Melisa Bozdemir

Session Format & Structure:
My coaching sessions are typically 45-60 minutes, depending on what you need. Here's what a typical session might look like:
First Session:
We'll start with a relaxed conversation about you—your health goals, your relationship with food, what's been challenging, what's worked in the past. I'll ask questions about your lifestyle, food preferences, cultural background, and any health conditions. This isn't a clinical interrogation; it's me getting to know you so I can actually help. We'll end with clarity on what you want to achieve and what we'll focus on together.
Ongoing Sessions:

Check-in (10 mins): How did you get on since last time? What went well? What was tricky? No judgment—this is real life, not perfection.
Learning & Problem-Solving (30-40 mins): We'll dive into whatever you need. Maybe we're unpacking your relationship with carbs. Maybe we're building a meal plan that fits your schedule. Maybe we're strategizing how to handle family dinners or manage cravings. I explain the "why" behind nutrition in language that actually makes sense (no jargon unless you want it).
Action Plan (5-10 mins): We'll agree on 1-2 realistic things you'll focus on before our next session. Small, achievable steps—not overwhelming change.


Content & Dynamics:
I use a behaviour-change approach, not a diet-focused one. This means:

Evidence-based techniques like motivational interviewing to help you explore your own barriers and motivation (not me lecturing you)
Real-life problem solving — we talk about actual situations: packed lunches at work, eating out with friends, managing cravings late at night, dealing with a diagnosis
Meal planning that's practical and fits YOUR preferences, not a generic template
Nutrition education delivered clearly — understanding carbs, protein, portion sizes, reading labels, managing conditions like diabetes or weight
Cultural & personal respect — I adapt advice to your background, food preferences, family dynamics, and lifestyle

I might use:

Visual tools (explaining concepts with diagrams or examples)
Simple meal planning templates tailored to you
Evidence-based strategies for behaviour change
Digital resources I share between sessions

The tone is warm, encouraging, and honest. You won't feel judged. You will feel genuinely supported.

My Experience Backing This:
I've done this in multiple settings:

1-on-1 clinical work: I've supported dozens of individuals through diabetes management, weight concerns, and rebuilding confidence around food. Real people, real barriers, real solutions.
Group education: I've designed and delivered sessions on nutrition topics to diverse groups—learning to communicate complex ideas clearly and adapt to different needs and literacy levels.
Diverse populations: I've worked with people from different cultural backgrounds, ages, and health conditions. I deeply understand that food isn't just calories—it's culture, family, emotion, practicality.
Behaviour change specialist: My training and experience centre on motivational interviewing and sustainable change—not quick fixes or restrictive diets.