therapist??

how do I go about finding a therapist or psychologist that specializes in weight issues? I had my bypass 1.5 years ago. I haven't regained any weight YET.. but neither have I lost all the weight I want to loose. I find my self sabatoging my weightloss at every turn. I realize that I haven't dealt with all the mental aspect of my weight issues and I reallly need to do that before I get into trouble. I just am not sure how to go about finding an appropriate therapist. I tried doing a google search to find someone in my area that treats this type of thing but without any luck. any suggestions?

Search web sites such as psychology today for their therapist finder and select someone who specializes in addiction/eating disorders.  You do not need someone who specializes in weight loss.  And, consider coupling it with O.A. meetings.  Most therapists will recommend you attend support because recovery is a life-long process, a journey.

http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/

Wishing you much peace,

thanks for the idea, I also go to see my surgeon in a couple of weeks, hopefully he may have some suggestions as well. I really enjoy the bariatric support group @ my surgeons office, unfortunately the meeting time conflicts with my work schedule. I just need someone to kick me in the butt and get me headed back in the right direction, LOL

O.A. Meetings are available at many different times and there are telephone meetings as well.  Wish you much luck!

You probably don't need a specialist.  Unless you have an eating disorder, any good therapist should be able to help you with things like other coping skills besides eating, impulse control, making good choices, self esteem, etc.

Try this link, busy_blond: http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/prof_results.php?c ity=Tyler&county=Smith&state=TX&spec=9

As was previously mentioned, you can probably find the right therapist by searching for someone who deals with eating disorders.  Just remember, it's not usually the food that's the issue, it's the impetus that set you in that direction.  Food addiction, like other addictions, is a biopsychosocial disorder.  It can be biologically passed to you from your family, it can be socially taught to you by your surroundings, and there is usually a psychological trigger for overeating.  Starting with the eating disorder therapist is a great start, and then you may find that you need someone to help you with trauma resolution, or complicated grief, or any number of other things.  You don't have to have had a tragic or uncomfortable life to have "issues," by the way.   :)

 Just call your surgeon's office and ask who they recommend.