Bariatric Counseling Services

Weight Loss Surgery is only the Beginning

As the most experienced bariatric mental health professionals in the Triangle, our goal is to provide you, the bariatric surgery patient, with adequate preparation and support before and after surgery. Research shows that helping patients understand and prepare for the lifestyle and behavioral changes leads to greater satisfaction and better outcomes. We also help identify and address environmental barriers to success, integrate the surgical team into the treatment plan, and provide effective communication. This collaboration seeks to the keep the patient at the center of all efforts.

Before Weight Loss Surgery

A pre-surgical bariatric psychological evaluation is required by your surgeon and your insurance company. Most surgeons recognize that weight loss surgery is NOT ONLY A MEDICAL ISSUE, but also a life-changing event. Your surgeon wants to make sure that you, the patient, are emotionally ready for the surgery and have the support needed to make life changes after surgery.

You will benefit from guidance regarding the emotional impact of surgery and changes to expect. This information will be tailored especially to you.

To schedule your pre-bariatric surgery psychological assessment, either complete and submit the on-line new patient request form or call our office to schedule your appointment. Note: our “intake” forms for the Bariatric Assessments are typically completed in the office on the day of the appointment. Please arrive 15 – 20 minutes in advance to complete your various assessments.

After Weight Loss Surgery

Post-operative individual or group counseling is recommended at a minimum of 3-weeks, 3-months, 6-months, and a year following surgery. Research shows that patients who engage in post-op follow-up mental health appointments are more likely to reach their weight loss goal and they report higher levels of satisfaction after surgery. Some of the emotional issues address in post-op counseling includes:

Learning how to manage boredom, frustration, and stress without food.
Learning how to change your perspective on food and exercise.
Learning how to deal with family and social situations that involve food.

So You've Already Had Weight Loss Surgery

Take our Bariatric Surgery Satisfaction Questionnaire by clicking here.

Western Wake Counseling & Psychological Services, PLLC