What does “Wrap Around Integrative Skills Training” mean?

It means we look at the whole picture — emotional, behavioral, and physical health together.

W.A.I.S.T. “wraps around” your existing medical treatment, offering skills-based therapy and coaching to aid you in your weight loss journey.

Who is this program for?

W.A.I.S.T. is for anyone using, or considering starting, GLP-1 medications, other medical or hormonal weight-loss interventions, or preparing for, or adjusting after, bariatric surgery.

It’s also for people who’ve recently stopped medication and want support in maintaining healthy habits and emotional balance.

Do I need to stop seeing my prescribing doctor or nutritionist?

Not at all.

W.A.I.S.T. is meant to complement your medical care, not replace it.
With your consent, we’ll coordinate with your chosen providers so that everyone is on the same page.

What kinds of professionals lead the program?

The core of the program are Masters-level trained, experienced therapists, and a Board-certified psychiatrist. Depending on your needs, your team may also include a dietician, fitness trainer, trauma therapist specialist, eating disorder specialist, and others.

Read more about our core team here.

Is this therapy, coaching, treatment, or education?

All of the above integrated, and more.

W.A.I.S.T. blends evidence-based therapy (such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches) with practical coaching and education. You’ll build insight and concrete skills to support long-term wellbeing.

What if I’m already in therapy?

That’s fine. Many participants have their own therapist.

W.A.I.S.T. can focus specifically on the behavioral and emotional aspects of weight loss, while your regular therapist continues working with you on broader goals. You might also benefit from being in a W.A.I.S.T. group while continuing to see your own therapist.

How long does the program last?

It depends on your situation.

Some people benefit from a focused 8- to 12-week track, while others prefer ongoing support during the full course of medical treatment or maintenance. You and your clinician will decide what makes sense.

Are sessions in-person or virtual?

We offer both in-person and telehealth options for individual sessions.

Group sessions are held in person at our Glendale office, located at 1800 S Brand Blvd, Suite 117, Glendale, CA 91204.

Is it covered by insurance?

The W.A.I.S.T. program operates on an out-of-network basis for all insurance plans and is billed as a behavioral health service.

Clients are responsible for payment at the time of service. If your insurance plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits, we can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement. Reimbursement amounts vary by plan, and any reimbursement would be paid directly to you by your insurance company.

If you have questions about this process, we’re happy to help.

How do I start?

Use our contact form to schedule a free 15 minute consultation.
We’ll discuss your goals, current treatment plan, and how W.A.I.S.T. can fit alongside your medical care.

If it feels like a match, we’ll pair you with a clinician and get started.