Essentially excessive weight gain is seen by DSA Psychologists as a behavioural disorder that requires attention to issues that may have their origins in early childhood and which are maintained in adolescence and adulthood. Therapy is directed at identifying and resolving these issues, and understanding the irrational thinking patterns and habits and learning better ones that lead clients to lose weight in a safe and controlled way.

CBT and hypnosis are the main therapeutic approaches we use to assist clients to develop sensible and balanced eating behaviours, to lose weight and to maintain their weight loss. Where necessary, collaborations with the client’s GP or with a dietician or a physical trainer are also encouraged to ensure the most appropriate treatment.

In essence the goal is simple – to eat less and better and to be more active – and clients are encouraged to undertake regular physical exercise. Achieving this goal regularly and maintaining it as a lifestyle change is what makes all weight loss endeavours difficult.

Typically clients are seen for several weekly or fortnightly sessions to establish new eating and exercise patterns, followed by less frequent followup sessions to assist with long term maintenance.