Weight Loss Therapists in Athens, TX

Photo of Diane M Gard, PhD, BFK, NFK, Psychologist
Diane M Gard
Psychologist, PhD, BFK, NFK
Verified Verified
Athens, TX 75751
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
Dr. Gard has a PhD in Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine with over 30 years of clinical experience. Clients span a wide variety of diagnoses. She sees clients Age 5 to seniors. ETNH office is open Mondays through Thursdays and by appointment to serve the community. She can provide biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, light therapy in addition to eclectic approaches (cognitive and behavioral) to address your specific needs.
(903) 767-4190 View (903) 767-4190
Photo of Susan Cason-Parks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Cason-Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Athens, TX 75751
With over a decade of experience treating individuals,couples and families in community mental health, non-profits, military bases, psychiatric hospitals and private practice, you can be assured that your mental health issues will be empathically and skillfully treated and resolved.
With over a decade of experience treating individuals,couples and families in community mental health, non-profits, military bases, psychiatric hospitals and private practice, you can be assured that your mental health issues will be empathically and skillfully treated and resolved.
(903) 705-4651 View (903) 705-4651

Online Therapists

Photo of Kenyatta Martin, LPC, Counselor
Kenyatta Martin
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75241  (Online Only)
Please Click on Website link to schedule. Thank you. Family Therapy, and Couples Therapy that address: trauma, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, stress, negative thinking, depression, chronic pain, addictions, and so much more.
Please Click on Website link to schedule. Thank you. Family Therapy, and Couples Therapy that address: trauma, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, weight loss, stress, negative thinking, depression, chronic pain, addictions, and so much more.
(346) 545-4996 View (346) 545-4996
Photo of Leslie M Faris, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie M Faris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76244
I work with persons at all stages of weight loss surgery, from pre-contemplation to living with gastric alterations.
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
I work with persons at all stages of weight loss surgery, from pre-contemplation to living with gastric alterations.
In everyone’s life there comes a time when struggles seem overwhelming. During times like these, it takes a strong person to ask for help. If you are reading this, chances are you are at that point, and I commend you for that inner strength that is looking for resolution. I’d like to help you find that resolution. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have extensive training and experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with a variety of issues. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and stress, depression and mood disorders, and health-related issues
(682) 334-8932 View (682) 334-8932
Photo of Dr. Belinda Newcomer, PhD , LPC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Belinda Newcomer
Counselor, PhD , LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stress, motivation, weight loss, unresolved trauma, emotional eating or anxiety? I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping people identify, and change troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with anxiety, trauma, low motivation, weight loss, and athletic goals. Clients appreciate my laidback, informal, and casual demeanor. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable during the intake process and feel increased positivity after every session. Let's work together to improve your overall energy and self-esteem. It may only take a couple of sessions to get you back on track.
Are you struggling with stress, motivation, weight loss, unresolved trauma, emotional eating or anxiety? I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping people identify, and change troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with anxiety, trauma, low motivation, weight loss, and athletic goals. Clients appreciate my laidback, informal, and casual demeanor. My goal is to ensure you feel comfortable during the intake process and feel increased positivity after every session. Let's work together to improve your overall energy and self-esteem. It may only take a couple of sessions to get you back on track.
(475) 325-5919 View (475) 325-5919
Photo of Kathryn Foster, PhD, Psychologist
Kathryn Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
Hypnosis can be useful for weight loss, smoking cessation, adapting to change, surviving break ups, enhancing creativity, decreasing anxiety and depression.
Hi. I understand that when you're hurting, you need understanding and sensitivity. I fit therapy to my individual client's personality and needs so it will work! We can use talk therapy, including cognitive-behavioral, hypnosis, sensorimotor psychotherapy (see more on my website.) I tend to be an active therapist and have worked extensively with abused, depressed, and anxious persons, and also specialize in couples therapy and dissociative disorders. With a Ph.D. in psychology and masters in couples/family therapy, I've done psychotherapy for 32 years. Please don't hesitate to write me.
Hypnosis can be useful for weight loss, smoking cessation, adapting to change, surviving break ups, enhancing creativity, decreasing anxiety and depression.
Hi. I understand that when you're hurting, you need understanding and sensitivity. I fit therapy to my individual client's personality and needs so it will work! We can use talk therapy, including cognitive-behavioral, hypnosis, sensorimotor psychotherapy (see more on my website.) I tend to be an active therapist and have worked extensively with abused, depressed, and anxious persons, and also specialize in couples therapy and dissociative disorders. With a Ph.D. in psychology and masters in couples/family therapy, I've done psychotherapy for 32 years. Please don't hesitate to write me.
(817) 438-0711 View (817) 438-0711
Photo of May Ukiri - Verve Counseling & Wellness, PhD, MS, LPC, MFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Verve Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC, MFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
We specialize in OCD & Trauma treatment; we also have several years of experience treating hundreds of clients for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, & weight loss counseling. Our mission is to bring you affordable and quality mental health services. You might feel like you have no one to turn to who can understand what you’re going through, but you are not alone. Our services will promote an increase in life satisfaction, self-esteem, self-respect, respect of others, a healthier lifestyle, and address issues that relate to improving ones quality of life.
We specialize in OCD & Trauma treatment; we also have several years of experience treating hundreds of clients for PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, & weight loss counseling. Our mission is to bring you affordable and quality mental health services. You might feel like you have no one to turn to who can understand what you’re going through, but you are not alone. Our services will promote an increase in life satisfaction, self-esteem, self-respect, respect of others, a healthier lifestyle, and address issues that relate to improving ones quality of life.
(469) 772-9335 View (469) 772-9335
Photo of Clara N. Aragon - Living Well Family and Child Institute, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,, Licensed Professional Counselor
Living Well Family and Child Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 25 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 20 years in Educational and Family counseling. Active in court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., generational trauma, youth/adolescents, and couples). Therapy focuses on decreasing the effects of generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 25 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 20 years in Educational and Family counseling. Active in court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., generational trauma, youth/adolescents, and couples). Therapy focuses on decreasing the effects of generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
(214) 628-7225 View (214) 628-7225
Photo of Scott Allen Smith, MA, LPC, CH, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Allen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CH, CLC
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75028
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
I ACCEPT MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS TO REDUCE YOUR COST. VIDEO CONFERENCING OPTION. FREE PHONE CONSULTATION - Therapy will provide another "pair of eyes" that can help you explore life to get back on track. I have significant experience in helping children and adult clients with the following: Feeling “stuck”, anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, childhood/family issues, couple's issues, adolescent adjustment, grief/bereavement, low self-esteem/confidence, trauma (flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, P.T.S.D. and/or abuse – sexual, physical, emotional), anger management, assertiveness, weight loss, and legal issues.
(469) 770-7333 View (469) 770-7333
Photo of Janice Terry - Janice Terry Counseling Services, LCSW-S, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Terry Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyler, TX 75703
I have over 20 years of experience. My specialities include intensive one on one therapy, trauma and family and marriage counseling. I work with children, adolescents and adults. I am a Clinical Social Work Supervisor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I address addiction, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleep, sports, and weight loss management. I teach coping skills, communication skills, healthy relationships, positive mindset & help motivate clients to make change. I have a certification in PTSD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia. I use CBT to assist clients in meeting their needs and goals.
I have over 20 years of experience. My specialities include intensive one on one therapy, trauma and family and marriage counseling. I work with children, adolescents and adults. I am a Clinical Social Work Supervisor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I address addiction, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleep, sports, and weight loss management. I teach coping skills, communication skills, healthy relationships, positive mindset & help motivate clients to make change. I have a certification in PTSD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia. I use CBT to assist clients in meeting their needs and goals.
(903) 730-6226 View (903) 730-6226
Photo of Kim Kays, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Kays
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
For help with weight loss, please visit www.
I help men and women dealing with, "Now what?" You know, when life doesn't go according to plan, which it rarely does. It often sounds something like this: Now what should I do that I feel anxious or depressed? ...that I can't seem to lose this weight? ...that my situation feels hopeless? ...that my past continues to haunt me? ...that I don't feel good about myself? ...that I (or someone I love) drink(s) too much? ...that I struggle with food? ...that my relationship isn't what I hoped for? Now what should I do that I'm questioning how I've spent my life? In other words, "This isn't how it was supposed to be; this wasn't the plan."
For help with weight loss, please visit www.
I help men and women dealing with, "Now what?" You know, when life doesn't go according to plan, which it rarely does. It often sounds something like this: Now what should I do that I feel anxious or depressed? ...that I can't seem to lose this weight? ...that my situation feels hopeless? ...that my past continues to haunt me? ...that I don't feel good about myself? ...that I (or someone I love) drink(s) too much? ...that I struggle with food? ...that my relationship isn't what I hoped for? Now what should I do that I'm questioning how I've spent my life? In other words, "This isn't how it was supposed to be; this wasn't the plan."
(972) 441-7952 x312 View (972) 441-7952 x312
Photo of Glynis Park, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glynis Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 6 to 12 and Adults.
Glynis has been in the mental health industry for 30 years as a school counselor and teacher, advocate for special needs and gymnastics coach, foster care services, and individual therapy. Glynis’s specialties include Adoptions, Anger, ADHD/ ADD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavior Concerns, Bipolar, Career Coaching, Chronic Disabilities, Coping, Depression, Divorce, Education and Learning disabilities, Family conflict, OCD, Parenting, School Issues, Self-esteem, Sexual Abuse, Sports Performance, LGBTQIA+, Trauma and PTSD, Weight loss, and Womens & Men's Issues. She enjoys working with children ages 6 to 12 and Adults.
(469) 824-9647 View (469) 824-9647
Photo of Dr. Robin Washington-White, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Robin Washington-White
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Desoto, TX 75115  (Online Only)
She designed a life she loves! Do you love the life you are living? Are you happy? Have you reached your full potential? Or are you ready to change your life? Are you ready to be a better, healthier, happier you? Dr. Robin focuses exclusively on Women’s Issues (health, relationships, career, personal growth, self-care, emotional eating, weight loss, stress, depression, anxiety and loss).
She designed a life she loves! Do you love the life you are living? Are you happy? Have you reached your full potential? Or are you ready to change your life? Are you ready to be a better, healthier, happier you? Dr. Robin focuses exclusively on Women’s Issues (health, relationships, career, personal growth, self-care, emotional eating, weight loss, stress, depression, anxiety and loss).
(469) 804-9074 View (469) 804-9074
Photo of Jennifer M Smith, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer M Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find the time or energy to seek the counseling support you need? My 100% online practice offers a convenient and secure solution for those who want to improve their well-being from the comfort of their own home. Through HIPAA compliant video calls, I can help you work towards your goals and overcome your trials, no matter where you are. As a counselor with extensive experience working with individuals and families affected by ADD/ADHD, parenting challenges, depression, abuse, Autism, anxiety, relationship issues, and low self-esteem, I am passionate about helping you navigate the complexities of life.
Are you struggling to find the time or energy to seek the counseling support you need? My 100% online practice offers a convenient and secure solution for those who want to improve their well-being from the comfort of their own home. Through HIPAA compliant video calls, I can help you work towards your goals and overcome your trials, no matter where you are. As a counselor with extensive experience working with individuals and families affected by ADD/ADHD, parenting challenges, depression, abuse, Autism, anxiety, relationship issues, and low self-esteem, I am passionate about helping you navigate the complexities of life.
(214) 225-2752 View (214) 225-2752
Photo of Whitney Winkleman, CACLC
Whitney Winkleman
CACLC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Welcome to a transformative journey with me as your life coach, where your aspirations become achievements, and your talent is fully realized. I specialize in empowering individuals to break through limitations, embrace their true selves, and craft a life that aligns with their deepest values and goals. Whether you're seeking to enhance your career, cultivate better relationships, or find greater fulfillment, my coaching approach offers the support to help you thrive. My mission is to guide you through life’s challenges with compassion and biblical wisdom, helping you to uncover and pursue your full potential.
Welcome to a transformative journey with me as your life coach, where your aspirations become achievements, and your talent is fully realized. I specialize in empowering individuals to break through limitations, embrace their true selves, and craft a life that aligns with their deepest values and goals. Whether you're seeking to enhance your career, cultivate better relationships, or find greater fulfillment, my coaching approach offers the support to help you thrive. My mission is to guide you through life’s challenges with compassion and biblical wisdom, helping you to uncover and pursue your full potential.
(817) 813-8460 View (817) 813-8460
Photo of Evelyn Jackson, LCSW-S, MBA, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evelyn Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MBA, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76015
Everyone will experience an emotional challenge at some point; shame, grief, loss, anger, fear, trauma, loneliness, loss of direction, purpose, or connectedness. Take the first brave step towards a more fulfilling life experience.
Everyone will experience an emotional challenge at some point; shame, grief, loss, anger, fear, trauma, loneliness, loss of direction, purpose, or connectedness. Take the first brave step towards a more fulfilling life experience.
(682) 463-1920 View (682) 463-1920
Photo of Alejandra Diaz, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alejandra Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
I strongly believe in the potential of human beings to access their inner resources to create change and empower themselves to have the quality of life they want and they deserve. I am a Spanish/English Bilingual Therapist who works with adults. As an immigrant myself, I understand cross-cultural and acculturation situations that hinder daily life due to immigration processes. Part of my focus as a therapist is to comprehend and work with the nuances of different backgrounds and cultural needs. I have been a hypnotherapist for over 14 years. I have extensive training and experience in Traditional and Ericksonian Hypnosis. I also have training in healing emotional wounds through regressive techniques. I truly believe hypnosis is a magnificent technique to help clients reach out their inner resources, create change and empower themselves. As an active member of the North Texas Society of Clinical Hypnosis, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of international congresses in Mexico and Costa Rica as well as facilitated webinars with similar groups of professionals in Italy, France and Reunion Island.
I strongly believe in the potential of human beings to access their inner resources to create change and empower themselves to have the quality of life they want and they deserve. I am a Spanish/English Bilingual Therapist who works with adults. As an immigrant myself, I understand cross-cultural and acculturation situations that hinder daily life due to immigration processes. Part of my focus as a therapist is to comprehend and work with the nuances of different backgrounds and cultural needs. I have been a hypnotherapist for over 14 years. I have extensive training and experience in Traditional and Ericksonian Hypnosis. I also have training in healing emotional wounds through regressive techniques. I truly believe hypnosis is a magnificent technique to help clients reach out their inner resources, create change and empower themselves. As an active member of the North Texas Society of Clinical Hypnosis, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of international congresses in Mexico and Costa Rica as well as facilitated webinars with similar groups of professionals in Italy, France and Reunion Island.
(469) 256-6876 View (469) 256-6876
Photo of Mae-Lin Yu Mendoza, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mae-Lin Yu Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lewisville, TX 75056
I specialize in seeing individuals who are dealing with the following issues: depression and anxiety, Bipolar disorders, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse/trauma, career transitions, unplanned pregnancy, grief and loss, and behavioral problems. I have training in Biblical studies (a one year certificate in Bible and Ministry) which provides a foundation for Biblically-based counseling. I do treat clients who express a non-spiritual focus.
I specialize in seeing individuals who are dealing with the following issues: depression and anxiety, Bipolar disorders, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse/trauma, career transitions, unplanned pregnancy, grief and loss, and behavioral problems. I have training in Biblical studies (a one year certificate in Bible and Ministry) which provides a foundation for Biblically-based counseling. I do treat clients who express a non-spiritual focus.
(972) 703-4328 View (972) 703-4328
Photo of Liz Luttmer, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz Luttmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Liz has a decade of experience in settings such as public schools, college campuses, and private practice. She has also taught Spanish and English to students of all ages and is fluent in Spanish and English. Liz is experienced in working with clients who are seeking help with Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Codependency Issues, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Education & Learning Disabilities, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Transitions, Parenting Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harm, Sports Performance, Suicidal Ideation, and Women’s issues. She works with adolescents (age 12 and up) and adults.
Liz has a decade of experience in settings such as public schools, college campuses, and private practice. She has also taught Spanish and English to students of all ages and is fluent in Spanish and English. Liz is experienced in working with clients who are seeking help with Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Career Counseling, Codependency Issues, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Education & Learning Disabilities, Family Conflict, Grief, Life Transitions, Parenting Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harm, Sports Performance, Suicidal Ideation, and Women’s issues. She works with adolescents (age 12 and up) and adults.
(469) 765-0091 View (469) 765-0091
Photo of Dr. Reed J. Robinson, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Reed J. Robinson
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
Dr. Robinson is board certified in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing psychology and providing evidence-based therapies for over 15 years. Prior to opening his private practice, he had a distinguished career as a clinician and clinical leader at the Dallas VA (where he served as Assistant Chief of Psychology) and then UT Southwestern Medical Center (where we was Director of Psychology Services and continues to serve as an Associate Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry.
(469) 373-7886 View (469) 373-7886

Nearby Weight Loss Therapists Searches for Athens

See More Weight Loss Therapists
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.