Photo of Kristine Freck, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93101, CA
Kristine Freck
Marriage & Family Therapist, Freck Kristine, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist and educator in the Santa Barbara area. I work with: individuals, couples and families, teens - elderly. My clients are struggling with ADDICTION (alcoholism, drugs, {pre and post-inpatient addiction assistance}, weight, sex et.al), MENTAL HEALTH (depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, identity, sexual orientation, couples and family issues et.al), and/or SPIRITUAL JOURNEY challenges in their current lives.
I have over 35 years of experience as a therapist and educator in the Santa Barbara area. I work with: individuals, couples and families, teens - elderly. My clients are struggling with ADDICTION (alcoholism, drugs, {pre and post-inpatient addiction assistance}, weight, sex et.al), MENTAL HEALTH (depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, identity, sexual orientation, couples and family issues et.al), and/or SPIRITUAL JOURNEY challenges in their current lives.
(805) 919-8631 View (805) 919-8631
Photo of Betsy Bates Freed, Psychologist in 93101, CA
Betsy Bates Freed
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Not accepting new clients
My part-time clinical practice is very limited and serves patients who are facing medical illnesses, such as cancer or heart disease, or family members of patients with dementia. My interest in health psychology began during my 30-year career as a medical journalist (Internal Medicine News, Pediatric News). I completed my training at the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara, the Family Medicine Residency Program at Glendale Adventist Medical Center, and the Children's Clinic of SB County. Ideally, I will work collaboratively with your physician to help with your integrated medical care.
My part-time clinical practice is very limited and serves patients who are facing medical illnesses, such as cancer or heart disease, or family members of patients with dementia. My interest in health psychology began during my 30-year career as a medical journalist (Internal Medicine News, Pediatric News). I completed my training at the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara, the Family Medicine Residency Program at Glendale Adventist Medical Center, and the Children's Clinic of SB County. Ideally, I will work collaboratively with your physician to help with your integrated medical care.
(805) 980-7154 View (805) 980-7154
Obesity Therapists

Can obesity be a cause of depression and anxiety?

Yes. It can be stressful and debilitating to carry excess weight. Many people make inaccurate assumptions about people who are overweight. This stigma may lead individuals to feel badly about themselves, decreasing their self-esteem, or leading to feelings of worthlessness. An association between obesity and depression is well-established.

When should an individual seek treatment for obesity?

When obesity, or the feelings it causes, creates a disruption in your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Examples include avoiding social situations due to anxiety, an inability to participate in family life as a result of health problems, or poor performance at work due to low self-esteem or other concerns.

Are there specific medications for weight loss?

There are several prescription drugs that can help with weight loss, including semaglutide and phentermine. These drugs reduce appetite and must be prescribed by a physician. Professionals will suggest lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, before turning to drugs, which have side effects and typically are prescribed only for a short duration. Many people regain weight after taking weight loss drugs if they have not made significant lifestyle changes.

What is body positivity?

Body positivity is a cultural movement that promotes the acceptance of bodies of all sizes and types, rather than those that conform to societal ideals of beauty. It places self-worth, self-acceptance, and an appreciation for one’s body as goals to achieve a happier, healthier attitude about oneself and others, focusing on who a person is rather than what they look like.