support groups


Dr. Spivak’sSupport Program

Charla Clark, MA, LMFT
Support group leader

Having weight loss surgery is the beginning, but behavioral change is key to achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss. Support is ultimately a part that can help achieve these goals and lasting results. Statistics prove that people involved in an after-care program have greater success reaching and maintaining weight goals. So, focus on the things that can help continue your journey to a more healthy life, and attend Dr. Spivak’s support sessions.
 
The goal of these sessions is to learn more about life after weight loss surgery. It is a place to find support, gain new insights and get real advice from people who have gone through the surgery. Share feelings and experiences with people who can relate to them. Celebrate successes and provide encouragement for the “bumps in the road”. Come for lively discussion, laughter and learning.

The groups will often discuss emotional changes, nutritional advice, exercise challenges and body changes. Learn how to overcome these challenges in a welcoming environment. Get advice and practical nutritional tips and trade recipes with others. Get advice on how to overcome plateaus. Share secrets of exercise success. Learn to manage changes in body concepts and relationship changes. Gain personal empowerment!

Charla Clark, MA, LMFT will facilitate group meetings on the first and third Tuesday evening of each month from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm in Dr. Spivak’s office at 1200 Binz, Suite 1470. Charla is trained in clinical psychology and licensed as a family therapist. Her own journey with weight loss surgery makes her passionate about helping others that share the same journey. Likewise, she recognizes that her continued success is improved with the support and insight gained from others. So, please join her and enjoy the journey together.

Parking is available across from Dr. Spivak’s for a $2.00 fee. All are welcome, from those considering weight loss surgery to those who have had weight loss surgery. Please make arrangements for friends or family to care for your children and enjoy this time for yourself. RSVP at SPIVAKBANDMD@YAHOO.COM

 

 


HOUSTON AREA BANDSTERS

Houston Area Bandsters is a Bandsters sub-group for anyone in the Houston, Texas area who has or who is investigating the Adjustable Gastric Band (AGB) as a minimally invasive surgical option for severe and/or morbid obesity. They meet 2:00 pm every third Saturday at Central Market 2nd floor in the community meeting room. The address is 3815 Westheimer – on the corner of Westheimer and Weslayan.

They also have an online support group which is very active and many are Dr. Spivak's patients.


PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT:

For some patients, perioperative psychological support may be beneficial. You may choose your own psychologist or contact one of these professionals that have been working with us.


Dr. Kevin G. Smith, Ph.D.
4318 Stanford
Houston TX 77006
713-795 5151


Andrea Pucciarello, LMSW-ACP
Psychotherapy and Mediation
4265 San Felipe, Suite 500
Houston, TX 77027
713-622-7002

Cindy Kilroy, M.S., L.P.C.
5810 Wanakah Dr.
Houston, TX
281-798 5505

 


 

ONLINE SUPPORT WEBSITES:

lapbandtalk.com

obesityhelp.com


 


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Technical contact: JHDweb