Weight Loss Therapists in Herndon, VA
![Photo of Dr. Xinyi Ma - XY Grow&Heal Center, MD, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8ab01c6-fd8d-42fd-a854-881c20a46384/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Natalia Lugina Mauranne, MS, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ecda1e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Integrative Health Provider, and Certified Brain Health Coach who specializes in neuropsychological assessment and brain health consultations (ages 8 to 90+). My areas of professional expertise include ADHD, learning disorders and other neurodevelopmental conditions, TBI/concussion, dementia, stroke recovery, PTSD, and anxiety/depression. I conduct comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for precision diagnostics and individualized treatment planning.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Integrative Health Provider, and Certified Brain Health Coach who specializes in neuropsychological assessment and brain health consultations (ages 8 to 90+). My areas of professional expertise include ADHD, learning disorders and other neurodevelopmental conditions, TBI/concussion, dementia, stroke recovery, PTSD, and anxiety/depression. I conduct comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for precision diagnostics and individualized treatment planning.
![Photo of Melissa Brinson - Melissa Brinson, Psychotherapy and Counseling Svs, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CCS, BC-TMHC, CSAT- C, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/756e74c3-7547-4639-8756-db55fae53d9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Brinson, Psychotherapy and Counseling Svs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC-S, LCAS, CCS, BC-TMHC, CSAT- C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20171 (Online Only)
Mental illness and addiction do not discriminate. They provide complex difficulties for the patients and their loved ones. I am specializing in treatment for Sex Addiction for either the individual with addiction or their partner. Treatment is not billed under insurance which ensures your privacy. Additional services includes support for fatherless daughters, individuals suffering with depression, trauma, and anxiety. I also offer clinical supervision for individuals with provisional licenses for both Mental Health (LCMHC-A) and Addiction (LCAS-A).
Mental illness and addiction do not discriminate. They provide complex difficulties for the patients and their loved ones. I am specializing in treatment for Sex Addiction for either the individual with addiction or their partner. Treatment is not billed under insurance which ensures your privacy. Additional services includes support for fatherless daughters, individuals suffering with depression, trauma, and anxiety. I also offer clinical supervision for individuals with provisional licenses for both Mental Health (LCMHC-A) and Addiction (LCAS-A).
![Photo of Dawn Atkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3c7ddf8-23e5-41e2-aa80-b8c48db047bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Dawn! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker for over 25 years and have been working as a Behavioral Health Clinician providing individual, couples, and family therapy since then. I focus in areas such as anxiety, coping skills, depression, stress, life transitions, and self esteem, amongst others. I have extensive knowledge and experience in providing trauma focused therapeutic work, and work towards my client's treatment goals while building on my client's strengths and abilities.
Hi there, I'm Dawn! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social worker for over 25 years and have been working as a Behavioral Health Clinician providing individual, couples, and family therapy since then. I focus in areas such as anxiety, coping skills, depression, stress, life transitions, and self esteem, amongst others. I have extensive knowledge and experience in providing trauma focused therapeutic work, and work towards my client's treatment goals while building on my client's strengths and abilities.
![Photo of Johni J Spinelli, Johni, J, Spinell, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44bedae1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Johni J Spinelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, Johni, J, Spinell, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
I will assist you in a caring and professional manner to find realistic answers and solutions that make sense to you in your life, and allow you to more effectively manage each day. I bring over 30 years of experience working effectively with adults, children, families, and couples with a wide range of problems, from mild to severe in nature. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and practical. I draw from a number of different treatment approaches (including but not limited to: CBT, Humanistic, Family Systems, DBT) to most effectively address your presenting issues, reduce symptoms, and meet your goals in seeking treatment.
I will assist you in a caring and professional manner to find realistic answers and solutions that make sense to you in your life, and allow you to more effectively manage each day. I bring over 30 years of experience working effectively with adults, children, families, and couples with a wide range of problems, from mild to severe in nature. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and practical. I draw from a number of different treatment approaches (including but not limited to: CBT, Humanistic, Family Systems, DBT) to most effectively address your presenting issues, reduce symptoms, and meet your goals in seeking treatment.
![Photo of Charlotte Joelsson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4082f374-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Joelsson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
I believe in people's ability to change while respecting the courage it takes to seek help. I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment conducive to self-exploration, insight, growth and healing. It is an honor and a privilege to accompany clients on their journey of self-transformation. Together we will explore to uncover underlying issues contributing to patterns keeping you stuck or causing you distress. On your journey I will guide you through the process to help empower you to thrive and become the most compassionate version of yourself.
I believe in people's ability to change while respecting the courage it takes to seek help. I aim to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment conducive to self-exploration, insight, growth and healing. It is an honor and a privilege to accompany clients on their journey of self-transformation. Together we will explore to uncover underlying issues contributing to patterns keeping you stuck or causing you distress. On your journey I will guide you through the process to help empower you to thrive and become the most compassionate version of yourself.
![Photo of Gabriela Marquez Canale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62213aeb-7085-430a-87f0-d9c6f9b84e3c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriela Marquez Canale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Waitlist for new clients
Why am I acting this way? Why am I like this? Can I feel better? I understand how painful and disconcerting feeling like this can be. And yet, I believe you deserve to truly know, accept, appreciate and love all of you. I will guide and support you in your therapeutic journey, and you will learn the skills to understand your past, face your present with more confidence, and ultimately look forward to enjoying your future. Self-discovery and healing are essential to leading a fulfilled life and they are a long-term investment in you and your loved ones.
Why am I acting this way? Why am I like this? Can I feel better? I understand how painful and disconcerting feeling like this can be. And yet, I believe you deserve to truly know, accept, appreciate and love all of you. I will guide and support you in your therapeutic journey, and you will learn the skills to understand your past, face your present with more confidence, and ultimately look forward to enjoying your future. Self-discovery and healing are essential to leading a fulfilled life and they are a long-term investment in you and your loved ones.
![Photo of Chelsea C Hall, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaa33b82-3a29-4703-b379-a82e62956387/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea C Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our weight-obsessed culture chastises and shames you, as though your body size is not only a personal moral failing, but a reliable indicator of poor health. Over time, you started internalizing this anti-fat bias, and often treat yourself with the same level of contempt. You either avoid seeking medical care altogether, or expose yourself to the risk of weight stigma (far more harmful than any presumed adverse effect of your weight itself). You forgot how to nourish yourself – sometimes forbidding yourself food, sometimes isolating in shame for a binge, sometimes "paying" via purge. But friend, you are meant to bloom - not shrink.
Our weight-obsessed culture chastises and shames you, as though your body size is not only a personal moral failing, but a reliable indicator of poor health. Over time, you started internalizing this anti-fat bias, and often treat yourself with the same level of contempt. You either avoid seeking medical care altogether, or expose yourself to the risk of weight stigma (far more harmful than any presumed adverse effect of your weight itself). You forgot how to nourish yourself – sometimes forbidding yourself food, sometimes isolating in shame for a binge, sometimes "paying" via purge. But friend, you are meant to bloom - not shrink.
![Photo of Paige Fishel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1be5be-e6b2-4059-a818-298e3eafb166/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are your relationships suffering? Maybe you're feeling anxious, sad, frustrated, angry or even desperate? I am a licensed psychotherapist, with over 20 years treating couples, families, adults, adolescents and their parents, with a particular focus on women's issues. I understand the impact of depression, anxiety, family conflict, even trauma and sexual abuse. I can provide you a safe, supportive, collaborative environment, to feel better again.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are your relationships suffering? Maybe you're feeling anxious, sad, frustrated, angry or even desperate? I am a licensed psychotherapist, with over 20 years treating couples, families, adults, adolescents and their parents, with a particular focus on women's issues. I understand the impact of depression, anxiety, family conflict, even trauma and sexual abuse. I can provide you a safe, supportive, collaborative environment, to feel better again.
![Photo of Michael Oberschneider, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba0f7d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Congratulations to Dr. Michael Oberschneider for being recognized by the Washingtonian Magazine as a "Top Psychologist" in the greater DC area. Dr. Oberschneider is the only clinical psychologist in all of Loudoun County to receive this esteemed recognition and honor. Dr. Oberschneider is frequently sought by the media as a mental health expert, and he has appeared on CNN, Good Morning America and several other media spots for his opinion on relevant topics of the day.
Dr. Oberschneider is the Founder and Director of Ashburn Psychological and Psychiatric Services. APPS offers a wide array of diagnostic testing, therapy, medication management and consultation services.
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Congratulations to Dr. Michael Oberschneider for being recognized by the Washingtonian Magazine as a "Top Psychologist" in the greater DC area. Dr. Oberschneider is the only clinical psychologist in all of Loudoun County to receive this esteemed recognition and honor. Dr. Oberschneider is frequently sought by the media as a mental health expert, and he has appeared on CNN, Good Morning America and several other media spots for his opinion on relevant topics of the day.
Dr. Oberschneider is the Founder and Director of Ashburn Psychological and Psychiatric Services. APPS offers a wide array of diagnostic testing, therapy, medication management and consultation services.
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![Photo of Elke Schlager, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e69684b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Harvard trained psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience, the last 10 of which have been focused on the practice and research of Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). I am a research associate at the Psychotherapy Research Program at Harvard Medical School, and a former faculty member at the Mind/Body Medical Institute at Massachussets General Hospital in Boston, MA. I practice a model of ISTDP that has evolved from over 50 years of psychotherapy research. This model incorporates aspects of psychodynamic psychotherapy, attachment theory, mindfulness and experiential therapy.
I am a Harvard trained psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience, the last 10 of which have been focused on the practice and research of Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). I am a research associate at the Psychotherapy Research Program at Harvard Medical School, and a former faculty member at the Mind/Body Medical Institute at Massachussets General Hospital in Boston, MA. I practice a model of ISTDP that has evolved from over 50 years of psychotherapy research. This model incorporates aspects of psychodynamic psychotherapy, attachment theory, mindfulness and experiential therapy.
15 Second Videos
XY Grow&Heal Center
Chelsea C Hall
Trasie Marie Phillips
![Photo of James S Miller - Psychotherapy, Forensic & Consultation, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ff31026-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy, Forensic & Consultation
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170 (Online Only)
I believe every individual has a chance at succeeding in life, regardless of his / their /her present or past circumstances. Sometimes, we find ourselves in a place where we just need to talk to someone without judgment or prejudice. Life's stressors can overwhelm us to the point where we don't know where to start to get back to our usual self. Regardless if you feel you need one session or more, therapy will be empowering for you and help you compartmentalize your worries into manageable tasks.
I believe every individual has a chance at succeeding in life, regardless of his / their /her present or past circumstances. Sometimes, we find ourselves in a place where we just need to talk to someone without judgment or prejudice. Life's stressors can overwhelm us to the point where we don't know where to start to get back to our usual self. Regardless if you feel you need one session or more, therapy will be empowering for you and help you compartmentalize your worries into manageable tasks.
![Photo of Trasie Marie Phillips, LICSW, EAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78c16625-b97e-48ae-b1c6-83a7724d55de/3/320x400.jpeg)
Trasie Marie Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EAP
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20191 (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.
![Photo of Constance Raines - Constancy Therapy Services LLC., LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa55a154-e1b3-43c1-a8b0-c69e1a56267e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Constancy Therapy Services LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171 (Online Only)
My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. - Maya Angelou Hello my name is Constance,
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C) in the states of Virginia, Maryland, DC, and Florida. I have 11 years of experience employed in behavioral health facilities, outpatient therapy clinics, correctional centers, veteran affairs, and also providing medical social work/ therapy to oncology, emergent, and crisis patients in the hospital setting.
My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. - Maya Angelou Hello my name is Constance,
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C) in the states of Virginia, Maryland, DC, and Florida. I have 11 years of experience employed in behavioral health facilities, outpatient therapy clinics, correctional centers, veteran affairs, and also providing medical social work/ therapy to oncology, emergent, and crisis patients in the hospital setting.
![Photo of Latasha Bailey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87e54ceb-5a07-4262-a904-884ce8251f34/1/320x400.jpeg)
Latasha Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Work, Latasha provides a therapeutic approach to adolescents and adults who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, and stress in your daily routine. You do not have to go through this journey alone. It is important to have a safe, confidential, and comfortable space to work through any challenges or stressors you are currently experiencing. My goal is to create a safe, warming and compassionate space that allows you to build confidence and skills to facing daily life stressors.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Work, Latasha provides a therapeutic approach to adolescents and adults who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, and stress in your daily routine. You do not have to go through this journey alone. It is important to have a safe, confidential, and comfortable space to work through any challenges or stressors you are currently experiencing. My goal is to create a safe, warming and compassionate space that allows you to build confidence and skills to facing daily life stressors.
![Photo of Emily Simonian, LMFT, Author, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80732006-4da8-4f22-97f8-f3587ef9a1d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Simonian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Author
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171 (Online Only)
Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships, emotional wellbeing, or find help for specific life challenges, therapy is a great place to start. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have direct training and experience working with family and relationship issues, as well as working with individuals.
Whether you’re looking to improve your relationships, emotional wellbeing, or find help for specific life challenges, therapy is a great place to start. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have direct training and experience working with family and relationship issues, as well as working with individuals.
![Photo of Kelly Flanagan, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5c1e1af-6ed3-4c10-97b4-68b3362503e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello. I am a clinical psychologist who has been working in the psychology field since 1985. I earned my PsyD in 2001 and work with a wide range of issues and populations. My goal is to collaborate with you to help improve your life, by helping you to optimize your mental health. I have a particular passion in working with the LGBTQ community. I also enjoy working with those struggling with life transitions, who may be experiencing depression, anxiety or other mental health issues.
Hello. I am a clinical psychologist who has been working in the psychology field since 1985. I earned my PsyD in 2001 and work with a wide range of issues and populations. My goal is to collaborate with you to help improve your life, by helping you to optimize your mental health. I have a particular passion in working with the LGBTQ community. I also enjoy working with those struggling with life transitions, who may be experiencing depression, anxiety or other mental health issues.
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![Photo of Lauren Farago, LCPC, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/004695d2-b0a3-47c7-9d9a-be03166e9348/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scheduling Availability for Telehealth in DC, MD & VA... Are you suffering from symptoms of anxiety? Are you struggling to establish a positive support system? Or perhaps seeking to explore unresolved issues from childhood or failed relationships? I use a strengths-based approach to counseling and work with clients to develop healthy coping strategies, take risks, and work to establish positive patterns of behavior. In my nutrition coaching practice, I work with clients to unlearn negative diet cycling patterns and develop skills to maintain lifelong health.
Scheduling Availability for Telehealth in DC, MD & VA... Are you suffering from symptoms of anxiety? Are you struggling to establish a positive support system? Or perhaps seeking to explore unresolved issues from childhood or failed relationships? I use a strengths-based approach to counseling and work with clients to develop healthy coping strategies, take risks, and work to establish positive patterns of behavior. In my nutrition coaching practice, I work with clients to unlearn negative diet cycling patterns and develop skills to maintain lifelong health.
![Photo of Susie Hanna, LCSW, CSAT, CCBRT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51fe68d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find that your pornography or sexual addiction is consuming your life? Is your partner's sexual compulsions damaging your relationship and sense of self? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Couples Betrayal Recovery Therapist (CCBRT). I specialize in working with individuals struggling with problematic sexual behavior, their partners and the coupleship. I can help those struggling with porn/sexual addiction, and help guide them towards overcoming these addictions. I also support Partners of sex/porn addicts by empowering and guiding them through the betrayal trauma.
Do you find that your pornography or sexual addiction is consuming your life? Is your partner's sexual compulsions damaging your relationship and sense of self? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Couples Betrayal Recovery Therapist (CCBRT). I specialize in working with individuals struggling with problematic sexual behavior, their partners and the coupleship. I can help those struggling with porn/sexual addiction, and help guide them towards overcoming these addictions. I also support Partners of sex/porn addicts by empowering and guiding them through the betrayal trauma.
![Photo of Sahar Givpour, PhD, LPC, NCC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32de0fb4-3136-46fb-9c5f-05eadfd5be9b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sahar Givpour
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CSAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
It only takes one person to change your life: YOU! The heart of therapy is experiencing the possibility of change. I believe that if you can change your mind and your perception, you can change your life. I have dedicated the last 25 years of my life to helping others reach their full potential. I'd love to work with you and to help you realize your best life yet. The process of healing can be painful, but guided by skilled professionals who possess compassion and specific training, you will have the opportunity to access strategies that will both optimize your mind, and create body and soul balance.
It only takes one person to change your life: YOU! The heart of therapy is experiencing the possibility of change. I believe that if you can change your mind and your perception, you can change your life. I have dedicated the last 25 years of my life to helping others reach their full potential. I'd love to work with you and to help you realize your best life yet. The process of healing can be painful, but guided by skilled professionals who possess compassion and specific training, you will have the opportunity to access strategies that will both optimize your mind, and create body and soul balance.
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Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Herndon
See More Weight Loss TherapistsWeight 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.