Serenity Counseling & Resource Center, Inc. conducts Pre-Surgical Bariatric Psychological Evaluations for individuals pursuing bariatric surgery. A bariatric surgery is a significant decision, requiring mental, emotional, and physical preparation. A psychological evaluation is often required as part of the  pre-surgery bariatric process. The evaluation must be conducted by a licensed mental health professional.

There are several clinical components determined during a Pre-Surgical Bariatric Psychological evaluation to ensure that an individual has the mental agility and coping mechanisms to undergo the transformative experience of a weight loss journey.

The Pre-Surgical Bariatric Psychological Evaluation assesses:

• Purposes for seeking a bariatric surgery;
• Mental health readiness for a lifestyle change;
• Mental adjustment and commitment toward dietary modifications;
• Whether there is an untreated mental health condition (depression, anxiety, eating disorder, etc.) or substance use;
• Whether pre-surgery counseling is necessary to address clinical factors;
• Clinical risks or barriers that may affect post-surgery motivation aspects;
• Support systems (family/friends/natural supports) to provide assistance during post-surgery recovery;
• Ability to comply with post-surgery requirements;
• Willingness to use self-management skills to achieve long-term weight lose goals; and
• Other relevant clinical factors to ensure mental and emotional health.