Weight Loss Support Groups

Obesity Support Group

Support is a key component in our program. The Obesity Support Group meets in the Stubbs Auditorium on the 3rd Monday and Wednesday of the month and the last Monday of the month from 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

The open forum, question-and-answer sessions are for patients who have just had surgery or are less than a year out and are led by Dr. Stephen Ritz, a clinical psychologist who is a member of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery. The sessions are very informative, and participants are allowed to tell their stories and share any before and after photos they may have.

Obesity Support Groups meet at:
DeKalb Medical at North Decatur
Stubb’s Auditorium
2665 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA 30030

Surgical Weight Loss Center – Open Support Group Information

Open support group meetings are free and open to all interested in bariatric surgery, including significant others, family, friends and co-workers. Meetings are held at:
DeKalb Medical Professional Building
Stubbs Auditorium
2665 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA 30033

Our meetings are facilitated by Stephen Ritz, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and a member of the American Society of Bariatric Surgery. Click here for directions.

Open meetings are held on the third Wednesday and the last Monday of each month from 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. These meetings are to discuss the physical and psychological implications of bariatric surgery. Research has demonstrated that patients who routinely participate in support groups have greater success in maintaining long-term weight loss. We acknowledge the pounds lost and focus on what we have gained since our surgery. We recognize that the patient is not the only person whose life is transformed by this surgery; for that reason, we encourage significant others, family members and friends to attend the meetings.

A veteran's group for those 12+ months post-op meets on the third Monday of each month from 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. The group addresses the more long-term changes, as well as unexpected challenges and adjustments that accompany weight loss. This group is invaluable for maintaining a successful focus.

Veteran’s Support Groups meet at:
DeKalb Medical at North Decatur
Stubb’s Auditorium
2665 North Decatur Road
Decatur, GA 30030

Immediate post-op patients up to 12 months meet the second Wednesday of every month.

Click here for directions. To register please call 404.501.LOSE. For more information about support groups, go to http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/Appel-Steinberg_OWLS or call 404.501.LOSE.