St. Mary’s launches behavioral therapy weight loss program

Athens, Ga. – St. Mary’s Health Care System is now offering Intensive Behavioral Therapy (IBT) for obesity, a program designed to help individuals achieve sustainable weight loss through lifestyle changes.

The IBT program consists of 21 group classes that focus on improving diet, changing physical activity, and promoting behavioral changes to lose weight.

The program is open to anyone living with obesity (Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher). Many patients may qualify to participate at no cost through insurance plans, including Medicare. A physician referral is required. 

“Weight loss is hard,” said Julie Richardson, a registered dietitian and coordinator of St. Mary’s Bariatric Services. “Only 1%-10% of people can lose weight and keep it off long-term. IBT is about supporting patients on their weight-loss journey and turning what can often be a frustrating process into sustainable, meaningful victories. It turns moments of, ‘I have failed before’ into ‘I can try again.’ The commitment, education, and support of IBT can help people achieve many of their weight, health, and wellness goals.”

Classes are held in-person at St. Mary’s Community Internal Medicine of Athens (CIMA), 1500 Oglethorpe Ave, Suite 200C, Athens. The program is offered in a cohort-based format, with multiple cohorts planned throughout the year. The first cohort is scheduled to begin May 14 and is filling fast, but once it is full, St. Mary’s will begin registering for the next cohort. Class schedules may vary by cohort.

Patients interested in participating should speak with their healthcare provider to obtain a referral. Patients who do not have a primary care provider can contact CIMA at 706-389-3875. Same-day appointments are often available, and CIMA accepts most insurance plans, Medicare, and Medicaid, and offers a sliding scale for self-pay patients.

For more information about St. Mary’s IBT program, contact Richardson at Julie.richardson001@stmarysathens.org.