Nutrition Counseling Nutritionists and Dietitians in 10126

Photo of Adrien Paczosa, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CEDRD-S
Adrien Paczosa
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CEDRD-S
Online Only
Hi, I'm Adrien Paczosa, a registered dietitian and certified eating disorder specialist and former founder at iLiveWell Nutrition. I am now at Nabi Health, a virtual group of HAES-aligned, trauma-informed Registered Dietitians.
Hi, I'm Adrien Paczosa, a registered dietitian and certified eating disorder specialist and former founder at iLiveWell Nutrition. I am now at Nabi Health, a virtual group of HAES-aligned, trauma-informed Registered Dietitians.
(206) 339-5675 View (206) 339-5675

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Shari Keats, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Shari Keats
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Tarrytown, NY 10591
As an RDN, my areas of expertise include celiac disease and the gluten-free diet, and other digestive disorders such as IBS and low FODMAP diet. I will help you navigate through these gastrointestinal issues with compassion and determination. I understand that getting a diagnosis can be overwhelming, and reshaping fundamental aspects of life, such as your daily diet, can be stressful. However, by prioritizing your needs and concerns, we will work together to help you develop strategies for food shopping, eating at home, dining out, and traveling. I want to ensure that you live your healthiest, nutritious, and happiest life!
As an RDN, my areas of expertise include celiac disease and the gluten-free diet, and other digestive disorders such as IBS and low FODMAP diet. I will help you navigate through these gastrointestinal issues with compassion and determination. I understand that getting a diagnosis can be overwhelming, and reshaping fundamental aspects of life, such as your daily diet, can be stressful. However, by prioritizing your needs and concerns, we will work together to help you develop strategies for food shopping, eating at home, dining out, and traveling. I want to ensure that you live your healthiest, nutritious, and happiest life!
(914) 342-7359 View (914) 342-7359
Photo of Christine Jones-Howard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Christine Jones-Howard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Scarsdale, NY 10583
I offer personalized, science-grounded nutrition care tailored to your unique health goals and lifestyle. Whether you're aiming to safely use GLP-1 medications, manage gut issues, improve cholesterol or blood pressure, support women’s health from fertility through post-menopause, or lose or maintain weight, I build plans designed around you. Expect realistic meal strategies, sustainable habits, and ongoing support — all delivered with warmth, evidence-based guidance, and no judgment.
I offer personalized, science-grounded nutrition care tailored to your unique health goals and lifestyle. Whether you're aiming to safely use GLP-1 medications, manage gut issues, improve cholesterol or blood pressure, support women’s health from fertility through post-menopause, or lose or maintain weight, I build plans designed around you. Expect realistic meal strategies, sustainable habits, and ongoing support — all delivered with warmth, evidence-based guidance, and no judgment.
(917) 746-3851 View (917) 746-3851
MultiSense Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10002
Hello! I am Leticia the owner of MultiSense Nutrition, LLC. If you are wondering if you should see a Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN), you came to the right place. As an RD I focus on balanced eating and don't want you getting bogged down by "healthy" versus "unhealthy". I use a client centered approach to nutrition for children and families. My 18 years of experience as as Registered Dietitian has provided me with the knowledge to provide comprehensive nutrition education and personalized nutrition planning.
Hello! I am Leticia the owner of MultiSense Nutrition, LLC. If you are wondering if you should see a Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN), you came to the right place. As an RD I focus on balanced eating and don't want you getting bogged down by "healthy" versus "unhealthy". I use a client centered approach to nutrition for children and families. My 18 years of experience as as Registered Dietitian has provided me with the knowledge to provide comprehensive nutrition education and personalized nutrition planning.
(551) 224-0492 View (551) 224-0492
Photo of Janet Lau - Nutrition Custom Care LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, CLT, Holisti, Coach
Nutrition Custom Care LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, CLT, Holisti, Coach
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many patients come to me struggling with emotional or stress eating, weight management, skin issues, digestive problems, mood and energy fluctuations, blood sugar irregularities, autoimmune conditions, inflammation, and lab abnormalities. These often stem from habits like disordered eating, poor food choices, inactivity, dehydration, and stress. Does this sound familiar?
Many patients come to me struggling with emotional or stress eating, weight management, skin issues, digestive problems, mood and energy fluctuations, blood sugar irregularities, autoimmune conditions, inflammation, and lab abnormalities. These often stem from habits like disordered eating, poor food choices, inactivity, dehydration, and stress. Does this sound familiar?
(201) 720-6671 View (201) 720-6671
Photo of Miriam Shurpin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Miriam Shurpin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Serves Area
As a Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist I strive to help my clients repair their relationship with food, improve their body image and uncover their self-worth. Through a combination of nutritional therapies based on scientific evidence, I teach my clients how to achieve innate health.
As a Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist I strive to help my clients repair their relationship with food, improve their body image and uncover their self-worth. Through a combination of nutritional therapies based on scientific evidence, I teach my clients how to achieve innate health.
(917) 935-4232 View (917) 935-4232
Photo of Janet Zarowitz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Janet Zarowitz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Serves Area
One size nutrition counseling does not fit all.
"Has it been a while since you felt well? Are you looking to manage your symptoms in the short term + heal in the long term?" As an Integrative and Functional Nutritionist + Certified LEAP Therapist, I work to uncover underlying root causes for your health conditions. A variety of symptoms can be traced to poor gut health. Whatever the root cause, I blend whole-food therapies, targeted nutrition supplements, + lifestyle changes to support your body's ability to heal + feel better. My approach is thorough + detailed. I utilize current health information, lab work, food logs, + track your historical health record and symptoms.
One size nutrition counseling does not fit all.
"Has it been a while since you felt well? Are you looking to manage your symptoms in the short term + heal in the long term?" As an Integrative and Functional Nutritionist + Certified LEAP Therapist, I work to uncover underlying root causes for your health conditions. A variety of symptoms can be traced to poor gut health. Whatever the root cause, I blend whole-food therapies, targeted nutrition supplements, + lifestyle changes to support your body's ability to heal + feel better. My approach is thorough + detailed. I utilize current health information, lab work, food logs, + track your historical health record and symptoms.
(914) 595-2833 View (914) 595-2833
Photo of Daniel Feldman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Daniel Feldman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Long Beach, NY 11561
How would you feel if you finally achieved your fitness goals? Just imagine if you were finally able to lose weight, gain muscle, or eat more healthfully, and do it in a sustainable way with expert guidance. This may seem impossible, given the confusing and conflicting nutrition information that we receive every day - but it is possible I accept most major insurances, and most of my clients see me for free!
How would you feel if you finally achieved your fitness goals? Just imagine if you were finally able to lose weight, gain muscle, or eat more healthfully, and do it in a sustainable way with expert guidance. This may seem impossible, given the confusing and conflicting nutrition information that we receive every day - but it is possible I accept most major insurances, and most of my clients see me for free!
(516) 558-5778 View (516) 558-5778
Photo of Jennifer Derfel - Jennifer Derfel Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Jennifer Derfel Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Serves Area
With a client centered approach, I provide individualized nutrition counseling people of all ages.
Areas of focus: weight management, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, eating disorders, auto-immune conditions, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, pregnancy/ breastfeeding/ post-partum, women's health, pediatrics. I accept insurance.
With a client centered approach, I provide individualized nutrition counseling people of all ages.
Areas of focus: weight management, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, eating disorders, auto-immune conditions, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, pregnancy/ breastfeeding/ post-partum, women's health, pediatrics. I accept insurance.
(914) 685-5376 View (914) 685-5376
Photo of Silvia Carolina Ross - SRoss Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
SRoss Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Woodside, NY 11377
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/breastfeeding/pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client! My method employs an integrative functional and holistic approach, along with structured lifestyle guidance. I offer group consultations and corporate events.
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/breastfeeding/pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client! My method employs an integrative functional and holistic approach, along with structured lifestyle guidance. I offer group consultations and corporate events.
(914) 415-6489 View (914) 415-6489
Photo of Nicole Holness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
Nicole Holness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
New York, NY 10018
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health. I’ve helped hundreds of women manage their PCOS, fertility, pregnancy, and find relief from endometriosis. With over a decade's experience in top NYC hospitals like NYU Langone and Mount Sinai, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care to women’s health. Beyond my clinical knowledge, I have a background in culinary arts—having earned a culinary degree and cooked in Michelin-star restaurants. Food is medicine, yet should be a joy, and I bring these experiences into my practice.
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health. I’ve helped hundreds of women manage their PCOS, fertility, pregnancy, and find relief from endometriosis. With over a decade's experience in top NYC hospitals like NYU Langone and Mount Sinai, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care to women’s health. Beyond my clinical knowledge, I have a background in culinary arts—having earned a culinary degree and cooked in Michelin-star restaurants. Food is medicine, yet should be a joy, and I bring these experiences into my practice.
(929) 264-5030 View (929) 264-5030
Photo of Lauren Adler Dear - Dear Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Dear Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Dear Nutrition we specialize in digestive health and eating disorders and have a particular interest in how the two intersect. For clients struggling with digestive issues, we help make changes to overcome pain and discomfort from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, GERD/reflux, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, ulcerative colitis, gastroparesis, and other GI-related conditions.
At Dear Nutrition we specialize in digestive health and eating disorders and have a particular interest in how the two intersect. For clients struggling with digestive issues, we help make changes to overcome pain and discomfort from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, GERD/reflux, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, ulcerative colitis, gastroparesis, and other GI-related conditions.
(617) 544-2647 View (617) 544-2647
Photo of Nicole Rodriguez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Nicole Rodriguez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Long Beach, NY 11561
Are you looking for simple, sustainable solutions to help you live your happiest, healthiest life? That's where I come in. Providing small, incremental changes that result in weight loss over time, you won't have to give up your favorite foods, social events, or family outings to reach your goals. If you're tired of fad diets and ready for lifestyle changes tailored specifically to YOUR needs, book an appointment today. Enjoy your food, enjoy your life - and lose weight!
Are you looking for simple, sustainable solutions to help you live your happiest, healthiest life? That's where I come in. Providing small, incremental changes that result in weight loss over time, you won't have to give up your favorite foods, social events, or family outings to reach your goals. If you're tired of fad diets and ready for lifestyle changes tailored specifically to YOUR needs, book an appointment today. Enjoy your food, enjoy your life - and lose weight!
(516) 666-4582 View (516) 666-4582
Photo of Abby Walker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
Abby Walker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
West Hempstead, NY 11552
My heart is in helping people just like you break free from the discomfort, frustration, and uncertainty that come with health struggles. I know how exhausting it can be to feel trapped in a cycle of pain, bloating, digestive distress, inflammation, or food sensitivities. I’m here to help you uncover the root causes of your symptoms, not just manage them, so you can heal from the inside out. I create personalized wellness plans that support your body’s natural ability to restore balance. My goal is to help you feel at home in your body again. strong, energized, confident, and free to live the life you deserve.
My heart is in helping people just like you break free from the discomfort, frustration, and uncertainty that come with health struggles. I know how exhausting it can be to feel trapped in a cycle of pain, bloating, digestive distress, inflammation, or food sensitivities. I’m here to help you uncover the root causes of your symptoms, not just manage them, so you can heal from the inside out. I create personalized wellness plans that support your body’s natural ability to restore balance. My goal is to help you feel at home in your body again. strong, energized, confident, and free to live the life you deserve.
(516) 969-8564 View (516) 969-8564
Photo of Leslie Anders, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, CDN
Leslie Anders
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, CDN
Hartsdale, NY 10530
I specialize in nutrition counseling for adults, adolescents and children regarding weight control, eating disorders, cholesterol abnormalities, auto-immune conditions, hypertension, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, and a number of additional medical conditions.
I assess a patient's medical history, blood/lab values, medications, and conduct weight/height, body composition, BMI and then carefully review their food,exercise and lifestyle details. Each patient is taught nutrition fundamentals and receive an individualized plan that is designed to be easily implemented in his/her daily routine .
I specialize in nutrition counseling for adults, adolescents and children regarding weight control, eating disorders, cholesterol abnormalities, auto-immune conditions, hypertension, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, and a number of additional medical conditions.
I assess a patient's medical history, blood/lab values, medications, and conduct weight/height, body composition, BMI and then carefully review their food,exercise and lifestyle details. Each patient is taught nutrition fundamentals and receive an individualized plan that is designed to be easily implemented in his/her daily routine .
(914) 269-8948 View (914) 269-8948
Photo of Jill Gulotta - Jill Gulotta Nutrition, PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LP-MHC
Jill Gulotta Nutrition, PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LP-MHC
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10607
Jill Gulotta, MS, RDN, CDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist and Therapist with offices in New York City and Tarrytown, NY. Jill holds a holds a Masters of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University.
Jill Gulotta, MS, RDN, CDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist and Therapist with offices in New York City and Tarrytown, NY. Jill holds a holds a Masters of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University.
(914) 240-2126 View (914) 240-2126
Photo of Drew Keelia Mulvey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, CNS, CLT, PNL1
Drew Keelia Mulvey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, CNS, CLT, PNL1
Serves Area
I take a holistic, root-cause approach to helping individuals understand their bodies on a biological and cellular level and develop personalized plans that move beyond diet culture, trends, and restrictive one-size-fits-all protocols. By connecting the mind and heart, I create individualized programs that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. I work with diverse clients — including active women and athletes — who feel frustrated, dismissed, or stuck despite their efforts to improve low energy, hormonal changes, digestive concerns, food sensitivities, or ongoing symptoms that have not been fully addressed.
I take a holistic, root-cause approach to helping individuals understand their bodies on a biological and cellular level and develop personalized plans that move beyond diet culture, trends, and restrictive one-size-fits-all protocols. By connecting the mind and heart, I create individualized programs that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. I work with diverse clients — including active women and athletes — who feel frustrated, dismissed, or stuck despite their efforts to improve low energy, hormonal changes, digestive concerns, food sensitivities, or ongoing symptoms that have not been fully addressed.
(475) 244-7238 View (475) 244-7238
Photo of Nicole Hallissey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Nicole Hallissey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
Before working with me you must call your insurance to determine if your plan covers nutrition counseling.
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify cooking with quick, easy recipes, and I'll share realistic strategies to make meal planning a breeze. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Currently, I only offer virtual sessions. Get started ASAP, book directly using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
Before working with me you must call your insurance to determine if your plan covers nutrition counseling.
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify cooking with quick, easy recipes, and I'll share realistic strategies to make meal planning a breeze. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Currently, I only offer virtual sessions. Get started ASAP, book directly using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
(551) 272-6869 View (551) 272-6869
Photo of Ariel Jay Flicker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CPT, Pn1, BS
Ariel Jay Flicker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CPT, Pn1, BS
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who feels like they want a change in their lifestyle, but they are missing the important pieces of knowledge needed to execute a plan. As a Certified Personal Trainer, Weight Management Specialist, and Certified Nutrition Coach - I have the experience and credentials to build you a full wellness plan to become the healthy and balanced individual you have dreamed of becoming! I myself used to struggle with weight and truly know what this experience is like. I am here to be your cheerleader and coach, your accountability buddy, whatever YOU need to succeed!
My ideal client is someone who feels like they want a change in their lifestyle, but they are missing the important pieces of knowledge needed to execute a plan. As a Certified Personal Trainer, Weight Management Specialist, and Certified Nutrition Coach - I have the experience and credentials to build you a full wellness plan to become the healthy and balanced individual you have dreamed of becoming! I myself used to struggle with weight and truly know what this experience is like. I am here to be your cheerleader and coach, your accountability buddy, whatever YOU need to succeed!
(458) 236-5886 View (458) 236-5886
Photo of Gabriela Barreto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CSSD
Gabriela Barreto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CSSD
Long Beach, NY 11561
I provide concierge online nutrition counseling and meal planning help implement nutrition practices to help you reach your needs while we heal together.
I am a Board Certified Sports Dietitian specializing in performance nutrition and eating disorders. I work with active gym goers, athletes, and student athletes fuel their training and performance while improving their relationship with food and body image. In my nutrition programs, I provide personalized, custom plans and coaching to athletes and intense exercisers fuel their training with the right foods to promote and support their lifestyle. My nutrition programs focus on health and performance, without restriction and dieting, and a focus on improving body image.
I provide concierge online nutrition counseling and meal planning help implement nutrition practices to help you reach your needs while we heal together.
I am a Board Certified Sports Dietitian specializing in performance nutrition and eating disorders. I work with active gym goers, athletes, and student athletes fuel their training and performance while improving their relationship with food and body image. In my nutrition programs, I provide personalized, custom plans and coaching to athletes and intense exercisers fuel their training with the right foods to promote and support their lifestyle. My nutrition programs focus on health and performance, without restriction and dieting, and a focus on improving body image.
(516) 928-4358 View (516) 928-4358
Nutrition Counseling Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is nutrition counseling?
Nutrition counseling refers to the services provided by a Registered Dietitian (RD) that focus on diet and nutrition. Individuals often seek nutrition counseling to make diet-related lifestyle changes, especially after being diagnosed with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. However, nutrition counseling is not limited to these cases, and it can often benefit anyone looking to improve their overall health. Nutrition counselors also often address other aspects of a healthy lifestyle within sessions, such as advising on physical activity, chronic disease management, and mental health. They provide guidance and motivation, often adopting a holistic approach to support clients in achieving their health and wellbeing goals.

Who should see a nutrition counselor?
Many people can benefit from seeing a nutrition counselor; however, individuals with (or at risk of developing) chronic medical conditions or who have specific dietary challenges (for example, IBS, Crohn's disease, etc.) may find a nutrition counselor particularly helpful. Nutrition counselors are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so consulting a dietitian if you have a chronic condition can be greatly beneficial. Nutrition professionals can help clients understand how their diet impacts their symptoms and suggest strategies to improve overall health. Additionally, dietitians can coordinate with other medical professionals, such as primary care physicians or specialty physicians, to help support the client's overall health.

What happens during a nutrition counseling session?
Nutrition counseling is fundamentally focused on a client's individual health goals. The initial session with a nutrition professional typically involves an evaluation, during which the dietitian seeks to understand the client's reasons for seeking nutrition counseling. This session typically includes discussing the client's health history, current eating habits, lifestyle, and specific nutrition counseling goals. In follow-up sessions, the client and dietitian will typically review progress toward these goals, and the dietitian may examine the client's food intake and suggest areas for improvement. They may also educate the client on diet-related topics, such as ensuring adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables or reducing sodium intake. Additionally, nutrition counselors can help clients stay accountable for other lifestyle changes that support overall health, such as regular exercise, smoking cessation, or moderating alcohol consumption.

What should I look for in a nutrition counselor?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from managing medical conditions to addressing lifestyle concerns like weight loss or specific dietary requirements. When looking for a nutrition counselor, it is essential to find someone with expertise in the area of nutrition relevant to your needs. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals in your area to determine the best fit. Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, making it important to look for a professional with RD credentials. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you may be interested in seeking out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR), as these credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area.