Doctoral Dissertations

Date of Award

5-2021

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Major

Counselor Education

Major Professor

Joel F. Diambra

Committee Members

Casey A. Barrio Minton, Hollie A. Raynor, Gregory L. Stuart

Abstract

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

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