Description:

The Masters in Behavioral Health Course provides an overview of psychosocial and biobehavioral aspects of metabolic and bariatric surgery, with a focus on novel research findings and relevant, timely clinical topics. The course is designed for psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, licensed counselors, psychiatric nurses, and other mental and medical health professionals who work with patients who have metabolic and bariatric surgery. This educational content is designed for an intermediate/advanced level.

Learning Objectives:

1. Elucidate the specialized role of behavioral health professionals in the assessment and treatment of individuals considering and undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery.
2. Summarize psychosocial and behavioral issues commonly present in individuals pursuing metabolic and bariatric surgery, changes that occur with surgery, and their association with outcomes.
3. Consider ways to improve and expand behavioral health assessment and treatment methods for patients pursuing and undergoing bariatric surgery.
4. Explore challenging clinical scenarios (including trauma, body image, weight recurrence, and the recommendation to delay surgery) in the treatment of patients pursuing and following metabolic and bariatric surgery and a process for navigating these scenarios.