Using a Cognitive Behavioral Approach in Individual Counseling with Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery

Morbid obesity is linked to physical and psychological well-being. Bariatric surgery has shown tremendous success with rapid weight loss in the patient population with morbid obesity. These patients experience issues with weight regain post-surgery, which can be linked to psychological and social factors. Despite this, mental health counseling is rarely offered in bariatric surgery programs. The primary investigator used a six-session Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach in individual counseling with patients following bariatric surgery. The primary investigator used a single case research design to treat four participants. The primary investigator measured the effectiveness of a six-session CBT treatment, assessing for psychosocial improvements (i.e., symptom distress, interpersonal relationships, social role) among the patients. Results suggested that each participant experienced psychosocial improvements, as well as a decrease in co-morbid maladaptive behavior post CBT treatment. Each of the four participants lost body weight during the study. In conclusion, CBT treatment may be beneficial for post-surgery bariatric patients.

Keywords: Bariatric Surgery, Clinical Trial, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Counseling, Single Case Research Design