Bariatric Psychosocial Evaluations
Comprehensive pre-surgical psychosocial evaluations for individuals preparing for bariatric surgery.
Preparing for bariatric surgery involves more than physical readiness. Many bariatric programs require a psychosocial evaluation to better understand the emotional, behavioral, and social factors that may influence a person’s preparation for surgery and adjustment afterward.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide pre-surgical bariatric psychosocial evaluations through telehealth for individuals preparing for bariatric surgery.
My approach is supportive, respectful, and straightforward. The goal is not to judge whether someone “deserves” surgery, but to identify strengths, areas that may benefit from additional support, and information that may be helpful to the individual and their bariatric treatment team.
What is a Bariatric Psychosocial Evaluation?
A bariatric psychosocial evaluation is a clinical assessment completed as part of the preparation for weight-loss surgery. It considers factors that may affect a person’s readiness for surgery, recovery, and ability to make and maintain the long-term behavioral and lifestyle changes associated with bariatric treatment.
The evaluation explores areas such as weight and health history, understanding and expectations of surgery, eating behaviors, mental and emotional health, substance use, coping strategies, social support, and readiness for long-term change.
Following the evaluation, I prepare a written psychosocial report that can be provided to the bariatric treatment team. The surgeon and treatment team make the final determination regarding surgical candidacy and readiness to proceed.
What You Can Expect
A Comprehensive Evaluation — We will discuss your health and weight history, preparation for surgery, eating patterns, emotional well-being, coping strategies, support system, and readiness for the changes that follow bariatric surgery.
A Respectful Conversation — The evaluation is intended to be collaborative and supportive. You can expect straightforward questions in a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment.
Convenient Telehealth Appointments — Evaluations are completed by secure telehealth, allowing you to participate from home without traveling to an office.
A Written Psychosocial Report — Following the evaluation, I prepare a written report summarizing relevant psychosocial information, strengths, and any areas that may benefit from additional support for your bariatric treatment team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during the bariatric psychosocial evaluation?
Before your appointment, you will complete a comprehensive questionnaire about your health history, weight and eating patterns, emotional well-being, lifestyle, support system, and preparation for bariatric surgery. During the telehealth appointment, we will review and discuss relevant areas in more detail and complete any additional screening needed for the evaluation. Afterward, I will prepare the written psychosocial report.
How long does the evaluation take?
Most evaluation appointments take approximately 60 minutes. The length of the appointment may vary depending on your history, your bariatric program’s requirements, and the areas we need to discuss during the evaluation.
Are evaluations completed by Telehealth?
Yes. Bariatric psychosocial evaluations are completed by telehealth, allowing you to participate from a private location that is convenient for you. You will need a reliable internet connection and a device with video and audio capability for the appointment.
How quickly will my report be completed?
Written psychosocial reports are typically completed within 2–3 business days after the evaluation, provided all necessary information and any bariatric program requirements have been received.
How much does the bariatric psychosocial evaluation cost?
The fee for a bariatric psychosocial evaluation is $250. This includes review of your completed questionnaire, the telehealth evaluation, any screening measures completed as part of the assessment, and preparation of the written psychosocial report.
Does the evaluation mean I am cleared for surgery?
The psychosocial evaluation is one part of the overall pre-surgical process. My role is to assess and document relevant psychosocial factors, including strengths and any areas that may benefit from additional support. The final decision regarding surgical candidacy and readiness to proceed is made by your surgeon and bariatric treatment team.
Ready to Schedule Your Bariatric Psychosocial Evaluation?
If your bariatric program requires a pre-surgical psychosocial evaluation, I would be happy to talk with you about the process, answer any questions you may have, and help determine whether my evaluation services meet your program’s requirements.
