Our Programs - Message From Behavorial Care Director

Joanne Nichols Kuchera

It is a pleasure to introduce myself to those I don’t know and say hello to those I haven’t seen in quite awhile. I worked at OTCMG for more than 15 years as a behaviorist and left in 2000 to work as an MSW therapist-intern. I’m presently in private psychotherapy practice with Three Rivers Counseling Center in addition to being the Director of Behavioral Care at OTCMG. I have an affinity for the staff and clients at OTCMG and a deep respect for the program, so I was thrilled and honored when Dr. Hernried asked if I would return to work at the clinic. I look forward to picking up where I left off with my old friends and getting to know those of you who are new to the clinic.

OTC has a strong and fundamentally sound cognitive-behavioral curriculum which forms the foundation of the program. Content continues to be updated so you will always receive the most current information available as well as real-life practicum experiences that are more experiential and relevant to your lives.

Although the fundamental behaviors people need to change to be successful are the same for everyone, the obstacles one needs to overcome to be successful are unique to each individual. Therefore we will offer adjunct services to more completely meet your individual treatment goals. One plan we began this year is a more thorough assessment of patient behavioral history at the outset of the program. This will also be available to patients currently in the program. This assessment will allow our staff to tailor a more individualized treatment plan for each of you considering your weight history, addiction issues, trauma history, depression and anxiety disorders, coping styles and skills and eating disorders.

Also we offer an eight-week program using the latest techniques in neuroscience mind/body work. The True Body program was developed by Dr. John Leonard of NeuroBehavioral Programs. This work is done in small groups and geared for those who have addiction tendencies, compulsively overeat and binge. We are also considering the Affective Management Skills Training, another mind/body therapy to help people regulate and manage disturbing emotions. This therapy is especially beneficial for clients prone to, or suffering from depression and/or anxiety. Finally, we are planning programs for your family members so they can support you through your changes, and understand the changes they may experience as a result of your weight loss.

In the near future we will conduct a formal patient satisfaction survey. Meanwhile, I welcome your thoughts about OTC. I’d like to know what you find helpful and valuable and what changes you’d like incorporated into the program. This is a very exciting time to be part of OTC. We are deeply committed to offering you the very best services available and helping you achieve your weight management goals.

Please feel welcome to telephone me at OTC, or e-mail me at jkuchera@keepitoff.com. I would enjoy hearing from you.