Can anyone recommend a mental therapist w/ Bariatric Experience in Central NJ

Hi everyone,

I'm less than 1 week post-op and have decided that I need to schedule a recurring appointment with a psychologist/social worker/psychiatrist to help address my food triggers and food addiction.  The psychologist I met with for my pre-certification was not for me: way too dry, boring and seemingly disinterested.  

If anyone could recommend a GOOD therapist with personality who has experience with bariatric patients, I'd really appreciate it.  Ideally I'm looking for somebody in the Freehold/Jackson/Howell area, however would consider traveling within a further radius (45-60 minutes away)  if the doctor was worth it.

Thanks!
Kevin 

Hello Kevin:

I'm sorry I don't know anyone in your area, but I wanted to pop on and say welcome to the "other side." I'm sure you will get good recommendations from folks on this board; everyone is very supportive and knowledgeable.

Congratulations on taking this important step in your journey. I applaud you for recognizing that you have "brain" issues that surgery alone will not fix, and for reaching out for help. A therapist will help you identify and deal with your personal food challenges. Support groups can also be useful in addressing these struggles. At the very least, you will see that you're not alone; at best, you will gain some helpful coping strategies from others who have BTDT (been there, done that)!

Wishing you the best of luck, speedy weight loss, and much happiness...

Linda

Hi Linda,

Thanks so much for the note and support, I truly appreciate it.  Physically, aside from the muscle pain in my abdomen, I feel great.  Mentally, I know I need a little work if I really want to maximize the value of my surgery and reach my goal.  While I do work from home, I do a LOT of traveling for work as I am in tech sales; the countless team and client dinners, social engagements and what-have-you have the potential for a disastrous derailing of my end-goal, so I can use all the help I can get, LOL.

Thanks again and I look forward to chatting more often!

Best,
Kevin

Hey Kevin:

I know it seems hard to imagine so early in the game, but you can achieve a state of relative normalcy when it comes to eating socially. I love to dine out, and I would have been very resentful if I couldn't continue to do that after surgery and weight loss. I just make very different choices now, and I eat a lot less. If your hotel has a fridge, you can get a doggy bag. Otherwise, choose a salad and an appetizer, or two apps. I'm a firm believer in the idea that if you are happy, and you enjoy your life and your food, you are much more likely to continue practicing positive behavior and maintain your success long term. We cannot live in a state of deprivation forever. That's where "diets" always fail.

I still think its a good idea to seek professional help, if only to understand your eating behavior and focus on your own goals. This journey can include (and should include) a lot of self-discovery and renewed self-awareness.

Again, good luck, and keep coming to OH for support!

Speaking of which, will you be at our next Inconvenient Get Together?

Unless you have a particular history that dictates a Psychiatrist, a Psychologist will be accepted (watch the wording when looking)

 

I suggest contacting Michael L. Sakowitz, Ph.D. is a psychologist (NJ 35SI00148700) and member of ObesityHelp's Mental Health Board. He has a few offices. No matter where you are, I highly recommended going.

 

Another person is Doctor Anthony Papciak. He’s in Morristown – Call 888 247 1400.

 

Here are more possible Doctors:

 

Psychiatrists             http://www.obesityhelp.com/find/psychiatrist/NJ/

Psychologists           http://www.obesityhelp.com/find/psychologist/NJ/

Jean Hager
776 Shrewsbury Avenue, Suite 204
Tinton Falls, NJ  07724
(732) 747-2055

Dr Erika January in Medical Arts Building at Overlook hospital in Summit, NJ 908-522-5794

Thanks all, I appreciate this so much!