I am currently 5'8", 220 lbs, however, this is following a 6 mo period where i gained almost 70 lbs partly from overeating. would i benefit from a weight loss clinic or should i do something else 1st?

Anything: you can do will help. Eat less, exercise more, get some nutritional education, participate in an organized program, get some counseling -- but do something.

See your doctor: First, see your doctor and find out if you have any significant health problems- high blood pressure, etc. If you have an eating disorder with binging, you probably need to work on that first. Avoid strict diets- you may lose weight, but gain it right back. Find a good counselor specializing in eating disorders and they can help you with the best approach.

Diet and exercise: There is a simple formula to losing weight. calories out> calories in. You must improve the quality of food that you eat ( fruits / veggies/ lean meats), limit the quantity of food taken in, and exercise ( start with walking and swimming or walking in a pool, and light muscle training 4 x per week). Avoid weight loss surgery if at all possible.