Nutritionists and Dietitians in 28301

Photo of Joanna Amstelveen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN
Joanna Amstelveen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN
Serves Area
A recent study showed that the average American has gained 16 pounds during COVID. With each unhealthy increase in BMI you are likely not feeling your best and are putting yourself at risk for chronic diseases. If you are having trouble keeping a healthy weight and unsure of what to eat? Maybe you feel like you are doing everything right, but still aren't seeing the results you want. If you have tried "diets" but find yourself frustrated, let's try a different approach.
A recent study showed that the average American has gained 16 pounds during COVID. With each unhealthy increase in BMI you are likely not feeling your best and are putting yourself at risk for chronic diseases. If you are having trouble keeping a healthy weight and unsure of what to eat? Maybe you feel like you are doing everything right, but still aren't seeing the results you want. If you have tried "diets" but find yourself frustrated, let's try a different approach.
(904) 204-8453 View (904) 204-8453

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Anna Lor, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Anna Lor
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Fayetteville, NC 28304
You’re here because you’re ready for a change, but with all the conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling with low energy, inconsistent eating habits, or balancing your health goals with a busy life. I’m here to help you cut through the noise and create a personalized plan that works for you. Together, we’ll build sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle, whether it’s feeling more energized, improving performance, or simply finding joy in food again. You deserve to feel confident, supported, and in control of your health—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
You’re here because you’re ready for a change, but with all the conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling with low energy, inconsistent eating habits, or balancing your health goals with a busy life. I’m here to help you cut through the noise and create a personalized plan that works for you. Together, we’ll build sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle, whether it’s feeling more energized, improving performance, or simply finding joy in food again. You deserve to feel confident, supported, and in control of your health—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
(910) 597-4190 View (910) 597-4190
Photo of Miranda G Hayden, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Miranda G Hayden
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
Let Nutrition Therapy Works assist you with getting on the right track for managing your weight, diabetes, pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension and kidney function. With over 20 years of nutrition education experience, I would love to share my knowledge on how you can live a healthier life through proper nutrition and activity. With a combination of experience in chronic kidney disease (outpatient) and hemodialysis ( in-center), I would love to help you learn to preserve your kidney function through proper and specific kidney nutrition needs. There is only one you, you are important! You matter!
Let Nutrition Therapy Works assist you with getting on the right track for managing your weight, diabetes, pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension and kidney function. With over 20 years of nutrition education experience, I would love to share my knowledge on how you can live a healthier life through proper nutrition and activity. With a combination of experience in chronic kidney disease (outpatient) and hemodialysis ( in-center), I would love to help you learn to preserve your kidney function through proper and specific kidney nutrition needs. There is only one you, you are important! You matter!
(757) 600-0578 View (757) 600-0578
Photo of Sarah Poling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Sarah Poling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. With clients, I create safe space where her clients can discover their authentic selves, meet their needs while rediscovering joy, and work toward autonomy in their relationship with food and body.
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. With clients, I create safe space where her clients can discover their authentic selves, meet their needs while rediscovering joy, and work toward autonomy in their relationship with food and body.
(980) 351-3524 View (980) 351-3524

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Barbara Lewin - Sports-Nutritionist.com, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, LDN
Sports-Nutritionist.com
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a sports nutritionist and functional dietitian with 25+ years of experience helping athletes maximize performance and health. I work with: triathletes, Olympic contenders, pro football, hockey, and basketball. Runners and cyclists, endurance and ultra-endurance racers young and masters athletes. I create individualized plans to build lean muscle, reduce body fat, improve endurance and recovery, support hydration and injury prevention, and fine-tune fueling strategies. Whether you’re chasing a podium finish or simply want to feel and perform your best, I’ll help you get there with proven, practical guidance.
I am a sports nutritionist and functional dietitian with 25+ years of experience helping athletes maximize performance and health. I work with: triathletes, Olympic contenders, pro football, hockey, and basketball. Runners and cyclists, endurance and ultra-endurance racers young and masters athletes. I create individualized plans to build lean muscle, reduce body fat, improve endurance and recovery, support hydration and injury prevention, and fine-tune fueling strategies. Whether you’re chasing a podium finish or simply want to feel and perform your best, I’ll help you get there with proven, practical guidance.
(984) 213-5293 View (984) 213-5293
Photo of Rachael A Richardson - Rachael Richardson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Rachael Richardson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
For 25 years, I’ve helped people with complex medical conditions finally understand the root cause of their condition. Through nutrition education, counseling, targeted supplements, advanced labs, and holistic lifestyle strategies, I help uncover the root causes behind your symptoms and create a plan that actually works. Your body can heal and rebalance—you have more power than you’ve been told, and I’m here to guide you the whole way through!
For 25 years, I’ve helped people with complex medical conditions finally understand the root cause of their condition. Through nutrition education, counseling, targeted supplements, advanced labs, and holistic lifestyle strategies, I help uncover the root causes behind your symptoms and create a plan that actually works. Your body can heal and rebalance—you have more power than you’ve been told, and I’m here to guide you the whole way through!
(919) 420-3913 View (919) 420-3913
Photo of Allison Porter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Allison Porter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Wilmington, NC 28403
Hi! I’m Allison Porter, a Registered Dietitian specializing in eating disorders, functional nutrition, and the gut-brain connection. I specialize in all the A’s: anorexia, ARFID, autism, ADHD, autoimmunity, allergies, and anxiety (as well as other concerns that don’t start with A). I’m a very results-oriented dietitian. If you come to me with a problem, I will help you solve it. If you are following a protocol and not feeling significantly better, it’s not the right protocol for you. If you commit yourself to your working with me and you don’t feel noticeably better in a short amount of time, then I’m not doing my job.
Hi! I’m Allison Porter, a Registered Dietitian specializing in eating disorders, functional nutrition, and the gut-brain connection. I specialize in all the A’s: anorexia, ARFID, autism, ADHD, autoimmunity, allergies, and anxiety (as well as other concerns that don’t start with A). I’m a very results-oriented dietitian. If you come to me with a problem, I will help you solve it. If you are following a protocol and not feeling significantly better, it’s not the right protocol for you. If you commit yourself to your working with me and you don’t feel noticeably better in a short amount of time, then I’m not doing my job.
(910) 994-0217 View (910) 994-0217
Photo of Hannah Moss, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Hannah Moss
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Wilmington, NC 28403
At Loop Nutrition, our motto is “Change your life without changing it”. What we mean by that is we take your long-term wellness goals and break them down into small, impactful steps to get you there. We avoid uprooting your existing lifestyle; instead, we seamlessly integrate sustainable changes that become a natural part of your daily routine. Our approach is about fostering a positive relationship with food and creating lasting habits that lead to sustainable results.
At Loop Nutrition, our motto is “Change your life without changing it”. What we mean by that is we take your long-term wellness goals and break them down into small, impactful steps to get you there. We avoid uprooting your existing lifestyle; instead, we seamlessly integrate sustainable changes that become a natural part of your daily routine. Our approach is about fostering a positive relationship with food and creating lasting habits that lead to sustainable results.
(910) 569-9722 View (910) 569-9722
Photo of Kathryn Sayre, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Kathryn Sayre
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Durham, NC 27713
As a non-diet, Health at Every Size aligned dietitian, I enjoy working with individuals who want to better their lives through dietary and lifestyle changes. I've seen the positive effects of eating to nourish body and mind and the negative effects when clients are not meeting their nutrition needs. Working with clients to develop a plan to help meet their needs, often reducing physical and mental stress, is a passion of mine. We discuss individualized goals that work within the bounds of a person's lifestyle and preferences.
As a non-diet, Health at Every Size aligned dietitian, I enjoy working with individuals who want to better their lives through dietary and lifestyle changes. I've seen the positive effects of eating to nourish body and mind and the negative effects when clients are not meeting their nutrition needs. Working with clients to develop a plan to help meet their needs, often reducing physical and mental stress, is a passion of mine. We discuss individualized goals that work within the bounds of a person's lifestyle and preferences.
(973) 321-3698 View (973) 321-3698
Photo of Kristen Tageson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD
Kristen Tageson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am NOT here to be the food police, or tell you everything you are doing wrong with your eating. I started KT Nutrition with the goal of helping my clients challenge their negative beliefs about food in order to reestablish a healthy relationship with their own body. Our body is our most powerful ally in determining what and how much we need to eat, and unfortunately modern diet culture attempts to sever this relationship with shakes, pills, and other unhelpful "lifestyle changes". I believe that we reach our own optimal health and happiness when we are in tune with what our body needs, not what society tells us it needs.
I am NOT here to be the food police, or tell you everything you are doing wrong with your eating. I started KT Nutrition with the goal of helping my clients challenge their negative beliefs about food in order to reestablish a healthy relationship with their own body. Our body is our most powerful ally in determining what and how much we need to eat, and unfortunately modern diet culture attempts to sever this relationship with shakes, pills, and other unhelpful "lifestyle changes". I believe that we reach our own optimal health and happiness when we are in tune with what our body needs, not what society tells us it needs.
(919) 348-2683 View (919) 348-2683
Photo of Andrew Stillwagon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Andrew Stillwagon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Durham, NC 27707
If you’ve tried to eat healthier, manage a medical condition, or lose weight but felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me frustrated, tired of quick fixes, and ready for an approach that actually works for their real lives. I have a passion for making nutrition simple. Whether you’re looking to reach your weight goals, improve digestive health, or manage a chronic condition, my goal is to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way. I like to keep things friendly, practical, and lighthearted when the moment calls for it.
If you’ve tried to eat healthier, manage a medical condition, or lose weight but felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me frustrated, tired of quick fixes, and ready for an approach that actually works for their real lives. I have a passion for making nutrition simple. Whether you’re looking to reach your weight goals, improve digestive health, or manage a chronic condition, my goal is to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way. I like to keep things friendly, practical, and lighthearted when the moment calls for it.
(984) 367-5098 View (984) 367-5098
Photo of Kendra Leanne Gaffney - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Nutritious Thoughts, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Cary, NC 27511
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
(828) 348-5822 View (828) 348-5822
Photo of Riley Burns, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Riley Burns
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Wilmington, NC 28403
Riley is passionate about helping her clients redefine their relationship with food by providing them with a trauma-informed, gentle approach to nutrition, movement, and body neutrality. Her goal is to help her clients find strategies to nourish their bodies and see food as an act of self-care and a joyful experience. Riley takes a Health at Every Size approach to nutrition and sees eating disorder recovery through a social justice lense.
Riley is passionate about helping her clients redefine their relationship with food by providing them with a trauma-informed, gentle approach to nutrition, movement, and body neutrality. Her goal is to help her clients find strategies to nourish their bodies and see food as an act of self-care and a joyful experience. Riley takes a Health at Every Size approach to nutrition and sees eating disorder recovery through a social justice lense.
(910) 537-5094 View (910) 537-5094
Photo of Annika 'neeka' Rockwell, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LN
Annika 'neeka' Rockwell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LN
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I help women in perimenopause and beyond finally lose stubborn weight, calm inflammation and pain, restore energy and focus, improve digestion, and feel at home in their bodies again with simple, doable changes. One step at a time, I'll help you uncover metabolic, hormonal, and nutritional imbalances using targeted lab testing and diet analysis. I'll design a personalized plan for food, macros, movement, supplements, and lifestyle. You’ll receive a clear roadmap plus ongoing support and accountability so you feel supported every step of the way!
I help women in perimenopause and beyond finally lose stubborn weight, calm inflammation and pain, restore energy and focus, improve digestion, and feel at home in their bodies again with simple, doable changes. One step at a time, I'll help you uncover metabolic, hormonal, and nutritional imbalances using targeted lab testing and diet analysis. I'll design a personalized plan for food, macros, movement, supplements, and lifestyle. You’ll receive a clear roadmap plus ongoing support and accountability so you feel supported every step of the way!
(919) 372-4038 x702 View (919) 372-4038 x702
Photo of Lori Ragsdale - Nutrition 4 You - Lori Ragsdale RD,LDN,CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
Nutrition 4 You - Lori Ragsdale RD,LDN,CLT
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Are you confused by all of the nutrition information out there? I can help you to decipher fact from fiction. I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian who specializes in working with clients to see that eating healthy food has a great impact on their health. I provide personalized nutritional therapy for clients that have a wide range health and medical conditions. I have over 15 years of experience in a variety of areas from pediatric to geriatric. I prefer a holistic approach to eating that supports whole foods and strives to encourage clients to make practical lifestyle changes.
Are you confused by all of the nutrition information out there? I can help you to decipher fact from fiction. I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian who specializes in working with clients to see that eating healthy food has a great impact on their health. I provide personalized nutritional therapy for clients that have a wide range health and medical conditions. I have over 15 years of experience in a variety of areas from pediatric to geriatric. I prefer a holistic approach to eating that supports whole foods and strives to encourage clients to make practical lifestyle changes.
(984) 369-9789 View (984) 369-9789
Photo of Melissa Teel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Melissa Teel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Do you have a health challenge that you've struggled to overcome...even with medical help? Sometimes it seems like achieving great digestion, hormone balance, and high energy may be impossible to achieve...and that prospect can be daunting. As a Dietitian Nutritionist with additional expertise in Functional Medicine, I approach healthcare differently. I find and address root causes, provide individualized, realistic plans, and support you along your journey. The result is healthcare actually makes you healthier.
Do you have a health challenge that you've struggled to overcome...even with medical help? Sometimes it seems like achieving great digestion, hormone balance, and high energy may be impossible to achieve...and that prospect can be daunting. As a Dietitian Nutritionist with additional expertise in Functional Medicine, I approach healthcare differently. I find and address root causes, provide individualized, realistic plans, and support you along your journey. The result is healthcare actually makes you healthier.
(910) 665-8543 View (910) 665-8543
Photo of Katherine Maloney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, LN
Katherine Maloney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, LN
Raleigh, NC 27615
Many of the people I work with are living with autoimmune or chronic inflammatory conditions and feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, pain, digestive issues, brain fog, or food sensitivities. Often, they are following healthy advice but still don’t feel well. I help clients make sense of these patterns and understand how nutrition and inflammation are connected in their own bodies.
Many of the people I work with are living with autoimmune or chronic inflammatory conditions and feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, pain, digestive issues, brain fog, or food sensitivities. Often, they are following healthy advice but still don’t feel well. I help clients make sense of these patterns and understand how nutrition and inflammation are connected in their own bodies.
(919) 980-9550 View (919) 980-9550
Photo of Avance Nutrition-Onsite And Virtual Services - Avance Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Avance Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Raleigh, NC 27605
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
(984) 789-5087 View (984) 789-5087
Photo of Hillary Budkowski - Case Specific Nutrition , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Case Specific Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Raleigh, NC 27609
At Case Specific Nutrition, we base recommendations on the fundamental principle that there is no universal healthy lifestyle. Instead, energy intake, nutrient needs, supplementation, physical activity and lifestyle are tailored to each individual. Said another way, pursuit of a healthy lifestyle is ‘Case Specific’. All of our recommendations on this core belief. The concept of Case Specific Nutrition is a commitment to optimizing the health and wellness of our clients using diet and exercise as the catalysts for success.
At Case Specific Nutrition, we base recommendations on the fundamental principle that there is no universal healthy lifestyle. Instead, energy intake, nutrient needs, supplementation, physical activity and lifestyle are tailored to each individual. Said another way, pursuit of a healthy lifestyle is ‘Case Specific’. All of our recommendations on this core belief. The concept of Case Specific Nutrition is a commitment to optimizing the health and wellness of our clients using diet and exercise as the catalysts for success.
(984) 339-0250 View (984) 339-0250
Photo of Barbara Lewin - Barbara Lewin, RDN, CSSD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSSD, LDN
Barbara Lewin, RDN, CSSD, LDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSSD, LDN
Apex, NC 27502
Reverse Type 2 Diabetes-Lower your Cholesterol-Reduce Bodyfat-Fix Gut Issues. Less Reliance on Medications. I am a registered dietitian (RD), functional nutritionist and sports nutritionist. I will design a program that is realistic and fits your lifestyle. No pre-made or fad diets but a plan specifically designed for your best health and energy! Whether you want to improve your health and athletic performance or have specific health issues, I look at the root cause and not just managing the symptoms.
Reverse Type 2 Diabetes-Lower your Cholesterol-Reduce Bodyfat-Fix Gut Issues. Less Reliance on Medications. I am a registered dietitian (RD), functional nutritionist and sports nutritionist. I will design a program that is realistic and fits your lifestyle. No pre-made or fad diets but a plan specifically designed for your best health and energy! Whether you want to improve your health and athletic performance or have specific health issues, I look at the root cause and not just managing the symptoms.
(239) 319-4080 View (239) 319-4080
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in 28301?

To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, town, suburb, 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.

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 registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.

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 counseling, 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, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. 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 primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, 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 counseling 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 within the United States 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 licensed 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.