We consider it a privilege to be a member of your treatment team. We are here to help you through the psychological assessment of the pre-surgical process. Our job is to help alleviate any pre-surgery anxiety, assist you in preparing for change, ensure you understand all aspects of your treatment, and to help set you up for success. When you make the life-changing decision to have weight loss surgery, you can feel confident knowing that we are committed to supporting your choice so your weight loss goals will last a lifetime. Your success on this journey towards health is our top priority, and we will do whatever we can to best prepare you for your new life and to prevent old habits from getting in your way.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Is a psychological assessment necessary to be eligible for weight-loss surgery?
The short answer is yes. If you plan to have all or part of your surgery costs covered by your health insurance provider, they require that a psychological assessment be completed.
Why?
Research demonstrates that the better prepared you are for weight loss surgery, the higher success rates you will have post-surgery. Talia, along with your surgical team, want to support you so you can lose the weight and keep it off.
What topics are covered during the assessment?
The assessment will cover an array of topics designed to assess your readiness for surgery and to enhance your motivation to make healthy changes to your lifestyle. Some topics include your past and current eating habits, the role of physical activity in your life, and your readiness for change.
Am I required to continue with psychotherapy after my surgery?
Once your pre-surgery psychological assessment is completed, there is no ongoing therapy required. Any interest in future talk therapy is optional. It’s important to know that the patients with the highest rates of success after weight-loss surgery all seem to have one thing in common. Consistent follow-up. Maintaining a connection to your weight loss team will keep you on track and provide ongoing support throughout your transition. Some benefits of psychotherapy after weight loss surgery include: modifying emotional eating behaviors, resolving past experiences that contributed to weight gain, increasing self-esteem, and empowering you to maintain a healthy lifestyle long after your surgery is complete.
How Much Does the Assessment Cost?
The assessment is a one-time fee of $169.54 paid by credit/debit card or flex spending debit card. The fee includes the typed report which will be completed and forwarded to your surgeon within 24 hours of your assessment.
How Long Does it Take?
The assessment takes approximately 45-60 minutes to complete.
Do you have weekend office hours?
Sometimes we can accommodate a weekend appointment via telephone. Please inquire directly about your specific situation and we will do our best to accommodate you.
I'm so busy, can I do this over the phone?
Yes. This assessment is typically completed via telephone unless you specifically request to come to the office.
A MESSAGE FROM TALIA FILIPPELLI
TALIA FILIPPELLI
Psychotherapist, Health Coach, Personal Trainer, and Owner of Starr Therapy
As a Psychotherapist, Health Coach and Certified Personal Trainer, I consider it a privilege to be a member of your treatment team. I am here to help you through the psychological assessment part of the pre-surgical process. My job is to help alleviate any pre-surgery anxiety, assist you in preparing for change, ensure you understand all aspects of your treatment, and to help set you up for success. I studied Psychology at Penn State University and received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University. I received my Health Coaching certificate from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition where I learned how to inspire people to value themselves and the food they put in their body, but also to explore how relationships, careers, exercise, and spirituality can either support or hinder our ability to reach health goals.
When you make the life-changing decision to have weight loss surgery, you can feel confident knowing that I am committed to supporting your choice so your weight loss goals will last a lifetime. Your success on this journey towards health is my top priority, and I will do whatever I can to best prepare you for your new life and to prevent old habits from getting in your way.
