Psychology 101???

So to all of those who still see the psychologist - What are the benefits? Can they really help someone get to the bottom of why they eat? I feel I may need one because as hard as I try to figure out why I'm eating - all I come up with is that I like the taste and feeling full. No deep psychological reasons like stress or anger or repressed childhood problems. Does it really help? Thanks, Bev

Well, my visit with an LCSW looked at some of my eating patterns-and that was helpful. I guess its trying to take a look at triggers (for me stress=food). Anyway probably can't hurt us if we go.

I am working intensively with a therapist for the first time since surgery, hell bent on not gaining the weight back. It's helping tremendously, I've gained such clarity in terms of understanding how I got to be 400 lbs. (at one time) in the first place. So, this gal offers a huge thumbs-up on having someone on your side who is expert in helping others navigate their lives towards enlightenment, clarity, and healthy living. All the best, Bev. M.

At St. Raphael Hospital they run a course by Psychologist Chris (forgive me I can't remember his last name. I think it begins with an L) They say his course is very good. He's the psychologist we had to go thru for the surgery. They say it is very intense and he really gets you to the bottom of why we eat. I do know he has another class starting up soon. so if you want to check it out. Those that took the class say it was very helpful. But I don't know if I want the intensity. Good Luck. koukla 338/179

Thanks for all the great feedback. I think I will go. I'll see if there are any psychologist for weight challenges on our free 8 week mental health program at work. You are great. I do need help in figuring out why I eat. The more control I can have the more chance I have for success. You all are great!!! Thanks, Bev

I don't know if many of us ever really get to the root cause of why we overate and why some of us still feel the pull of those old food demons. But a good psychologist can definitely help with developing some coping mechanisms and can aid tremendously in identifying when we are most vulnerable. Plus, for those of us who formerly ate at our problems, sometimes it's just helpful to have someone who will listen to us. I've enjoyed working with psychologist Jim Wegner out of Westport who has extensive experience with eating disorders.

Thanks Steve, It's good to know that if I never figure out the root cause of my eating addiction at least a psychologist can help me develop coping mechanisms. I read your profile and you have been so successful in conquering your food demons. I hope I can be as successful as you. Right now I am the size of two "normal" women. Hopefully soon I will be one "semi-normal" woman (I don't want to go too far!) Thanks for the input. Bev