What I liked most working with you Catherine is your straightforwardness about losing weight and helping me see the ways I used denial and magical thinking to explain why I couldn't lose weight.  You helped me see I absolutely had to change this way of thinking or I would not be successful. 

I learned to be honest with myself, and to take responsibility for my behavior.   I learned I cannot eat whatever I want, when I want and as much as I want and lose weight (magical thinking)!!!  But, I could still have my treats and go out to eat, but not do it every day!

I've benefited by losing 13 pounds!  I catch myself a lot faster when I'm trying to rationalize overeating.  I forgive myself faster, and get back on track faster.  I don't give up, and have stopped thinking once I get to my goal weight I can go back to how I ate before!  Losing weight and maintenance are not two separate events! 

I've pretty much tried everything!  This was different for two reasons. One, I decided I was tired of the losing/gaining cycle ("if you're tired of starting over, stop giving up" - best thing you ever said to me)!!!  And two, I wanted one on one help with someone who has had their own weight issues and succeeded! 

I think anyone who seriously wants to CHANGE, will benefit from working with you.  If they can just hang in there until they finally let it sink in that they cannot keep doing the same thing and expect different results, they will be successful.  Also, it will be uncomfortable at times to not eat like you used to, but those feelings do pass if you just hang in there. 

Thank you for helping me move successfully toward my goal in a loving way.

Laurel