Weight Loss Therapists in Springfield, VA

Photo of Natalie Campbell (Smith), PsyD, LLC, PsyPact, Psychologist
Natalie Campbell (Smith)
Psychologist, PsyD, LLC, PsyPact
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22151  (Online Only)
Nationwide TELE-HEALTH PROVIDED. Symptoms caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, divorce, addictions, and mental illness can impair one's confidence and clarity of sound mind and body. I offer a person-centered approach that allows for persons to explore themselves in a safe and nonjudgemental space. Given that each person is unique with varying needs, the type of intervention and skills will vary. CBT, hypnosis, and client-centered approach are some of the modalities offered. It is essential that you feel safe; therefore, our relationship is an ongoing mutual exchange of clear communication and understanding.
Nationwide TELE-HEALTH PROVIDED. Symptoms caused by depression, anxiety, trauma, transitions, divorce, addictions, and mental illness can impair one's confidence and clarity of sound mind and body. I offer a person-centered approach that allows for persons to explore themselves in a safe and nonjudgemental space. Given that each person is unique with varying needs, the type of intervention and skills will vary. CBT, hypnosis, and client-centered approach are some of the modalities offered. It is essential that you feel safe; therefore, our relationship is an ongoing mutual exchange of clear communication and understanding.
(540) 923-0947 View (540) 923-0947
Photo of Kaimare Laird, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaimare Laird
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22152
Kaimare, known to many as Kai, I was born and raised in the southern most isles of the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago. Devoted to supporting others grow and overcome any challenges they face, I began my career within the field of mental health in 2013 and have gained experience in a variety of clinical roles especially in an outpatient therapy setting where I have worked with hundreds of individuals managing challenges with depression, anxiety, self esteem and more.
Kaimare, known to many as Kai, I was born and raised in the southern most isles of the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago. Devoted to supporting others grow and overcome any challenges they face, I began my career within the field of mental health in 2013 and have gained experience in a variety of clinical roles especially in an outpatient therapy setting where I have worked with hundreds of individuals managing challenges with depression, anxiety, self esteem and more.
(571) 605-6365 View (571) 605-6365
Photo of Gerald Smolen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gerald Smolen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22150
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 Alicia Cleaver - Cleaver Counseling, LLC, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cleaver Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, VA 22152
Are you searching for ways to build a healthier relationship with yourself or someone in your life? Maybe you are experiencing a stressful, life-changing event that is impacting your wellbeing. You may be feeling like you are in the midst of a crisis of your own or with someone in your family. Perhaps you have found yourself in need of some support and guidance.
Are you searching for ways to build a healthier relationship with yourself or someone in your life? Maybe you are experiencing a stressful, life-changing event that is impacting your wellbeing. You may be feeling like you are in the midst of a crisis of your own or with someone in your family. Perhaps you have found yourself in need of some support and guidance.
(703) 260-6950 View (703) 260-6950
Photo of Mitchell Blum - Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22151
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
Relationships in Crisis: We Have Several Private Couples/Marriage Workshops & Individual Sessions, in order to Rapidly Accelerate Your Healing & Your Communication Process (Traditional 45 min. session Simply Does Not Work). During these 2 to 4 weeks, we will see both of you Together & Individually, as well as Help each of you Learn the Art of Empathy, Sensitivity & Compassion. These Workshops are Informative & Powerful, in order to Accelerate the Healing Process & Stop any further Damage from Occurring. In Addition, Our Success RATE is 85% of Our Couples that have Successfully Completed Our Couples Workshops or Alcohol Treatment.
(571) 601-1042 View (571) 601-1042
Photo of Joni Joseph - Joni Joseph, LCSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joni Joseph, LCSW, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22152  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients I have a passion for helping people feel better. I offer a warm, empathic, nonjudgmental approach to treating my clients & always start where my client feels most comfortable. I recognize that every person is unique. Clients have often told me that they feel comfortable opening up to me as they find me down to earth & relatable. You are in charge of your therapy. In other words, if you need me to give you guidance I can. If you need me to be a sounding board, I will. If you need pure emotional support I will provide that for you, and if you need constructive problem solving we can work on that together.
Accepting New Clients I have a passion for helping people feel better. I offer a warm, empathic, nonjudgmental approach to treating my clients & always start where my client feels most comfortable. I recognize that every person is unique. Clients have often told me that they feel comfortable opening up to me as they find me down to earth & relatable. You are in charge of your therapy. In other words, if you need me to give you guidance I can. If you need me to be a sounding board, I will. If you need pure emotional support I will provide that for you, and if you need constructive problem solving we can work on that together.
(571) 470-6816 View (571) 470-6816
Photo of Janice Petty, MA, LSATP, MAC, BCBC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice Petty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LSATP, MAC, BCBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, VA 22150  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients - Congratulations, you are in the right place - Welcome to Selah Solutions, LLC. Do you continue to suffer day-to-day, and seemingly nothing is changing? There is no need to go another day with your current stressors, barriers, and symptoms. You owe it to yourself to begin a journey from pain to peace. Together, we will journey through identifying, exploring, and understanding depressive symptoms, anxiety, grief and loss, addictions, relationships, and self-worth. By learning effective coping mechanisms, you will be empowered by obtaining self-awareness and confidence. Aren't you ready to feel better?
Accepting new clients - Congratulations, you are in the right place - Welcome to Selah Solutions, LLC. Do you continue to suffer day-to-day, and seemingly nothing is changing? There is no need to go another day with your current stressors, barriers, and symptoms. You owe it to yourself to begin a journey from pain to peace. Together, we will journey through identifying, exploring, and understanding depressive symptoms, anxiety, grief and loss, addictions, relationships, and self-worth. By learning effective coping mechanisms, you will be empowered by obtaining self-awareness and confidence. Aren't you ready to feel better?
(703) 810-7116 View (703) 810-7116
Photo of Jennie L. McKinney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennie L. McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, VA 22151
Not accepting new clients
Couples seeking a deeper connection in their relationship with their partner need to learn how to speak about and listen to their partner's dreams, inner world, and viewpoint. Often couples feel a sense of disconnection and distance from their partner, who was once their friend and admirer. Couples also want to stop feeling stuck in the same cycles of arguing and miscommunication. They want to start resolving problems and work towards compromise with each other. They want their dreams to come true and create a sense of shared meaning together. If you have lost your partner's love map, I am here to help you find it.
Couples seeking a deeper connection in their relationship with their partner need to learn how to speak about and listen to their partner's dreams, inner world, and viewpoint. Often couples feel a sense of disconnection and distance from their partner, who was once their friend and admirer. Couples also want to stop feeling stuck in the same cycles of arguing and miscommunication. They want to start resolving problems and work towards compromise with each other. They want their dreams to come true and create a sense of shared meaning together. If you have lost your partner's love map, I am here to help you find it.
(703) 468-8974 View (703) 468-8974

More Therapists Nearby

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 Janice D Petty - Selah Solutions, LLC -  Bariatrics, BCBC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Selah Solutions, LLC - Bariatrics
Licensed Professional Counselor, BCBC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you seeking a bariatric assessment required by your surgeon or insurance? Do you need additional support on your weight loss journey or gain a better understanding of your relationship with food? Selah Solutions, LLC is here to partner with you. The weight loss journey, including preparing for bariatric surgery, can be a roller-coaster of emotions. During this weight loss process, you must be supported to gain the best results. Selah Solutions, LLC offers non-judgmental services virtually from the comfort of your personal space. The primary goal is for you to become healthier and happier mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Are you seeking a bariatric assessment required by your surgeon or insurance? Do you need additional support on your weight loss journey or gain a better understanding of your relationship with food? Selah Solutions, LLC is here to partner with you. The weight loss journey, including preparing for bariatric surgery, can be a roller-coaster of emotions. During this weight loss process, you must be supported to gain the best results. Selah Solutions, LLC offers non-judgmental services virtually from the comfort of your personal space. The primary goal is for you to become healthier and happier mentally, emotionally, and physically.
(571) 463-6822 View (571) 463-6822
Photo of Dr. Laurel Wade, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Laurel Wade
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Wade specializes in health psychology, particularly the areas of chronic pain, adjustment to chronic illness or injury, weight management, weight loss surgery counseling, disordered eating, body image concerns, and implementing health-promoting lifestyle changes. Dr. Wade practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology approaches, capitalizing on the strengths of each individual to form a collaborative and holistic treatment plan.
Dr. Wade specializes in health psychology, particularly the areas of chronic pain, adjustment to chronic illness or injury, weight management, weight loss surgery counseling, disordered eating, body image concerns, and implementing health-promoting lifestyle changes. Dr. Wade practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology approaches, capitalizing on the strengths of each individual to form a collaborative and holistic treatment plan.
(571) 462-6539 View (571) 462-6539
Photo of Dr. Lisa Germeroth, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Lisa Germeroth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
Dr. Germeroth specializes in eating and weight related concerns (emotional eating, overeating, binge eating, weight management, weight loss surgery support), anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, OCD, trichotillomania, excoriation), depression, and insomnia. Dr. Germeroth’s background in health behavior research strongly informs her clinical work, which is focused on providing evidence-based treatment personalized to each client’s unique needs. Dr. Germeroth primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Habit Reversal Training (HRT).
Dr. Germeroth specializes in eating and weight related concerns (emotional eating, overeating, binge eating, weight management, weight loss surgery support), anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety, OCD, trichotillomania, excoriation), depression, and insomnia. Dr. Germeroth’s background in health behavior research strongly informs her clinical work, which is focused on providing evidence-based treatment personalized to each client’s unique needs. Dr. Germeroth primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and Habit Reversal Training (HRT).
(571) 200-8867 View (571) 200-8867
Photo of Lindsey Berisha, PhD, Psychologist
Lindsey Berisha
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
I specialize in providing evidence-based interventions for depression, anxiety, stress, weight, and insomnia, as well counseling for individuals both before and after weight loss surgery. Making and maintaining changes in your life can be incredibly difficult. Whether you are hoping to make a change in your life or struggling to adapt to life’s unexpected changes, therapy can provide support, insight, and new tools and techniques for handling life’s challenges. I am a warm and collaborative clinician who strives to help clients to better understand themselves and learn skills for improving their lives.
I specialize in providing evidence-based interventions for depression, anxiety, stress, weight, and insomnia, as well counseling for individuals both before and after weight loss surgery. Making and maintaining changes in your life can be incredibly difficult. Whether you are hoping to make a change in your life or struggling to adapt to life’s unexpected changes, therapy can provide support, insight, and new tools and techniques for handling life’s challenges. I am a warm and collaborative clinician who strives to help clients to better understand themselves and learn skills for improving their lives.
(703) 935-5674 View (703) 935-5674
Photo of Dr. Tanesa Hill, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Tanesa Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Dr. Hill treats individuals suffering from the many stressors of modern day life, with a particular emphasis on insomnia, weight loss, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety and depression. Dr. Hill also offers a customized approach for those struggling with romantic relationships, including dating.
Dr. Hill treats individuals suffering from the many stressors of modern day life, with a particular emphasis on insomnia, weight loss, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety and depression. Dr. Hill also offers a customized approach for those struggling with romantic relationships, including dating.
(857) 420-6898 View (857) 420-6898
Photo of Leon Sankofa, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leon Sankofa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307
Hypnotherapy is very effective at removing fears, phobias, stop smoking and even weight loss.
Greetings! I'm Leon Sankofa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, and Hypnotherapist. My mission is to help you feel better and live a more fulfilling life. With a diverse range of therapeutic techniques at my disposal, I'm here to guide you on your journey towards emotional well-being. Are you currently wrestling with the weight of depression or anxiety? Struggling with internal conflicts or decision-making? Dealing with relationship issues or grief? Perhaps you simply wish to enhance your focus and overall quality of life. Whatever your goals may be, I'm dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
Hypnotherapy is very effective at removing fears, phobias, stop smoking and even weight loss.
Greetings! I'm Leon Sankofa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, and Hypnotherapist. My mission is to help you feel better and live a more fulfilling life. With a diverse range of therapeutic techniques at my disposal, I'm here to guide you on your journey towards emotional well-being. Are you currently wrestling with the weight of depression or anxiety? Struggling with internal conflicts or decision-making? Dealing with relationship issues or grief? Perhaps you simply wish to enhance your focus and overall quality of life. Whatever your goals may be, I'm dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
(757) 255-7725 View (757) 255-7725
Photo of Meredith Adams, MS, LPC, NCC, NBCCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, 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 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 Kristi G Hall - Wholesome Minds, LLC., PsyD, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW, Psychologist
Wholesome Minds, LLC.
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
In therapy and coaching, our focus is on overall mental wellness and improving the mental health and mental capacity of individuals with symptoms related to sport performance, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, life transitions, somatic health, weight loss, pain related issues, and weight management.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have concerns related to sports, navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
In therapy and coaching, our focus is on overall mental wellness and improving the mental health and mental capacity of individuals with symptoms related to sport performance, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, life transitions, somatic health, weight loss, pain related issues, and weight management.
We are a group practice of licensed clinical psychologists and social workers. Collectively, we have experience covering the developmental lifespan from assessing and treating young children with behavioral and learning concerns to working with adolescents and (young and older) adult clients who have concerns related to sports, navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, significant life stressors, and life transitions. Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We work to achieve this by providing a safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing an individualized treatment plan.
(301) 307-5730 View (301) 307-5730
Photo of Mary DeRaedt, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary DeRaedt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Therapy is an unusual process; there is nothing like it in day to day life. You come to a professional who focuses solely on you, your past, your future, your health, your goals and your perspective. Whatever you have been through, whatever you are trying to become, my goal is to do everything we can together to inspire you, to help you realize you can, and to help you know deep down that you are worth it. I will facilitate your understanding of your emotional (or lack of emotional) responses. You will learn the tools you need to heal from the trauma learning of the past and move forward, free to engage in life on your terms.
Therapy is an unusual process; there is nothing like it in day to day life. You come to a professional who focuses solely on you, your past, your future, your health, your goals and your perspective. Whatever you have been through, whatever you are trying to become, my goal is to do everything we can together to inspire you, to help you realize you can, and to help you know deep down that you are worth it. I will facilitate your understanding of your emotional (or lack of emotional) responses. You will learn the tools you need to heal from the trauma learning of the past and move forward, free to engage in life on your terms.
(703) 666-8376 View (703) 666-8376
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

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.