Weight Loss Therapists in Carefree, AZ

Photo of Karen E Peterson, PhD, Psychologist
Karen E Peterson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carefree, AZ 85377  (Online Only)
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in treating the whole person, and I work closely with other professionals as needed in order to help clients with difficulties in both mind (motivation, depression, stress management, anxiety, learning disabilities) and body (autoimmune disorders, chronic/complex pain, cancer). I am particularly interested in helping clients who are coping with multiple stressors (e.g., relationship problems, career issues, health concerns, trauma). I believe it is essential that each client's treatment strategy is tailored specifically to his or her needs, style of interaction, and ability to work toward specific goals.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I believe in treating the whole person, and I work closely with other professionals as needed in order to help clients with difficulties in both mind (motivation, depression, stress management, anxiety, learning disabilities) and body (autoimmune disorders, chronic/complex pain, cancer). I am particularly interested in helping clients who are coping with multiple stressors (e.g., relationship problems, career issues, health concerns, trauma). I believe it is essential that each client's treatment strategy is tailored specifically to his or her needs, style of interaction, and ability to work toward specific goals.
(623) 239-4672 View (623) 239-4672
Photo of Paula K Dieck, CHT, MS-SLP
Paula K Dieck
CHT, MS-SLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carefree, AZ 85377
I am a personal Empowerment Coach. My purpose & passion is to help you break through and release the blocks that are stopping you from moving forward and living your best life. I am Certified in Life Coaching, Hypnosis, PSYCH-K, and Infinite Possibilities. I am a Reiki Master / Teacher and author, as well. My program utilizes a customized blend of these techniques to foster powerful & lasting change on an innate subconscious level. Sessions focus on self-esteem, prosperity, health/body, emotional well-being, personal power and healing from trauma, with a goal of uncovering needs safely and confidently as you create your change!
I am a personal Empowerment Coach. My purpose & passion is to help you break through and release the blocks that are stopping you from moving forward and living your best life. I am Certified in Life Coaching, Hypnosis, PSYCH-K, and Infinite Possibilities. I am a Reiki Master / Teacher and author, as well. My program utilizes a customized blend of these techniques to foster powerful & lasting change on an innate subconscious level. Sessions focus on self-esteem, prosperity, health/body, emotional well-being, personal power and healing from trauma, with a goal of uncovering needs safely and confidently as you create your change!
(480) 418-8481 View (480) 418-8481
Photo of Kristine Sinner, MS, RD, LD/N, CEDS-S
Kristine Sinner
MS, RD, LD/N, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carefree, AZ 85377
I am a Certified Eating Disorders Dietitian Supervisor (CEDS-S) with 30+ years of exclusive eating disorder experience. I have treated thousands working at every level of care since 1995. In 2018, I opened my own outpatient practice specifically to offer alternative treatment solutions to the typical care that is available. I offer individualized "out of the box" evidence-based medical nutrition therapies and treatment plans. I carefully combine emotional, cognitive, and behavioral therapeutic strategies that best apply to each individual and coordinate your care with a team to help you get the right care not just the typical care.
I am a Certified Eating Disorders Dietitian Supervisor (CEDS-S) with 30+ years of exclusive eating disorder experience. I have treated thousands working at every level of care since 1995. In 2018, I opened my own outpatient practice specifically to offer alternative treatment solutions to the typical care that is available. I offer individualized "out of the box" evidence-based medical nutrition therapies and treatment plans. I carefully combine emotional, cognitive, and behavioral therapeutic strategies that best apply to each individual and coordinate your care with a team to help you get the right care not just the typical care.
(480) 680-9979 View (480) 680-9979
Photo of Krystina A. Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist
Krystina A. Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carefree, AZ 85377
Hi! I am Dr. Krystina. I’m excited that you saw something in me that feels like a good fit. I really love helping people at any age discover a more fulfilling, nourishing life — one where they feel connected to what makes them feel truly alive and excited for the future. Text me anytime at (480) 463-4432 or call/email to schedule your free 15-min phone or video meet and greet with me — it’s a quick and easy way for you to get a feel for me and how I can help you. With 17 years of experience (I look younger than I am), you will find that I am very easy to talk to and knowledgeable about how to help you or your child/teen.
Hi! I am Dr. Krystina. I’m excited that you saw something in me that feels like a good fit. I really love helping people at any age discover a more fulfilling, nourishing life — one where they feel connected to what makes them feel truly alive and excited for the future. Text me anytime at (480) 463-4432 or call/email to schedule your free 15-min phone or video meet and greet with me — it’s a quick and easy way for you to get a feel for me and how I can help you. With 17 years of experience (I look younger than I am), you will find that I am very easy to talk to and knowledgeable about how to help you or your child/teen.
(480) 463-4432 View (480) 463-4432
Photo of Jackie Nash, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jackie Nash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carefree, AZ 85377
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone experiences life differently. Whether you are managing life changes, trying to reconcile the past, or learn new ways of communicating and coping, I believe together we can establish goals and work towards accomplishing them. One of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Creating a safe and collaborative space for clients is a top priority in my practice.
Everyone experiences life differently. Whether you are managing life changes, trying to reconcile the past, or learn new ways of communicating and coping, I believe together we can establish goals and work towards accomplishing them. One of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Creating a safe and collaborative space for clients is a top priority in my practice.
(602) 691-7109 View (602) 691-7109

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cynthia Hauser Carrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Hauser Carrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Waitlist for new clients
My passion and focus as a therapist has been weight loss therapy.
Effective therapy can change everything. Through effective cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and EMDR we work together to change your mind to change your life. I also offer groups that provide education about weight gain, mental health, and solutions to finding your own unique fitness program. I believe in strong, effective therapy. No one should live with anxiety, depression, unhealthy coping skills, or prolonged difficulties in the aftermath of trauma. I have had success working with weight loss issues, severe trauma, PTSD, gender transition, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. We work together to find solutions.
My passion and focus as a therapist has been weight loss therapy.
Effective therapy can change everything. Through effective cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and EMDR we work together to change your mind to change your life. I also offer groups that provide education about weight gain, mental health, and solutions to finding your own unique fitness program. I believe in strong, effective therapy. No one should live with anxiety, depression, unhealthy coping skills, or prolonged difficulties in the aftermath of trauma. I have had success working with weight loss issues, severe trauma, PTSD, gender transition, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. We work together to find solutions.
(480) 568-3543 View (480) 568-3543
Photo of Spenser Hughes, PhD, Psychologist
Spenser Hughes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85262  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I focus on helping individuals and couples with issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and stressful situations such as relationship problems, work issues, and life transitions like retirement, marriage, and divorce. I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, coping with chronic pain, quitting smoking, using a CPAP machine, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or COPD. If you are looking for help with any of those situations, I want you to know there are effective, scientifically supported treatments that may bring you relief and greatly improve your quality of life.
Hello! I focus on helping individuals and couples with issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and stressful situations such as relationship problems, work issues, and life transitions like retirement, marriage, and divorce. I also specialize in working with people who have trouble sleeping, coping with chronic pain, quitting smoking, using a CPAP machine, and adjusting to medical illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or COPD. If you are looking for help with any of those situations, I want you to know there are effective, scientifically supported treatments that may bring you relief and greatly improve your quality of life.
(623) 292-3201 View (623) 292-3201
Photo of Angela G Bowers, PhD, Psychologist
Angela G Bowers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
My training and professional experience has been with clients of all ages. I work primarily as a cognitive/behavioral therapist. This means that I am practical, goal oriented, and that the work is research based. I have special training in clinical hypnosis, EFT, guided imagery and meditation, as well as yoga. I often blend cognitive work with other modalities. I give specific recommendations and frequently assign "homework". I believe people who are motivated can make tremendous changes. I feel priviledged and honored to work with clients who are facing tough life challenges. I love my work!
My training and professional experience has been with clients of all ages. I work primarily as a cognitive/behavioral therapist. This means that I am practical, goal oriented, and that the work is research based. I have special training in clinical hypnosis, EFT, guided imagery and meditation, as well as yoga. I often blend cognitive work with other modalities. I give specific recommendations and frequently assign "homework". I believe people who are motivated can make tremendous changes. I feel priviledged and honored to work with clients who are facing tough life challenges. I love my work!
(480) 447-9230 View (480) 447-9230
Photo of Trudy Patterson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trudy Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Having someone who is there just to help you sort out and work through whatever is disturbing you is wonderful. The time with them allows you to breathe and think and feel and learn. I am here to provide that space for you. My approach to therapy is collaborative, educational, and flexible so you can learn about and embrace your inner self. Our sessions may involve different approaches, like EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Gottman strategies for couples, questionnaires, creating a life review with pictures, and more. I specialize in working with addiction recovery, codependency, grief, PTSD, relationships, and weight management.
Having someone who is there just to help you sort out and work through whatever is disturbing you is wonderful. The time with them allows you to breathe and think and feel and learn. I am here to provide that space for you. My approach to therapy is collaborative, educational, and flexible so you can learn about and embrace your inner self. Our sessions may involve different approaches, like EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Gottman strategies for couples, questionnaires, creating a life review with pictures, and more. I specialize in working with addiction recovery, codependency, grief, PTSD, relationships, and weight management.
(602) 560-8200 View (602) 560-8200
Photo of Rosanne Bergoch Walsh - Coastal Counseling Services, LMHC, LMT, CST, Counselor
Coastal Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC, LMT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
My approach to therapy is integrative and includes the mental, physical, spiritual, energetic and emotional components of healing. I am eclectic and use a variety of counseling techniques and bodywork modalities to match the client's needs and situation. My ideal client is one who has used traditional talk therapy and is 'stuck' in the loop of the mind and wishes to heal, change, grow or resolve and move on with life. Most conditions are improved by my approach, especially with those who are willing. I see couples for relationship counseling using a you/me/us approach. It works!
My approach to therapy is integrative and includes the mental, physical, spiritual, energetic and emotional components of healing. I am eclectic and use a variety of counseling techniques and bodywork modalities to match the client's needs and situation. My ideal client is one who has used traditional talk therapy and is 'stuck' in the loop of the mind and wishes to heal, change, grow or resolve and move on with life. Most conditions are improved by my approach, especially with those who are willing. I see couples for relationship counseling using a you/me/us approach. It works!
(786) 477-6227 View (786) 477-6227
Photo of Lisa Lavella, PsyD, BC-TMH, Psychologist
Lisa Lavella
Psychologist, PsyD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85262  (Online Only)
My focus is to guide and empower you towards becoming unstuck and create positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger in positive, constructive emotions and actions. You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and your relationships, which are often hidden by the apparent symptoms. This new awareness, along with my support, encouragement, and expertise; and your courage to take the action steps towards change, will lead you to achieve your desired results.
My focus is to guide and empower you towards becoming unstuck and create positive changes in your life, such as alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing stress, restoring love and family relationships, healing past and present wounds, and transforming anger in positive, constructive emotions and actions. You will gain awareness of the unique, positive qualities about yourself and your relationships, which are often hidden by the apparent symptoms. This new awareness, along with my support, encouragement, and expertise; and your courage to take the action steps towards change, will lead you to achieve your desired results.
(480) 848-4411 View (480) 848-4411
Photo of Jennifer Carmody, MA, CRC, LPC, Counselor
Jennifer Carmody
Counselor, MA, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, anxious about life? Want someone to help you through this tough time? We're in this together. I enjoy helping people move through difficult phases of life (such as young adult, new parents, empty nesters, midlife, retirement, disabling event, and loss). Events in our past can continue to show up and affect us in the present making us feel stuck. Sometimes we repeat patterns and don't understand why. I offer a safe space where you can comfortably explore your feelings and obtain tangible strategies designed to help facilitate growth. I specialize in life transitions and trained in trauma modalities.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, anxious about life? Want someone to help you through this tough time? We're in this together. I enjoy helping people move through difficult phases of life (such as young adult, new parents, empty nesters, midlife, retirement, disabling event, and loss). Events in our past can continue to show up and affect us in the present making us feel stuck. Sometimes we repeat patterns and don't understand why. I offer a safe space where you can comfortably explore your feelings and obtain tangible strategies designed to help facilitate growth. I specialize in life transitions and trained in trauma modalities.
(480) 210-7669 View (480) 210-7669
Photo of Kate Ellis - The Healing Quest Clinical Counseling Hypnotherapy, CCHt, REV, DDIV, Pastoral Counselor
The Healing Quest Clinical Counseling Hypnotherapy
Pastoral Counselor, CCHt, REV, DDIV
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
The Healing Quest specializes in the Relief & Remission of Anxiety/Panic Attacks from session 1. THQ ideal client has experienced the gamut of the traditional medical/mental health approach of managing anxiety/panic attacks, often through medications, and is now ready to eradicate once and for all the debilitating, life robbing attacks. THQ has created a unique and effective protocol utilizing hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioral training which allows you to end anxiety/panic attacks in 3-7 sessions. After first session you will not experience a full blown panic attack, for the majority they are alleviated.
The Healing Quest specializes in the Relief & Remission of Anxiety/Panic Attacks from session 1. THQ ideal client has experienced the gamut of the traditional medical/mental health approach of managing anxiety/panic attacks, often through medications, and is now ready to eradicate once and for all the debilitating, life robbing attacks. THQ has created a unique and effective protocol utilizing hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioral training which allows you to end anxiety/panic attacks in 3-7 sessions. After first session you will not experience a full blown panic attack, for the majority they are alleviated.
(480) 725-5850 View (480) 725-5850
Photo of Amie Celender, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amie Celender
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Are you ready to believe that it can get better? Maybe you are new to therapy and ready to make life changes, or maybe therapy has been helpful in the past and it’s time for a tune up. With the right therapeutic fit a new path may open for you and lead you to healing past trauma and reviving your life. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings. I specialize in treating maternal mental health / parental stress management, disordered eating, body image, relationship issues and general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and trauma.
Are you ready to believe that it can get better? Maybe you are new to therapy and ready to make life changes, or maybe therapy has been helpful in the past and it’s time for a tune up. With the right therapeutic fit a new path may open for you and lead you to healing past trauma and reviving your life. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings. I specialize in treating maternal mental health / parental stress management, disordered eating, body image, relationship issues and general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and trauma.
(602) 536-9765 View (602) 536-9765
Photo of Haley Hallock, PSYCH-K, CCH
Haley Hallock
PSYCH-K, CCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
I am a coach and the owner of Stitched Head & Heart Project. I facilitate individuals in areas of personal development, growth and relationships. I work to identify limiting thought cycles/beliefs ready for change. I graduated from Arizona State University Summa Cum Laude. I am a PSYCH-K Facilitator and Certified Consulting Hypnotist. The application of these techniques fosters power and lasting change on an innate subconscious level. Sessions focus on self-esteem, relationships, prosperity, health/body, personal power and dealing with grief/loss with a goal of uncovering needs safely/confidently as you create your change!
I am a coach and the owner of Stitched Head & Heart Project. I facilitate individuals in areas of personal development, growth and relationships. I work to identify limiting thought cycles/beliefs ready for change. I graduated from Arizona State University Summa Cum Laude. I am a PSYCH-K Facilitator and Certified Consulting Hypnotist. The application of these techniques fosters power and lasting change on an innate subconscious level. Sessions focus on self-esteem, relationships, prosperity, health/body, personal power and dealing with grief/loss with a goal of uncovering needs safely/confidently as you create your change!
(480) 739-3608 View (480) 739-3608
Photo of Dr. Karen Ruskin, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Karen Ruskin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space providing you the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Medical? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I truly get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental & relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space providing you the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Medical? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I truly get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental & relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
(781) 241-7837 View (781) 241-7837
Photo of Rosy Greer - Narcissistic Abuse Specialist + Trauma Therapist, Rosy, Greer, CMHC, MS, LAC, Counselor
Narcissistic Abuse Specialist + Trauma Therapist
Counselor, Rosy, Greer, CMHC, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
Feeling overwhelmed by narcissistic abuse? Emotional manipulation, gaslighting, or other toxic behaviors from a narcissistic partner can leave you feeling lost, confused, and questioning your self-worth. If you're struggling to reclaim your life and heal from the pain, now may be the time to work with a therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse recovery. Whether you’ve faced subtle control or overt emotional abuse, let’s develop a recovery plan to help you find clarity, set healthy boundaries, and rebuild your self-estee. Read below to learn how booking a session today can be the most empowering and life-changing decision for you
Feeling overwhelmed by narcissistic abuse? Emotional manipulation, gaslighting, or other toxic behaviors from a narcissistic partner can leave you feeling lost, confused, and questioning your self-worth. If you're struggling to reclaim your life and heal from the pain, now may be the time to work with a therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse recovery. Whether you’ve faced subtle control or overt emotional abuse, let’s develop a recovery plan to help you find clarity, set healthy boundaries, and rebuild your self-estee. Read below to learn how booking a session today can be the most empowering and life-changing decision for you
(480) 781-4262 View (480) 781-4262
Photo of Marlena Gonzales-Gabaldon - Fit Mind Wellness, DBH, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fit Mind Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
** Accepting new clients both virtually and in person at both our North Scottsdale and North Phoenix offices. Emergent appointments available!" ** Treatment for Relationships/Couples Therapy, Individual, Family, Children, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Life Changes, Work/Life Balance, Family Issues, Substance Abuse, Mental Health Evaluations.
** Accepting new clients both virtually and in person at both our North Scottsdale and North Phoenix offices. Emergent appointments available!" ** Treatment for Relationships/Couples Therapy, Individual, Family, Children, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Life Changes, Work/Life Balance, Family Issues, Substance Abuse, Mental Health Evaluations.
(480) 525-7091 View (480) 525-7091
Photo of Shannon Keating, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Keating
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Cave Creek, AZ 85331  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm so glad you're here! :) I know how overwhelming and intimidating it can be to look for help. A safe place and a non-judgmental/unbiased ear are highly coveted and sought after in today's society. Therapy can address infinite issues and struggles that arise in daily life. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, relationship issues, or just life in general, take comfort that I'm here to help! Together, we can work through whatever it is that you need to lead your "best" happy and healthy life. Please take note of my specialties and other areas of expertise.
Hi! I'm so glad you're here! :) I know how overwhelming and intimidating it can be to look for help. A safe place and a non-judgmental/unbiased ear are highly coveted and sought after in today's society. Therapy can address infinite issues and struggles that arise in daily life. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, relationship issues, or just life in general, take comfort that I'm here to help! Together, we can work through whatever it is that you need to lead your "best" happy and healthy life. Please take note of my specialties and other areas of expertise.
(623) 471-1804 View (623) 471-1804
Photo of Charissa Walson, MA, LMHC, CSAT-C, LPC, Counselor
Charissa Walson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT-C, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85262  (Online Only)
Charissa is a Master Level Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Degree in Psychology from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology. She is licensed in Florida, Washington and Arizona. Her focus as a therapist is in trauma specializing in the body-mind connection ranging from medical trauma, disordered eating, body image, eating disorders, sexual, emotional and physical abuse and chronic health issues. She is a certified yoga instructor and incorporates that understanding into the therapeutic lens.
Charissa is a Master Level Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a Degree in Psychology from The Seattle School of Psychology and Theology. She is licensed in Florida, Washington and Arizona. Her focus as a therapist is in trauma specializing in the body-mind connection ranging from medical trauma, disordered eating, body image, eating disorders, sexual, emotional and physical abuse and chronic health issues. She is a certified yoga instructor and incorporates that understanding into the therapeutic lens.
(561) 794-3094 View (561) 794-3094

See more therapy options for Carefree

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.