Support Groups

Along with attending to our patients' physical needs, Fairfield County Bariatrics strongly believes in supporting the post operative patient psychologically. We offer support groups for our patients on a weekly basis in two locations, Norwalk and Bridgeport. The groups are run by two clinical social workers that have different approaches.

Post op Bariatric Support Group (0 – 1 year)

Bariatric support groups led by psychotherapist, Anne Mata are free sessions intended only for post-operative bariatric patients. Attention is geared toward patients in early transition (6 months postoperative or less). Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at Norwalk Hospital and the last Wednesday of each month at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Groups are therapeutic in nature in which Anne Mata takes on a cognitive behavioral approach. These groups consist mainly of open group discussions in which a topic for discussion is usually prepared. Topics may include: adaptation to your chosen surgery, coping skills, change, awareness, taking care of yourself, social situations, fears, or other topics relating to your early postoperative bariatric journey in preparation towards long term success. On occasion, a group may involve a presentation by a guest professional on a topic relating to early postoperative care/support. All patients are given the opportunity to voice their obstacles or progress in relation to their postoperative bariatric journey. Participation is encouraged, not forced. The focus is on providing a caring environment, supporting each other toward a smooth transition – making positive change, and giving feedback in relation to your own experiences.

Anne Mata is licensed in the state of CT for counseling. She is also a certified clinical mental health counselor (CCMHC) and national certified counselor (NCC). Education also includes a Bachelor Degree in Psychology (with a minor in Art) and a Master of Science degree in Community Agency Counseling. She has been working in the mental health and addictions field for over 13 years. She is a member of American Mental Health Counselors Association and currently provides group and individual counseling.

Post op Bariatric Support Group (6 months and up)

All post-operative bariatric patients at different stages of their weight loss journey are welcome to attend this interactive 90-minute bariatric support group. Support groups are conducted twice monthly by a skilled Eating Disorders Specialist, Mary P. Ziller, L.C.S.W. who inspires thought-provoking sessions to keep bariatric patients on track with the physical and emotional changes that occur. The purpose of the group is for patients to learn how to effectively unitize their chosen bariatric surgery for continued weight loss and eventual maintenance and to achieve peace and emotional clarity regarding eating patterns and body image issues. In a trusting environment, Ms. Ziller's focus is to guide patients to identify and release psychosocial stressors that block them from feeling good about themselves and contribute to emotional eating and weight struggles. Positive methods for self-care are highlighted and a series of individual skill-sets are reinforced at each support group. A few topics covered include: managing the medical and technical challenges of lap-band/ bypass surgery; differences between physical and emotional hunger; mindless/intuitive eating; cognitive eating belief levels; managing stressful events; pivoting off of negative thoughts; the tyranny of the “Shoulds;” 12-Step Principles and body confidence.