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Bariatric Support Groups

Bariatric support group meetings are held in the Tomasek Conference Room at Grinnell Regional Medical Center at 210 4th Avenue in Grinnell, Iowa.  The support group is open to any individual whom has had weight loss surgery or is considering weight loss surgery.  This group is also open to patients whom have had surgery at another facility.  To get to the Tomasek room, please use the North East employee entrance.  The Tomasek room door is the first door on the right in between the two sets of double doors. 

The support group meetings are from 9:00am-11:00am on the 4th Saturday of the month unless otherwise specified.  Meetings are held each month except for the months of January and December.

*Cancellations due to weather will be broadcast on the Grinnell local radio station, KGRN 1410 AM radio.  The hospital operator will also be aware of cancellations, if you wish to call to verify at (641) 236-7511.

Meeting schedule for 2008

May 24
June 28
July 26
August 23
September 27
October 25
November 8

Topics will include body image, sexuality, transfer addictions, stress management, getting through the holidays, and more.

Each support group will have a guest speaker, recipe sampling, and time for large and small group discussion.  In addition, a bariatric surgeon will also be present in the beginning of the meeting to answer questions. 

Intensive outpatient group therapy is offered once a week for patients either seeking the bariatric surgery or who have had the surgery. The psychotherapy groups are also available to those who struggle with emotional eating issues. Issues include eating disordered thinking and behaviors, addictions, body image, depression, anxiety, healthy coping methods and living fully.

Please contact Bridget Baechtel, LMSW at 641-236-2584 before attending group.

Living Well with Obesity and Weight-Loss

Intensive Outpatient Psychotherapy
Postels Community Health Park • 807 Broad St., Grinnell
Large conference room, second floor.
Therapist: Bridget Baechtel, MSW, LMSW

Each Tuesday, 4 to 5 p.m. Ongoing
Adolescent Group Process (will meet at Surgical Associates Library)

Each Wednesday, 2 to 4 p.m.
Adult Group Process
Begins February 6, 2008 and Concludes April 9, 2008

Each Wednesday Evening, 7 to 9 p.m. Ongoing
Adult Group Process

Topics include coping, communication, relationship, and stress management skills.

For more information, questions, or to join a process group call 641-236-2584.

Support Group Information