others, and helping them to identify their strengths. I am a military veteran familiar with military culture and the common struggles that come with a military commitment.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Leslie M Faris, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff629a2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Janice Terry - Janice Terry Counseling Services, LCSW-S, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ba4eb32-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Terry Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Palestine, TX 75801
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.
![Photo of Dr. Vick Perry - Ease of Mind Wellness, LLC, PsyD, MA, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b774fe67-24b8-4b1d-8c3a-b5deda65b68a/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kim Kays, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ef1ddd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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."
See more therapy options for Midlothian
Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Midlothian
- Arlington
- Bedford
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- Cedar Hill
- Dallas
- Desoto
- Euless
- Fort Worth
- Grand Prairie
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- Waxahachie
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.