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SLBMI
Psychology and Religion Program>> Weight Management Program
Weight Management Program
Pioneering a mind, body and spirit approach to wellness for today's
clergy.
As the duties of the clergy are becoming more demanding and complex, there is a need to address their health issues including physical well-being,
weight management and nutrition to support maximum health as they
continue their vocation.
Program Overview
The Weight Management Program of Saint Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute
is the first intensive outpatient program to address the unique health and
wellness needs of the religious community. The entire Weight Management
Program team works together to determine the most effective way in which to meet the needs of each patient through group and individual therapy,
medical management, nutritional counseling, exercise and lifestyle change.
Participants who reside outside the St. Louis area will stay in local
convents, monasteries or parishes, often continuing to practice a
sacramental ministry.
Program Details
Therapy
Psychological and health issues are contributing factors to someone
struggling with being overweight. The Weight Management Program offers
individual and group Cognitive Behavior Therapy to facilitate weight loss
and develop healthier behaviors so each participant can reach his/her goal.
Nutrition
A registered clinical Dietitian will meet participants individually to develop a
plan customized for them and their specific needs. Medifast®, a meal
replacement program, is an option to participants as an alternative to conventional foods.
Exercise
Because physical activity is an essential element of managing weight
effectively, participants will meet individually with a physical therapist
who will design a plan suited for them. A partnership with the local YMCA
allows each participant access to a local facility where they can swim and
engage in individual and group exercise activity under the supervision of a fitness instructor.
Spirituality
A spiritual director will work individually and in a group setting with
each participant examining the relationship to food in a spiritual sense
with the goal of making a permanent lifestyle change.
Maintenance/Follow Up
Because on-going support is critical to maintaining weight loss, the Weight Management Program has continued support systems in place once the
participants return to their own communities after their stay,
including:
- Phone therapy and support on a weekly basis
- Helping clients identify and arrange support systems in their local
community, i.e. local YMCA or fitness center
- Providing renewal sessions every six months after
treatment
For
more information or to enroll in the Weight Management Program please call the Coordinator at (314) 289-9407 or (877) 245-2688 or contact the Psychology and Religion Department.
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