Therapy/Counseling After WLS

How necessary would you say therapy/counseling is after WLS? I want to be successful in this endeavor but I have been noticing more and more cravings for things I shouldnt have. I do not indulge in them, but this worries me long term (i am only 7 weeks post op). The insurance I had when I had the surgery would not cover therapy/counseling, but now I have new insurance. I am looking into whether or not it is covered, but I just wanted some opinions from people on here about their experiences. Its always nice to hear different perspectives on things. 

In my opinion it is imperative.  If you are able to see a therapist I would say do it yesterday.  My therapist has helped me tremendously and I feel prepared for the future.  I'm not perfect but I know I have the ability to work my way through it.

Does your insurance cover therapy at all?  If it does you might be able to seek out a therapist who deals with WLS patients or addictions.  Overeaters Anonymous is a good resource too.  If you're in a metro you might be able to find several OA groups to choose from.  Good luck.

I used my therapist a few times. It really helped me get perspective. 

Even if insurance does not pay - you may try to find a good one - just negotiate cash pay with them. 

I agree that imperative is a good word. We all got obese for a reason and figuring that reason out is the only way we'll have lifetime success. 

Imperative. What they said.

Hubby and I were discussing this a few days ago. I have a BIL who is in need of surgery and who feels this will magically cure all of his ills. My $.02: it'll get him started, but until he addresses the mental component, he won't be completely successful.

I made the observation, you have got to be all in, fully active, and fully involved in wanting to make this work. If there are demons or other deep reasons why mentally or emotionally you will not be able to be the above, then counseling is mandatory. And let's face it, we all have demons that we fight.

You may want to consider this article from a few days ago.

Check out any sort of Employee Assistance Program that your employer may have. They generally include counseling services. I got started with my therapist through our EAP. The first 6 visits were covered, free of charge.

Laurie

Good article on adverse childhood experiences.  Thanks.

I would say it can be an extraordinary tool in your overall recovery and success.  I've used a therapist at various times over my 7.5 year journey, and I use the free services of Overeaters Anonymous, as well as my WLS support group to help keep me on track. 

Even if your insurance doesn't cover it, I think it's imperative after WLS.  You don't have to go every week.  Most therapists will give you a discounted rate if you pay in cash.  If money is an issue, OA meetings are another support system.  Does your surgeon's office have a support group?

There are so many things tied into why we eat.  Confronting those issues and recognizing how to deflect bad behaviors helps to make the life long changes that we need to not only lose the weight, but keep it off.