What others are saying about everyBody Behavioral Health.....
- Jennifer Shapiro, PhD, CEDS

- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
We feel honored when individuals or professional colleagues choose to share their experiences of working with our practice. Meaningful psychological care is built on trust, collaboration, and respect.
In accordance with the ethical standards
of the American Psychological Association, psychologists do not solicit testimonials from therapy clients. Any reflections shared by clients were offered voluntarily and are presented anonymously to protect privacy and confidentiality.
We are sincerely grateful for the trust individuals and colleagues place in our work.
Professional Colleague Perspectives
We are grateful for the many physicians, nurses, dietitians, therapists, educators, and other professionals who trust us with their referrals.

“Dr. Shapiro represents a perfect balance of evidence-based techniques and enthusiasm. She inspires her patients to achieve their treatment goals and gives her all to help them get there. She has rich training and experience with both eating disorders and weight management. She is not a one-approach-fits-all therapist. She will work with each patient to tailor a plan that addresses her or his specific needs. Above all, she is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of her clients.”
-Cynthia M. Bulik, Ph.D., FAED
William and Jeanne Jordan Distinguished Professor of Eating Disorders, Dept of Psychiatry
Professor of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Heath
Founding Director, University of North Carolina Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Past President of the Academy for Eating Disorders

“As a full-time bariatric surgeon and Medical Director of an ASMBS Accredited Center of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery, I require my patients to undergo a psychological evaluation to ensure their preparedness for surgery, and evaluate each patient’s individual stressors. Dr. Shapiro is on the top of my list of bariatric psychologists. As a committed Bariatric Psychologist, she has expertise in the psychological, behavioral, and emotional aspects of obesity. My patients consistently report that they feel that they left the evaluation having learned a great deal about themselves, their lifestyle, their family and work stressors and the impact that these things have on their health. They feel that she offers the tools that they need to overcome obstacles that stand between them and successfully gaining control of their weight and their lives. I heard such glowing reviews from my patients who had pre-operative evaluations with her that I asked her to take over my post-operative support groups! Dr. Shapiro’s warmth, trust, empathy, and ability to guide a group has enhanced my practice and my patient’s success immeasurably. Thank you, Dr. Shapiro! Dr. Shapiro is my go-to person for consultations about clients who are struggling with obesity or problematic eating behavior.”
-Julie Ellner, MD, FACS, Medical Director,
Surgical Weight Loss
Ellner Bariatric, San Diego www.ellnerbariatric.com

“I have known Dr. Shapiro for over 20 years. She is nationally recognized in the eating disorders and obesity field and she is my top referral choice for a bariatric psychologist in San Diego. Dr. Shapiro excels in her work with individuals both pre and post bariatric surgery. Pre-operatively, she works with patients to help prepare them for the behavioral and emotional changes that are associated with surgery. Post-operatively, she assists patients in making the lifestyle changes necessary for long-term success. Dr. Shapiro cares about all of her patients and wants to help make them feel better. She is compassionate and sensitive regarding the emotional issues and struggles of obese individuals but never compromises her honesty, humor, and trust. Patients truly seem to enjoy working with Dr. Shapiro and feel at ease when talking to her about the physical and psychological changes after bariatric surgery.”
– Kelli Friedman, PhD, Clinical Psychologist
Duke Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery, Duke Health System

“I’ve been referring my patients to Dr. Jennifer Shapiro for many years as she is the most effective psychologist in Southern California in my opinion.”
-Raymond Plodkowski, MD
Scripps Health

"Dr. Shapiro is a highly-skilled, experienced, personable, and accomplished professional with expertise in psychological treatment of weight and eating-related disorders. I have known Dr. Shapiro since the start of her career at UNC Chapel Hill and our collaborations over the years have always revealed her high level of skill, dedication, and colleagial partnership. Whether seeing Dr. Shapiro for assessment or treatment, patients can expect a commitment to high-quality care, ethical practice, and goal-oriented outcomes."
– Jennifer Pells, PhD, Associate Professor, Duke University Medical Center

“Dr. Jennifer Shapiro is a knowledgeable, skilled, and caring clinician who incorporates best practices in evidence-based health interventions with the individual needs, backgrounds, and life experiences of her clients. She is a rare gem of a therapist whose background and experience treating eating and weight disorders sets her apart from many therapists in this field. Her patients undoubtedly benefit from her passion for improving the lives of so many who suffer from eating and weight disorders.”
– Jennifer Lundgren, PhD, Associate ProfessorDepartment of Psychology, University of Missouri-Kansas City

I refer patients regularly to EBH, always knowing they will receive excellent individualized care. Highly recommend.
-Jane Hadinger, CFNP, CPNP, Family Medicine
La Jolla Family Medicine

“Dr. Shapiro is my go-to person for consultations about clients who are struggling with obesity or problematic eating behavior.”
– Evan Waldheter, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Clinical Psychology Psy.D. Program, William James College
"I’ve referred many patients with eating disorder issues to Jennifer Shapiro PhD for years. She consistently provides compassionate & competent care to help guide patients to recovery."
Alison Anthony FNP-C
"Dr Shapiro and her staff are a wonderful resource for those seeking bariatric surgery and weight loss and maintenance. Patients learn how to modify ways of thinking and behaving that leads to long term success."
-Eva Brzezinski MS RD CDCES, Bariatric Dietitian
"Dr. Shapiro is our go to resource for our patients with eating disorders. Her knowledge and expertise help our patients to live a healthier life. Thank you!"
-Alice Martin, Behavioral Health and Wellness Specialist,
Mary Washington Weight Loss Center, Fredericksburg VA
"Working with Dr. Shapiro has been a game-changer for our bariatric program. Her support and guidance are invaluable in preparing patients for their journey. She's available and responsive and a joy to work with. We highly recommend!"
-Keriann Dunning RD, CSOWM, CDCES, Bariatric Program Coordinator
St. Michael Medical Center, Virginia Mason Franciscan HealthTM Silverdale, WA
Client Experiences (Shared Anonymously)
The following reflections were shared voluntarily by individuals who wished to express their experiences. To protect confidentiality, all client comments are presented anonymously.
“Dr. Shapiro, It is impossible to sum up my gratitude toward you in writing. You may never know how much I appreciated having you as a role model for the past 2 years. All of your help will be remembered and it is my promise to you and myself that I will overcome my battles and come out on top. Thanks for everything!!!”
-Adolescent after treatment for an eating disorder.
“My daughter has been doing pretty well. She does not seem to have any issues related to her eating disorder. I can not thank you enough for all your time and effort with her. Somehow you helped us get through to her during an extremely difficult time, and I will always be grateful for that.”
-Parent of adolescent with an eating disorder
“Thanks for all that you do. I feel that I really benefitted from the group and am considering re-enrolling. I would certainly recommend it to anyone who has struggled as much as I have.”
-Patient from Weigh 2 Eat group
“I haven’t seen you in some time and wanted to thank you again for everything you’ve done for and taught me. I just finished my second ½ marathon. I was pleased that I shaved 19 minutes off my last marathon time. I wish I could say it’s easy to keep this weight off but it’s not. I will always have to work at it but I’m used to the work now and will never forget where I started. Thanks again, Jennifer! Be proud of the work you do and the help you’re providing.”
-Adult therapy patient.
“You have made these 20 weeks fun, rewarding, and truly a great learning experience. Your support and encouragement were most appreciated. Your personality was delightful. Your leadership excelled.”
-Patient from Weigh 2 Eat group
“Thanks so much for all of your help, guidance, support, and generosity. You have made such a difference in my life and in so many others’ lives as well.”
-Young adult patient
“Thank you for all that you have done for me. You truly are good at what you do, Jennifer. You are one of the few people who I’ve ever trusted because I never felt like you judged me and for that I am grateful.”
-Adult therapy patient.
“I have accomplished a great deal this past year with your guidance, and I am very thankful for what you have helped me learn.”
-Patient from Weigh 2 Eat group
The group session was life changing for me - it has definitely changed my life. I am so grateful to you for your help. In addition thank you for connecting me with the right nutritionist. I have not felt this good since 2018. Also last weekend I finally went in a 5 mile hike with my husband and recovered quickly. Then did a 2 mile walk on Sunday and was able to recover quickly so that tells me I am for sure getting better 😊. I am going to continue on the CBT and striving for a healthy lifestyle. With kind regards
-Patient from Weigh 2 Eat group and counseling
We remain deeply appreciative of the trust individuals and colleagues place in our practice and feel privileged to be part of their journey.
-Dr. Jennifer Shapiro




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