Psychology services
Some individuals arrive at Anchorage Bariatrics following years of contemplating bariatric surgery. Others step through our front door urged by their primary care physician. Whatever your motivation, once you check into our office, you become our patient and we all keep your best interests paramount.
The Decision To Pursue Surgery
The decision to undertake weight loss bariatric surgery is a major step and not one to be taken lightly. It is the first step on a path that, like many of life’s ventures, contains peaks and valleys, ups and downs, forks in the road, and detours. And just like any journey, we are reminded that the goal is not only the destination, but the journey itself. The triumphant moments and even the disappointments can serve to urge us forward or indicate a change of course.
The Anchorage Bariatrics medical team, led by Dr. Justin Clark and Dr. Sean Lee, are 100% committed to providing the most professional and top-of-the-line services to help you reach your health and weight loss goals. Toward this end, we consider each patient’s medical history, mental health history, and concerns with the utmost of care, thoroughness and compassion.
Preparing For Bariatric Surgery
Part of preparing for bariatric surgery is assessing whether the procedure is the most appropriate avenue for each patient and, if so, whether the patient is prepared to undertake the journey.
A few of the steps along the journey may include:
- Medical tests such as lab testing
- Medical appointments that include discussions and physical exams
- Attending bariatric support groups
- Meeting with our dietitian
- Undergoing a psychological evaluation
The Importance Of Psychological Readiness
Our licensed clinical psychologists are tasked with evaluating your psychological readiness and appropriateness to move forward with your chosen bariatric surgical procedure. These doctors are really on your side, meaning, we want to assist you toward your health and weight loss goals in the most safe, ethical and supportive manner.
Sometimes, there remains foundational work to be accomplished prior to being an appropriate candidate for bariatric surgery. Keeping in mind your total well-being is paramount, and that includes physical, mental, emotional and even spiritual health. Just like how one size does not fit all, bariatric surgery is not appropriate for everyone seeking weight loss. At times, you may need to take care of certain foundational aspects such as growing your support network, addressing unresolved emotional traumas in a therapeutic setting, or coming to a deeper understanding of current addictive behaviors prior to scheduling bariatric surgery.
The evaluation process
So how does the psychological evaluation process work? First and foremost, the patient is met with compassion and respect, free of judgment of right or wrong, good or bad. During the time the patient spends with the evaluating psychologist, they are asked to provide a thorough history of their family, weight concerns, weight loss attempts, customary diet, physical activity, traumas, mental health diagnoses, medical problems, addictions, hobbies, employment, and their understanding of their chosen bariatric surgical procedure and its accompanying basic risks, discomforts, and potential benefits. Finally, the patient is asked to share their concerns, hopes, fears and expectations involving bariatric surgery and life post-surgery.
The surgeons and psychologists collaborate to provide the best course of weight loss treatment for each patient, taking into account all of the medical and psychological factors. Our ultimate goal is to have happy, healthy patients and we work diligently to achieve that end.
our partner in your success: psychology services of alaska
At Anchorage Bariatrics, we understand that mental health is a critical component of your weight loss journey, particularly when considering bariatric surgery. That’s why we have formed a valuable partnership with Psychology Services of Alaska, a dedicated resource focused on supporting your emotional well-being. Their collaborative approach to psychotherapy emphasizes that the therapeutic relationship is truly a joint venture. This means that together, you'll work with their trained professionals to enhance your emotional health through personalized treatment plans.
Finding your way in today’s challenging world can be overwhelming, especially when facing significant lifestyle changes. Whether you are seeking short-term assistance or comprehensive long-term support, Psychology Services of Alaska is equipped to meet your unique needs. This partnership underscores our commitment to ensuring that emotional well-being is paramount for your success in bariatric surgery in Anchorage. With the support of Psychology Services of Alaska, you will have the tools necessary to navigate your transformative journey with confidence.
Ongoing Psychological Support
At Anchorage Bariatrics, we understand that your psychological needs may extend beyond preparing for surgery and our partners at Psychology Services of Alaska are ready to support you.