Hey there! I'm Sage, and I'm here to support you on your journey through bariatric surgery. But before I dive into what I do, let me share a bit about myself.
I've walked alongside a loved one through their bariatric surgery journey. I've seen firsthand the ups, downs, and all the life changes it entails. It's not just about the physical transformation; it's a whole new way of living.
That's what made me decided to specialize in providing psychological assessments for bariatric surgeries. I wanted to ensure that others embarking on this path have the support they need, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too.
I've gone the extra mile to equip myself with the knowledge and expertise necessary for these assessments. I've completed additional training to ensure I can provide the comprehensive evaluations and letters required by insurance companies to move forward with the surgery.
But my role doesn't stop there. As a therapist, I offer pre and post-surgery counseling and support. Because let's face it, this journey isn't just about the procedure; it's about navigating the changes, challenges, and triumphs that come with it.
So, if you're considering or have undergone bariatric surgery and need someone who understands the whole picture, I'm here for you. Let's work together to make this journey as smooth and empowering as possible.
Step 1: Schedule your appointment using my online calendar. You'll receive an email immediately with a Zoom meeting link.
Step 2: Keep an eye out for an email within 24 hours. It will guide you to create a patient portal account and access required assessments before our interview.
Step 3: Complete all assessments before our meeting. We can't proceed without them, so please plan accordingly.
Step 4: Join the Zoom call at the scheduled time. I'll review your answers, asking for additional information if needed, to provide a comprehensive assessment for your surgeon.
Step 5: Within 1-2 business days after the appointment, I'll send the necessary paperwork to your surgeon, enabling you to move forward with confidence.
A bariatric surgery psychological evaluation is a thorough assessment conducted by a qualified therapist to gauge your preparedness for the procedure. During our session, I'll inquire about your eating habits, coping mechanisms, motivation levels, comprehension of the surgery's implications, and your support network. It's important to note that my role as a therapist conducting this evaluation is not to determine your eligibility for surgery. Ultimately, that decision rests with the surgeon and is beyond my purview. My focus is solely on assessing your readiness, offering any necessary recommendations to the surgeon, and providing you with ongoing support throughout the process.
The assessment process encompasses several components: completion of psychological screenings beforehand, an individual interview, and the preparation of paperwork and a letter for the surgeon afterward, granting clearance for further steps. Filling out the screenings typically takes 20-30 minutes, while the interview lasts approximately 50-60 minutes. Subsequently, the paperwork typically requires an additional hour. Overall, your active participation should span between 60-90 minutes.
Unfortunately, I am unable to bill bariatric assessment through insurance at this time. The assessment is private pay only.
If you need additional support before or after your surgery I'm happy to work with you! We can work together in therapy creating a personalized treatment plan. The goal is to provide you with the necessary tools and support to navigate the challenges and changes associated with bariatric surgery effectively, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
- All required psychological testing and screenings
-Personal interview with therapist, with recommendations and guidance
-Required paperwork and letter to the surgeon to move forward
Undergoing bariatric surgery is a profound life change, and personalized support is crucial. I offer individual therapy tailored to your specific needs, recognizing the emotional and psychological adjustments involved. With personalized treatment, I'm committed to guiding you through this journey with the support and tools you need for success.