Pre-Surgical Bariatric Psychological Evaluation

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that offers a powerful tool for achieving significant weight loss, but its success depends on more than just physical changes—it also hinges on your psychological readiness and emotional well-being. That’s why surgeons and most insurance companies require a pre-surgical psychological evaluation as a standard part of the process. This evaluation isn’t about determining whether you “qualify” emotionally, but rather about ensuring your safety and long-term success by identifying any potential barriers, risk factors, or areas where additional support may be helpful. It also helps confirm that you’re fully informed and emotionally prepared for the profound lifestyle changes that follow surgery. Ultimately, the goal is to set you up for the best possible outcome, both physically and mentally, on your weight-loss journey.

My fee is $250 (for clinical interview and brief feedback session) plus a $50 letter/report fee.

What can I expect during a pre-surgical bariatric evaluation?

Once your appointment is scheduled, you will receive self-report questionnaires to complete. It should take about 30 minutes to complete the paperwork and this will need to be returned at least 24 hours prior to the guided clinical interview. It is crucial that you take your time and be honest in your responses. Following the clinical interview, you will be invited to schedule a follow-up feedback session to review findings and discuss any clinical recommendations. The clearance letter will be sent directly to your surgeon within a week of your evaluation date.

Most patients are good candidates for surgery, even when some concerns are present. Those who may need treatment prior to surgery will be given specific recommendations in order to have the best treatment outcomes. Ultimately, your surgeon will decide as to whether he or she will proceed with the surgery.

During your clinical interview and possible additional follow-up sessions, we will cover issues such as:

· Personal motivation for having surgery and what you hope to achieve.

· Emotional, binge and night eating behaviors.

· Weight and diet history: most bariatric patients will have tried several different diets and exercise regimens to lose weight, only to be disappointed by their lack of success. We will talk about past diets and exercises you have tried, both successfully and unsuccessfully. Reflecting on your previous successes, both how and why you attained your goals in the past will lend valuable insights.

· Past and current eating habits, patterns and behaviors in order to make recommendations for a smoother transition into your new lifestyle.

· Childhood and family history play a vital role in shaping who we become. Factors such as our upbringing, genetics, family eating habits, and stressful living conditions all contribute to forming "patterns" or "habits" that persist into adulthood. For example, individuals may feel the need to finish their plates or indulge in ice cream after their children have gone to bed. By exploring these thought processes, we can gain valuable insights that will aid in long term success after bariatric surgery.

· Understanding of the surgery, risks, lifestyle changes and behavioral modifications that are required after surgery to maximize long-term success

· Close relationships and social support system.

· Mental health history, addictions and current or psychiatric symptoms

· Psychological issues that could affect your surgical outcome

· Realistic weight loss expectations after surgery

· Lifestyle (e.g., sleep, exercise, smoking, alcohol and drug use)

· Levels of stress and ability to cope with stress

· Ability to follow a treatment regimen (diet, exercise, supplements)

· Any worries you may have about the surgery.

· Support available after surgery.

As both a professional and a bariatric surgery patient myself, I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and firsthand understanding to your care. I know how overwhelming this journey can feel—because I’ve navigated the same emotions, challenges, and hopes you may be experiencing. My role goes beyond simply completing your required psychological evaluation; I’m here to support your long-term success by addressing the mental, emotional, and behavioral factors that shape sustainable weight loss. With professional insight and personal empathy, I’ll help you build the confidence, self-awareness, and resilience needed to thrive—not just after surgery, but for life.

Psychological Evaluations are conducted following the guidelines of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)