Weight Loss Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Omar Haque - Dignity Weight Center, MD, PhD
Dignity Weight Center
MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Insurance covered, ! No membership fees! Nothing to purchase! No Fake food! Sustainable solutions for weight loss.
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
Insurance covered, ! No membership fees! Nothing to purchase! No Fake food! Sustainable solutions for weight loss.
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
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Photo of Alisa Evans, LCMHC, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Alisa Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also have training in other theoretical approaches, such as Team CBT, CBT for Weight Loss and Maintenance and CBT-I for Insomnia, Choice Theory/Reality Prepare/Enrich Premarital/Marriage Enrichment Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Seeking help is a tremendous act of courage. If you are looking for help to heal, cope, and thrive, there is hope. Over the past decade I have had the joy of seeing people recover from trauma, learn to manage anxiety, improve depression, and find a more satisfying life. Although therapists don’t have a magic wand, counseling can be lifechanging. Because it involves talking about personal or painful situations it is important that you have a counselor that you can grow to trust. Before scheduling an appointment I offer a free phone consultation to see if we are a good fit. We can discuss your goals and help you move to the next step
I also have training in other theoretical approaches, such as Team CBT, CBT for Weight Loss and Maintenance and CBT-I for Insomnia, Choice Theory/Reality Prepare/Enrich Premarital/Marriage Enrichment Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Seeking help is a tremendous act of courage. If you are looking for help to heal, cope, and thrive, there is hope. Over the past decade I have had the joy of seeing people recover from trauma, learn to manage anxiety, improve depression, and find a more satisfying life. Although therapists don’t have a magic wand, counseling can be lifechanging. Because it involves talking about personal or painful situations it is important that you have a counselor that you can grow to trust. Before scheduling an appointment I offer a free phone consultation to see if we are a good fit. We can discuss your goals and help you move to the next step
(434) 204-5312 View (434) 204-5312
Photo of Jannese L Webber - Talk Time Evals & Therapy, LCSW, LADC, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talk Time Evals & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Online Only
We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
You may realize that a change is necessary and need support with seeing it through. We believe that everyone can use a fresh set of eyes from time to time, especially when things get emotional. Coming to therapy to gain a new perspective, while acquiring some tools and making adjustments to your approach is an Awesome Opportunity. We can help you get clear. In our experience, a desire for change takes a level of willingness coupled with some actions. Let's get back to 'living and enjoying life. We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
You may realize that a change is necessary and need support with seeing it through. We believe that everyone can use a fresh set of eyes from time to time, especially when things get emotional. Coming to therapy to gain a new perspective, while acquiring some tools and making adjustments to your approach is an Awesome Opportunity. We can help you get clear. In our experience, a desire for change takes a level of willingness coupled with some actions. Let's get back to 'living and enjoying life. We specialize in Bariatric Surgical Evaluations including pre/post weight loss surgery support, Addictions Treatment and Life Coaching.
(203) 909-6769 View (203) 909-6769
Photo of Carole F Bombardier, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole F Bombardier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CHT, HCHI
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
In addition, I teach The Mind Full Body Wellness and Weight Loss Program, which helps women and men transform their body from the inside out.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
In addition, I teach The Mind Full Body Wellness and Weight Loss Program, which helps women and men transform their body from the inside out.
It is my passion to help people help themselves using a holistic approach to address the whole person. Sometimes we get so caught up in the details of life that we have difficulty seeing the big picture. Counseling can help you get more out of life, help you reach your goals and work through challenges and move forward to create and live the life you desire. Stress, anxiety, phobias, depression and life transitions are just some of the issues that I typically address within my practice.
(704) 266-6691 View (704) 266-6691
Photo of Latina Stewart, MA, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Latina Stewart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As they say now, "Life be life'n!" Challenges arise everyday that may cause you stress, anxiety, or maybe even feel a little less motivated. You need someone neutral to talk to and help you gain an understanding and a different perspective before you actually crash out. You want to find solutions to those concerns, but you don't know where to start. Together, we will unpack and explore any challenges. We will work together to reframe negative thought patterns. We will brainstorm and partner on how to navigate your concerns. I will provide tools and resources that you may find helpful along the way.
As they say now, "Life be life'n!" Challenges arise everyday that may cause you stress, anxiety, or maybe even feel a little less motivated. You need someone neutral to talk to and help you gain an understanding and a different perspective before you actually crash out. You want to find solutions to those concerns, but you don't know where to start. Together, we will unpack and explore any challenges. We will work together to reframe negative thought patterns. We will brainstorm and partner on how to navigate your concerns. I will provide tools and resources that you may find helpful along the way.
(314) 601-1953 View (314) 601-1953
Photo of Erin K. Taylor, PhD, Psychologist
Erin K. Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Sapphire Health Psychology is for people who are experiencing chronic pain (including medically unexplained pain), serious illness, or weight management challenges and have exhausted traditional avenues for healing with little or no success. We explore these challenges from an angle that challenges the status quo, see symptoms as signals for change, recognize patterns that are hindering healing, and believe that true healing is possible. I am authorized to provide telepsychology services via the Psychology Interstate Compact (PsyPact) to the states and territories identified in this map www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
Sapphire Health Psychology is for people who are experiencing chronic pain (including medically unexplained pain), serious illness, or weight management challenges and have exhausted traditional avenues for healing with little or no success. We explore these challenges from an angle that challenges the status quo, see symptoms as signals for change, recognize patterns that are hindering healing, and believe that true healing is possible. I am authorized to provide telepsychology services via the Psychology Interstate Compact (PsyPact) to the states and territories identified in this map www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
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Photo of Nicole Marino, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Clients often tell me they feel like something is missing or they know what the problem is but can't resolve it on their own. Most are beginning to recognize unhealthy patterns and can't quite understand the origin or how to change. They are distracting themselves from the real issues with self sabotaging behaviors such as overeating, overworking or excessive alcohol intake. Sometimes they just need help adjusting to life changes such as divorce, illness/health changes, partnering, retirement or becoming a parent. I treat a variety of issues/mental health diagnoses including weight management, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating and bariatric surgery.
Clients often tell me they feel like something is missing or they know what the problem is but can't resolve it on their own. Most are beginning to recognize unhealthy patterns and can't quite understand the origin or how to change. They are distracting themselves from the real issues with self sabotaging behaviors such as overeating, overworking or excessive alcohol intake. Sometimes they just need help adjusting to life changes such as divorce, illness/health changes, partnering, retirement or becoming a parent. I treat a variety of issues/mental health diagnoses including weight management, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating and bariatric surgery.
(704) 313-1945 View (704) 313-1945
The Center for Conscious Change PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am dedicated to assisting women of all ages in improving their health by utilizing the "Wheel of Health" assessment tool, which evaluates Diet/Nutrition, Exercise/Movement, Sleep/Rest, Purpose/Fulfillment, Emotional/Mental Health, and Spirituality. You have the choice to determine which area to focus on in order to achieve a well-rounded life. You have the freedom to choose where to start and how to proceed, and I am here to guide you in identifying methods to accomplish your goals.
I am dedicated to assisting women of all ages in improving their health by utilizing the "Wheel of Health" assessment tool, which evaluates Diet/Nutrition, Exercise/Movement, Sleep/Rest, Purpose/Fulfillment, Emotional/Mental Health, and Spirituality. You have the choice to determine which area to focus on in order to achieve a well-rounded life. You have the freedom to choose where to start and how to proceed, and I am here to guide you in identifying methods to accomplish your goals.
(336) 863-8098 View (336) 863-8098
Photo of Cynthia Lucas, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Cynthia Lucas
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Life's challenges can be difficult to navigate, and sometimes it's hard to know how to begin to make things better. Are you reaching out for the first time? Do you want to address issues that have resurfaced in your life? I view counseling as a courageous step toward life enhancement, and I believe seeking help shows significant strength. You are not alone in the challenges you might be facing. You deserve compassionate and non-judgmental support in finding the tools that will help you overcome obstacles to your well-being. You have the potential to change, and therapy can help you access your inner strength.
Life's challenges can be difficult to navigate, and sometimes it's hard to know how to begin to make things better. Are you reaching out for the first time? Do you want to address issues that have resurfaced in your life? I view counseling as a courageous step toward life enhancement, and I believe seeking help shows significant strength. You are not alone in the challenges you might be facing. You deserve compassionate and non-judgmental support in finding the tools that will help you overcome obstacles to your well-being. You have the potential to change, and therapy can help you access your inner strength.
(980) 414-8626 View (980) 414-8626
Photo of Lisa Lorence del Valle, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa Lorence del Valle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Are you in need of additional support and direction to get through difficult moments? Are you struggling with issues that have been around for weeks, or even decades? For 29 years, I have been working with adults who are looking to break old patterns (thinking, eating, behaving), take better care of themselves, and create a more mindful way of living.
Are you in need of additional support and direction to get through difficult moments? Are you struggling with issues that have been around for weeks, or even decades? For 29 years, I have been working with adults who are looking to break old patterns (thinking, eating, behaving), take better care of themselves, and create a more mindful way of living.
(704) 372-0670 View (704) 372-0670
Photo of Rachel W Goode | Journey To Healing, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel W Goode | Journey To Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
In 2024, your healing is NOT optional. It takes courage. You are worth it. I specialize in helping you understand the roots of places where you feel stuck, and push for a life of wholeness and freedom. I understand how change happens—gradually, awkwardly, and mostly beneath the surface. I am passionate about working with those navigating disordered eating, body image, and weight concerns, as well as managing grief, relationships, and depression/anxiety. I am inspired by those around me who continue to show up and do their healing work, willing themselves to take up spaces where they have been scared to do so previously.
In 2024, your healing is NOT optional. It takes courage. You are worth it. I specialize in helping you understand the roots of places where you feel stuck, and push for a life of wholeness and freedom. I understand how change happens—gradually, awkwardly, and mostly beneath the surface. I am passionate about working with those navigating disordered eating, body image, and weight concerns, as well as managing grief, relationships, and depression/anxiety. I am inspired by those around me who continue to show up and do their healing work, willing themselves to take up spaces where they have been scared to do so previously.
(412) 900-4682 View (412) 900-4682
Photo of Wendy Couch, LCMHC, LPC-S, Counselor
Wendy Couch
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Online Only
Limited daytime availability at this time: Everyone deserves a safe space to find their voice and write their next chapter. My goal is to support you through connection, reflection and growth as we work together to define and achieve your goals. I am dedicated to creating a supportive therapeutic relationship built on trust, transparency, and authenticity. My approach integrates trauma informed and evidence-based practices with personalized care, curated to meet your unique needs. Mental health wellness is a journey, and I would be honored to be a part of yours.
Limited daytime availability at this time: Everyone deserves a safe space to find their voice and write their next chapter. My goal is to support you through connection, reflection and growth as we work together to define and achieve your goals. I am dedicated to creating a supportive therapeutic relationship built on trust, transparency, and authenticity. My approach integrates trauma informed and evidence-based practices with personalized care, curated to meet your unique needs. Mental health wellness is a journey, and I would be honored to be a part of yours.
(704) 769-9880 View (704) 769-9880
Photo of Virginia Barney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Barney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello to all as you read this, I am Virginia M. Barney, and am a registered nurse, who went on to receive her master's in social work and am now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a passion for my work as such do not see it as a job, but as a privilege to be able to meet individuals where my skill set may make a difference in their lives. I previously had a private practice for ten years and then returned to work in the public sector of mental health I have recently retired from working in the public sector and decided to continue working with individuals and families in my own practice.
Hello to all as you read this, I am Virginia M. Barney, and am a registered nurse, who went on to receive her master's in social work and am now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a passion for my work as such do not see it as a job, but as a privilege to be able to meet individuals where my skill set may make a difference in their lives. I previously had a private practice for ten years and then returned to work in the public sector of mental health I have recently retired from working in the public sector and decided to continue working with individuals and families in my own practice.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Luz Velez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luz Velez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome, looking for someone that is warm, direct and knowledgeable. You found it! I obtained my MSW in 2013, from Rhode Island College. Following my graduation, I worked at a Psychiatric Residential Facility where I learned the benefits of ACT, CBT, TF-CBT and DBT modalities. In 2015, I moved to Mecklenburg County Public Health, where I worked alongside CMPD providing therapeutic support to families that experienced acute and prolonged trauma exposure. During my tenure in Public Health Department, I honed my skills in somatic approach, such as EMDR and Brainspotting, to help the individual improve their mental health.
Welcome, looking for someone that is warm, direct and knowledgeable. You found it! I obtained my MSW in 2013, from Rhode Island College. Following my graduation, I worked at a Psychiatric Residential Facility where I learned the benefits of ACT, CBT, TF-CBT and DBT modalities. In 2015, I moved to Mecklenburg County Public Health, where I worked alongside CMPD providing therapeutic support to families that experienced acute and prolonged trauma exposure. During my tenure in Public Health Department, I honed my skills in somatic approach, such as EMDR and Brainspotting, to help the individual improve their mental health.
(704) 286-8113 View (704) 286-8113
Photo of Althia G Mclaughlin, MA, LCMHC
Althia G Mclaughlin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I believe in the power of therapy. When a client is an active participant in his/her treatment and is committed to applying the knowledge gained in therapy to life in the outside world, powerful and positive changes can happen. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I provide services in English and Spanish to adults and older adolescents. My sessions are with individuals and groups. If you're ready to make a change, MAKE AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW here: https://althia-mclaughlin.clientsecure.me
I believe in the power of therapy. When a client is an active participant in his/her treatment and is committed to applying the knowledge gained in therapy to life in the outside world, powerful and positive changes can happen. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I provide services in English and Spanish to adults and older adolescents. My sessions are with individuals and groups. If you're ready to make a change, MAKE AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW here: https://althia-mclaughlin.clientsecure.me
(704) 935-2761 View (704) 935-2761
Photo of Olga Maly, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Olga Maly
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
If you are a deep thinker who feels intensely, you may often feel misunderstood or overlooked by others. This can lead to feelings of alienation, making it challenging to set healthy boundaries and connect with people in a meaningful and authentic way. You might struggle to sit with and process your emotions in ways that reveal your true needs and desires. Together, we can work on building mental clarity, emotional resilience, and deeper self-awareness, helping you connect with yourself and others from a place that feels genuine, grounded, and fulfilling.
If you are a deep thinker who feels intensely, you may often feel misunderstood or overlooked by others. This can lead to feelings of alienation, making it challenging to set healthy boundaries and connect with people in a meaningful and authentic way. You might struggle to sit with and process your emotions in ways that reveal your true needs and desires. Together, we can work on building mental clarity, emotional resilience, and deeper self-awareness, helping you connect with yourself and others from a place that feels genuine, grounded, and fulfilling.
(980) 246-4420 View (980) 246-4420
Photo of Christina Canuto, MA, LMFT, CIEC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Canuto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CIEC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Are you ready to embrace food freedom and let go of the constant cycle of dieting and guilt? Do you find it challenging to tune into your hunger and fullness cues, feeling disconnected from your body’s true needs? I’m here to help you rediscover your natural ability to nourish both your body and your self-image with kindness and intuition. As a certified intuitive eating counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist, my hope is to guide you toward a balanced, compassionate approach to eating. As you heal your relationship with food and your body, you may find your connections with others begin to bloom as well.
Are you ready to embrace food freedom and let go of the constant cycle of dieting and guilt? Do you find it challenging to tune into your hunger and fullness cues, feeling disconnected from your body’s true needs? I’m here to help you rediscover your natural ability to nourish both your body and your self-image with kindness and intuition. As a certified intuitive eating counselor and licensed marriage and family therapist, my hope is to guide you toward a balanced, compassionate approach to eating. As you heal your relationship with food and your body, you may find your connections with others begin to bloom as well.
(704) 386-6734 View (704) 386-6734
Photo of Melanie Wester Marky, LCMHCA, MSEd, Counselor
Melanie Wester Marky
Counselor, LCMHCA, MSEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Do you struggle in a relationship with a partner, family, or even yourself? Do you find it difficult to break repeating cycles in your personal life, or to move past trauma? Do you struggle to feel heard and validated by those you care about, or to set and hold boundaries with them? Maybe you’ve been hurt by infidelity or betrayal, or you just don’t feel emotionally or sexually connected to your partner anymore. No matter what got you here, you’ve already shown you have the strength to take control and to make things better. Let’s keep that positive momentum going! If it’s important to you, it’s important to me… and I can help.
Do you struggle in a relationship with a partner, family, or even yourself? Do you find it difficult to break repeating cycles in your personal life, or to move past trauma? Do you struggle to feel heard and validated by those you care about, or to set and hold boundaries with them? Maybe you’ve been hurt by infidelity or betrayal, or you just don’t feel emotionally or sexually connected to your partner anymore. No matter what got you here, you’ve already shown you have the strength to take control and to make things better. Let’s keep that positive momentum going! If it’s important to you, it’s important to me… and I can help.
(704) 753-8449 View (704) 753-8449
Photo of Sandra Milling, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Sandra Milling
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
There comes a time when we need some support from a professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. It takes strength and courage to ask for help. Just by being here, you are already starting your path toward recovery. I’m a licensed Psychologist in the greater Charlotte area, and I have over 10 years of therapy experience. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I am trained as a generalist in clinical psychology and I have treated individuals with a broad spectrum of mental health issues. My specialty areas are trauma, low self-worth, anxiety, depression, binge eating disorder, and body image issues.
There comes a time when we need some support from a professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. It takes strength and courage to ask for help. Just by being here, you are already starting your path toward recovery. I’m a licensed Psychologist in the greater Charlotte area, and I have over 10 years of therapy experience. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I am trained as a generalist in clinical psychology and I have treated individuals with a broad spectrum of mental health issues. My specialty areas are trauma, low self-worth, anxiety, depression, binge eating disorder, and body image issues.
(980) 446-3387 View (980) 446-3387
Photo of Lori Hart, PhD, Psychologist
Lori Hart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270
Hi there. Are you struggling? Perhaps I can help... I've been a psychologist and couples therapist for over 20 years. In that time, I've worked with a great variety of issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, stress and life transitions. I specialize in relationship issues and couples therapy. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental and supportive environment where you can feel safe to share your thoughts, feelings, struggles and goals.
Hi there. Are you struggling? Perhaps I can help... I've been a psychologist and couples therapist for over 20 years. In that time, I've worked with a great variety of issues, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, stress and life transitions. I specialize in relationship issues and couples therapy. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental and supportive environment where you can feel safe to share your thoughts, feelings, struggles and goals.
(215) 839-1268 View (215) 839-1268
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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.