Weight Loss Therapy

For many people, weight loss is more than just taking in fewer calories than the ones you burn. Weight loss is an ongoing, mental struggle that breeds failures as well as successes. By subscribing to weight-loss therapy such as support groups, and behavioral or psychodynamic approaches, patients can find ways to successfully lose unhealthy weight and keep it off.

Behavioral Therapy

One of the top methods for weight-loss therapy is behavioral therapy. Behavioral therapy focuses on the thought processes associated with weight loss or weight gain, such as when patients overeat or what patients do if they fall off of their diet plan. Psychologists and psychotherapists may begin by trying to identify stimuli for overeating, such as specific stressful situations or emotions. Patients and psychologists could devise plans to avoid those stimuli or reduce temptations to overeat when the stimuli are present. Cognitive restructuring could also be applied. That involves addressing unrealistic goals or false beliefs associated with weight loss such as, "Since I gave into the cupcakes, there's no hope in continuing my diet." The patient would restructure the thought into, "I had the cupcakes, but it isn't the end of the world. I'll eat a healthier dinner and put in an extra mile walking tomorrow."

Psychodynamic Approach

Sometimes weight problems have to do with a person's past. The psychodynamic therapy approach would delve into the patient's history to see where the weight problems began. For instance, weight gain could have happened after the loss of a loved one, or as a compensating action for damaged self-esteem during adolescence. According to psychodynamic theory, it is possible that the ego thinks it must be fed through food for satisfaction rather than emotional support from loved ones if it was lacking in the early years. By working through those past issues, a patient may more easily overcome bad habits that lead to weight gain and proceed with his medically-monitored diet.

Support Groups

Support groups are among the most revered therapy options for weight loss. Support groups made up of like-minded patients as well as successful patients can give hope and a sense of community for the patient. Support-group members can discuss weight-loss techniques, identify with negative feelings and celebrate milestones. These groups are usually facilitated by therapists and emphasize rules such as creating a judgment-free zone. Some professional weight-loss programs such as Weight Watchers incorporate support groups to go along with meal planning and exercise routines.