Michael Sakowitz, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
My name is Michael Sakowitz. I have a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Kent State University and I am a licensed psychologist in both New Jersey and Arizona. I have been in practice for over thirty years and have treated patients with weight disorders throughout my career.

For most of my professional life I approached the problem from a behavioral point of view, helping my patients to monitor and modify their behavior. They, and I, had good initial success with many losing upwards of fifty pounds. Unfortunately the vast majority of patients eventually put all of the weight back on. The techniques they learned were viable and their new behaviors were far healthier than the old ways but many nevertheless regressed. Some thankfully were successful and some would return for additional treatment. So…my early work was both rewarding and frustrating.

Currently with the advancement of surgical techniques the popularity of weight loss surgery on the rise, more and more patients are finding that their weight is on the decline! Both banding and bypass procedures have helped to strengthen the resolve of my patients and while they still must learn to monitor and modify their behavior I am seeing more long term success.

Whether you choose a weight loss procedure or not, remember that counseling support is available. My work with patients presenting with weight disorders is currently split between conduction pre-surgical evaluations and post surgical individual and group counseling.

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