Weight Loss Therapists in Manassas, VA
![Photo of Timothy M Horn - Hypnoconsult LLC, BCH, CI, OB](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/508d3453-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
He specializes in bruxism, smoking cessation, sleep improvement, study improvement, stress management, pain management weight loss and dealing with individual fears.
Tim Horn is a consulting hypnotist practicing in Northern Virginia since 1993. He runs a successful hypnosis and training center in Manassas. Tim is the only National Guild of Hypnotist's (NGH) Board Certified and Certified Instructor in Prince William County. In the past twenty years, Tim has completed additional certifications in Pain Management, Sleep Improvement, Smoking Cessation, Pediatric Hypnosis, Ultra Height and Working in the Esdaile State. Tim began his study of hypnosis after using it to overcome panic disorders and has spent the past two decades using that knowledge to help others.
He specializes in bruxism, smoking cessation, sleep improvement, study improvement, stress management, pain management weight loss and dealing with individual fears.
Tim Horn is a consulting hypnotist practicing in Northern Virginia since 1993. He runs a successful hypnosis and training center in Manassas. Tim is the only National Guild of Hypnotist's (NGH) Board Certified and Certified Instructor in Prince William County. In the past twenty years, Tim has completed additional certifications in Pain Management, Sleep Improvement, Smoking Cessation, Pediatric Hypnosis, Ultra Height and Working in the Esdaile State. Tim began his study of hypnosis after using it to overcome panic disorders and has spent the past two decades using that knowledge to help others.
![Photo of Heather Habaqe](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0df28e7b-f9a3-43d2-9b89-8d2ffbb48561/2/320x400.jpeg)
Noting on my own life I have come to terms with the fact that all individuals are unique in their experiences, how they perceive these experiences, and to their reactions and responses to these experiences. Recognizing worldviews are intricately individualistic, I feel that counseling should be just as unique and aligned to the individual client and their specific needs. I actively seek to meet my clients where they are and through collaboration provide assistance and guidance that aligns to their values, beliefs, and personal functioning with realistic goals that focus on the clients idea of what the best version of themselves is.
Noting on my own life I have come to terms with the fact that all individuals are unique in their experiences, how they perceive these experiences, and to their reactions and responses to these experiences. Recognizing worldviews are intricately individualistic, I feel that counseling should be just as unique and aligned to the individual client and their specific needs. I actively seek to meet my clients where they are and through collaboration provide assistance and guidance that aligns to their values, beliefs, and personal functioning with realistic goals that focus on the clients idea of what the best version of themselves is.
![Photo of Sandra Pinel-Lopez, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58e91be6-9ef8-4cd6-a1e6-e4875438fbd5/1/320x400.png)
Sandra Pinel-Lopez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that all individuals with proper care and treatment have the ability to overcome struggles and obstacles which hinders their emotional, physical, and spiritual growth. Through the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and mindfulness couples, adolescents, and individuals can alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that all individuals with proper care and treatment have the ability to overcome struggles and obstacles which hinders their emotional, physical, and spiritual growth. Through the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and mindfulness couples, adolescents, and individuals can alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
![Photo of Anna Hanson, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-T, CHWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/198030ca-5dda-49fc-88ba-41f7bb1bbda1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Hanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-T, CHWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
Are you searching for a psychotherapist who can provide the guidance and support you need to overcome difficult issues? I am here to help you navigate through the challenges that have left you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and defeated. I believe in taking a holistic approach, addressing not just your thoughts and emotions, but also the connection between your mind and body. Together, we will explore your feelings, delve into your subconscious, and discover coping mechanisms that will empower you to take control of your life. Let's embark on this therapeutic journey together and unlock your true potential!
Are you searching for a psychotherapist who can provide the guidance and support you need to overcome difficult issues? I am here to help you navigate through the challenges that have left you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and defeated. I believe in taking a holistic approach, addressing not just your thoughts and emotions, but also the connection between your mind and body. Together, we will explore your feelings, delve into your subconscious, and discover coping mechanisms that will empower you to take control of your life. Let's embark on this therapeutic journey together and unlock your true potential!
![Photo of Michelle Kauble, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dad794c4-62f7-464f-949d-c3058296503f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Kauble
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Waitlist for new clients
I am privileged to be a participant in the journey. I am an honest, genuine, compassionate advocate for my clients of all ages, races, ethinicities, backgrounds, orientations, and walks of life. I tell people all the time that if I had wanted to judge people, I would go to law school and get paid much more money! That's a joke! Survivors: let’s come together and agree that you’re never, ever going to back down! My interactive approach can yield results because I seek to learn constantly! I am also passionate about accessibility of mental health services- I supervise newer therapists and keep my rates affordable. That’s me!
I am privileged to be a participant in the journey. I am an honest, genuine, compassionate advocate for my clients of all ages, races, ethinicities, backgrounds, orientations, and walks of life. I tell people all the time that if I had wanted to judge people, I would go to law school and get paid much more money! That's a joke! Survivors: let’s come together and agree that you’re never, ever going to back down! My interactive approach can yield results because I seek to learn constantly! I am also passionate about accessibility of mental health services- I supervise newer therapists and keep my rates affordable. That’s me!
![Photo of Althilia Moore Lpc, MS, PhD can, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48024648-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Althilia Moore Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PhD can, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Are you searching to embrace all of you? Have you experienced a traumatic event or lost a loved one due to health disparity, mental illness, experiencing racial conflict, divorce, high stressors, incarcerated, loss of a pet, etc.? Well, if so, I am here to meet you where you are. Have you questioned yourself and your answer is why? Together let's explore your "How?"
Are you searching to embrace all of you? Have you experienced a traumatic event or lost a loved one due to health disparity, mental illness, experiencing racial conflict, divorce, high stressors, incarcerated, loss of a pet, etc.? Well, if so, I am here to meet you where you are. Have you questioned yourself and your answer is why? Together let's explore your "How?"
![Photo of Susan Piti - Sue Piti, LPC, MEd, LPC, NASM, AFAA, Yoga, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f36dc822-e1ab-436a-aa30-4c87fe79b4d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sue Piti, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NASM, AFAA, Yoga
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
Counseling services via video conference sessions only. Availability is flexible. Manage mood and anxiety disorders, wellness, and relationship issues. I help empower clients to make decisions that will enable them to make positive changes. Strong Cognitive Cognitive Behavioral background. Specialize in couples counseling/individuals relationship issues to include infidelity, financial, sexual problems, and wellness/mindfulness issues. Outpatient mental health practice since 2006. Co-author of Developmental Classroom Guidance activities. Middle school counselor 3 years.
Counseling services via video conference sessions only. Availability is flexible. Manage mood and anxiety disorders, wellness, and relationship issues. I help empower clients to make decisions that will enable them to make positive changes. Strong Cognitive Cognitive Behavioral background. Specialize in couples counseling/individuals relationship issues to include infidelity, financial, sexual problems, and wellness/mindfulness issues. Outpatient mental health practice since 2006. Co-author of Developmental Classroom Guidance activities. Middle school counselor 3 years.
![Photo of Wendy Radding, LCSW, RPT, CATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a405e33-d842-44a1-91ff-2f77595cf677/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Radding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, CATP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
As a therapist, I have much to offer. My many varied years of professional experience as a clinical social worker, my excellent education, combined with my personal life experience serves me well. Together, we collaborate on a new trusted relationship built on safety that has the potential to aid your growth with whatever issue you choose to work on. I work especially well with children and adolescents and have a good foundation in play therapy, yet adults are often surprised that I can work equally well with their concerns. We can design an approach that works for you.
As a therapist, I have much to offer. My many varied years of professional experience as a clinical social worker, my excellent education, combined with my personal life experience serves me well. Together, we collaborate on a new trusted relationship built on safety that has the potential to aid your growth with whatever issue you choose to work on. I work especially well with children and adolescents and have a good foundation in play therapy, yet adults are often surprised that I can work equally well with their concerns. We can design an approach that works for you.
![Photo of Karen David, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ae989c-cd42-4f2b-a349-f778c4970c4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen David
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Karen is a Licensed Professional Counselor approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling. She is also a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP). Karen obtained her Master’s in Counseling and Development from George Mason University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, as well as relationship and life adjustments concerns. Karen is passionate about meeting clients wherever they are on their life journey and helping them process the challenges they are facing.
Karen is a Licensed Professional Counselor approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling. She is also a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP). Karen obtained her Master’s in Counseling and Development from George Mason University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, as well as relationship and life adjustments concerns. Karen is passionate about meeting clients wherever they are on their life journey and helping them process the challenges they are facing.
![Photo of Zynasia Jasper - Breaking Through: A Clinical & Consulting Firm, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c22d9388-9186-4f6b-ba52-a17af4a88b1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Breaking Through: A Clinical & Consulting Firm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20108
Navigating the world right now can be extremely challenging especially if you are a woman. Are you the "dependable" friend or family member that is "always there"? Do you have difficulty saying no due to feelings of guilt or fear of acceptance? Have you worked your entire life to do everything just right and now you’re finding difficulty achieving happiness and fulfillment due to excessive worrying and preoccupation with perfectionism? Would you describe yourself as someone who goes after their goals and beats the odds despite life's curved balls? If any of this sounds familiar, then you’ve stumbled on the right profile.
Navigating the world right now can be extremely challenging especially if you are a woman. Are you the "dependable" friend or family member that is "always there"? Do you have difficulty saying no due to feelings of guilt or fear of acceptance? Have you worked your entire life to do everything just right and now you’re finding difficulty achieving happiness and fulfillment due to excessive worrying and preoccupation with perfectionism? Would you describe yourself as someone who goes after their goals and beats the odds despite life's curved balls? If any of this sounds familiar, then you’ve stumbled on the right profile.
![Photo of Sarah Freeman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6b30ef2-bec1-4372-81a3-12ff4f4b4fdf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110 (Online Only)
Life changes? Family changes? Rebuilding or recovering from a loss or trauma? Therapy can be the place you take care of your emotional and mental health. Where you gift yourself the space to grow and regroup into the you that you want to be. Get to a place of feeling comfortable in your own skin. Life can be a winding journey. You can feel better. I can help.
Life changes? Family changes? Rebuilding or recovering from a loss or trauma? Therapy can be the place you take care of your emotional and mental health. Where you gift yourself the space to grow and regroup into the you that you want to be. Get to a place of feeling comfortable in your own skin. Life can be a winding journey. You can feel better. I can help.
![Photo of Cynthia Holshoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9283716b-e568-47a8-8ea4-fe44b57755e0/2/320x400.png)
Hi there, I'm Cynthia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. As a clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, I have provided therapeutic services to all age groups utilizing a range of modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT, EMDR, and prolonged exposure. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma and have extensive work experience with military active duty and their dependents. If you think we may be a good match, please reach out today to get started!
Hi there, I'm Cynthia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. As a clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, I have provided therapeutic services to all age groups utilizing a range of modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT, EMDR, and prolonged exposure. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma and have extensive work experience with military active duty and their dependents. If you think we may be a good match, please reach out today to get started!
![Photo of Hemini Naik - Prince William Family Counseling, PsyD, LPC, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27ffd9b2-0d20-4c42-b0a8-62a124c962c5/3/320x400.jpeg)
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
![Photo of Dr. Katherine V. Rosemond, PhD, MEd, LPC, CPC, EMT-B, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f962bffb-b425-4c7d-8b90-4a97fd035246/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Katherine V. Rosemond
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, CPC, EMT-B
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109
Welcome to your pathway to healing, making positive life changes, and maximizing success in your business and personal life! We'll identify your goals, identify problems and obstacles in your way, develop strategies to overcome these, make positive changes that YOU want, and reach your goals. I offer addictions and mental health counseling as well as Executive, Business, and Personal Coaching. My clients include individuals, couples, families, and public safety workers and those who serve in the military. I am an active operational EMT with over 20 years experience with local volunteer fire/rescue departments and CISM teams.
Welcome to your pathway to healing, making positive life changes, and maximizing success in your business and personal life! We'll identify your goals, identify problems and obstacles in your way, develop strategies to overcome these, make positive changes that YOU want, and reach your goals. I offer addictions and mental health counseling as well as Executive, Business, and Personal Coaching. My clients include individuals, couples, families, and public safety workers and those who serve in the military. I am an active operational EMT with over 20 years experience with local volunteer fire/rescue departments and CISM teams.
![Photo of Margaret Harvey - Blue Ridge Psychological Center, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/400d865e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are an established and well regarded group practice offering counseling and psychiatric services to our clients. We have 2 locations to meet our client needs.. Our experienced providers have a variety of specialties and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as other treatment approaches. We are pleased to offer Individual, Marriage and Family Counseling as well as Medication Management.
We are an established and well regarded group practice offering counseling and psychiatric services to our clients. We have 2 locations to meet our client needs.. Our experienced providers have a variety of specialties and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as other treatment approaches. We are pleased to offer Individual, Marriage and Family Counseling as well as Medication Management.
![Photo of Laveena Khanchandani, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd560f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
![Photo of Jennie Polizzi, LPC&NCC, Phd Can, MS&Cert, BS, EMDR, AS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1212eef5-f41e-41bd-9a5c-ff84210229ee/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennie Polizzi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC&NCC, Phd Can, MS&Cert, BS, EMDR, AS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20109 (Online Only)
No matter who you are, life is always changing, filled with challenges, transitions, doubts, and sometimes successes. This is the human experience, and you do not have to go it alone. Counseling is an available resource to help hone your natural talents and skills to find vision, motivation, meaning, and resolve through your choices and experiences. With the support of a professional counselor there are no dead-end scenarios. I thoroughly believe in meeting clients where they are at, treating individuals with dignity and respect no matter who they are or where they come from, celebrating differences and individuality.
No matter who you are, life is always changing, filled with challenges, transitions, doubts, and sometimes successes. This is the human experience, and you do not have to go it alone. Counseling is an available resource to help hone your natural talents and skills to find vision, motivation, meaning, and resolve through your choices and experiences. With the support of a professional counselor there are no dead-end scenarios. I thoroughly believe in meeting clients where they are at, treating individuals with dignity and respect no matter who they are or where they come from, celebrating differences and individuality.
![Photo of James Joseph Rubin - James Joseph Rubin, LPC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49885f30-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
James Joseph Rubin, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20109
Life can be a difficult journey. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twelve years of experience, I provide counseling to individuals, families, and groups consisting of adolescents, adults, couples, families, and the elderly. Helping clients increase self-empowerment is done with personal growth in self-awareness. I incorporate a creative, positive, supportive, caring approach to assist you with the issues you are encountering, whether it be mental/emotional health, family issues, education or employment stressors. As a Pastoral Counselor, I provide spiritual/religious counseling for someone's faith journey.
Life can be a difficult journey. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twelve years of experience, I provide counseling to individuals, families, and groups consisting of adolescents, adults, couples, families, and the elderly. Helping clients increase self-empowerment is done with personal growth in self-awareness. I incorporate a creative, positive, supportive, caring approach to assist you with the issues you are encountering, whether it be mental/emotional health, family issues, education or employment stressors. As a Pastoral Counselor, I provide spiritual/religious counseling for someone's faith journey.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Andrea Levy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7ee5c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
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.
![Photo of John Mays - MidLife Refocus-Behavioral change programs, MEd, CHT, NSCA-PT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c4752f2-bf5a-4c08-b388-b74586b907e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
MidLife Refocus-Behavioral change programs
MEd, CHT, NSCA-PT
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151
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!
See more therapy options for Manassas
Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Manassas
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.