Nutritionists and Dietitians in 75217

Photo of Ashley Yunker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDS
Ashley Yunker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDS
Online Only
Hi! My name is Ashley and I’m a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist who is committed to helping teens and adults heal their relationship with food, movement, and their bodies. Working with me means we take a non-diet approach, all foods fit, and treatment is individualized. Clients I work well with are those with active eating disorders or enduring eating disorders, neurodivergent clients, and clients with co-occurring substance use/addiction and/or trauma.
Hi! My name is Ashley and I’m a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist who is committed to helping teens and adults heal their relationship with food, movement, and their bodies. Working with me means we take a non-diet approach, all foods fit, and treatment is individualized. Clients I work well with are those with active eating disorders or enduring eating disorders, neurodivergent clients, and clients with co-occurring substance use/addiction and/or trauma.
(972) 474-8870 View (972) 474-8870

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Jun Zhao - Diabesity Specialist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDCES, RD, LD, MS
Diabesity Specialist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDCES, RD, LD, MS
Serves Area
I faced significant health challenges growing up, struggling with Inflammatory Bowel Disease throughout my childhood and into adulthood. My interest in nutrition grew as I realized it could greatly improve my quality of life. I strongly believe in the power of food as medicine, as it has transformed my health and benefited my entire family. Additionally, I developed a deep interest in diabetes care, which led me to become a Board-Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist 25+ years ago. I've helped many patients lower their A1C levels and achieve significant weight loss and improve stamina through simple lifestyle changes.
I faced significant health challenges growing up, struggling with Inflammatory Bowel Disease throughout my childhood and into adulthood. My interest in nutrition grew as I realized it could greatly improve my quality of life. I strongly believe in the power of food as medicine, as it has transformed my health and benefited my entire family. Additionally, I developed a deep interest in diabetes care, which led me to become a Board-Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist 25+ years ago. I've helped many patients lower their A1C levels and achieve significant weight loss and improve stamina through simple lifestyle changes.
(817) 934-5212 View (817) 934-5212
Photo of Prem Singh - Smart Nutrition LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CNSC
Smart Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CNSC
Frisco, TX 75034
I help individuals manage diabetes, improve digestion, and reach a healthy weight through personalized, practical, and compassionate nutrition care. Many people I work with are motivated to improve their health but feel unsure where to start. They’ve tried eating better, counting carbs, or following online plans, yet still struggle with blood sugar, digestive discomfort, or weight that won’t budge. My approach focuses on simplifying nutrition, providing realistic strategies that fit your lifestyle, and creating habits that bring more energy, balance, and confidence back to daily life.
I help individuals manage diabetes, improve digestion, and reach a healthy weight through personalized, practical, and compassionate nutrition care. Many people I work with are motivated to improve their health but feel unsure where to start. They’ve tried eating better, counting carbs, or following online plans, yet still struggle with blood sugar, digestive discomfort, or weight that won’t budge. My approach focuses on simplifying nutrition, providing realistic strategies that fit your lifestyle, and creating habits that bring more energy, balance, and confidence back to daily life.
(469) 727-3523 View (469) 727-3523
Photo of Stacie Vanessa Ellis - Excellis Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LD
Excellis Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LD
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Dr. Stacie Ellis, RDN, LD is a Registered Dietitian with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in weight loss/gain, eating disorders, emotional/stress eating, performance/sports nutrition, nutrition for aesthetic demanding sports/fields, and medical nutrition therapy for many chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalance, and much more. Excellis Nutrition offers one-on-one consultations/coaching, group classes, cooking classes, and partners with a number of organizations including athletic teams, non-profit, and corporate. Contact Dr. Ellis today to find out how Excellis Nutrition can help you!
Dr. Stacie Ellis, RDN, LD is a Registered Dietitian with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in weight loss/gain, eating disorders, emotional/stress eating, performance/sports nutrition, nutrition for aesthetic demanding sports/fields, and medical nutrition therapy for many chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalance, and much more. Excellis Nutrition offers one-on-one consultations/coaching, group classes, cooking classes, and partners with a number of organizations including athletic teams, non-profit, and corporate. Contact Dr. Ellis today to find out how Excellis Nutrition can help you!
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Photo of Roger E Adams, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, CISSN, ACE-CPT
Roger E Adams
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, CISSN, ACE-CPT
Dallas, TX 75219
PLEASE note: I do not take insurance, but I do accept all credit cards. No one has the same nutritional needs. Therefore, I customize each nutrition program to fit your individual needs by working one-on-one with you as you strive to meet your personal nutrition and fitness goals. I believe the majority of nutrition or food related issues are behavioral in nature. Therefore, I work with you on identifying behaviors contributing to your eating problems and food-related issues. The plan I create with you will be specific for your needs and goals; you will succeed because the plan is yours, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
PLEASE note: I do not take insurance, but I do accept all credit cards. No one has the same nutritional needs. Therefore, I customize each nutrition program to fit your individual needs by working one-on-one with you as you strive to meet your personal nutrition and fitness goals. I believe the majority of nutrition or food related issues are behavioral in nature. Therefore, I work with you on identifying behaviors contributing to your eating problems and food-related issues. The plan I create with you will be specific for your needs and goals; you will succeed because the plan is yours, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
(330) 937-9801 View (330) 937-9801
Photo of Maria I Aguero de Manunta - Maria LifeStyle Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN, CHC
Maria LifeStyle Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN, CHC
Serves Area
My name is Maria Aguero de Manunta, and I have more than ten years of experience providing nutrition counseling and therapy in English and Spanish, specializing in weight management, chronic diseases, cardiometabolic disease, eating disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and other nutrition-related issues. I am passionate about helping people learn about healthy eating to make unique, positive lifestyle changes. I know that changing habits is not always easy, but I will work with you to achieve your goals by empowering you to make lasting and sustainable changes that put you on the path to success!
My name is Maria Aguero de Manunta, and I have more than ten years of experience providing nutrition counseling and therapy in English and Spanish, specializing in weight management, chronic diseases, cardiometabolic disease, eating disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and other nutrition-related issues. I am passionate about helping people learn about healthy eating to make unique, positive lifestyle changes. I know that changing habits is not always easy, but I will work with you to achieve your goals by empowering you to make lasting and sustainable changes that put you on the path to success!
(716) 869-6524 View (716) 869-6524
Photo of Jamie Schwartz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Jamie Schwartz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75228
Jamie is a Registered Dietitian with Health Loft who takes a compassionate approach to nutrition therapy by meeting people where they are in their personal journeys. She helps clients make incremental changes to restore a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Jamie understands the harmful nature of diet culture and provides care that is affirming, sustainable, and tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. Her experience allows her to identify distorted beliefs and unhealthy eating patterns and offer thoughtful, evidence-based guidance.
Jamie is a Registered Dietitian with Health Loft who takes a compassionate approach to nutrition therapy by meeting people where they are in their personal journeys. She helps clients make incremental changes to restore a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Jamie understands the harmful nature of diet culture and provides care that is affirming, sustainable, and tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. Her experience allows her to identify distorted beliefs and unhealthy eating patterns and offer thoughtful, evidence-based guidance.
(469) 960-5661 View (469) 960-5661
Photo of Susan Gleaton, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, FLT, CLT
Susan Gleaton
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, FLT, CLT
Serves Area
Struggling with digestive or autoimmune issues, or other chronic symptoms? Food may be a hidden trigger. As a Certified LEAP Therapist, I use the Mediator Release Test (MRT) to uncover your unique food sensitivities and guide your personalized LEAP protocol. Your immune system is as unique as a fingerprint—so your plan should be too. I combine nutrition, lab insights, and gut health support to calm inflammation, restore balance to the microbiome, and help your body heal. But most importantly, I listen.
Struggling with digestive or autoimmune issues, or other chronic symptoms? Food may be a hidden trigger. As a Certified LEAP Therapist, I use the Mediator Release Test (MRT) to uncover your unique food sensitivities and guide your personalized LEAP protocol. Your immune system is as unique as a fingerprint—so your plan should be too. I combine nutrition, lab insights, and gut health support to calm inflammation, restore balance to the microbiome, and help your body heal. But most importantly, I listen.
(903) 623-9105 View (903) 623-9105
Photo of Brittany Payton, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Brittany Payton
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
(615) 909-4087 View (615) 909-4087
Photo of Alisha Macas, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Alisha Macas
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Dallas, TX 75248
Hi! I'm Alisha, a registered dietitian with a passion for helping people form a healthy relationship with food and their body. Whether you're aiming to fuel for a marathon, navigating disordered eating or have health related goals in mind, I'm here to guide you to lasting, positive change. As a foodie at heart, I believe nourishing your body should be delicious and fun! I love getting creative with food, and finding new ways to make healthy meals taste as good as they make you feel.
Hi! I'm Alisha, a registered dietitian with a passion for helping people form a healthy relationship with food and their body. Whether you're aiming to fuel for a marathon, navigating disordered eating or have health related goals in mind, I'm here to guide you to lasting, positive change. As a foodie at heart, I believe nourishing your body should be delicious and fun! I love getting creative with food, and finding new ways to make healthy meals taste as good as they make you feel.
(331) 296-0758 View (331) 296-0758
Photo of Casey Bonano - Casey Bonano RD, LD, CEDS-C, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CEDS-C
Casey Bonano RD, LD, CEDS-C
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CEDS-C
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75251
Are you struggling with the stress of an eating disorder, disordered eating, emotional eating, and/or chronic dieting? Through nutrition counseling, we can work to normalize your relationship with food and free yourself from the restrictive and dieting mentality through Intuitive Eating. My goal is to help you navigate not just WHAT you are eating, but the HOW, WHEN, and WHY you are eating to figure out what food freedom and health look like for you through 1:1 or group nutrition sessions. I am passionate about learning my client's story and helping each person heal their relationship with food.
Are you struggling with the stress of an eating disorder, disordered eating, emotional eating, and/or chronic dieting? Through nutrition counseling, we can work to normalize your relationship with food and free yourself from the restrictive and dieting mentality through Intuitive Eating. My goal is to help you navigate not just WHAT you are eating, but the HOW, WHEN, and WHY you are eating to figure out what food freedom and health look like for you through 1:1 or group nutrition sessions. I am passionate about learning my client's story and helping each person heal their relationship with food.
(817) 727-8243 View (817) 727-8243
Photo of Alexandra (Alex) Leibold, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Alexandra (Alex) Leibold
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When was the last time food was FUN for you? If it’s been a while, I’d love to help you explore how food can be more than just necessary nourishment. Eating disorders take the social, cultural, and, frankly, the joy out of eating. My goal is to guide each client on their journey, teaching clients how to nourish themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.
When was the last time food was FUN for you? If it’s been a while, I’d love to help you explore how food can be more than just necessary nourishment. Eating disorders take the social, cultural, and, frankly, the joy out of eating. My goal is to guide each client on their journey, teaching clients how to nourish themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.
(646) 640-0390 View (646) 640-0390
Photo of Garland Niblett, Nutritionist/Dietitian, NBHWC
Garland Niblett
Nutritionist/Dietitian, NBHWC
Flower Mound, TX 75022
I am a licensed Nutritionist at Sunrise Wellness & Counseling, dedicated to creating personalized nutrition plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Certified by both the Primal Health Institute and the Institute for the Psychology of Eating, I specialize in the effective management of Type 2 Diabetes, obesity, and achieving sustainable weight loss. My personal journey, which includes overcoming PTSD, navigating medication challenges, and battling morbid obesity. This experience deeply enriches my ability to provide empathetic, knowledgeable, and compassionate support to my clients on their health and wellness journeys.
I am a licensed Nutritionist at Sunrise Wellness & Counseling, dedicated to creating personalized nutrition plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Certified by both the Primal Health Institute and the Institute for the Psychology of Eating, I specialize in the effective management of Type 2 Diabetes, obesity, and achieving sustainable weight loss. My personal journey, which includes overcoming PTSD, navigating medication challenges, and battling morbid obesity. This experience deeply enriches my ability to provide empathetic, knowledgeable, and compassionate support to my clients on their health and wellness journeys.
(972) 778-6849 View (972) 778-6849
Photo of Dharti Shah (Kidney Dietitian), Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CLT
Dharti Shah (Kidney Dietitian)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CLT
Serves Area
Being vegetarian is awesome. It can help your kidneys too, especially if you have been diagnosed with CKD. Patients often struggle to find the right diet for kidneys or are trying to make sense of 'food lists' given to them by their physician, not realizing that a renal diet is much more than a list of do's and don'ts. Timely nutrition therapy can delay or completely avoid the need for dialysis. That's huge! This is the opportunity window that many patients miss, ending up on dialysis, which in many cases, is life-long.
Being vegetarian is awesome. It can help your kidneys too, especially if you have been diagnosed with CKD. Patients often struggle to find the right diet for kidneys or are trying to make sense of 'food lists' given to them by their physician, not realizing that a renal diet is much more than a list of do's and don'ts. Timely nutrition therapy can delay or completely avoid the need for dialysis. That's huge! This is the opportunity window that many patients miss, ending up on dialysis, which in many cases, is life-long.
(512) 572-5006 View (512) 572-5006
Photo of Sophia Deahl, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFMCP
Sophia Deahl
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFMCP
Serves Area
Are you struggling with chronic symptoms such as low energy, brain fog, hormone imbalances, inflammation, or bloating? Do you have a history of dieting and a challenging relationship with food? Imagine a life where you can break free from these symptoms and dieting once and for all, while becoming the most vibrant version of yourself. I'm Sophia, a registered dietitian with a functional medicine certification. I help my clients reclaim their health and improve their relationship with food through a root-cause approach, coaching, and plan built for their body and goals. My motto is Eat Well. Find Balance. Live Fully.
Are you struggling with chronic symptoms such as low energy, brain fog, hormone imbalances, inflammation, or bloating? Do you have a history of dieting and a challenging relationship with food? Imagine a life where you can break free from these symptoms and dieting once and for all, while becoming the most vibrant version of yourself. I'm Sophia, a registered dietitian with a functional medicine certification. I help my clients reclaim their health and improve their relationship with food through a root-cause approach, coaching, and plan built for their body and goals. My motto is Eat Well. Find Balance. Live Fully.
(615) 488-3767 View (615) 488-3767
Photo of Sridevi Jagadeesan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, IFNCP
Sridevi Jagadeesan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, IFNCP
Serves Area
“My motivation for wellness was developed over 22-year period, nurtured by my own personal experiences. While practicing as RD in Dallas area, extending my services from Pediatrics to adults, I apply holistic concepts for healing, addressing the root cause through the lens of functional nutrition. The overall combined knowledge gained as a biochemist and registered dietitian helped me to understand the core of one’s body’s healing mechanism and epigenetic approach in nutritional healing.
“My motivation for wellness was developed over 22-year period, nurtured by my own personal experiences. While practicing as RD in Dallas area, extending my services from Pediatrics to adults, I apply holistic concepts for healing, addressing the root cause through the lens of functional nutrition. The overall combined knowledge gained as a biochemist and registered dietitian helped me to understand the core of one’s body’s healing mechanism and epigenetic approach in nutritional healing.
(214) 949-4690 View (214) 949-4690
Photo of Rosemary Rodriguez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Rosemary Rodriguez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Serves Area
Are you tired of feeling confused about what to eat and frustrated by symptoms that seem to run your life? Many of my clients are living with conditions like weight issues, stress eating, diabetes, PCOS, IBS, IBD, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, endometriosis, or are navigating menopause. You want clarity, relief, and a sustainable plan, not a "quick fix" or restrictive diet. My clients want to address the root cause of their symptoms, support their hormones, or improve lab results, while developing a healthier relationship with food and body image. My clients want to see real results and feel empowered in their health.
Are you tired of feeling confused about what to eat and frustrated by symptoms that seem to run your life? Many of my clients are living with conditions like weight issues, stress eating, diabetes, PCOS, IBS, IBD, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, endometriosis, or are navigating menopause. You want clarity, relief, and a sustainable plan, not a "quick fix" or restrictive diet. My clients want to address the root cause of their symptoms, support their hormones, or improve lab results, while developing a healthier relationship with food and body image. My clients want to see real results and feel empowered in their health.
(817) 985-4415 View (817) 985-4415
Photo of Shelby Bradford, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MCN, RD, LD
Shelby Bradford
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MCN, RD, LD
Dallas, TX 75231
Hello! I am a clinical dietitian with an interest in disordered eating behaviors. When I was in high school I saw a lot of my peers struggling with body image, self esteem, and disordered eating. This led me to major in both nutrition and psychology in my undergraduate studies. In my dietary counseling sessions, I provide evidence-based information based on years of experience as a clinical dietitian within a Health At Every Size (HAES) framework. That means I'm focused on your health first, not just your weight. When you decide to work with me you will gain the tools necessary to make healthful decisions with confidence.
Hello! I am a clinical dietitian with an interest in disordered eating behaviors. When I was in high school I saw a lot of my peers struggling with body image, self esteem, and disordered eating. This led me to major in both nutrition and psychology in my undergraduate studies. In my dietary counseling sessions, I provide evidence-based information based on years of experience as a clinical dietitian within a Health At Every Size (HAES) framework. That means I'm focused on your health first, not just your weight. When you decide to work with me you will gain the tools necessary to make healthful decisions with confidence.
(469) 425-3474 View (469) 425-3474
Photo of Lesley Lovely, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDE
Lesley Lovely
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDE
Arlington, TX 76001
I am currently only seeing new patients on Nourish. If you wish to schedule with me, please go to Nourish and search for my name and complete the steps to schedule a new patient appointment. In my practice I specialize in helping people with blood sugar issues (pre-diabetes, diabetes) and those with high cholesterol, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and celiac disease, learn to eat differently to improve these medical conditions. I also work with people who desire to lose weight. I focus on completing a thorough assessment to help guide me in developing your meal plan.
I am currently only seeing new patients on Nourish. If you wish to schedule with me, please go to Nourish and search for my name and complete the steps to schedule a new patient appointment. In my practice I specialize in helping people with blood sugar issues (pre-diabetes, diabetes) and those with high cholesterol, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and celiac disease, learn to eat differently to improve these medical conditions. I also work with people who desire to lose weight. I focus on completing a thorough assessment to help guide me in developing your meal plan.
(817) 318-7460 View (817) 318-7460
Photo of Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS-C
Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS-C
Dallas, TX 75206
Now accepting new clients! Nutrition DiscoveRD specializes in eating disorder recovery, sports nutrition, managing PCOS, and improving relationships with food and body image after chronic dieting. Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise, RDN, LD, CEDS-C, provides personalized, non-diet, weight-neutral care tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whether you are seeking support for eating concerns, navigating disordered eating patterns, or looking to optimize athletic performance, our approach emphasizes nutrition education, challenging diet culture, and fostering a positive, sustainable relationship with food and your body.
Now accepting new clients! Nutrition DiscoveRD specializes in eating disorder recovery, sports nutrition, managing PCOS, and improving relationships with food and body image after chronic dieting. Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise, RDN, LD, CEDS-C, provides personalized, non-diet, weight-neutral care tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whether you are seeking support for eating concerns, navigating disordered eating patterns, or looking to optimize athletic performance, our approach emphasizes nutrition education, challenging diet culture, and fostering a positive, sustainable relationship with food and your body.
(972) 808-5209 View (972) 808-5209
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in 75217?

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.