BreakThrough! Mental and Weight Related Metabolic Health Recovery

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BreakThrough! empowers participants to recover from mental health conditions, develop a healthy sense of self and recover from emotional eating behaviors.
Ongoing Virtual Therapy Group Series
Next Week
Wed @ 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Next meeting: Wed, Jun 11, 2025
Meets virtually
Meets every week
$35 per session
Pay per session
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Who this group is for

From the wisdom of the Ancient Greeks to modern day, literature has consistently suggested strong correlations between mental and metabolic health.

In 2021, the CDC reported that 1 in 5 adults in the United States was suffering with a mental disorder and separately, 2 in 5 were suffering with obesity and related metabolic health conditions. The CDC and World Health Organization both estimate that the lifetime prevalence of suffering with a mental health illness is approximately fifty percent and the projections for the development of metabolic health disorders are strikingly similar. In the U S cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes, and complications from obesity are attributed to 1400 premature deaths every day. In many cases, these illnesses and deaths are preventable.

For the past four decades or more, metabolic health recovery focused on weight loss behaviors without considering a comprehensive approach to overall patient wellness. Treatment has often exclusively relied on medication, diet, and exercise, but this approach has failed to stem the epidemic of obesity. With the exception of bariatric surgery, less than 20 % of the population with the resources to engage in metabolic recovery, have been successful at sustaining weight loss for more than two years. Sadly, even with the proliferation of new medications, for 80% of adults in the U S, frustrating patterns of behavioral relapse and weight regain have been the norm, rather than the exception.

Relapse prevention and sustainable recovery depend on awareness, decision making, motivation, a positive mindset, resilience and more. These are key cognitive and emotional constructs directly supported by mental health and emotional well-being. That said, most counseling programs do not include courses in understanding metabolic health which can present significant challenges for mental health providers working with clients seeking to recover from metabolic conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes, PCOS and more.

With over a decade of facilitating the BreakThrough! Course for Mental and Metabolic Health Recovery the authors share that the primary reasons cited for cycles of relapse behaviors center on triggers related to unhealed mental health conditions and disorders. These include depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction and compulsive behaviors, cognitive and emotional distortions, family and relationship issues, stigma, social isolation, and a lack of supportive resources.

If these conditions resonate for you then this course was designed for your unique journey of insights and sustained recovery.

What to expect

The BreakThrough! course is designed to support recovery from mental and metabolic health challenges through a comprehensive and innovative approach. Here's what you can expect:

Focus on Mental and Metabolic Health Recovery: The course addresses a range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and more, helping participants understand how these affect their overall well-being.

Evidence-Based Practices: It incorporates techniques such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness, among others, to promote sustainable behavioral change.

Course Structure: The course is divided into chapters that cover various topics like willpower, addiction science, depression, anxiety, and relationships. Each session blends education, participant interaction, and skill-building exercises.

Flexible Learning Environments: Sessions can be conducted in group or individual settings, either in-person or virtually, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Telehealth Technology: The course leverages modern telehealth technology to provide group therapy, making it particularly beneficial for rural and disadvantaged communities. This approach also helps reduce out-of-pocket costs and increases patient retention.

Unique Position: BreakThrough is the only course of its kind approved by national organizations as an evidence-based psychological approach for treating disorders that contribute to obesity.

Comprehensive Resources: Participants have access to a robust online learning platform, a 250-page course text, and a workbook, all designed to support their journey towards recovery.

Overall, the BreakThrough! course offers a supportive and structured environment to help individuals take ownership of their health and work towards recovery from mental and metabolic health challenges. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

Dr. Heather Hamilton PhD Mental and Weight Related Metabolic Health Recovery Educator

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Heather Hamilton, PhD, is a key figure in the development and leadership of the BreakThrough! program. She holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and is deeply involved in the integration of mental and metabolic health care. Dr. Hamilton serves as the Chair of the Mental Health Group for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Counseling Association, the Obesity Medicine Association, and the American Psychological Association.

Her work focuses on creating comprehensive programs that address mental health issues and weight management, particularly for adolescents and children. Dr. Hamilton collaborates closely with primary care providers to ensure that these programs are effective and accessible.

In addition to her leadership role, Dr. Hamilton is actively involved in research and development for the BreakThrough! program. She is committed to expanding the clinical validation of the program and enhancing its reach through aggressive marketing strategies. Her efforts are supported by a dedicated team and sufficient resources to ensure the program's success.

Dr. Hamilton's contributions to the field are recognized by various national organizations, and she continues to advocate for integrated care solutions that address both mental and metabolic health challenges. Her work is instrumental in reducing health disparities and improving access to care for diverse populations.
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