Apprehensive about a Psych Exam?
Many WLS patients are quite apprehensive about being referred to a psychologist for a pre surgical exam. I have even had patients tell me that they have put off surgery due to these concerns. I have always been an advocate for demystifying psychology and to that end have written professional articles and brochures aimed at making patients more comfortable with the thought of seeing a psychologist.
Our recent article "I'm fat not crazy...so why the psych exam?" appears in the Jan/Feb issue of OH. I am pleased to call it to your attention.
Please feel invited to call our office for a copy.
New Jersey office: 973.696.0800
Arizona office: 602.904.3448
Dr. Mike
Michael L. Sakowitz, Ph.D. is a psychologist (NJ 35SI00148700) and member of ObesityHelp's Mental Health Board. By posting, he makes no promises, guarantees, representations, or warranties, expressed or implied, and assumes no duty or liability with regard to the information contained herein. This post is not intended to diagnose or treat any physical or mental condition. No professional services are being rendered and nothing is intended to provide such services or advice of any kind. No website or informational post can take the place of seeking professional help. If you need professional help of any kind, please seek the services of a professional or dial 911.
I was not a happy camper to find I had to have a pre surgical psych exam. I didn't put off the surgery but I did prepare myself and tried to think of all the "RIGHT" answers to be able to "Pass" the test. Thinking back I should have used the visit more productively because I think everyone's eating habits are caused by some inbalance. Why else can some people walk past the plate of homemade cookies and say "How nice they have cookies for the kids" and people like me want to put two in my pocket to eat when no one else is looking... Patients don't pass up the chance to really talk at your psych exam... It will be the first step to changing your habits.
My mother used to say "cheap is expensive". I've often found her wisdom to me accurate.
I do wish patients approached me is a more honest way realizing that my goal is not to exclude them but rather to help them to decide what supports would make them more successful!
As with any referral, make sure who you are going to knows what they are doing.
Dr. Mike
Michael L. Sakowitz, Ph.D. is a psychologist (NJ 35SI00148700) and member of ObesityHelp's Mental Health Board. By posting, he makes no promises, guarantees, representations, or warranties, expressed or implied, and assumes no duty or liability with regard to the information contained herein. This post is not intended to diagnose or treat any physical or mental condition. No professional services are being rendered and nothing is intended to provide such services or advice of any kind. No website or informational post can take the place of seeking professional help. If you need professional help of any kind, please seek the services of a professional or dial 911.
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