St. Mary’s Launches Behavioral Therapy Weight Loss Program

ATHENS, Ga. — St. Mary’s Health Care System is now offering Intensive Behavioral Therapy (IBT) for obesity, a program designed to help individuals achieve sustainable weight loss through long-term lifestyle changes.

The IBT program includes 21 group sessions focused on improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, and building healthy behavioral habits. The program is designed to support participants in creating lasting, meaningful progress in their weight-loss journey.

The program is open to individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Many participants may qualify to attend at no cost through insurance plans, including Medicare. A physician referral is required.

“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 are held in person at St. Mary’s Community Internal Medicine of Athens (CIMA), located at 1500 Oglethorpe Ave., Suite 200C. The program follows a cohort-based model, with multiple groups scheduled throughout the year. The first cohort begins May 14 and is filling quickly. Additional cohorts will open as space becomes available.

Patients interested in participating should speak with their healthcare provider to obtain a referral. Those without a primary care provider can contact CIMA at 706-389-3875. Same-day appointments are often available, and CIMA accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and offers a sliding fee scale for self-pay patients.

For more information about the IBT program, contact Julie Richardson at Julie.richardson001@stmarysathens.org.