Bariatric Surgery Evaluations
The decision to undergo a life changing surgical procedure is nothing to take lightly. Once you have made the decision to move forward with Bariatric Surgery to combat obesity, one of the steps will be a Psychiatric Pre-surgical Evaluation. Work It Out Counseling & Wellness offers a unique perspective to this evaluation. Our therapists, John Cothron and Massiel Hernandez, have been involved either directly or as a caretaker of a bariatric surgical patient and have seen it from a different light.
Our Approach
Each Bariatric patient comes to this decision for several different reasons and with a unique set of needs, experiences, and history. This uniqueness is the reasoning for a thorough individualized assessment. This assessment will help each person to meet the challenges that they will face as they learn a new way of eating and living. The purpose of the psychological evaluation is to support the long term success of your surgery and lifestyle changes. When you choose Work It Out Counseling to perform your evaluation, you can be certain that you will receive the best care available and will have an advocate to assist you through this step of moving toward your surgery date. We are also available after your surgery should you need follow-up therapy.
When an evaluation is scheduled, your therapist will send you several intake forms and questionnaires. It is important that you complete every piece of information requested or your appointment will have to be rescheduled as your therapist will need time to review your forms and prepare for your session. Evaluations usually take only one session, lasting from 1-2 hours. You will meet with a licensed therapist for an interview that will last about an hour to review your intake paperwork and for the therapist to assess your unique situation. Please remember, there are no right answers or wrong answers to any of the questions or the during your conversation with your therapist. They are simply designed to provide as much information as possible about your attitudes, behaviors, emotions that may impact you during the surgical recovery. It is very important that you provide honest, candid answers, as this will ensure your medical team can best meet your needs. A report will be sent to your physician within a few days of your appointment. The evaluation meets standards set by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery and the Veteran’s Health Care Administration MOVE program, as well as general ethical standards set by the American Psychological Association.
Fees
We do not accept insurance benefits for this evaluation. This service is pre-paid at $175 and is non-refundable.
Why Choose Us
Embarking on the journey towards bariatric surgery is a significant decision, and proper preparation is essential for long-term success. At Work It Out Counseling and Wellness, we specialize in providing comprehensive pre-surgical evaluations for individuals considering bariatric surgery. Here’s why you should choose us for your evaluation:
- Expertise in Bariatric Counseling: Our team of licensed therapists and counselors has extensive experience working with individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. We understand the unique emotional, psychological, and behavioral factors that accompany the decision to pursue weight loss surgery, and we are here to provide the support and guidance you need throughout the evaluation process.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Our bariatric pre-surgical evaluations are thorough and comprehensive, covering a wide range of factors to ensure that you are well-prepared for the surgery and the lifestyle changes that follow. We assess your medical history, psychological health, readiness for surgery, and potential challenges you may encounter post-surgery.
- Individualized Care: We recognize that each individual’s journey towards bariatric surgery is unique, and we tailor our evaluation process to meet your specific needs and concerns. Whether you have questions about the surgery, need support in coping with anxiety or stress, or require assistance in addressing underlying emotional issues related to weight management, we are here to provide personalized care every step of the way.
- Collaborative Approach: We believe in a collaborative approach to bariatric pre-surgical evaluation, working closely with your medical team to ensure that all aspects of your health and well-being are considered. We communicate with your bariatric surgeon, primary care physician, and other healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care and a seamless transition throughout the evaluation process.
- Emphasis on Mental Health: We understand that bariatric surgery is not just a physical procedure but also a significant emotional and psychological journey. Our evaluations include an assessment of your mental health and emotional readiness for surgery, as well as strategies for coping with stress, managing expectations, and maintaining motivation throughout the process.
Taking the First Step
If you’re considering bariatric surgery and seeking a comprehensive pre-surgical evaluation, Work It Out Counseling and Wellness is here to support you on your journey. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the next step towards improved health, well-being, and quality of life.