Free Pilot · January 2027
A six-week small-group programme • Maximum 12 participants*
The programme itself is being offered free of charge as a pilot, apart from a small administration fee of 25 euros.
In return, participants will be asked to complete brief evaluations before, during and after the programme and provide honest feedback about their experience.
Why only 12 places?
This is deliberately a small group. Keeping the pilot to a maximum of 12 people allows for discussion, practical exercises and meaningful feedback while retaining a supportive group atmosphere.
Why free?
This is the first pilot of the LifePlus approach to emotional overeating. Your feedback will help us understand what is genuinely useful, what needs changing and how the programme should develop.
Future Online Programme
Following evaluation of this pilot, Dr Stephenson intends to develop a revised online version of the programme.
*IMPORTANT: This pilot is designed for people experiencing patterns of emotional overeating. It is not intended to provide treatment for diagnosed or suspected eating disorders, for which specialist assessment and support are necessary.
Where We Meet
The first LifePlus pilot – Tomar, Central Portugal
Six weeks • Face-to-face • Maximum 12 participants • 4-hour, weekly programme
January / February 2027 (dates & times TBC)
If you’re living in or around Tomar, Entroncamento, Torres Novas, Abrantes, Ferreira do Zêzere or the surrounding area, this small pilot may be for you.
The programme will be delivered in English.
Famed for its monumental 12th-century castle and Convent of Christ, these sessions will be delivered in Tomar – set in the heart of Portugal. It’s a space favoured since ancient times as a place of healing, with breathtaking views.
Why Choose Us
At Life Plus, you are guided by Mick and Karen, a highly experienced team specialising in sustainable weight loss and mindset change.
Mick is a former Harley Street associate psychotherapist, who spent over ten years supporting the mental well-being of elite sporting professionals.
Karen brings a supportive, practical approach to weight loss, ensuring every client feels understood, encouraged, and empowered throughout their journey.
Mick & Karen are the faces of LifePlus Wellness. Mick is the director of Lifeplus Ltd; a UK based company now offering a 6-week supportive programme for emotional overeating. This programme is limited to 12 attendees per session, and runs both virtually (UK) or 'face to face' in Central Portugal
Dr Mick Stephenson
Doctorate-Qualified Psychotherapist
I have over 30 years’ experience in mental health, including 10 years as an associate therapist at a Harley Street clinic supporting elite athletes. Since 2004, I have worked with clients affected by trauma, anxiety, depression, and unhealthy weight gain. A former university lecturer, I have taught internationally and developed stress and anxiety programmes, including for NHS staff. I hold a Doctorate (DCouns & DPsych), awarded with Pass Without Thesis Amendment.
Dr Mick Stephenson
Doctorate-Qualified Psychotherapist
Karen Stephenson
Head of General Practice
I started my working career in accounts and then, after having my children, moved to work within the NHS in General Practice, where I worked for over 25 years. My first role was on a temporary basis as a filing clerk and I eventually worked through the ranks at several practices, becoming an Assistant Practice Manager in a large practice in Leicester. I was responsible for HR, complaints, training staff, managing staff, chairing meetings and assisting the Practice Manager in any new projects and systems that were brought in. In 2020 I attended an MHFA Course, becoming a Mental Health First Aider in the Practice. I am currently retired, although I do some self-employed HR projects with my previous Practice Manager as and when required, and also work one day a week for LifePlus, ensuring the smooth running of the administration processes and organising the MHFA Courses that are run by Mick. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, quizzes, walking and Zumba, and am an avid Liverpool Football Club fan. I also enjoy most other sports and played netball for over 35 years.
Karen Stephenson
Head of General Practice
What We Do
Our sessions integrate meditation, CBT-informed approaches, EMDR-informed practices and breath-work, adapted to your experience level. Choose to focus on one practice or explore all elements to aid you in your journey to wellness.
The programme may include gentle bilateral tapping, calming/resourcing exercises and positive visualisation. These are introduced as self-regulation and wellbeing practices and are not presented as EMDR therapy or as a substitute for individual psychological treatment.
Curriculum
Your transformation extends beyond the practice room. We've designed every detail to support deep rest and renewal.
Food & Everyday Wellbeing
Exploring practical food choices and selected nutritional approaches that support general wellbeing.
Urge Surfing
Learning how to ride the wave of your passing urges.
Restraint
Practising the art of ignoring self-destructive behaviours.
Mindfulness
Slowing down, reconnecting, understanding.
Expectation Setting
Adding a touch of realism to optimism.
Day in The Life
Testimonials
Read a few selected reviews from people who previously joined us and started their weightloss journey through Life Plus Wellness
FAQ
This isn’t another diet.
There are no calorie targets, weigh-ins or prescribed diet plans.
Instead, we will explore what happens before, during and after emotional overeating, and introduce practical psychological and lifestyle strategies that help you develop a different relationship with food.
Our Journal
Explore reflections, guidance, and insights to support your mindful path towards inner balance and personal growth.
