Bernadette van der Boom-Bebb

About Bernadette

The primary focus of my practice is bariatric and obesity counselling. I work with people who are either contemplating bariatric surgery, have been approved for bariatric surgery, or have had bariatric surgery. My role for these individuals is to assist in the life transitions that occur when undergoing bariatric surgery. Together with these individuals, we will look at how bariatric surgery is going to affect their lives in terms of their relationship with food, their relationships with other with whom food was the focus of their interactions, their coping mechanisms (setting in place skills to replace turning to food to cope), explore possible food addictions, create plans to keep motivated, review impetus for possible overeating, as well as many other aspects of the psychological care associated with bariatric surgery.

Other areas of focus in my practice include individuals who wish to embark on a weight loss journey. We will look at many of the same topics involved with those individuals who are taking part in bariatric surgery, as well as other aspects relevant to their specific cases.

My approach to obesity is that I look at obesity as a chronic disease. A disease that has multiple causes from medical (disease or medications), genetic, psychological, and social. People with obesity face a great deal of discrimination and insensitivity. My approach is empathetic, sensitive, and tailored to each individual who enters my office.