Nutritionists and Dietitians near Barrie, ON
![Photo of Eve Laws, RD, MAN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ae8c9d87-3de9-44b2-b9ed-642e2c29a778/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is Eve Laws and I have been a Registered Dietitian for over 8 years working specifically in Individual counselling. I have an Undergrad and Masters degree in Nutrition from the University of Guelph. My specialty is working with clients with digestive concerns and autoimmune diseases. I also love working with clients that just want to feel better about themselves and food by using nutrition as part of their self-care routine.
Welcome! My name is Eve Laws and I have been a Registered Dietitian for over 8 years working specifically in Individual counselling. I have an Undergrad and Masters degree in Nutrition from the University of Guelph. My specialty is working with clients with digestive concerns and autoimmune diseases. I also love working with clients that just want to feel better about themselves and food by using nutrition as part of their self-care routine.
![Photo of Laura Coxson, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7a3395db-44a3-463c-a6ef-122364978af5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric and adult nutrition. I work with people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, hypercholesterolemia and more. I have worked at The Hospital for Sick Children (NICU, organ transplant program, neurosurgery/trauma/plastics program), the University of Toronto, community care settings and cancer care programs.
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric and adult nutrition. I work with people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, hypercholesterolemia and more. I have worked at The Hospital for Sick Children (NICU, organ transplant program, neurosurgery/trauma/plastics program), the University of Toronto, community care settings and cancer care programs.
![Photo of Zeynep Cam, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b2b73705-d7e2-45f8-b5a1-bc5cb280e330/1/320x400.png)
I am a Registered Dietitian (RD) providing services to individuals from infants-seniors & athletes in Ontario. From my personal & professional experiences, I have found that individuals who achieve long term sustainability on nutrition have the feeling of power & ability to control their life- that’s why I’m here. As a RD who aims to enable clients to have the knowledge & information to choose what is best for them, I am committed to a holistic approach that addresses both emotional & physical well-being. Each person is unique & I tailor my approach to my clients’ current lifestyle, goals & past experiences with empathy & care.
I am a Registered Dietitian (RD) providing services to individuals from infants-seniors & athletes in Ontario. From my personal & professional experiences, I have found that individuals who achieve long term sustainability on nutrition have the feeling of power & ability to control their life- that’s why I’m here. As a RD who aims to enable clients to have the knowledge & information to choose what is best for them, I am committed to a holistic approach that addresses both emotional & physical well-being. Each person is unique & I tailor my approach to my clients’ current lifestyle, goals & past experiences with empathy & care.
![Photo of Theresa Silverthorn, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/89ae8742-3eb9-402b-adec-139b85997776/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW patients. I have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. I have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
![Photo of Elena Usdenski, RD, MScFN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a9d7ebc6-b53b-4fcc-ac6b-ba51df20d143/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work virtually with motivated individuals or couples (in Ontario) who are actively trying to conceive or planning for pregnancy. They seek evidence-based information and personalized guidance to optimize their fertility and prenatal nutrition. With concerns about their current diet, lifestyle choices, or specific medical conditions, they are driven to provide the best start for their future child. They value the role of nutrition in this process and are open to making positive changes. Ultimately, their goal is to create a healthy, nurturing environment for their little one to thrive.
I work virtually with motivated individuals or couples (in Ontario) who are actively trying to conceive or planning for pregnancy. They seek evidence-based information and personalized guidance to optimize their fertility and prenatal nutrition. With concerns about their current diet, lifestyle choices, or specific medical conditions, they are driven to provide the best start for their future child. They value the role of nutrition in this process and are open to making positive changes. Ultimately, their goal is to create a healthy, nurturing environment for their little one to thrive.
![Photo of Brittany Allison, MHSc, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7b841132-00ba-4438-b8ff-597fb82a4b2f/4/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with emotional eating, overeating, binge eating, and poor body image? Feel like you don't know when you're hungry, or when you're comfortably full? Unsure what your version of normal, balanced eating looks like without the all or nothing? I'm here to help you take back your power and mental energy from food, reconnect with your body’s cues, and develop a more neutral body image. Ready to break up with dieting, food rules, and body shame? Book a free consult and let's chat about how you can start healing your relationship with food and your body.
Do you struggle with emotional eating, overeating, binge eating, and poor body image? Feel like you don't know when you're hungry, or when you're comfortably full? Unsure what your version of normal, balanced eating looks like without the all or nothing? I'm here to help you take back your power and mental energy from food, reconnect with your body’s cues, and develop a more neutral body image. Ready to break up with dieting, food rules, and body shame? Book a free consult and let's chat about how you can start healing your relationship with food and your body.
![Photo of Lisa Gauthier, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6bf726ed-0e1c-489e-9f2d-2a1ee6192227/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nutrition made simple for the whole family. As a Registered Dietitian, I provide science-backed nutrition recommendations that are personalized to meet your unique needs. In-person and virtual appointments are available for families in the Greater Sudbury area.
Nutrition made simple for the whole family. As a Registered Dietitian, I provide science-backed nutrition recommendations that are personalized to meet your unique needs. In-person and virtual appointments are available for families in the Greater Sudbury area.
![Photo of Jenna Zaika, BASc, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f5e143bc-0b6c-4a3f-81a1-3ce87d44e85b/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to support you in finding ways to nourish your body AND your soul, while incorporating all of the foods that bring you joy. I use a warm, weight-inclusive, compassionate, and refreshing approach. If you have lost the joy of eating, are tired of restricting foods (especially the ones you love!), dieting, adhering to ‘food rules’, counting calories, weighing yourself, and doing exercises that you dread, it may be time to try a new and refreshing approach. In-person & virtual apts available! Covered by many health benefit plans.
My mission is to support you in finding ways to nourish your body AND your soul, while incorporating all of the foods that bring you joy. I use a warm, weight-inclusive, compassionate, and refreshing approach. If you have lost the joy of eating, are tired of restricting foods (especially the ones you love!), dieting, adhering to ‘food rules’, counting calories, weighing yourself, and doing exercises that you dread, it may be time to try a new and refreshing approach. In-person & virtual apts available! Covered by many health benefit plans.
![Photo of Heather Emily Bray - Heather Bray, RD | Behind the Plate, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/89a5e69d-7fc1-4b88-b89a-2584fee666cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Bray, RD | Behind the Plate
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
The world of nutrition can be so confusing, how do you know if you're receiving true science-based information? You want to take charge of your nutrition and health but need some guidance to help get you started, that's what I'm here for! I take a collaborative, judgement-free, non-diet approach to nutrition counselling to help my clients achieve their health goals. I love to help clients ditch extreme dieting and make peace with food! Working with me means that you'll have a compassionate and supportive member of your healthcare team to provide you with the truth and nutrition info Behind your Plate!
The world of nutrition can be so confusing, how do you know if you're receiving true science-based information? You want to take charge of your nutrition and health but need some guidance to help get you started, that's what I'm here for! I take a collaborative, judgement-free, non-diet approach to nutrition counselling to help my clients achieve their health goals. I love to help clients ditch extreme dieting and make peace with food! Working with me means that you'll have a compassionate and supportive member of your healthcare team to provide you with the truth and nutrition info Behind your Plate!
![Photo of Selene Yan, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5ac86a22-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel out of control with eating? Are you confused about nutrition and how to feed your body? I'm a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor with over ten years of experience in nutrition counselling. Instead of following fad diets that often lead to guilt around eating, I can guide you to eat in a way that is flexible and realistic. My goals are to help you develop a satisfying relationship with food while also meeting your body's nutrition needs so that you can feel well and have the energy to meet the demands of daily life.
Do you feel out of control with eating? Are you confused about nutrition and how to feed your body? I'm a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor with over ten years of experience in nutrition counselling. Instead of following fad diets that often lead to guilt around eating, I can guide you to eat in a way that is flexible and realistic. My goals are to help you develop a satisfying relationship with food while also meeting your body's nutrition needs so that you can feel well and have the energy to meet the demands of daily life.
![Photo of Danielle Goobie - The Nourished Way (Danielle), RHN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3475fd2d-b368-477c-9c65-1354cb613df3/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Nourished Way (Danielle)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RHN
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3Y (Online Only)
I'm Danielle, Registered Holistic Nutritionist who believes that our bodies speak to us in symptoms and that these symptoms never happen at random. After years of hormone and gut issues myself, I'm on a mission to guide women who feel stuck with their health to find and address the root causes of their health issues so that they can feel confident in the their skin. I specialize in hormonal and digestive issues such as hypothyroidism, exhaustion and burnout, weight loss resistance, infertility, diabetes, bloating, food sensitivities, constipation, acne and painful periods.
I'm Danielle, Registered Holistic Nutritionist who believes that our bodies speak to us in symptoms and that these symptoms never happen at random. After years of hormone and gut issues myself, I'm on a mission to guide women who feel stuck with their health to find and address the root causes of their health issues so that they can feel confident in the their skin. I specialize in hormonal and digestive issues such as hypothyroidism, exhaustion and burnout, weight loss resistance, infertility, diabetes, bloating, food sensitivities, constipation, acne and painful periods.
15 Second Videos
Eve Laws
Zeynep Cam
Theresa Silverthorn
Heather Bray, RD | Behind the Plate
Selene Yan
![Photo of Natasha Beatson Registered Dietitian, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3c4482e9-4e2c-4d78-b6c3-023e3eac9b95/1/320x400.png)
Natasha Beatson Registered Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collingwood, ON L9Y (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting clients. Do you often feel that mealtimes are a struggle for your family? Do you have a “picky-eater” (selective eater)? Are you worried your child, or another family member is struggling with an eating disorder? Are you feeling overwhelmed with a new diagnosis or struggling with how to manage your heart health and diabetes? Clients that work with me will gain the tools and confidence they need for peaceful meals, learn how to nourish their body for eating disorder recovery, feel empowered in their food choices specific for their health condition, and learn how to make nutrition simple.
I am not currently accepting clients. Do you often feel that mealtimes are a struggle for your family? Do you have a “picky-eater” (selective eater)? Are you worried your child, or another family member is struggling with an eating disorder? Are you feeling overwhelmed with a new diagnosis or struggling with how to manage your heart health and diabetes? Clients that work with me will gain the tools and confidence they need for peaceful meals, learn how to nourish their body for eating disorder recovery, feel empowered in their food choices specific for their health condition, and learn how to make nutrition simple.
![Photo of Catherine Lin, RD, CDE, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/457bd0c5-195c-41cd-92d1-540a8c944650/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
Accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Elke Sengmueller, RD, RN, BASc, BScN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/580b8bcf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elke Sengmueller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RN, BASc, BScN
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Waitlist for new clients
ALERT: Wait list CLOSED until August. N.B.: I do NOT offer weight loss counselling. I have worked over 25 years caring for Surgery, ICU, Gastroenterology, Paediatrics (newborn to teens), Eating Disorders (all ages), and Mental Health/Addictions/Trauma clients. I use my extensive clinical experience and current evidence-based research, combined with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, to help motivated clients improve their physical and emotional health, while mending their relationship with food. I am also a Registered Nurse, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive care.
ALERT: Wait list CLOSED until August. N.B.: I do NOT offer weight loss counselling. I have worked over 25 years caring for Surgery, ICU, Gastroenterology, Paediatrics (newborn to teens), Eating Disorders (all ages), and Mental Health/Addictions/Trauma clients. I use my extensive clinical experience and current evidence-based research, combined with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, to help motivated clients improve their physical and emotional health, while mending their relationship with food. I am also a Registered Nurse, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive care.
![Photo of Michaela Marie Harron, MSc, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/4b51d38c-8c7e-4366-9d2d-fd0b45e5801c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michaela Marie Harron
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collingwood, ON L9Y
I am passionate about helping individuals make peace with food and reduce the stress around food. I believe in supporting the mental aspect of nourishment, as well as building sustainable habits to support wellness. No quick-fixes, but building a set of life-long skills to enhance your confidence with making food decisions that best support your needs. I practice using Intuitive Eating and HAES frameworks, and believe that every body shape and size is worthy. In my sessions, I incorporate body image work and tools to improve your relationship with food.
I am passionate about helping individuals make peace with food and reduce the stress around food. I believe in supporting the mental aspect of nourishment, as well as building sustainable habits to support wellness. No quick-fixes, but building a set of life-long skills to enhance your confidence with making food decisions that best support your needs. I practice using Intuitive Eating and HAES frameworks, and believe that every body shape and size is worthy. In my sessions, I incorporate body image work and tools to improve your relationship with food.
![Photo of Zeynep Cam, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/38c96103-1d87-4277-ad10-b9e95fd22e41/1/320x400.png)
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions. Whether you want to lose or gain weight, manage a chronic disease, or just work your overall eating habits, I am here to support you. I have helped several clients reach & maintain their goal weight, manage chronic disease, overcome digestive issues & develop a better relationship with food. I have also worked with many people who have struggled with their eating habits/eating disorders. I have helped them to overcome that and move forward in a healthy way. You're unique so I tailor my approach & meal plan to your current lifestyle, goals, needs & past experiences with empathy & care.
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions. Whether you want to lose or gain weight, manage a chronic disease, or just work your overall eating habits, I am here to support you. I have helped several clients reach & maintain their goal weight, manage chronic disease, overcome digestive issues & develop a better relationship with food. I have also worked with many people who have struggled with their eating habits/eating disorders. I have helped them to overcome that and move forward in a healthy way. You're unique so I tailor my approach & meal plan to your current lifestyle, goals, needs & past experiences with empathy & care.
![Photo of Cbt Wellness Virtual Services - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/52622662-c0b5-45dc-a64e-24f361aaab7b/1/320x400.png)
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y (Online Only)
We have a team of Registered Dietitians (RD), Naturopathic Doctors (ND), Social workers (MSW, RSW), registered psychotherapists (RD) and yoga instructors who are here to support you with your health and wellness goals. All clinicians offer free 15 mins consultations to ensure good fit. Daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available. Same day and next day openings! Services are often covered or partly covered through extended health benefit plans. All services are provided via phone or secure video.
We have a team of Registered Dietitians (RD), Naturopathic Doctors (ND), Social workers (MSW, RSW), registered psychotherapists (RD) and yoga instructors who are here to support you with your health and wellness goals. All clinicians offer free 15 mins consultations to ensure good fit. Daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available. Same day and next day openings! Services are often covered or partly covered through extended health benefit plans. All services are provided via phone or secure video.
![Photo of Colleen Miller, MHSc, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5acc0749-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
While exposed to many practice areas, Colleen has identified digestive health as the main area of focus for her private practice. Helping people improve their digestive health aligns with her strengths from previous work experience, her personal interests and an area she continuously seeks learning opportunities to grow through conferences and workshops. Colleen works with clients regularly for the following health conditions and interests: Allergies, food intolerances and food sensitivities Celiac disease Digestive concerns arising from surgery or disease such as bowel cancer Diverticulosis/diverticulitis Indigestion, bloat
While exposed to many practice areas, Colleen has identified digestive health as the main area of focus for her private practice. Helping people improve their digestive health aligns with her strengths from previous work experience, her personal interests and an area she continuously seeks learning opportunities to grow through conferences and workshops. Colleen works with clients regularly for the following health conditions and interests: Allergies, food intolerances and food sensitivities Celiac disease Digestive concerns arising from surgery or disease such as bowel cancer Diverticulosis/diverticulitis Indigestion, bloat
![Photo of Cheryl Ching, MSc, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/39fb69f6-753f-4592-9922-328fd3597b59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I specialize in pediatrics, where I help parents with infant feeding and making sure baby is following their own growth curve. We can discuss introducing solids, allergenic foods, family eating habits, and more! Additionally, I support adults in weight management by making small changes that are feasible and sustainable for life. I'm a firm believer that all foods fit (even your favourite foods). Developing a healthy relationship with food is a journey and with some guidance, we can reach there together.
Hello! I specialize in pediatrics, where I help parents with infant feeding and making sure baby is following their own growth curve. We can discuss introducing solids, allergenic foods, family eating habits, and more! Additionally, I support adults in weight management by making small changes that are feasible and sustainable for life. I'm a firm believer that all foods fit (even your favourite foods). Developing a healthy relationship with food is a journey and with some guidance, we can reach there together.
![Photo of Julia Stanislavskaia, RD, MScFN, BSc, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/63669b15-76e0-4dd7-a16e-49f486c87e0e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Stanislavskaia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MScFN, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Innisfil, ON L9S
If you are feeling unwell due to digestive symptoms, inflammation, fatigue, migraines, discomfort with your body and weight or mental health issues and feel that your problems may be related to food, contact me to explore how I can help you. I counsel on a wide variety of health issues from food sensitivities and eating disorders to weight management and heart health, among others. I work with people of all ages and have extensive experience in assessing and supporting complex patients with multiple conditions.
If you are feeling unwell due to digestive symptoms, inflammation, fatigue, migraines, discomfort with your body and weight or mental health issues and feel that your problems may be related to food, contact me to explore how I can help you. I counsel on a wide variety of health issues from food sensitivities and eating disorders to weight management and heart health, among others. I work with people of all ages and have extensive experience in assessing and supporting complex patients with multiple conditions.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Barrie?
To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, zip code, or a provider's name in the search bar at the top of the page. From there, you can filter by specialty, treatment technique, and gender to find a dietitian or nutritionist who matches your needs.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
The terms dietitian and nutritionist are often used interchangeably. However, there are actually key credential differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to keep in mind when seeking a nutrition professional.
A dietitian or registered dietitian (RD) has earned a degree in human nutrition and dietetics from an accredited program, completed supervised practice, and passed the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) administered by a provincial regulatory body. Only professionals who meet these requirements can call themselves a dietitian or registered dietitian and enjoy privileges like billing insurance.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counselling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
A dietitian or registered dietitian (RD) has earned a degree in human nutrition and dietetics from an accredited program, completed supervised practice, and passed the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) administered by a provincial regulatory body. Only professionals who meet these requirements can call themselves a dietitian or registered dietitian and enjoy privileges like billing insurance.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counselling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle concerns like weight loss or dietary requirements; however, it's always important to find a professional who is a good fit for you. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, your specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals near you to determine whether a dietitian or nutritionist may be a better fit.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Do I need a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
A referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice. However, for a nutrition service to be covered by insurance, a referral from a physician may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counselling, such as diabetes or hypertension. If insurance coverage is critical to a client's ability to see a dietitian, they should contact their insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed for nutritional counselling and to understand any potential co-pays or coverage limits that may apply in their individual circumstance.
How much does it cost to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
The cost of seeing a dietitian or nutritionist depends on a number of variables, including their location, their specialty, whether they take insurance, and the professional's experience and training. On average, the cost of out-of-pocket sessions with a dietitian or nutritionist in Canada ranges from $50-$150. In some cases, nutrition professionals will require a longer initial evaluation session that will cost more than ongoing follow-up sessions. Dietitians and nutritionists may also offer packages for clients interested in longer-term nutritional support; in such cases, they may charge monthly or other periodic fees for more comprehensive services, such as a combination of nutrition sessions and out-of-session coaching support. If nutrition services are covered by a client's insurance plan and they are eligible for coverage based on any referral requirements, the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a dietitian may be completely covered or significantly reduced.
Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?
If your insurance covers nutrition services, the cost is usually lower than paying out-of-pocket. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.