Bariatric Evaluations
Allowing you to EVOLVE into who YOU would like to be is what we strive for at Mental Matters.
When you think of bariatric surgery do you think of any behavioral health challenges? Do you think of mood-related disorders, like depression?
It is perfectly fine if you do not; however, over a quarter of candidates for surgery have a mood-related disorder. That does not disqualify you for surgery, but the goal is to be prepared and have support.
One may think prior to surgery, “why do I need to see somebody, I’m fine.” Fine looks differently for everyone and we want to discuss your definition of fine. We want to ensure you have the tools to be successful pre and post-surgery. Did you know that many times after surgery, the reality is that all may not go as planned? Post-surgery can be a bit challenging and some patients may experience depression.
Our Approach / Solution
Becoming a candidate for bariatric surgery is not an easy task. There are many phases to the surgery and an evaluation is just one of them. A psychological evaluation is one of the requirements and it is a service that we offer. This is a critical step in the process that helps the patient have a better understanding of behavioral or emotional challenges, willingness, and motivation related to the surgery. These challenges may affect your ability to cope and adjust post-surgery. Being able to identify contraindications for surgery is considered to be a routine part of the surgery.
Post-surgery support is just as important, if not more important. Why do you ask? Many times, some of the comments that others say affect us like, “You aren’t the same since surgery.” OR “You’ve changed now that you’re smaller.” Or even a statement like, “You look great!” Moreover, you may begin to think, “Well, did I not look good before?” Why does my partner like to cuddle with me more now than before? Did they truly love me before surgery?”
For these reasons, we include two additional therapy sessions post-surgery for therapeutic support. This support coupled with that of family and friends is imperative during the client’s progression with change in a healthier lifestyle, image, and most importantly emotional/behavioral health.
If you feel like you need or the clinician recommends additional services, we will be happy to continue services with you or assist you in locating another provider.
You may believe pre-bariatric surgery evaluation can help you but you still have concerns.
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The evaluation will last approximately 90 minutes. You will be answering questions related to your childhood, family history, the reason you want to have surgery, and your journey of weight loss. We are currently conducting evaluations via video due to COVID-19.
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The bariatric evaluation is one of the preoperative tests that must be completed prior to surgery. After the bariatric evaluation, your physician will ensure that all preoperative tests and clearances are complete prior to surgery. A letter of denial or acceptance is sent to your physician for review.
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Mental Matters is not in-network with any insurance companies. However, we are open to giving you a super bill in order for you to submit to your insurance company for an out-of-network provider. We have reasonable fees for self-pay patients. We understand all the requirements for pre and post operative process. We will give you additional recommendations to allow you to make the appropriate changes on your journey.
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Mental Matters with a Sparkle of Joy give you a safe compassionate space that you are able to do your evaluation. We will schedule your appointment for your evaluation within 7-10 days of you reaching out for services. Your report will be submitted to the office of your surgeon within that same time frame. We offer two additional sessions post-surgery because we know that you may need additional support. These two sessions are included in the fee for the evaluation.
