What to Know About Intensive Behavioral Therapy (IBT)
Getting support from a weight loss counselor or therapist can help people lose weight. Intensive behavioral therapy (IBT) provides a structured approach to changing habits and staying on track. IBT may be a good option for those who have not reached their goal weight by trying to eat less or move more on their own.
What is IBT?
IBT is a type of behavior modification approach that combines different types of therapy focused on changing your thoughts and responses. By adjusting how you think about food and activity, IBT can help you make changes that last. IBT can help you change your lifestyle through making better food choices and getting regular physical activity.
What does IBT involve?
IBT is provided by a mental health professional (such as a psychologist, weight-loss counselor, or therapist). IBT often includes:
- Goal setting
- Dietary changes with food tracking
- Regular physical activity
- Stress management
- Helping improve the way you think about food, your body shape and size, and your ability to meet your goals
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), such as guided relaxation techniques and coping strategies
- Monitoring your own progress, or self-monitoring
- Finding the best exercises for you to increase physical activity and strength
Programs are offered in many larger hospitals and health care centers. The programs often last 1 to 2 years and usually include 12 or more sessions in the first year. They may start with more frequent sessions, and then the sessions may be scheduled less often. Sessions can be done in person or virtually (online or by telephone).
However, finding and accessing IBT programs might be hard for some people. There may be limited or no programs available where you live, or a lack of insurance coverage for the programs.
How effective is IBT?
Results of studies using IBT for weight loss show that people can lose 5–10% of their body weight. This can be helpful in reducing some health risks, like lowering blood pressure and improving hemoglobin A1C levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Like any program or treatment for weight loss, it may be hard to maintain weight loss once you stop the program.
Research shows that IBT has also been helpful for managing problems like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and alcohol and drug use disorders.
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The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team
Our team is made up of doctors and oncology certified nurses with deep knowledge of cancer care as well as editors and translators with extensive experience in medical writing.
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Last Revised: September 9, 2025
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