Pre-Bariatric Psychological Evaluation
Burke Counseling Services, Inc. is now offering psychological evaluations for individuals considering bariatric surgery. Any individual considering bariatric surgery can meet with one of our qualified professionals for a comprehensive evaluation that assesses a person’s readiness for surgery, and promotes recovery from mental health problems that could affect the physical and emotional post-surgery healing.
Why Have a Psychological Evaluation Prior to Surgery?
The medical field has longed recognized the need for pre-bariatric surgery mental health evaluation as well as continued counseling post-surgery for some individuals. The Harvard Medical School identifies psychological issues post-surgery as less predictable than the physical changes (2008). Individuals undergoing bariatric surgery are at risk of suffering from mood disorders, anxiety disorders, suicidal ideations and attempts, eating disorders, and overall issues with their quality of life (Harvard Medical School, 2008). A pre-bariatric surgery screening is necessary to help individuals learn to deal with any existing disorders and to help prevent worsening of mental health issues post-surgery. It is also important to screen out bariatric surgery candidates with significant psychopathology, for whom such a surgery is contra-indicated.
Why should Burke Counseling Services provide such an evaluation?
The need for qualified professionals has increased due the rise in the number of bariatric surgeries over the past seven years in the United States. In 2007 about 205,000 people underwent the surgery, which is five times more than the number of people in 2000 (Harvard Medical School, 2008).
Based upon a need for the patient’s well-being, as well as a need in the counseling profession, Burke Counseling Services has developed a Pre-Bariatric Psychological Evaluation.
What is a Pre-Bariatric Psychological Evaluation?
A pre-bariatric psychological evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of pre-surgery emotional readiness . One of our bariatric specialists will assess an individual’s needs in the areas of mood management, anxiety management, drug and or alcohol use, body image changes, structuring a social support system, and dealing with post-surgery effects, such as “dumping.” The bariatric specialist will then explain the results of the evaluation to each patient and will offer recommendations for additional treatment if necessary. Tthe patient will be able to get follow-up mental health treatment from one of our counseling staff, if indicated.
What takes place in the evaluation?
The evaluation process consists of three 50 minute sessions with one of our bariatric specialists. These specialists will not only assess your readiness for surgical procedure, but also answer any questions that pertain to the procedure’s psychological impact and are available to help you cope with other stressors in life. The assessment portion consists of a thorough evaluation form, a Burns Depression Checklist, and a Michigan Alcohol Screening Test. Health insurance often pays for the assessment.
What if I need additional mental health support before and/or after my surgery?
As you approach your surgical date, our specialists are available to teach you improved coping skills, to help link you to outside supports, and to help you deal with the overwhelming impact of such a life-changing surgery. Our specialists can help you create a smoother transition as you get accustomed to your new body.
Why should I choose Burke Counseling Services?
Burke Counseling Services, Inc. has spent considerable time and effort in developing a comprehensive training and handbook for its professional staff. The handbook educates staff on the actual medical procedure, provides research articles documenting the emotional and physical impacts of bariatric surgery, and provides information on other evaluations and cost. The handbook then gives examples of the evaluation form, a body mass index chart, a Burns Depression Checklist, and a Michigan Alcohol Screening Test.
In addition to fully preparing for the pre-bariatric evaluation, Burke Counseling Services is comprised of very professional, compassionate, and experienced mental health professionals. This agency is a great place to find an emotional guide through such a life-changing process.
How do I schedule an evaluation?
If you think you may be a candidate for a pre-bariatric psychological evaluation, contact Burke Counseling Services, Inc at 724.458.4330 (Grove City office) or 724.981.1470 (Hermitage office). Our team will help you make this important decision and will help to transition after surgery if desired.
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