Lori Fishman, Psy.D., instructor

This program will address the need for mental health professionals as a core treatment component for pediatric obesity. Childhood obesity is an epidemic of national importance. Interventions often must go beyond discussing healthy eating habits and promoting activity in young people. Mental health providers play a crucial role in assessing for comorbid psychological diagnoses, such as depression and disordered eating. Behavioral interventions involve a family approach using aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, behavioral management and motivational interviewing. The psychosocial effects of pediatric obesity and overweight are often numerous and can cause a cyclical coping pattern that leads to increased obesity.

Upon completion of the program the participant will be able to:

• Identify the reasons behind the current pediatric obesity epidemic
• Explain the medical and psychosocial consequences of pediatric obesity
• Describe strategies to assist parents in helping their children overcome obesity
• Describe strategies to assist children in preventing and overcoming obsesity
• Describe strategies to assist children in coping with the psychosocial issues that result from life with obesity

Program Code: HP46
2 CE Credits
Location: at MSPP, Newton

Lori Fishman, Psy.D., is a full-time pediatric psychologist and leader of the behavioral medicine team in the Optimal Weight for Life Program at Boston Children’s Hospital. She provides ongoing consultation and assessment to children and families as part of a multidisciplinary team of physicians, nutritionists and behavioral medicine providers. Additionally, Dr. Fishman is an Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and offers private therapy and consultation to children, adolescents and families.