Motivational interviewing and nutritional counseling for weight loss in primary care.

Overweight and obese participants will be recruited through local primary care offices. This study will test the effectiveness of motivational interviewing and nutritional counseling for weight loss. The treatment will be supplemented by internet support.

Inclusion Criteria:

• BMI 25-55
• Daily access to internet and phone
• Recruited through local primary care offices.
• Age 18-65

Exclusion Criteria:

• Co-existing physical and/or psychiatric conditions that require more significant treatment (e.g., bipolar disorder, psychotic illnesses), and/or require more intensive treatment or hospitalization (e.g., suicidality, severe mood disorders)
• Meets criteria for current substance abuse/dependence
• Currently receiving psychiatric, psychological, behavioral, or pharmacologic treatment that is known to affect weight or eating
• Pregnant, breastfeeding, or plans to become pregnant during the treatment period
• Cardiac disease, including ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, conduction abnormalities, or a history of heart attack
• Serious neurologic illnesses (e.g., seizure history) or medical illnesses (e.g., impaired hepatic or renal function)
• Uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid conditions, or hypertension