Does anyone do or recommend counseling prior/during weight loss? I know that I am a big emotional eater and that it is going to be very difficult for me when I am banded (even though I am going to do it).

What would a counselor do? How does one go about finding one that is qualified to help with emotional eating? I just dont want anything to stand in the way of my success. I think that the sooner I deal with stuff (pre-band) the better off I would be post-band!

TIA!!

You can do that....or you can probably find a few support groups in your area. A lot of the surgeons have organized their own support groups that meet regularly. The thing is, with a support group you are going to find that you are not alone with your questions....MANY lapbanders are emotional eaters and going through the same thing. Like Alcoholics Anonymous, sometimes it is just what you need to be with people who are walking or have walked in your shoes.

If you have the money, there are also Life Coaches who specialize in post bariatric surgery lifestyle changes.

I have not one but two counselors (one for marriage, one for personal) so I know what you're going through. It is important to find a good fit. I started by going to my insurance company and getting a list. There were 5-6 in my area that I could choose from. Then I called in the evening and listened to the answering machine or voicemail. If I liked how that sounded (!) I left a message asking for someone to call me for a preliminary appointment. Some of them never called back. (Danger, Will Robinson! Danger!)

At the first appointment I made it pretty clear that I was interviewing them. (I always do this. I'm not going to deal with so-called "professionals" that don't meet my standards. I'm paying them so they work for me. IMHO, a counselor should be challenging but not rigid; supportive but not enabling.) It usually takes me a few to find one that I like. Don't be afraid to go to someone else if you don't like someone for any reason. They aren't going to be upset if you go to someone else. They're used to it-- that's their job.

That's my 2 cents.

frog.