

The Psychology of Bariatric Surgery: What Really Happens in Assessment with Dr. Lynne Johnston (Part 1)
Inside Bariatrics by Aoife McMahon
S1 · E4
Jun 16, 2026
39:47
Episode notes
In Part 1 of this conversation with Consultant Clinical Psychologist Dr Lynne Johnston, we explore the psychological side of bariatric care and the factors that often sit underneath eating, body image, and weight-related struggles.
In this episode, we discuss:
- The role of psychology in bariatric assessment and support
- Why bariatric psychology is not simply a “gatekeeping” process
- Relationship with food, coping, and emotional eating
- Food as a coping strategy or “crutch”
Guest: Dr Lynne Johnston is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in private practice, specialising in health psychology, bariatric care, obesity, and supporting people before and after life-changing surgery. If you have any enquiries or wish to contact Lynne, please don’t hesitate to reach out using the links below -
Connect / Learn more:
- Follow Aoife McMahon on Instagram: @thatirishdietitian
- Work with me UK/Ireland: centreforliberatingnutrition.com
Keywords
bariatric surgery
bariatric podcast
weight loss surgery
gastric sleeve
gastric bypass
bariatric support
bariatric complications
dietitian bariatric
bariatric psychologist
life after bariatric surgery