Comprehensive Evaluation
Dr. Francis conducts a thorough medical and psychiatric assessment, reviewing your health history, current medications, lab work, and mental health status to build your personalized plan.
Weight Management Program (GLP-1) for Lasting Results in Weston, FL
Psychiatrist-supervised medical weight loss addressing both body and mind.
Program Type:Physician-supervised
Medications:Semaglutide & Tirzepatide
Results Timeline:Visible changes in 4-8 weeks
FDA Approved:Yes
Why Willpower Alone Isn't Enough for Weight Loss
Understanding the Biology and Psychology of Weight
Weight gain is rarely a simple matter of eating too much and moving too little. Biological factors like insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and altered hunger signaling can make weight loss feel impossible despite genuine effort. For many patients, psychiatric medications — including antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics — contribute significantly to weight gain. Emotional eating, stress-driven cravings, and the psychological toll of repeated diet failures create a cycle that erodes both physical health and self-confidence.
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications work by mimicking natural hormones that regulate appetite, blood sugar, and satiety. Semaglutide and tirzepatide target the root biology of weight regulation — reducing hunger signals and slowing gastric emptying — so your body works with you rather than against you. At Refresh TMS, Dr. Francis combines these medications with psychiatric expertise to address medication-induced weight gain, emotional eating patterns, and the psychological barriers that other weight loss programs simply cannot treat.
What Is a GLP-1 Weight Management Program?
The Science of Metabolic Medicine
A GLP-1 weight management program uses FDA-approved glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist medications to support medically supervised weight loss. These medications — including semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy and Ozempic) and tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro and Zepbound) — were originally developed for type 2 diabetes management and have since demonstrated remarkable efficacy for weight reduction in clinical trials.
GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking incretin hormones that your body naturally produces after eating. They activate receptors in the brain's appetite control centers to reduce hunger, increase feelings of fullness (satiety), and slow gastric emptying. Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it targets two incretin pathways simultaneously for enhanced metabolic effects. In the landmark STEP 1 trial, semaglutide 2.4mg produced an average weight loss of 14.9% of body weight over 68 weeks, while tirzepatide demonstrated up to 22.5% weight reduction in the SURMOUNT-1 trial.
What Makes Our Program Different
As a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, Dr. Francis brings a critical perspective that most weight loss clinics lack. She can evaluate whether psychiatric medications are contributing to weight gain, adjust prescriptions when appropriate, and address the emotional and behavioral components of overeating — all within one comprehensive treatment plan.
Treatment Timeline
First Signs
Reduced appetite within 1-2 weeks; visible weight loss by 4-8 weeks
Full Effect
12-16 months for maximum weight reduction
Treatment Time
15-30 minute follow-up visits
Recovery
No downtime — continue daily activities immediately
Benefits of GLP-1 Weight Management
Evidence-Based Results
- 01
Clinically Proven Weight Loss
FDA-approved GLP-1 medications achieve 15-22% average body weight reduction in trials
- 02
Psychiatric Expertise
Dr. Francis addresses emotional eating, medication side effects, and mental health barriers
- 03
Reduced Hunger & Cravings
GLP-1 agonists naturally suppress appetite without stimulant-based approaches
- 04
Cardiovascular Protection
Semaglutide shown to reduce major cardiovascular events by 20% in the SELECT trial
- 05
Personalized Protocol
Medication type, dosing, and behavioral plan tailored to your unique health profile
- 06
No Surgical Risk
Non-invasive medical approach with no anesthesia, incisions, or recovery period required
GLP-1 Program vs Alternatives
Compare Your Options
| Treatment | Mechanism | Time | Results | Duration | Downtime | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLP-1 Weight Management | Appetite regulation via incretin hormones | 15-30 min visits | 15-22% body weight loss | Ongoing maintenance | None | BMI ≥27 with comorbidities or ≥30 |
| Traditional Weight Loss Programs | Caloric restriction and exercise | Varies | 5-10% body weight loss | Requires lifelong adherence | None | Mild to moderate weight management |
| Bariatric Surgery | Surgical stomach reduction | 1-3 hours | 25-35% body weight loss | Permanent anatomical change | 2-6 weeks recovery | BMI ≥40 or ≥35 with comorbidities |
Weight Management Program (GLP-1)
Weight Management Program (GLP-1)
Real Results
Our GLP-1 weight management patients typically begin noticing reduced appetite and early weight changes within the first 4-8 weeks. By 3-6 months of consistent treatment, most patients experience significant body composition improvements. Maximum results develop over 12-16 months with continued medication and behavioral support. Individual results vary based on starting weight, medication response, and lifestyle factors.
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Who Is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Weight Management?
Personalized Candidacy Assessment
Our GLP-1 weight management program is designed for adults who have struggled with weight despite genuine effort and are seeking a medically supervised, evidence-based approach. Dr. Francis evaluates each patient's full medical and psychiatric history to determine the safest, most effective treatment path.
Ideal Candidates for GLP-1 Weight Management
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity classification)
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher who have at least one weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
- Patients experiencing weight gain from psychiatric medications (SSRIs, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics)
- Individuals with emotional or stress-related eating patterns who would benefit from integrated behavioral support
- Patients who have tried traditional diet and exercise programs without achieving lasting results
- Those committed to regular follow-up appointments and long-term lifestyle changes
Who Should Wait or Avoid GLP-1 Medications
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- History of pancreatitis or active gallbladder disease
- Pregnancy, actively trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
- Known hypersensitivity to semaglutide, tirzepatide, or any product components
- Patients with severe gastroparesis or significant gastrointestinal disease
- Type 1 diabetes (GLP-1 agonists are not a substitute for insulin in T1D)
During your initial evaluation, Dr. Francis will review your complete medical history, current medications, and mental health status to determine whether GLP-1 therapy is the right choice — and which medication may work best for your specific needs.
What Your Weight Management Program Looks Like
Medication Initiation
Paula-Ann prescribes and starts your GLP-1 medication at a low dose, with a gradual titration schedule designed to minimize side effects while optimizing weight loss response.
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular follow-up visits include weight tracking, lab reviews, dosage adjustments, and mental health check-ins to ensure safe, steady progress toward your goals.
Behavioral Support
Dr. Francis provides guidance on nutritional strategies, emotional eating patterns, and lifestyle modifications — addressing psychological barriers that undermine long-term success.
Maintenance Planning
As you approach your target weight, Paula-Ann develops a long-term maintenance strategy including medication tapering decisions, relapse prevention, and ongoing wellness support.
Side Effects & Safety
What to Know
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications are FDA-approved and have been studied extensively in large clinical trials. Like all medications, they carry potential side effects that Dr. Francis monitors carefully throughout your treatment.
Common Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects are gastrointestinal and typically occur during the dose-escalation phase: nausea (affecting approximately 20-44% of patients), diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. These effects are usually mild to moderate and diminish as your body adjusts over 4-8 weeks. Starting at a low dose and titrating gradually — as Dr. Francis prescribes — significantly reduces the severity of these symptoms.
Less Common but Important Risks
Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and in animal studies, thyroid C-cell tumors (a boxed warning applies to semaglutide and tirzepatide). Hypoglycemia risk is low when GLP-1 medications are used without sulfonylureas or insulin. Injection site reactions such as redness, itching, or mild swelling may occur but are typically minor.
Psychiatric Considerations
Dr. Francis's psychiatric expertise is particularly valuable in monitoring for mood changes, as some patients report shifts in emotional well-being during significant weight loss. She proactively screens for these changes and can adjust your overall treatment plan — including any psychiatric medications — to ensure both physical and mental health remain optimized.
Weight Management Program Cost in Weston
Investment in Your Health
The cost of a GLP-1 weight management program at Refresh TMS in Weston, FL varies based on the medication prescribed, dosage requirements, and the duration of your treatment plan. During your initial consultation, Dr. Francis will discuss all pricing details and help you understand what to expect financially.
Factors That Affect Program Cost
- Medication selection: Semaglutide and tirzepatide have different pricing structures; compounded formulations may offer cost advantages when available
- Dosage and titration schedule: Higher maintenance doses carry different costs than initial starting doses
- Program duration: Most patients require 12-16 months for optimal results, with ongoing maintenance options
- Follow-up frequency: Regular monitoring visits and lab work are included in your overall program investment
Insurance and Payment
Some insurance plans cover GLP-1 medications when prescribed for weight management with qualifying BMI criteria. Our team can help verify your coverage and discuss financing options. We believe that access to effective, physician-supervised weight management should not be limited by cost — contact us to learn about our current program pricing and available payment plans.
To discuss program costs and payment options, call (754) 216-0840 or schedule a consultation.
Why Choose Refresh TMS for Weight Management
Weston's Psychiatrist-Led Program
Psychiatric Expertise
The only weight management program in Weston led by a Board-Certified Psychiatrist
Medication Optimization
Can adjust psychiatric prescriptions contributing to weight gain alongside GLP-1 therapy
Mind-Body Approach
Integrated behavioral and emotional support addresses the root causes of overeating
Comprehensive Monitoring
Regular follow-ups with lab work, dosage titration, and mental health check-ins
Related Services
Complementary Treatments
Psychiatry & Therapy
Brain & Mental Health
Wellness & Body Optimization
Weight Management Program FAQ
Answers About GLP-1 Therapy
01 What are GLP-1 medications and how do they help with weight loss?
GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide and tirzepatide) are FDA-approved injectable medications that mimic natural hormones controlling appetite and blood sugar. They reduce hunger signals in the brain, increase feelings of fullness, and slow stomach emptying — helping patients achieve clinically meaningful weight loss of 15-22% of body weight in trials.
02 Why should I choose a psychiatrist for my weight loss program?
Dr. Francis's psychiatric expertise means she can address the emotional and psychological factors behind weight gain — including emotional eating, medication-induced weight gain from antidepressants or mood stabilizers, body image concerns, and the mental health impacts of obesity. This integrated approach produces more sustainable results than medication alone.
03 What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) targets GLP-1 receptors and produces average weight loss of about 15% of body weight. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that targets two metabolic pathways, producing up to 22.5% weight loss in clinical trials. Dr. Francis will recommend the best option based on your health profile.
04 How quickly will I see results?
Most patients notice reduced appetite within the first 1-2 weeks. Visible weight loss typically begins by weeks 4-8 as the medication is gradually titrated to therapeutic doses. Maximum results develop over 12-16 months of consistent treatment with lifestyle modifications.
05 What are the common side effects of GLP-1 medications?
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal — nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and occasional vomiting — particularly during the initial dose-escalation phase. These typically improve within 4-8 weeks as your body adjusts. Dr. Francis uses a gradual titration protocol to minimize side effects.
06 Can I take GLP-1 medication if I'm already on psychiatric medications?
Yes, in most cases. This is one of the primary advantages of working with Dr. Francis — she can evaluate potential interactions between your psychiatric medications and GLP-1 therapy, make necessary adjustments, and monitor both your mental health and weight management progress simultaneously.
07 Do I have to stay on GLP-1 medication forever?
Treatment duration varies by individual. Some patients transition to a maintenance phase with reduced dosing, while others may eventually discontinue medication if they've established sustainable lifestyle changes. Dr. Francis develops a long-term plan that addresses both your physical and psychological readiness for each transition.
08 Is the weight management program available via telehealth?
Initial evaluations and many follow-up appointments can be conducted via telehealth for patients in the Weston, Davie, Pembroke Pines, and greater Fort Lauderdale area. Some visits may require in-person lab work. Contact us at (754) 216-0840 to discuss virtual appointment options.
Location17110 Royal Palm Blvd, Suite 1
Weston, FL, 33326
Weston, FL, 33326
Phone(754) 216-0840
Schedule Your Weight Management Program (GLP-1) Consultation
References
- Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002. PubMed (PMID: 33567185) - Semaglutide 2.4mg produced 14.9% mean body weight reduction vs 2.4% with placebo over 68 weeks in the STEP 1 trial.
- Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216. PubMed (PMID: 35658024) - Tirzepatide achieved up to 22.5% body weight reduction in the SURMOUNT-1 trial in adults with obesity.
- Lincoff AM, Brown-Frandsen K, Colhoun HM, et al. Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2023;389(24):2221-2232. PubMed (PMID: 37952131) - The SELECT trial demonstrated semaglutide reduced major adverse cardiovascular events by 20% in overweight/obese adults without diabetes.
- Rubino D, Abrahamsson N, Davies M, et al. Effect of Continued Weekly Subcutaneous Semaglutide vs Placebo on Weight Loss Maintenance in Adults With Overweight or Obesity: The STEP 4 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2021;325(14):1414-1425. PubMed (PMID: 33755728) - Continued semaglutide treatment maintained weight loss while discontinuation led to regain, supporting ongoing therapy for sustained results.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Approves New Medication for Chronic Weight Management. FDA News Release, June 2021. Available at: fda.gov — FDA approval of semaglutide 2.4mg (Wegovy) for chronic weight management in adults with BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with comorbidities.