Weight Loss Therapists in Fairfax, VA

Photo of Dr. Xinyi Ma - XY Grow&Heal Center, MD, CHT
XY Grow&Heal Center
MD, CHT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22032
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, insomnia, weight loss, ADHD, or fears.
If you are struggling with anxiety, insomnia, weight issues, ADHD, or fears, I am here to help. During our initial session, besides establishing a rapport between you and me, we will explore the issues and you concerns, and collaborate to create a systematic therapeutic program specifically for you based on your goals and needs. Through the therapeutic programs consists of monthly treatment plans, you may see signs of relief from these anxieties within the first month and experience sustained improvement on a continuing basis.Ultimately, my mission is to help you free yourself of limitations, and put you on the path of success.
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, insomnia, weight loss, ADHD, or fears.
If you are struggling with anxiety, insomnia, weight issues, ADHD, or fears, I am here to help. During our initial session, besides establishing a rapport between you and me, we will explore the issues and you concerns, and collaborate to create a systematic therapeutic program specifically for you based on your goals and needs. Through the therapeutic programs consists of monthly treatment plans, you may see signs of relief from these anxieties within the first month and experience sustained improvement on a continuing basis.Ultimately, my mission is to help you free yourself of limitations, and put you on the path of success.
(571) 630-3953 View (571) 630-3953
Photo of Andrea Levy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
(703) 634-4782 View (703) 634-4782
Photo of Meredith Adams, MS, NCC, NBCCH, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meredith Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, breakups, grief, career changes, or weight loss struggles, I am dedicated to providing meaningful support tailored to your individual needs.
Life's journey is filled with challenges, and how we navigate these challenges can profoundly impact our well-being. Are you feeling overwhelmed, unable to decide where to start, or anxious with what's on your plate? As a Resident in Counseling, I am here to support you in navigating and overcoming these obstacles together. In our sessions, we will work together to explore your existing strengths and equip you with new tools to address the issues weighing you down.
Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, breakups, grief, career changes, or weight loss struggles, I am dedicated to providing meaningful support tailored to your individual needs.
Life's journey is filled with challenges, and how we navigate these challenges can profoundly impact our well-being. Are you feeling overwhelmed, unable to decide where to start, or anxious with what's on your plate? As a Resident in Counseling, I am here to support you in navigating and overcoming these obstacles together. In our sessions, we will work together to explore your existing strengths and equip you with new tools to address the issues weighing you down.
(804) 294-4456 View (804) 294-4456
Photo of John Mays - MidLife Refocus-Behavioral change programs, MEd, CHT, NSCA-PT
MidLife Refocus-Behavioral change programs
MEd, CHT, NSCA-PT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Waitlist for new clients
When a person realizes that self awareness is the only long term solution, they will seek only to understand themselves. No longer do they seek to blame the outside world for their thoughts or feelings. My ideal client is one who seeks to do the work to evolve . Together we start the journey to locate the "inner" barriers that may be holding you back. We do the work to gain control of your thoughts and feelings that are keeping you feeling "stuck". Lasting relief comes from learning techniques which are less about problem-solving and more about letting-go of old beliefs and habits. Know thyself and the whole world changes!
When a person realizes that self awareness is the only long term solution, they will seek only to understand themselves. No longer do they seek to blame the outside world for their thoughts or feelings. My ideal client is one who seeks to do the work to evolve . Together we start the journey to locate the "inner" barriers that may be holding you back. We do the work to gain control of your thoughts and feelings that are keeping you feeling "stuck". Lasting relief comes from learning techniques which are less about problem-solving and more about letting-go of old beliefs and habits. Know thyself and the whole world changes!
(571) 765-3698 View (571) 765-3698
Photo of Intake Coordinator Fairfax location - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LLC, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
(571) 777-0640 View (571) 777-0640
Photo of Donnetta Washington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donnetta Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing compassionate and transformative therapy to individuals. I obtained a Bachelor of Social Work from Clark Atlanta University, a Masters in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a Doctor of Social Work from Barry University. With over ten years of experience in the mental health field, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice. I am licensed to provide therapy in Georgia, Alabama, Virginia, and Washington, DC, demonstrating my commitment to serving diverse communities and individuals in need of support.
I am committed to providing compassionate and transformative therapy to individuals. I obtained a Bachelor of Social Work from Clark Atlanta University, a Masters in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a Doctor of Social Work from Barry University. With over ten years of experience in the mental health field, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice. I am licensed to provide therapy in Georgia, Alabama, Virginia, and Washington, DC, demonstrating my commitment to serving diverse communities and individuals in need of support.
(571) 548-3810 View (571) 548-3810
Photo of Gil Institute For Trauma And Recovery - Gil Institute for Trauma, Recovery and Education, LCSW, LPC, PhD, RPT, RPT-S, Psychologist
Gil Institute for Trauma, Recovery and Education
Psychologist, LCSW, LPC, PhD, RPT, RPT-S
Not Verified Not Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Gil Institute is an evidence-based group private practice that provides trauma- and practice-informed mental health services to individuals, especially young children, who have endured traumatic experiences. Our specific goals are to empower clients to access reparative energy, to acknowledge and express their pain in a variety of verbal and nonverbal ways, and to reduce the power of a traumatic event or relationship, so that healthy choices become real options.
Gil Institute is an evidence-based group private practice that provides trauma- and practice-informed mental health services to individuals, especially young children, who have endured traumatic experiences. Our specific goals are to empower clients to access reparative energy, to acknowledge and express their pain in a variety of verbal and nonverbal ways, and to reduce the power of a traumatic event or relationship, so that healthy choices become real options.
(703) 592-6917 View (703) 592-6917
Photo of Trasie Marie Phillips, LICSW, EAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trasie Marie Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EAP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22033  (Online Only)
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
Private pay sessions for 60$ dollars, couples 75$, I take most insurance and the insurance I accept is increasing. I have experience of over 35 years expert professional, licensed in 3 states, CA, VA and WA. Currently in the Wash DC area on assignment with the DOD working with Military Families and providing therapy virtually to clients in California and Washington State. I'm a certified expert provider in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Drug and Alcohol Recovery, Family Dynamics and specialist and a DOD consult in Combat, childhood trauma, PTSD Psychotherapy. I also provided Christian counseling upon request.
(540) 386-1336 View (540) 386-1336
Photo of Melissa Zissman Golub - MZG Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MZG Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Integrative Mental Professional (CIMHP), and a former American Council on Exercise (ACE) personal trainer, I am able to support people who are struggling to overcome mental health challenges and physical ailments. We will discuss your strengths, presenting concerns, and your hopes for change in your life. Through collaboration and commitment, you can make the necessary adjustments in order to feel happy and successful.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Integrative Mental Professional (CIMHP), and a former American Council on Exercise (ACE) personal trainer, I am able to support people who are struggling to overcome mental health challenges and physical ailments. We will discuss your strengths, presenting concerns, and your hopes for change in your life. Through collaboration and commitment, you can make the necessary adjustments in order to feel happy and successful.
(571) 601-2586 View (571) 601-2586
Photo of Molar A Lisco - Royal Care Counseling Services , LPC Intern
Royal Care Counseling Services
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Hi my name is Molar Lisco, I am a graduate student at George Mason University working on completing my MEd in Clinical Mental Health. I chose this profession because I believe there is nothing more fulfilling than being part of an individual’s process of healing and growth. I feel that my academic career has set me up well to be able to work with individuals from a verity of beliefs and backgrounds. Having studied philosophy and religion I have acquainted myself with many traditions and schools of thought that I may be able to discuss concerns about core life questions and beliefs.
Hi my name is Molar Lisco, I am a graduate student at George Mason University working on completing my MEd in Clinical Mental Health. I chose this profession because I believe there is nothing more fulfilling than being part of an individual’s process of healing and growth. I feel that my academic career has set me up well to be able to work with individuals from a verity of beliefs and backgrounds. Having studied philosophy and religion I have acquainted myself with many traditions and schools of thought that I may be able to discuss concerns about core life questions and beliefs.
(571) 496-8520 View (571) 496-8520
Photo of Richard Roselli -  RCCS, LLC, LCSW , MSSW, MFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
RCCS, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , MSSW, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Currently seeing clients via Telehealth only. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and substance abuse related issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My goal in life is to assist any person/s in need of recovery or growth. I focus on inner strength and self exploration by providing counseling services to individuals, couples and families.
Currently seeing clients via Telehealth only. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and substance abuse related issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My goal in life is to assist any person/s in need of recovery or growth. I focus on inner strength and self exploration by providing counseling services to individuals, couples and families.
(540) 600-4620 View (540) 600-4620
Photo of Gerald Smolen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gerald Smolen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Tired of second guessing yourself ? Challenged by anxiety, communication problems, anger or sadness? I offer a solution focused approach to resolve self-defeating behaviors. Do you often act out your emotional needs, even when knowing, logically it is not the best choice you can make? Learning how to integrate your emotional experience with your best-self needs, is a much more satisfying experience I can help you achieve.
Tired of second guessing yourself ? Challenged by anxiety, communication problems, anger or sadness? I offer a solution focused approach to resolve self-defeating behaviors. Do you often act out your emotional needs, even when knowing, logically it is not the best choice you can make? Learning how to integrate your emotional experience with your best-self needs, is a much more satisfying experience I can help you achieve.
(703) 794-2203 View (703) 794-2203
Photo of Urfa Javed, LPC , Intern , LPC Intern
Urfa Javed
LPC Intern, LPC , Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
If you're here, you're likely having difficulty coping with something in your life, such as relationships, overwhelming anxiety, or unresolved issues from your past. Do you find yourself overthinking and worrying constantly? Do you feel like you are not enough? Do you feel guilty about being irritable with your loved ones? Are you struggling to find meaning and happiness in life? In a supportive and non-judgmental environment, I can help you find your authentic self and facilitate change and healing so that you can create or rediscover meaning and purpose in your relationships and life.
If you're here, you're likely having difficulty coping with something in your life, such as relationships, overwhelming anxiety, or unresolved issues from your past. Do you find yourself overthinking and worrying constantly? Do you feel like you are not enough? Do you feel guilty about being irritable with your loved ones? Are you struggling to find meaning and happiness in life? In a supportive and non-judgmental environment, I can help you find your authentic self and facilitate change and healing so that you can create or rediscover meaning and purpose in your relationships and life.
(571) 556-3837 View (571) 556-3837
Photo of Nancy Elie Kirk, LCSW, CSAC, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Elie Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Those suffering from addictions, compulsions, anxiety, and relationship problems often seek help when they are acting in ways that they don’t want to act or thinking in ways that don’t support their best interests. I am a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist and Couples Counselor in northern Virginia accepting Anthem BCBS. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or are seeking better life balance and a new perspective, you may wish to work with a specialist. I offer warmth, curiosity and an ability to focus on objectives with clients seeking real solutions.
People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Those suffering from addictions, compulsions, anxiety, and relationship problems often seek help when they are acting in ways that they don’t want to act or thinking in ways that don’t support their best interests. I am a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist and Couples Counselor in northern Virginia accepting Anthem BCBS. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or are seeking better life balance and a new perspective, you may wish to work with a specialist. I offer warmth, curiosity and an ability to focus on objectives with clients seeking real solutions.
(571) 665-4011 View (571) 665-4011
Photo of Shelley L Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Shelley L Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am still accepting new clients and am offering video sessions via Zoom or Doxy for clients who are distancing. I am a clinical psychologist specializing in psychological testing and assessment. My experiences enable me to listen, assess and diagnose a variety of psychological and educational issues. While I am psychological testing specialist, I also provide therapeutic services in which I encourage and support a variety of people. I use an integrative approach to therapy which allows me to tailor overall therapeutic goals as well as target each individual session to meet your needs at that point in time.
I am still accepting new clients and am offering video sessions via Zoom or Doxy for clients who are distancing. I am a clinical psychologist specializing in psychological testing and assessment. My experiences enable me to listen, assess and diagnose a variety of psychological and educational issues. While I am psychological testing specialist, I also provide therapeutic services in which I encourage and support a variety of people. I use an integrative approach to therapy which allows me to tailor overall therapeutic goals as well as target each individual session to meet your needs at that point in time.
(703) 991-2098 View (703) 991-2098
Photo of Keneisha Newland-Brathwaite - Serenity, Courage and Wisdom Counseling LLC, LSW, MA Psyc, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity, Courage and Wisdom Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA Psyc, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Serenity, Courage & Wisdom Counseling, is the space dedicated to helping you achieve mental and emotional wellness. SCW believes that the first step towards achieving this wellness is to practice caring for oneself by shifting the focus from the perceptions of others, and instead, focusing on being the best version of yourself. Through a variety to tools, consistency and vulnerability, clients seek to understand their past, present and future. Even in the darkest of times, there still can be that glimmer of hope. And that hope comes from within you. It's in your courage, your wisdom, and your innate serenity.
Serenity, Courage & Wisdom Counseling, is the space dedicated to helping you achieve mental and emotional wellness. SCW believes that the first step towards achieving this wellness is to practice caring for oneself by shifting the focus from the perceptions of others, and instead, focusing on being the best version of yourself. Through a variety to tools, consistency and vulnerability, clients seek to understand their past, present and future. Even in the darkest of times, there still can be that glimmer of hope. And that hope comes from within you. It's in your courage, your wisdom, and your innate serenity.
(757) 780-8220 View (757) 780-8220
Photo of Laila Cooper, PhD, Psychologist
Laila Cooper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Congratulations on making it this far; searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming process! Many individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, struggles with sex and relationships, or simply the desire to understand themselves more thoroughly. Whether to improve mood and functioning, improve relationships, or work on issues with sex/sexuality, therapy can be reparative, strengthening, and play a role in maximizing enjoyment of life! I work from an affirming and social justice approach with the LGBTQIA community and people of color, and I am kink- and non-monogamy informed and affirming.
Congratulations on making it this far; searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming process! Many individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, struggles with sex and relationships, or simply the desire to understand themselves more thoroughly. Whether to improve mood and functioning, improve relationships, or work on issues with sex/sexuality, therapy can be reparative, strengthening, and play a role in maximizing enjoyment of life! I work from an affirming and social justice approach with the LGBTQIA community and people of color, and I am kink- and non-monogamy informed and affirming.
(703) 291-1498 View (703) 291-1498
Photo of Jennifer Parrella - Jennifer Parrella - Decoding Relationships, LLC, MS, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Parrella - Decoding Relationships, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I believe individuals, couples, & families can adjust their thinking, behaviors, & patterns to improve their lives and relationships. My approach is compassionate yet honest & straightforward. I teach healthy patterns to replace negative ones. I take a pro-relationship, trauma informed, approach to all relationships, helping people and their loved ones make changes in order to feel closer and happier together. Feel free to reach out via email or phone at any time w/ questions or to schedule an appt. I am accepting new clients and offer day & evening virtual hours M-F. Sessions & paperwork are facilitated via confidential web-portal.
I believe individuals, couples, & families can adjust their thinking, behaviors, & patterns to improve their lives and relationships. My approach is compassionate yet honest & straightforward. I teach healthy patterns to replace negative ones. I take a pro-relationship, trauma informed, approach to all relationships, helping people and their loved ones make changes in order to feel closer and happier together. Feel free to reach out via email or phone at any time w/ questions or to schedule an appt. I am accepting new clients and offer day & evening virtual hours M-F. Sessions & paperwork are facilitated via confidential web-portal.
(703) 936-6326 View (703) 936-6326
Photo of Felicea C. Meyer-DeLoatch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicea C. Meyer-DeLoatch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think".......By A.A. Milne. It is my deepest desire to actively assist those in need of support through life's challenges. I am eager to work with those experiencing a crisis, conflict, or seemingly unmanageable change in the course of life's events. I discretely assist individuals in finding solutions to some of the more challenging issues in life.
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think".......By A.A. Milne. It is my deepest desire to actively assist those in need of support through life's challenges. I am eager to work with those experiencing a crisis, conflict, or seemingly unmanageable change in the course of life's events. I discretely assist individuals in finding solutions to some of the more challenging issues in life.
(703) 962-1282 View (703) 962-1282
Photo of Raymond A. Bradni, PhD, Psychologist
Raymond A. Bradni
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22033
Mind-body (psychosomatic) dysregulation is challenging and complex and primarily associated with difficult emotions (e.g., anxiety, panic, depression, anger, guilt, etc.), relational difficulties (e.g., social isolation), and self-esteem concerns. Through rigorous clinical observation, I designed Analytical Health Psychotherapy (AHP), an insight-oriented approach to Health Psychology in which the therapeutic relationship will contain complex emotions while we analyze, tolerate, and understand the unconscious roots of the physical symptoms. Hence, the physical symptoms will diminish while you gain insight into their functions.
Mind-body (psychosomatic) dysregulation is challenging and complex and primarily associated with difficult emotions (e.g., anxiety, panic, depression, anger, guilt, etc.), relational difficulties (e.g., social isolation), and self-esteem concerns. Through rigorous clinical observation, I designed Analytical Health Psychotherapy (AHP), an insight-oriented approach to Health Psychology in which the therapeutic relationship will contain complex emotions while we analyze, tolerate, and understand the unconscious roots of the physical symptoms. Hence, the physical symptoms will diminish while you gain insight into their functions.
(571) 470-6791 View (571) 470-6791
1
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.