From the author: When weight gain comes under control, many focus primarily on diet and exercise. However, equally important factors in weight control are understanding and managing your thoughts and behavior. Reasons weight gain varies. And when it comes to taking control of this aspect, many focus mainly on diet and exercise. However, an equally important factor in controlling weight is understanding and managing your thoughts and behavior. Psychologists work on weight loss programs with various groups of people, bringing about the necessary changes and support throughout the entire period of therapy. What happens during a visit to a psychologist. First of all, the history of the problem and the methods that the patient has previously used to control weight are discussed. The level of stressful situations, medical aspects, current life situation and level of support from loved ones are also assessed. The psychologist also takes into account the client’s eating habits and, together with him, sets goals, determines the strategy and timing of therapy, and develops a therapy plan. By the end of the first visit, the psychologist usually has enough a complete picture of the patient, including the positive aspects that have already been undertaken and the difficulties that need to be overcome. Based on this, an individual program is developed for each client. It includes an analysis of eating behavior, changing eating habits, creating a new space at home and at work for support and goal achievement. Assessing progress in weight loss therapy. After just a few sessions, patients notice changes. Many will reconsider their habits, analyze the causes of overeating, and find new ways in interpersonal relationships. Together with the psychologist, the patient determines how long therapy should take, the frequency and regularity of meetings, including communication by phone or online. In any case, the goal of therapy is to help the patient develop new skills and provide ongoing support so that he can lead a healthy lifestyle. Some basic steps to begin changes Observe and analyze eating habits. Scientific research* shows that patients who keep daily journals are more successful in achieving their goals. By recording his thoughts, feelings, information about the current moment, when and where the patient ate food, he will be able to better understand the reasons for inappropriate eating behavior and note those aspects that need to be changed. Physical activity. This is another important aspect, although it accounts for only 20% of the success in eating behavior therapy. This applies not only to the time that the patient exercises, but also to any other activity during the day: using the stairs instead of the elevator, walking the dog, etc. Regular meals. By skipping meals, your body's metabolism slows down. This also leads to uncontrolled overeating during the day, which primarily negatively affects health. “Conscious” eating. Patients with eating disorders often do not pay attention to whether they are really hungry or just eat “for company”, out of boredom, during stress, in front of TV, etc. By analyzing these reasons, the client finds new effective solutions. Modification of ineffective thoughts and behavior. Healthy behavior and positive thoughts and feelings play a huge role in achieving your weight loss goals. The psychologist helps change negative feelings and, together with the patient, find ways that will lead to healthy changes in eating behavior and the effectiveness of psychological therapy for eating disorders. Using an individual weight loss program, the patient loses 1-1.5 kg per week. At the same time, he feels light and comfortable, and does not feel hungry. His relationships with the outside world and his own self improve. Because the main goal of therapy is good health and a better quality of life. Here and now. * Amy Walters, PhD, Director of