In this article Queensland Specialist Weight Loss Centre’s Clinical Psychologist, Jane Zimmerman explains how mindset and behaviour coaching during your weight loss and maintenance journey helps to keep you on track and feeling supported which leads to improved weight loss outcomes.
If you’ve spent years trying to lose weight, you know it’s not as simple as “eat less, move more.” Lasting weight loss also involves mindset, habits, and emotions.
Specialist weight loss clinics take a holistic approach, including a multidisciplinary team of professionals. Psychologists help you change behaviours, address emotional ties to food, and shift the mindset around weight loss.
Seeing a psychologist doesn’t mean you are mentally unwell; think of it as having a mindset coach and behavioural strategist for navigating the challenges of the weight loss journey.
Here’s how psychologists can support you:
1. Managing the Emotional Side of Weight Loss
By adulthood, we’ve developed habits around food – some are helpful, some are not. Food may have become a comfort during stress or a distraction from boredom. These emotional ties don’t disappear with a meal plan. A psychologist helps you recognize triggers, manage cravings, and develop healthier coping strategies.
2. Creating Habits That Fit Your Life
Long-term change comes from small, sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle.
A psychologist helps you to:
• Identify habits holding you back, like skipping meals or eating in front of the TV.
• Build routines that don’t feel like a “diet.”
• Set achievable goals that keep progress motivating.
The goal isn’t perfection, it’s creating a balanced way of living that supports your health and energy.
3. Breaking Free from Dieting and Food Struggles
Many people try fad diets or extreme calorie restriction, leading to cycles of restriction and overeating. A psychologist helps you take a more balanced approach and learn to trust your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues.
4. Overcoming Mental Blocks and Self-Sabotage
Thoughts like “I’ve failed so many times before” or “I’ll never be able to change” hold you back. A psychologist helps you reframe these thoughts, build confidence, and develop resilience to prevent setbacks from derailing your progress.
Final Thoughts
Weight loss isn’t just about looking better, it’s about feeling better, improving your health, and having the energy to do the things you love.
If you’re ready for a balanced, sustainable approach, working with a psychologist may be the missing piece in your weight loss journey. You don’t need a mental health diagnosis – just a willingness to try a healthier, long-term approach to achieve a better quality of life.
To make an appointment with Jane for assistance and support with your weight loss journey call (07) 3544 6446 or E: psychologist@qsweightloss.com.au
About Jane
Jane Zimmerman is a clinical psychologist and health coach with 16+ years of experience. She helps adults achieve sustainable weight loss, overcome challenges, and build lasting habits for a healthier, happier life.
