Bariatric Surgery Evaluations

Preparing Your Mind for Your Body’s Transformation

Undergoing a major medical procedure—such as bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulator implantation, or other elective surgeries—is a life-changing event. While your surgeon focuses on the physical transformation, Anchor & Thrive emphasizes the importance of a psychological evaluation as a foundational step for achieving a successful outcome and a smooth recovery.

Insurance providers and surgical teams often require psychological evaluations prior to the procedure. Our goal isn't just to 'clear' you for surgery; we aim to partner with you to identify your strengths, address potential challenges, and ensure you have the necessary support system to thrive in your post-bariatric surgery life.

Why is a Psychological Evaluation Necessary?

Surgery is a powerful tool, but for procedures like weight loss surgery, the long-term results depend on significant lifestyle and behavioral changes. A thorough surgical assessment helps to:

Identify Readiness: Ensure you are emotionally prepared for the rapid changes in lifestyle, body image, and relationship dynamics.

Strengthen Support: Identify who will be there to support you during recovery and how they can best assist your new habits.

Manage Expectations: Align your goals with the reality of the surgical outcome to prevent post-operative frustration or 'emotional letdown.'

Identify Risk Factors: Uncover any history of disordered eating, untreated depression, or substance use that might interfere with your safety or surgical success.

Specialized Evaluations We Offer

Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery: Comprehensive assessments for Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Duodenal Switch.

Chronic Pain Procedures: Evaluations for Spinal Cord Stimulators (SCS) or Pain Pumps.

Other Major Elective Procedures: Any surgery where psychological stability and behavioral compliance are crucial for long-term health.

Our Supportive Process

We strive to make this requirement feel like a helpful resource rather than a hurdle.

The Clinical Interview: A focused discussion regarding your surgical goals, your history with weight or health management, and your current emotional well-being.

Psychological Screening: Brief, standardized assessments to look for any symptoms of anxiety, depression, or eating behaviors that might need extra support before or after surgery.

Comprehensive Reporting: We provide a detailed report directly to your surgeon and insurance company, typically within a fast turnaround time to keep your surgery on schedule.

Actionable Recommendations: If we identify areas of concern, we don’t just say 'no.' We provide a 'path to yes' by recommending specific tools or short-term coaching to prepare you for your procedure.

Your Partner in Success

At Anchor & Thrive, we view surgery as a new beginning. We are dedicated to ensuring that your mind is as ready as your body for the journey ahead.