Weight Loss Therapists in Mendota, IL

Photo of Justin Kozak, LCPC
Justin Kozak
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mendota, IL 61342
I'm Justin Kozak. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience, and I am open to working with anyone; and have a wide range of experience treating Substance Use, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD. I use Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Multicultural and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during a treatment session with my clients. I believe counseling is a partnership that assists you in exploring and addressing your mental, emotional, and behavioral needs.
I'm Justin Kozak. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience, and I am open to working with anyone; and have a wide range of experience treating Substance Use, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD. I use Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Multicultural and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during a treatment session with my clients. I believe counseling is a partnership that assists you in exploring and addressing your mental, emotional, and behavioral needs.
(773) 729-6236 View (773) 729-6236
Photo of Shawn W Slagle, LCSW, ACSW, QCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawn W Slagle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, QCSW
Verified Verified
Mendota, IL 61342
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, or having marital problems? Change is Possible. Depression and anxiety are treatable. Your quality of life can improve. You are not alone.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, or having marital problems? Change is Possible. Depression and anxiety are treatable. Your quality of life can improve. You are not alone.
(815) 324-3124 View (815) 324-3124

Online Therapists

Photo of Carrie K. Company, MA, MSEd, LCPC, NBC-HWC, Counselor
Carrie K. Company
Counselor, MA, MSEd, LCPC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
I want to create a warm, accepting & empowering environment in which you feel understood and comfortable exploring ways to create positive lifestyle change that improves overall well-being. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. Whether it be past/childhood trauma(s), PTSD, anxiety, depression, difficulties in marriage/partnership, weight loss, or dealing with a chronic condition(s), you have someone in your corner ready to support and help you navigate the troubled waters. I truly believe in the gift that is being human and would be honored to walk with you on your journey.
I want to create a warm, accepting & empowering environment in which you feel understood and comfortable exploring ways to create positive lifestyle change that improves overall well-being. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. Whether it be past/childhood trauma(s), PTSD, anxiety, depression, difficulties in marriage/partnership, weight loss, or dealing with a chronic condition(s), you have someone in your corner ready to support and help you navigate the troubled waters. I truly believe in the gift that is being human and would be honored to walk with you on your journey.
(309) 220-3286 View (309) 220-3286
Photo of Kate Hendrix Foster, MS, EdS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kate Hendrix Foster
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, EdS
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60189
I specialize in educators, weight loss journeys, life transitions, work, family, stress, and self-esteem.
Are you someone who is ready (or wants to be ready) to address personal challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life, going through a life change, struggling with body image or self-conceptualization, or seeking guidance to create a balanced, healthy life? Do want a compassionate, experienced therapist to help you set realistic goals, and develop strategies that help you thrive? Do you just need an outlet? I operate out of a studio that combines therapy with personal training, yoga, neuroscience-based movement, physical therapy solutions, and nutrition - we can tackle it all!
I specialize in educators, weight loss journeys, life transitions, work, family, stress, and self-esteem.
Are you someone who is ready (or wants to be ready) to address personal challenges? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life, going through a life change, struggling with body image or self-conceptualization, or seeking guidance to create a balanced, healthy life? Do want a compassionate, experienced therapist to help you set realistic goals, and develop strategies that help you thrive? Do you just need an outlet? I operate out of a studio that combines therapy with personal training, yoga, neuroscience-based movement, physical therapy solutions, and nutrition - we can tackle it all!
(630) 447-8043 View (630) 447-8043
Photo of Tracy Soos, LCPC, CADC, ERYT, Counselor
Tracy Soos
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, ERYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am also committed to helping individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma & acute stress disorders and have specific training working with individuals diagnosed with severe health conditions including heart disease, obesity, stroke, perinatal bereavement, compulsive over-eating and pre/post-op weight loss surgery patients.
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
I am also committed to helping individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, trauma & acute stress disorders and have specific training working with individuals diagnosed with severe health conditions including heart disease, obesity, stroke, perinatal bereavement, compulsive over-eating and pre/post-op weight loss surgery patients.
I have been helping clients for the past 24 years working through their mental health and substance use challenges. I am committed to helping you reducing your stress and better manage/change your overall mood through a variety of counseling & stress management techniques. I can help you increase your self-esteem, self worth and work through any body image and acceptance issues that may be challenging your patience. I truly understand anxiety disorders, codependency, health issues, relationship issues, women specific issues, depression and post-partum depressive disorders. I would love to help you make lasting lifestyle changes.
(815) 584-0108 View (815) 584-0108
Photo of Cindy Forster, PsyD, Psychologist
Cindy Forster
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodstock, IL 60098  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years experience providing outpatient therapy and providing integrated psychological services in a large area hospital system. I specialize in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. With an emphasis on behavioral health using supportive, cognitive-behavioral therapy, I see patients with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, eating disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, headaches, marital discord, family discord, issues of aging, grief and loss, the psychological aspects of cancer treatment, coping with medical conditions, and managing diabetes. I am also a DBT therapist.
I have over 30 years experience providing outpatient therapy and providing integrated psychological services in a large area hospital system. I specialize in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. With an emphasis on behavioral health using supportive, cognitive-behavioral therapy, I see patients with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, eating disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, headaches, marital discord, family discord, issues of aging, grief and loss, the psychological aspects of cancer treatment, coping with medical conditions, and managing diabetes. I am also a DBT therapist.
(224) 263-0943 View (224) 263-0943
Photo of Kerrie Weber, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kerrie Weber
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I also treat anxiety, depression, social phobia, low self-esteem, body image and disordered eating, weight loss, work-life balance, life transitions, postpartum, grief and loss, and divorce/break up recovery.
When life's challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a happy and productive life can be difficult. Asking for help through these times is not easy, but it's truly a sign of strength. I help individuals work through emotional problems by identifying and changing limiting and negative patterns in their life, and establishing healthier ways to cope with stress. This ultimately leads to improved self-esteem, empowerment, enriched relationships, and fulfillment. I work collaboratively with my clients, and establish a trusting therapeutic relationship providing compassion and support. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their personal goals.
I also treat anxiety, depression, social phobia, low self-esteem, body image and disordered eating, weight loss, work-life balance, life transitions, postpartum, grief and loss, and divorce/break up recovery.
When life's challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a happy and productive life can be difficult. Asking for help through these times is not easy, but it's truly a sign of strength. I help individuals work through emotional problems by identifying and changing limiting and negative patterns in their life, and establishing healthier ways to cope with stress. This ultimately leads to improved self-esteem, empowerment, enriched relationships, and fulfillment. I work collaboratively with my clients, and establish a trusting therapeutic relationship providing compassion and support. I am dedicated to helping my clients achieve their personal goals.
(773) 417-5871 View (773) 417-5871
Photo of Yasmeen Khan, PsyD, Psychologist
Yasmeen Khan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
My specializations include working with depression, anxiety and trauma as well as offering short-term effective interventions for smoking cessation, weight loss, and habit control.
I believe that we all have an innate wisdom and capacity to know the solutions to our problems but we may not be aware of our potential. My goal is to empower you to build upon your inner resources and that's how I chose the name of my practice; Self Empowerment Center. I seek to understand your personal, cultural and spiritual beliefs. Through this holistic approach, I tailor treatments based upon your unique needs. Therapy process is like an organized sport which has players and a coach. Players make the moves, working hard (you) and the coach (me) is guiding and directing.
My specializations include working with depression, anxiety and trauma as well as offering short-term effective interventions for smoking cessation, weight loss, and habit control.
I believe that we all have an innate wisdom and capacity to know the solutions to our problems but we may not be aware of our potential. My goal is to empower you to build upon your inner resources and that's how I chose the name of my practice; Self Empowerment Center. I seek to understand your personal, cultural and spiritual beliefs. Through this holistic approach, I tailor treatments based upon your unique needs. Therapy process is like an organized sport which has players and a coach. Players make the moves, working hard (you) and the coach (me) is guiding and directing.
(630) 581-2741 View (630) 581-2741
Photo of Nadia Persun - GreenPath Clinic, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
GreenPath Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
We provide excellent psychological and holistic care for patients struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, weight loss, infertility, and other psychological and medical problems. We prioritize medication-free approaches to treat patients' psychological and physical ailments. With collaborative efforts of psychologists, chiropractors, and a naturopathic physician, we get to the root of your mind and body problems naturally. As a multi-disciplinary team of holistically-oriented healthcare providers, we work together to create an effective, comprehensive treatment to provide lasting health optimizing solutions.
(630) 626-0473 View (630) 626-0473
Photo of Asif A Khan, PsyD, Psychologist
Asif A Khan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I can help with smoking cessation, weight loss, and habit disorders such as gambling or porn addiction.
Do you want to overcome depression or anxiety and feel confident? Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself getting angry quickly? Sometimes life transitions get difficult to manage. I have been helping people with these problems for 20 years and we can work collaboratively and holistically. We will focus on physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your personality. We will figure out your best qualities and strengths, your personal resources and virtues to realize your true potential that will help you heal.
I can help with smoking cessation, weight loss, and habit disorders such as gambling or porn addiction.
Do you want to overcome depression or anxiety and feel confident? Are you struggling with relationships? Do you find yourself getting angry quickly? Sometimes life transitions get difficult to manage. I have been helping people with these problems for 20 years and we can work collaboratively and holistically. We will focus on physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your personality. We will figure out your best qualities and strengths, your personal resources and virtues to realize your true potential that will help you heal.
(630) 473-3156 View (630) 473-3156
Photo of Dr. Lisa Oldson, MD, Coach
Dr. Lisa Oldson
MD, Coach
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
At Smart Weight Loss Coaching, our online (Zoom) live webinar program is packed with information about the latest science. Lisa Oldson, MD leads the groups and shares cutting edge research about excess weight, how to lose it, and how to keep it off. This isn't your first rodeo, and we get that. We don't waste your time with weight loss basics, nor with unhelpful advice like, "Eat less and move more." This program is grounded in science, with mindset coaching, skills & strategies layered on top, to help women achieve long term success.
At Smart Weight Loss Coaching, our online (Zoom) live webinar program is packed with information about the latest science. Lisa Oldson, MD leads the groups and shares cutting edge research about excess weight, how to lose it, and how to keep it off. This isn't your first rodeo, and we get that. We don't waste your time with weight loss basics, nor with unhelpful advice like, "Eat less and move more." This program is grounded in science, with mindset coaching, skills & strategies layered on top, to help women achieve long term success.
(847) 262-4644 View (847) 262-4644
Photo of Rima Mickus, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Rima Mickus
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a therapist specializing in helping women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, weight loss, insomnia, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work and family concerns. As a wellness coach and licensed therapist my approach is integrative, addressing physical and emotional concerns. Common issues are separation, divorce, single parenting, dating, communication, emotional abuse, stress management and work/life balance.
I am a therapist specializing in helping women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, weight loss, insomnia, trauma, narcissistic abuse, work and family concerns. As a wellness coach and licensed therapist my approach is integrative, addressing physical and emotional concerns. Common issues are separation, divorce, single parenting, dating, communication, emotional abuse, stress management and work/life balance.
(630) 812-0061 View (630) 812-0061
Photo of Debra Ann Chandler, L, C, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Ann Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in the treatment of stress, depression, anxiety, personal relationships, obesity and weight loss issues.
The most important thing I want potential clients to know is that I truly love doing therapy and sincerely care about the people I with work with. The belief that clients can create greater self awareness, insight and transformation through a non-judgmental, safe and compassionate relationship is the foundation of my approach. By providing an open and collaborative space, clients can explore their thought patterns, emotional/somatic states and behavioral experience to promote meaningful changes. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, down to earth manner, a sense of humor and an authentic self into the therapy room.
I specialize in the treatment of stress, depression, anxiety, personal relationships, obesity and weight loss issues.
The most important thing I want potential clients to know is that I truly love doing therapy and sincerely care about the people I with work with. The belief that clients can create greater self awareness, insight and transformation through a non-judgmental, safe and compassionate relationship is the foundation of my approach. By providing an open and collaborative space, clients can explore their thought patterns, emotional/somatic states and behavioral experience to promote meaningful changes. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, down to earth manner, a sense of humor and an authentic self into the therapy room.
(872) 206-9495 View (872) 206-9495
Photo of Adam Crane, PsyD, Psychologist
Adam Crane
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
In medical settings, I conduct psychological assessments for weight loss surgery and spinal cord stimulator surgery.
By forming a comfortable and personal connection with my clients, it is my intention to help explore and offer new perspectives on issues that might otherwise feel frustrating or limiting. Together, we can work to forge new styles of thinking and feeling that can open up solutions to existing problems. My practice is dedicated to helping any client who has the desire to build a stronger, more insightful sense of self.
In medical settings, I conduct psychological assessments for weight loss surgery and spinal cord stimulator surgery.
By forming a comfortable and personal connection with my clients, it is my intention to help explore and offer new perspectives on issues that might otherwise feel frustrating or limiting. Together, we can work to forge new styles of thinking and feeling that can open up solutions to existing problems. My practice is dedicated to helping any client who has the desire to build a stronger, more insightful sense of self.
(847) 505-0003 View (847) 505-0003
Photo of Amie Eipers, LCSW, CH, CPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amie Eipers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CH, CPT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Some areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood physical/sexual abuse, divorce stressors, adolescent stressors, alcohol/drug abuse, relationships, co-dependency, physical/sexual assault, weight loss/mgmt, & work stressors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering individual, couple, & family counseling. I strive to provide a relaxed atmosphere so my clients feel comfortable sharing about themselves. I like to learn about my client’s life, not just the traumas or troubles, but all of the good, their strengths & supports. I believe the client is the expert on themselves & they are always an integral part of directing the treatment strategies & goals.
Some areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood physical/sexual abuse, divorce stressors, adolescent stressors, alcohol/drug abuse, relationships, co-dependency, physical/sexual assault, weight loss/mgmt, & work stressors.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, offering individual, couple, & family counseling. I strive to provide a relaxed atmosphere so my clients feel comfortable sharing about themselves. I like to learn about my client’s life, not just the traumas or troubles, but all of the good, their strengths & supports. I believe the client is the expert on themselves & they are always an integral part of directing the treatment strategies & goals.
(331) 204-1830 View (331) 204-1830
Photo of Mike Falgiani - Today Telemedicine, PA-C
Today Telemedicine
PA-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD non stimulant care ( strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
Full virtual telemedicine medical office specializing in psychiatry (anxiety, depression, bipolar ect), ADHD non stimulant care ( strattera, wellbutrin ect) , weight loss management (semaglutide, tirzepatide) , urgent care (UTI, cough, injury ect), Primary care (birth control, blood work ect) . Offering Genesite genetic medication testing, ADHD computer testing and much more! Self-schedule from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and be seen this week!
(773) 692-6349 View (773) 692-6349
Photo of Dr. Eleanor D Laser, PhD, Counselor
Dr. Eleanor D Laser
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
(312) 465-4993 View (312) 465-4993
Photo of Monika Sharma, PsyD, Psychologist
Monika Sharma
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in hypnosis, which works well with anxiety, weight loss, fears, and personal aspirations.
Are you feeling "out of sync," unmotivated, confused, lethargic, anxious, depressed? Are your relationships suffering? Your productivity at work? Your belief in yourself? When one area of your life is depleted, it can create imbalance in other areas of your life. This can include areas of emotional health, physical health, nutrition, sleep, relationships, work, money, and spirituality. My holistic approach addresses clients as a "whole" person...all aspects within yourself (biology, thoughts, feelings) and outside yourself (work, culture, relationships, finances, etc.). As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Holistic Health Coach, I facilitate your body's own natural healing process.
I am also trained in hypnosis, which works well with anxiety, weight loss, fears, and personal aspirations.
Are you feeling "out of sync," unmotivated, confused, lethargic, anxious, depressed? Are your relationships suffering? Your productivity at work? Your belief in yourself? When one area of your life is depleted, it can create imbalance in other areas of your life. This can include areas of emotional health, physical health, nutrition, sleep, relationships, work, money, and spirituality. My holistic approach addresses clients as a "whole" person...all aspects within yourself (biology, thoughts, feelings) and outside yourself (work, culture, relationships, finances, etc.). As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Certified Holistic Health Coach, I facilitate your body's own natural healing process.
(312) 955-1212 View (312) 955-1212
Photo of Gregory J Harms, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Gregory J Harms
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I also do pre-surgical evaluations for clients considering weight loss or pain management surgeries.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
I also do pre-surgical evaluations for clients considering weight loss or pain management surgeries.
As a health psychologist, I work with clients who have physical and emotional conditions that are getting in the way of being able to live the lives they want. I help clients identify and follow through on changes they can make to improve their well-being. I use a behavioral approach supplemented with biofeedback and hypnosis. I also work with couples who are struggling to find ways to get closer together and feel like they are truly partners in their relationship. The key to my approach is to find effective ways to get what you want from your life.
(773) 985-3895 View (773) 985-3895
Photo of Diane Copeland, PsyD, Psychologist
Diane Copeland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
I have particular expertise in helping people struggling with overeating, weight management, and weight loss surgery to learn skills for lasting weight maintenance; both individually and in groups.
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
I have particular expertise in helping people struggling with overeating, weight management, and weight loss surgery to learn skills for lasting weight maintenance; both individually and in groups.
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(847) 512-8399 View (847) 512-8399

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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.