St. Mary’s Health Care System announced on Apr. 6 that it is launching an Intensive Behavioral Therapy (IBT) program for obesity, aiming to help individuals achieve lasting weight loss through long-term lifestyle changes.
The new IBT program seeks to address the challenges of weight management by providing structured support and education. It consists of 21 group sessions that focus on improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, and developing healthy behavioral habits.
The program is available to people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Many participants may be able to attend at no cost if their insurance covers the service, including those with Medicare plans. A physician referral is required for enrollment.
“Weight loss is hard,” said Julie Richardson, registered dietitian and coordinator of St. Mary’s Bariatric Services. “IBT is about helping patients move past frustration and build sustainable habits. It turns moments of ‘I’ve failed before’ into ‘I can try again,’ giving people the support and tools they need to reach their health goals.”
Classes will take place in person at St. Mary’s Community Internal Medicine of Athens (CIMA), located at 1500 Oglethorpe Ave., Suite 200C. The program uses a cohort-based approach, with several groups planned throughout the year; the first group starts May 14 and spots are filling quickly.
Interested patients are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for a referral or contact CIMA directly if they do not have a primary care provider. Same-day appointments are often available, most insurance plans are accepted—including Medicare and Medicaid—and there is a sliding fee scale for self-pay patients.
For more information about the IBT program, individuals can contact Julie Richardson at Julie.richardson001@stmarysathens.org.
