Biggest Losers Win with Guided Self-Change at Center for Psychological Studies

Biggest Loser winner Kelly Ferguson with lifestyle coach Tony Craghead.

Three months ago NSU rolled out a new weight loss and fitness program for employees modeled after the Biggest Losers program on television. The Healthy Lifestyles Guided Self-Change (GSC) Clinic, part of the Center for Psychological Studies, and co-directed by Linda and Mark Sobell, worked with NSU’s 12 Biggest Loser Program (BLP) participants to help motivate them to achieve their goals of weight loss and lifestyle changes. The eight GSC psychology trainees, who were called “motivational coaches,” counseled the participants on a weekly basis using a motivational approach. Participants also attended group meetings intended to increase and support their commitment to change.

Upon starting any weight loss program, it is not uncommon for participants to experience a certain level of ambivalence. In weight loss programs for employees, an often overlooked aspect is the psychological component. Interestingly, at the awards ceremony, all BLP participants reported that the counseling provided by their “motivational coaches” was a key element in their success.

The Healthy Lifestyles Guided Self-Change Clinic would like to congratulate all of the participants on their hard work and dedication to the Biggest Loser Program and to NSU for starting this program designed to promote and encourage healthy lifestyles for employees.

For information about the Healthy Lifestyles Guided Self-Change Clinic that provides services for individuals wanting to make healthy lifestyle changes, including smoking cessation, reducing stress, increased exercise, better nutrition, or reduced alcohol use, please call 954-262-5968 or visit www.nova.edu/gsc.