What Does a Weight Loss Therapist Do?

Weight loss therapists provide advice to people who are attempting to lose weight. Some therapists focus on the psychological factors that cause people to gain weight while others concentrate on the physical steps that individuals can take in order to reduce their weight. Typically, therapists hold regular counseling sessions with clients during which the clients are provided with information about diet, exercise and other weight loss remedies.

In most countries, a weight loss therapist who specializes in psychological counseling must have a college degree in psychology. Many therapists also complete postgraduate degrees in psychology during which they focus on eating disorders, addiction and other related issues. Psychologists who administer drugs normally have to undergo some basic medical training and in many instances, must be registered or licensed by the national or regional government. These therapists help patients to overcome the emotional issues that cause them to over eat or to avoid exercise. Many of these therapists also assist patients who are underweight due to medical conditions that often have roots in psychology.

A weight loss therapist with a background in fitness training may help clients to devise exercise schedules and weekly or monthly weight loss goals. These therapists may provide clients with some dieting advice but they are not licensed to write prescriptions for drugs or to provide psychological help to clients. Typically, a weight loss therapist focused on exercise will preside over some of the patient's exercise routines. The therapist may accompany the client on lengthy runs and provide support and advice during gymnasium based workouts.

While most therapists have a background in psychology or fitness training, some therapists are people have undergone no formal training but who have successfully completed weight loss programs. These individuals are sometimes referred to as life coaches and they provide emotional support for people who are attempting to change their diet and increase their activity levels. In many instances, these therapists arrange group counseling sessions during which their clients can exchange ideas and discuss resolutions for the kind of challenges and obstacles that they face.

Generally, the clients of a weight loss therapist must pay a fee for counseling, advice and fitness training. Some therapists are employed by medical companies or gymnasiums while others are self-employed individuals. Clients often enroll in therapy programs that can last for weeks or months. In other instances, clients arrange one-off counseling sessions with therapists and arrange subsequent follow-up appointments as and when those become necessary. Many therapists work alongside physicians and other health care providers so that they can ensure that their clients receive the medical support that they need.