Weight Loss Therapists in Sterling, VA
![Photo of Janice D Petty - Selah Solutions, LLC - Bariatrics, BCBC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eea9d74a-e3e0-4f4d-94af-702741b2d954/2/320x400.jpeg)
Selah Solutions, LLC - Bariatrics
Licensed Professional Counselor, BCBC
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20167 (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.
![Photo of Caroline Ibrahim - Dulles Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47369555-c7da-46f8-b83e-6c72f3fc950a/2/320x400.png)
Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship and a safe environment to process experiences and develop insights into- and coping strategies for- current challenges. We will provide you or your family this therapeutic relationship, guidance through your path to growth, & the opportunity to learn new skills & enhance your life.
Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship and a safe environment to process experiences and develop insights into- and coping strategies for- current challenges. We will provide you or your family this therapeutic relationship, guidance through your path to growth, & the opportunity to learn new skills & enhance your life.
![Photo of Jill Changizi-Kerr, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/497e847d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Changizi-Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20166 (Online Only)
If you are struggling with life transitions, grief/loss, relationship problems, parenting or caregiving stress, aging issues, terminal illness, infertility, mood concerns, substance use/codependency issues, career distress, self-esteem issues, or other adjustment concerns, I will be delighted to support you as your therapist. I've counseled in settings including hospice, detention centers, private practice, and community mental health centers. I'm also an author who researched/wrote collaboratively with many multicultural experts to publish the textbook "The Handbook for Multicultural Counseling."
If you are struggling with life transitions, grief/loss, relationship problems, parenting or caregiving stress, aging issues, terminal illness, infertility, mood concerns, substance use/codependency issues, career distress, self-esteem issues, or other adjustment concerns, I will be delighted to support you as your therapist. I've counseled in settings including hospice, detention centers, private practice, and community mental health centers. I'm also an author who researched/wrote collaboratively with many multicultural experts to publish the textbook "The Handbook for Multicultural Counseling."
![Photo of Charly Volk, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/645d2c74-9f43-4658-84ec-f70fa57e0176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charly Volk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165 (Online Only)
Charly Volk is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 10 plus years of experience providing therapeutic and behavioral health services for numerous mental health areas and a wide ranging of clientele base from ages 6 and up. Charly received her Master's Degree from the University of Connecticut, and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Spanish. Charly is passionate about raising awareness of the critical importance of mental health in every community. She wants her clients to know she supports and values them, and always builds tailored treatment plans to accommodate their unique issues or concerns.
Charly Volk is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 10 plus years of experience providing therapeutic and behavioral health services for numerous mental health areas and a wide ranging of clientele base from ages 6 and up. Charly received her Master's Degree from the University of Connecticut, and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Spanish. Charly is passionate about raising awareness of the critical importance of mental health in every community. She wants her clients to know she supports and values them, and always builds tailored treatment plans to accommodate their unique issues or concerns.
![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 Patrick Nisco, PhD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be22d73-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
![Photo of Maryam Irshad, MA, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a51f969-7002-45b4-81fb-9ff141d51747/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maryam Irshad
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
Facing life's hurdles can be challenging and you don't have to navigate them alone. I'm here to offer support and guidance to help you not just cope, but thrive. I offer therapy through Loudoun Counseling & Coaching, LLC and health coaching through my private practice, Rahman Health & Wellness, LLC. I enjoy collaborating with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. In therapy, my approach is centered on leveraging your innate strengths to facilitate growth and resilience. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, drawing from a diverse toolkit of therapeutic modalities.
Facing life's hurdles can be challenging and you don't have to navigate them alone. I'm here to offer support and guidance to help you not just cope, but thrive. I offer therapy through Loudoun Counseling & Coaching, LLC and health coaching through my private practice, Rahman Health & Wellness, LLC. I enjoy collaborating with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. In therapy, my approach is centered on leveraging your innate strengths to facilitate growth and resilience. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults, drawing from a diverse toolkit of therapeutic modalities.
![Photo of An Thai, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b939e70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
An Thai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
Waitlist for new clients
Whether I am seeing an individual, couple, or family, I firmly believe each and every client is worthy of the time and effort dedicated to their personal growth in therapy. I wanted to become a therapist to help people see their worth and to understand each other better. Growth occurs when clients are willing to learn more about how they relate to themselves, others, and the world around them. Sometimes growth comes with a lot of healing, and many times healing is followed by identification of more areas for growth. I am present as a support for you in this journey, which is unique to each individual.
Whether I am seeing an individual, couple, or family, I firmly believe each and every client is worthy of the time and effort dedicated to their personal growth in therapy. I wanted to become a therapist to help people see their worth and to understand each other better. Growth occurs when clients are willing to learn more about how they relate to themselves, others, and the world around them. Sometimes growth comes with a lot of healing, and many times healing is followed by identification of more areas for growth. I am present as a support for you in this journey, which is unique to each individual.
![Photo of Michael Arthur, MA, MPhil, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d0acaf5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Acceptance leads to solutions but denial leads to confusion. My name is Michael Arthur. I am a therapist and a teacher who combines Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Spirituality to support my patients. I have been working with diverse groups, children and adults who experience Mental Health illnesses, deal with substance abuse problems and those with developmental disabilities using empirically supported treatments and evidence-based practices for over 12 years now. I help achieve patients’ goals by using empathy, cultural-responsiveness, and person-centeredness among other things.
Acceptance leads to solutions but denial leads to confusion. My name is Michael Arthur. I am a therapist and a teacher who combines Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Spirituality to support my patients. I have been working with diverse groups, children and adults who experience Mental Health illnesses, deal with substance abuse problems and those with developmental disabilities using empirically supported treatments and evidence-based practices for over 12 years now. I help achieve patients’ goals by using empathy, cultural-responsiveness, and person-centeredness among other things.
![Photo of Julie Fender, LPC, CEAP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f958b96-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Fender
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck in a pattern of behavior or relationship that's not working for you? Let's work together to find a creative solution! I will help you see your problem from a different perspective, identify why you are stuck, and equip you with strategies to conquer your current situation. People are multi-dimentional so I will integrate where you are mentally, emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually into our counseling process. I truly find satisfaction in partnering with people to improve their lives and have enjoyed success in doing so by providing an inviting and authentic therapeutic relationship.
Are you feeling stuck in a pattern of behavior or relationship that's not working for you? Let's work together to find a creative solution! I will help you see your problem from a different perspective, identify why you are stuck, and equip you with strategies to conquer your current situation. People are multi-dimentional so I will integrate where you are mentally, emotionally, physically, relationally, and spiritually into our counseling process. I truly find satisfaction in partnering with people to improve their lives and have enjoyed success in doing so by providing an inviting and authentic therapeutic relationship.
![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
Sterling, VA 20165
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.
More Therapists Nearby
![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 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
Chantilly, VA 20151
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!
![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 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
Chantilly, VA 20152 (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 Vanessa Cheshier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4f9fb13-0ed9-4b57-bb55-d9b7b7b5ffa6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Cheshier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Are you struggling to change your patterns of alcohol or marijuana use, or do you have a loved one who is? I use a harm reduction approach to help clients explore their relationship with substances. We will work together to develop new skills and cultivate motivation to make difficult changes – whether that is practicing moderation, making safer choices, or eliminating substances from your life entirely. I prioritize creating a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment as feeling supported is essential in productive therapy.
Are you struggling to change your patterns of alcohol or marijuana use, or do you have a loved one who is? I use a harm reduction approach to help clients explore their relationship with substances. We will work together to develop new skills and cultivate motivation to make difficult changes – whether that is practicing moderation, making safer choices, or eliminating substances from your life entirely. I prioritize creating a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment as feeling supported is essential in productive therapy.
![Photo of Trina Welpott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/029e4b2d-e146-410d-9f0a-3568f18dd84a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trina Welpott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20148 (Online Only)
We all have relationship challenges, stressors, and losses. Many times this does not equate to illness or necessitate a diagnosis. My goal is to promote total well-being, prevent further distress, and maintain health and happiness. I partner with adults who need to hit the "refresh" button, get support, and create new ways of looking at themselves and the world. I aim to eliminate stigma by referring to my approach as self-care & growth. I help people to let the past go, the future be as it may, and to step into the present moment fully. You can embrace your unique self, highlight your strengths, find healing, and feel empowered!
We all have relationship challenges, stressors, and losses. Many times this does not equate to illness or necessitate a diagnosis. My goal is to promote total well-being, prevent further distress, and maintain health and happiness. I partner with adults who need to hit the "refresh" button, get support, and create new ways of looking at themselves and the world. I aim to eliminate stigma by referring to my approach as self-care & growth. I help people to let the past go, the future be as it may, and to step into the present moment fully. You can embrace your unique self, highlight your strengths, find healing, and feel empowered!
![Photo of Colette Giovanniello - Colette Giovanniello LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5192f51a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Colette Giovanniello LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20148 (Online Only)
We often hear that we live in a difficult world. Psychotherapy will help you address and navigate daily struggles while figuring out your journey. Sometimes we must reflect on our lives to strategize how to move forward. We turn to therapists to help us find solutions based on professional expertise. Difficulties in life include employment, life transitions, problems in relationships, divorce, death, and financial hardships. We might experience low motivation and burnout when trying to reach our goals in life, I will help you to create change in your life to grow and experience peace, contentment, and joy.
We often hear that we live in a difficult world. Psychotherapy will help you address and navigate daily struggles while figuring out your journey. Sometimes we must reflect on our lives to strategize how to move forward. We turn to therapists to help us find solutions based on professional expertise. Difficulties in life include employment, life transitions, problems in relationships, divorce, death, and financial hardships. We might experience low motivation and burnout when trying to reach our goals in life, I will help you to create change in your life to grow and experience peace, contentment, and joy.
![Photo of Linda Speaks - The Healing Rose Therapy, MFE LLC, PhD, Theraph](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbbf22f3-d4cd-420f-aa25-5bb4f6c3bc5b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our healing team works to be your listening ears. Every session is tailored to help you identify the individual issues we need to help with and design a plan to help you move forward I'm a healthy daily lifestyle. We utilize individual and group depending on your needs and preferences. We utilize meditation, mindfulness if you desire. No medication is prescribed, we have partners to refer if needed.
Our healing team works to be your listening ears. Every session is tailored to help you identify the individual issues we need to help with and design a plan to help you move forward I'm a healthy daily lifestyle. We utilize individual and group depending on your needs and preferences. We utilize meditation, mindfulness if you desire. No medication is prescribed, we have partners to refer if needed.
See more therapy options for Sterling
Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Sterling
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.