The Solution
• Approach/Method: Family-systems approach involving
developmental skills for the mind, body, and spirit:
nurturing (emotive therapy), limit setting (cognitive
therapy), body pride (body image), good health, mastery
eating, mastery living. The program encourages 30 minutes
or more of exercise each day. Participants are educated to
eat for health.
No set calorie limit is recommended.
• Clients: Mostly female (80%) aged 19 years and
older.
• Staff: The program was developed and written by a
masters level registered dietitian with input from health
professionals in the fields of dietetics and nutrition,
medicine, mental health, exercise, and education. The staff
consists of registered dietitians and licensed
mental health professionals (psychologist, family therapist,
social worker, psychiatrist). All staff must complete 20
hours of training to become certified to deliver the
program. The program aims to train those who are already
certified or licensed professionals. Periodic
"tune-up" training is available at annual
workshops and meetings.
• Expected Weight Loss/Length of Program: No greater
than a one pound of weight loss per week is recommended.
Each session is 12 weeks for two hours/week. Participants
can elect to continue for more than the 12-week session.
• Cost: For weight loss, the cost is about $300 for 12
weeks, including cost of materials.
• Healthy Lifestyle Component: Counseling sessions are
designed for eight to twelve clients. The group forms a ‘
community,’ and members provide telephone support to
practice methods between sessions. Positive behavior changes
are emphasized.
• Comments: In the maintenance program, clients can
return for 12-week sessions at any time. Every three months,
a Saturday afternoon maintenance session for all program
graduates is held.
• Availability: Provided exclusively by trained health
professionals at hospital, clinics, HMOs, and private
practice locations. Call 1-888-7-245-245 for a referral to
the nearest Solution Provider.
• Headquarters: University of California, San
Francisco, Department of Family and Community Medicine,
AC-9, Box 0900, San Francisco, CA 94143-0900. (415)
453-8886. Web site: Shapedown@aol.com
Information supplied by The Solution.
