Paige Harnish, LISW CIMHP

Paige established mental health programming and worked as the senior mental health provider at Iowa Weight Loss Specialists (IWLS) from 2015 until August of 2021. During her time at IWLS, she completed over 1,000 presurgical psychosocial assessments for bariatric surgery and developed a specialty niche in the fields of bariatrics, medical weight loss, weight management, wellness, and the treatment of binge eating disorder. She has trained and mentored several professionals in the field and has provided specialty field instruction for The University of Iowa.

Paige transitioned to private practice in September of 2021 where she continues to offer specialty care in the field of health and wellness. Paige places great epmhasis on keeping current with research relevant to psychosocial risk factors related to bariatric surgery and continues to apply exerience, espertise and clinical judgement necessary to make informed decisions about treamtent planning for the bariatric population.

Paige Harnish, LISW, CIMHP received Bachelor of Arts degrees in psychology and Spanish from Coe College in 2011 and Master of Social Work degree from The University of Iowa in 2013. Paige has been an associate member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery since 2017 and is the only LISW certified as an integrative mental health professional n the state of Iowa.

Paige has experience working with individuals, couples, families and groups. Paige has formal training in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral thearpy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, Yoga Calm, motivational interviewing, and art therapy techniques.

In addition to specializing in behavioral health, Paige is a fitness coach and kickboxing and strength training instructor who has a personal passion for assisting others in developing healthy lifestyle habits.

“I have a passion for helping others to become healthy both physically and mentally. I believe that physical and mental health go hand and hand and when both are nurtured, life can be lived to the fullest. I am excited to work with patients and support them through their journey.” -Paige Harnish, LISW, CIMHP