Can anyone here tell me... re: counseling

I am hoping someone can give me some insight here. I am 8 months post op, 1-2 pounds from goal and loving my new body. However, I am already paranoid about regaining and sabotaging my hard work. I have found myself reverting to an old bad habit. I find that on occasion I will eat something just because it is there, it tastes good or it is the last piece...not because I am hungry. Actually sometimes I am full, but I eat it anyway. I am worried about stretching my pouch and getting back to other bad habits. I think it would be good for me to see a counselor of some sort to help me work through these food issues. My question is: who do I see? How do I find someone who specializes in (or has knowledge of ) food issues? Thanks, Susan

Hi Susan! I posted something similar recently looking for advice on finding a therapist. Everyone said to find someone that specializes in eating disorders and hopefully someone that has some knowledge in the wls area too. They recommended asking my pcp and/or surgeon to see who they would recommend. I haven't done any looking yet, but I am going to seek out someone. I deal with emotional eating and its scary! I do not want to gain any weight back, so I understand your fears all too well. Good Luck finding someone and Congratulations on all of your success!!!!!!! Tracy B 328/150 5'9"

Thanks Tracy. I will talk to my Dr, who I see in a few weeks. Old habits die hard don't they. Best wishes to you!

I agree, most good bariatric practices have at least one psychologist on hand for these issues. I like to say the surgeon operates on our stomachs, not our brains, and there is definitely a psychological component of our journey. I'm three years out and I still go through situations of high stress, etc., that make me want to overeat. I'm not ashamed to tell you I see a psychologist when needed. It is good that you recognize you need the help, good luck in finding someone who is well-versed in the wls process. Hugs, Connie -147#

Hello Susan~ I know I ended up having to seek out counseling during my 8th month post-op. I tell you what, it really helped me out! I just began seeing just a regular counselor and we worked on alot of things and then I just quit going because of my new work schedule.I found out that I couldn't eat away things that bothered me and the things that bothered me were still there and I had to face them head on now instead of eating them away. What seemed to have helped me the most is journaling. I keep a journal in the kitchen and I write down everything that I eat and my emotions and if I'm hungry or not..it really helps put things back into perspective. I'm a big time emotional eater (I like to eat when I'm happy,sad,mad,bored) and I have a daily struggles with that..I'm doing alot better since the counseling and it really did help a great deal and maybe it will help you too! Good luck!

I called around and found what seems to be a nice office. I have an appt next Wed, so hopefully I will like this lady and will find help. Otherwise I will keep looking. Thanks to you all.

Susan, You need to speak with a psychologist. Did you have to see one prior to surgery, if so see that one again. My surgeon recommended mine. So if you did not see one pre-op call your surgeon for a recommendation. Nancy