Weight Loss and Management
Weight loss is a difficult process.
While the media constantly promotes the idea of quick weight loss, research shows that rapid weight loss and fad diets almost never result in long-term weight maintenance. Many, many people struggle repeatedly to lose the same pounds over and over, only to find that they regain the weight much quicker and easier than they originally lost it. Still others may find it difficult, or impossible, to even lose that weight to begin with, let alone think about weight maintenance.
Further, the mental and physical toll of extra weight can be incredibly problematic. Some people find that their entire life, day to day choices, activities, attitudes, and moods are dictated by their weight. Others are able to manage the emotional impact of weight, but find that their weight becomes more of an issue with age, and the increasing risks of diabetes, joint pain, cancers, and many other health concerns. Efforts at weight loss can feel overwhelming, but can be made significantly less challenging with the proper support.
Dr. Gibson is one of a small number of psychologists that has specialized in weight and eating issues her entire career. She treats all people with respect and an empathy for the diffculties they face, and she helps them to develop the thinking and behavioral skills that are necessary to maintain a healthy weight. She can assist you in determining the triggers for eating, relationship with food, reasons for being overweight, etc. You can work together to develop healthier patterns that are realistic for your individual needs. Dr. Gibson can help you to feel more in control of your life and weight.
Weight Loss
Cognitive-Behavioral Weight Loss Program
What is the secret to long-term weight loss and weight management? It is not the easy, quick fix promised in the media. At least one part of the answer is in real, cognitive and behavioral changes that become incorporated into your lifestyle.
Dr. Gibson has worked with hundreds of patients for healthful weight management. This starts with changes in thinking regarding one’s self and attitude toward food. There are many behavioral changes that are necessary for a healthful lifestyle. Dr. Gibson uses proven, empirically-validated treatments to guide her work and your weight management. All of the changes she will work on with you have been proven to be effective for real, long-term weight loss and maintenance. Dr. Gibson’s experience in treating weight issues has shown that no two people are exactly the same. We all use food, have habits, and think about food in different ways. She will work with you to develop an effective weight loss program specifically tailored to your life, needs, strengths, and behavior patterns.
Bariatric Surgery (Weight Loss Surgery) Pre-Operative Consultation
Typically, a “psychological evaluation” or “psychological consultation” is required prior to having weight loss surgery. These consultations may be required from your health insurance, your surgeon, or both. But more than just a requirement, pre-op consultation can be an essential component in preparing you for maximum success in your weight loss process.
Dr. Gibson does not want this consultation to be perceived as another “hoop you must jump through.” Dr. Gibson is well-versed in exactly what your insurance company and your surgeon are looking for in this type of consultation. She will ensure that those areas are covered sufficiently so that your surgeon has additional pieces of information to maximally help you in your surgery choice and success. Dr. Gibson wants this to be a helpful process for you. She will help you to identify triggers for problematic habits, what has gotten in the way of your previous attempts to be successful with weight loss, possible means of self-sabotage, etc. She will assist you in starting the process of addressing problem areas, to build skills and tools so that you can better manage your long term weight loss success. Dr. Gibson will ensure that you are aware of possible difficulties people may face following weight loss surgery, and assist you in proactively addressing potential problems.
Dr. Gibson has performed hundreds of psychological consultations with patients preparing for weight loss surgery, and has a specific area of expertise in bariatric surgery. She is a member of ASMBS (American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons), and has excellent professional relationships with some of Southern California’s most revered bariatric surgeons. She has a good understanding of what is needed for your insurance company’s approval and what your bariatric surgeon needs. If you are considering surgery, you have invested significant time, thought, resources, and money in your future health.