i think it's there way of getting it thru to us the surgery is not a quick fix.. it helps us to become aware of our behaviors..and to start to moderate them prior to physically being forced to. Most programs require a psych evaluation for acceptance into the program.... if you feel seeing someone in more derpth would help i say go for it .. best wishes:)

I see benefits in seeing one pre and post op. I wouldn't of gotten through the first 6mths of my complications with out my therapist.

I can see the benefit of seeing a counselor. Never had the opportunity myself. While this surgery is a wonderful tool, you still have to stick to the program to make it work for you. Maybe some personal guidance would be of help. I know I sure had some vast changes to make! No more whole buckets of chicken and huge buffets!

In my case, we were required to talk with a counselor before surgery. I see one anyway, but I think it is a great idea. This journey is a very mental as well as physical thing. Best wishes. :D

I wish I had seen one prior to surgery.. I did do my psych eval, but I could have used someone to talk to... There is a lot of head work with this surgery.. I am four months out of surgery and have made an appointment with a counselor next week...The journey is hard enough, I hope it helps to have someone in my corner...

I worried about the pre surgery wt loss... I had to lose 15 lbs and was not so sure I could do it... But I have lost 23 so far! Now I just have to keep it off till surgery which is about 6 weeks out (no official dt yet)

I also figured no time like the present to work on all the other stuff. I am seeing a counselor, and work on the other post op habits I will need to make such as putting my fork down in-between bits, not drinking with my meals etc.

I already track all my foods and exercise regularly, but if I didn't, i'd be adding those in now too.

The surgery is going to be the easy part! :)

I felt just like you about the pre-surgery diet. Luckily, my insurance didn't require it. I had to fight about that with the surgeons. they swore that my ins. required it and i had to get a letter from my insurance saying that my employer's specific plan didn't.

The surgeon then only required a 5 week program to teach me how to eat post op.

as for the psych - i think the sooner you see one the better. i mean if you are already feeling like "i am going to one" and the only question is before or after, i think before is better.

There are many issues both physical and emotional that come to the surface especially after wls. Seeking guidance is not only smart, but in some cases necessary. If you feel the need seek out a psychologist that you can work with during the pre op process as well. d

Losing weight to lose weight has to do with a few things. Losing weight helps shrink the liver, which can get in the way if it's to large to work around. Also it shows that your ready to make the life long changes that come along with this beautiful new tool you'll be given.

I think the most successful WLS people are the ones that listen and follow their doctors orders/instructions.

There are a lot of head issues with WLS, seeking help at any stage is a great idea.

Best of luck to you!
Shelley :o)