Nutrition Counseling Nutritionists and Dietitians in 90803

Photo of Mary Ellen Banevedes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Mary Ellen Banevedes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Serves Area
Have you tried diets but can’t stick to them? Do you lose weight then regain it? Do you feel guilty about eating foods you love? Does exercise seem like punishment? Make peace with food and your body. NO MORE wasting your precious time and energy obsessing about what to eat. NO MORE restricting, bingeing and feeling out of control around food. NO MORE beating yourself up for every. single. thing. you. eat. You can experience a peaceful, pleasurable relationship with food and your body. You deserve to know who you are outside of dieting and hating your body, and to live a liberated life that feels good to you!
Have you tried diets but can’t stick to them? Do you lose weight then regain it? Do you feel guilty about eating foods you love? Does exercise seem like punishment? Make peace with food and your body. NO MORE wasting your precious time and energy obsessing about what to eat. NO MORE restricting, bingeing and feeling out of control around food. NO MORE beating yourself up for every. single. thing. you. eat. You can experience a peaceful, pleasurable relationship with food and your body. You deserve to know who you are outside of dieting and hating your body, and to live a liberated life that feels good to you!
(559) 235-1920 View (559) 235-1920
Photo of Valerie Henderson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Valerie Henderson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Serves Area
Are you tired of counting calories and monitoring macro intake? Have you tried multiple diets, cleanses and detox programs? Are you tired of trying to lose weight and just keep want to be healthy?At some point, most of us who have tried everything eventually feel drained lost and defeated. We all just want to eat and heal without worry of worsening a health condition or losing control of our weight. I help my clients develop a better relationship with food and their body. They learn how to listen to their body’s needs and eat real food instead of a diet full of manufactured products.
Are you tired of counting calories and monitoring macro intake? Have you tried multiple diets, cleanses and detox programs? Are you tired of trying to lose weight and just keep want to be healthy?At some point, most of us who have tried everything eventually feel drained lost and defeated. We all just want to eat and heal without worry of worsening a health condition or losing control of our weight. I help my clients develop a better relationship with food and their body. They learn how to listen to their body’s needs and eat real food instead of a diet full of manufactured products.
(424) 477-3181 View (424) 477-3181

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Keyser, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Lauren Keyser
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone feeling stuck in cycles of dieting, food rules, or body distress, often alongside anxiety, trauma, or other mental health concerns. They may feel disconnected from their body, overwhelmed by food decisions, or exhausted by trying to “get it right.” They want relief from constant food noise and a more peaceful, sustainable relationship with eating and their body. They’re seeking compassionate, weight-neutral support that honors their lived experiences, supports healing at their own pace, and helps them nourish themselves in a way that truly fits their real life—not rigid rules or quick fixes.
My ideal client is someone feeling stuck in cycles of dieting, food rules, or body distress, often alongside anxiety, trauma, or other mental health concerns. They may feel disconnected from their body, overwhelmed by food decisions, or exhausted by trying to “get it right.” They want relief from constant food noise and a more peaceful, sustainable relationship with eating and their body. They’re seeking compassionate, weight-neutral support that honors their lived experiences, supports healing at their own pace, and helps them nourish themselves in a way that truly fits their real life—not rigid rules or quick fixes.
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Photo of Julia Gibson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Julia Gibson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
(312) 494-0401 View (312) 494-0401
Photo of Melissa Ann Mathes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CSSD
Melissa Ann Mathes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CSSD
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My focus is to help athletes and active people meet their athletic, nutrition, and health needs and goals while achieving their optimal level of performance. My foundation of a primarily plant-based whole foods diet, with healthy lifestyle changes and evidence-based science sports nutrition recommendations, is designed to help athletes decrease the risk of injury and illness while meeting their athletic goals. My athletes will receive medical nutrition therapy (high cholesterol, etc.)if warranted, in addition to individualized sports nutrition guidance. I emphasize whole foods first and fuel supplements second if necessary.
My focus is to help athletes and active people meet their athletic, nutrition, and health needs and goals while achieving their optimal level of performance. My foundation of a primarily plant-based whole foods diet, with healthy lifestyle changes and evidence-based science sports nutrition recommendations, is designed to help athletes decrease the risk of injury and illness while meeting their athletic goals. My athletes will receive medical nutrition therapy (high cholesterol, etc.)if warranted, in addition to individualized sports nutrition guidance. I emphasize whole foods first and fuel supplements second if necessary.
(949) 247-8105 View (949) 247-8105
Photo of Dianna Reilly - Dianna Reilly Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Dianna Reilly Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and Health at Every Size (HAES) practitioner. I specialize in eating disorder recovery and helping people find food freedom. Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, tired of yo-yo dieting and weight cycling, or just feeling confused about how to eat, I am here to guide you towards the path to food freedom and Intuitive Eating. Every person has their own personal journey with food. I am here to listen and understand yours and find the most effective interventions individual to you.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and Health at Every Size (HAES) practitioner. I specialize in eating disorder recovery and helping people find food freedom. Whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, tired of yo-yo dieting and weight cycling, or just feeling confused about how to eat, I am here to guide you towards the path to food freedom and Intuitive Eating. Every person has their own personal journey with food. I am here to listen and understand yours and find the most effective interventions individual to you.
(424) 789-8780 View (424) 789-8780
Photo of Brooke Mader Ganev - South Bay Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
South Bay Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I am a board-certified Clinical & Integrative Nutritionist specializing in the functional medicine approach to nutrition. I help individuals find and address the root cause of imbalances rather than simply treating symptoms. In my practice, I provide individuals with personalized, whole-person care. I meet my clients where they are on their health journey. I believe every single person deserves to have the education and support they need in order to heal themselves and live a healthy life. I'd love to help you get started.
I am a board-certified Clinical & Integrative Nutritionist specializing in the functional medicine approach to nutrition. I help individuals find and address the root cause of imbalances rather than simply treating symptoms. In my practice, I provide individuals with personalized, whole-person care. I meet my clients where they are on their health journey. I believe every single person deserves to have the education and support they need in order to heal themselves and live a healthy life. I'd love to help you get started.
(424) 361-7755 View (424) 361-7755
Photo of LeeAnn Weintraub, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD
LeeAnn Weintraub
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD
Culver City, CA 90232
I am a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) in private practice for over 15 years. I work with individuals, families and organizations to problem-solve nutrition concerns and improve health outcomes. I offer a nonjudgmental, straightforward and evidence-based approach. I listen to you and gather all necessary information to provide a nutrition plan and recommendations that work for you. It is my pleasure to be your nutrition guide!
I am a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) in private practice for over 15 years. I work with individuals, families and organizations to problem-solve nutrition concerns and improve health outcomes. I offer a nonjudgmental, straightforward and evidence-based approach. I listen to you and gather all necessary information to provide a nutrition plan and recommendations that work for you. It is my pleasure to be your nutrition guide!
(310) 341-0738 View (310) 341-0738
Photo of Katya Meyers, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MS, MPH
Katya Meyers
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MS, MPH
Serves Area
I help clients overcome common obstacles to weight loss, fix their relationship with food, and break up with dieting for good. Are you "doing the right things" to lose weight, but it's just not working? It's not you OR your lack of willpower. Traditional diet advice may work in the *very* short term, but ultimately works against your physiology leading to a sluggish metabolism and (unfortunately) weight gain. Luckily, it is possible to reverse this, then work with your body to reduce inflammation and balance your hormones, to make weight loss both achievable AND sustainable.
I help clients overcome common obstacles to weight loss, fix their relationship with food, and break up with dieting for good. Are you "doing the right things" to lose weight, but it's just not working? It's not you OR your lack of willpower. Traditional diet advice may work in the *very* short term, but ultimately works against your physiology leading to a sluggish metabolism and (unfortunately) weight gain. Luckily, it is possible to reverse this, then work with your body to reduce inflammation and balance your hormones, to make weight loss both achievable AND sustainable.
(760) 280-5144 View (760) 280-5144
Photo of Tami Broderick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Tami Broderick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
As a compassionate Dietitian with 17 years of experience specializing in functional nutrition, I'm dedicated to helping you discover the root causes of your health challenges. I understand firsthand the journey of battling autoimmune diseases, gut issues, and thyroid imbalances, as I have navigated similar paths in my own life. I'm particularly passionate about working with individuals who have been told there's nothing wrong with them even though they don't feel well. My approach is tailored to your specific needs and can be conducted conveniently through Zoom, ensuring accessibility and flexibility on your journey to better health
As a compassionate Dietitian with 17 years of experience specializing in functional nutrition, I'm dedicated to helping you discover the root causes of your health challenges. I understand firsthand the journey of battling autoimmune diseases, gut issues, and thyroid imbalances, as I have navigated similar paths in my own life. I'm particularly passionate about working with individuals who have been told there's nothing wrong with them even though they don't feel well. My approach is tailored to your specific needs and can be conducted conveniently through Zoom, ensuring accessibility and flexibility on your journey to better health
(949) 281-7497 View (949) 281-7497
Photo of Riley Maloney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Riley Maloney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
Riley’s approach to care is rooted in developing a strong rapport with the client and making client’s feel safe and heard. Per her nutrition philosophy, Riley believes in nutrition care that is a mutual conversation where a client can have a say in their care, as this will lead to more sustainable, long-term progress; additionally, Riley practices from a non-diet and Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective for all clients, regardless of diagnosis. Riley prioritizes individualized treatment, tailoring interventions to meet clients developmental, financial, physical and emotional needs.
(210) 791-9924 View (210) 791-9924
Photo of Charlotte Hammond - Eating With Ease , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDE, RYT
Eating With Ease
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDE, RYT
Serves Area
From the solace of your home, I will work with you to use food as medicine and put short and long term diet-based solutions into action. As an Integrative and Functional Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, I can use nutrition science with labs, genetics, and your observations to help you not only get well but feel better for life! Common issues I help people with include digestive problems, PCOS, testosterone support, DIABETES, high blood pressure, anxiety/depression, hypothyroidism, sensitivity-related illness, and weight management. However, if you have no named illness and just feel awful, I am here for you.
From the solace of your home, I will work with you to use food as medicine and put short and long term diet-based solutions into action. As an Integrative and Functional Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, I can use nutrition science with labs, genetics, and your observations to help you not only get well but feel better for life! Common issues I help people with include digestive problems, PCOS, testosterone support, DIABETES, high blood pressure, anxiety/depression, hypothyroidism, sensitivity-related illness, and weight management. However, if you have no named illness and just feel awful, I am here for you.
(312) 561-4896 View (312) 561-4896
Photo of Derek Lipton Ms Rd Cssd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, CPT
Derek Lipton Ms Rd Cssd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, CPT
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Whether you're an elite athlete, a working professional trying to get a little extra out of your workouts, or just want to lose some weight to improve your health and energy, adding nutrition counseling will boost your results!
I offer in-person and virtual nutrition counseling that fits your schedule and needs. Whether you're a young athlete trying to impress college scouts or a working professional who struggles with weight gain while working a busy schedule, we'll start with a 45-60 minute assessment visit followed by 30-45 minute follow-ups where we build on your goals.
Whether you're an elite athlete, a working professional trying to get a little extra out of your workouts, or just want to lose some weight to improve your health and energy, adding nutrition counseling will boost your results!
I offer in-person and virtual nutrition counseling that fits your schedule and needs. Whether you're a young athlete trying to impress college scouts or a working professional who struggles with weight gain while working a busy schedule, we'll start with a 45-60 minute assessment visit followed by 30-45 minute follow-ups where we build on your goals.
(862) 217-5458 View (862) 217-5458
Photo of Sophia Deahl, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFMCP
Sophia Deahl
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFMCP
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
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 Anna A Bohnengel - Fertility Nutritionist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Fertility Nutritionist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Serves Area
You’re ready to grow your family—but nutrition may be the missing piece. Whether you’re navigating PCOS, endometriosis, unexplained infertility, or preparing for IUI/IVF, the right plan can restore hormone balance, improve egg quality, and help you conceive sooner. I’m Anna Bohnengel, NIH-trained Registered Dietitian creator of Fertile In Four. I offer personalized, evidence-based plans with daily support so you can move from struggle to pregnancy with clarity and confidence.
You’re ready to grow your family—but nutrition may be the missing piece. Whether you’re navigating PCOS, endometriosis, unexplained infertility, or preparing for IUI/IVF, the right plan can restore hormone balance, improve egg quality, and help you conceive sooner. I’m Anna Bohnengel, NIH-trained Registered Dietitian creator of Fertile In Four. I offer personalized, evidence-based plans with daily support so you can move from struggle to pregnancy with clarity and confidence.
(503) 483-6601 View (503) 483-6601
Photo of Christopher Irish, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Christopher Irish
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Serves Area
I offer individual nutrition counseling sessions as well as 1-month and 3-month programs to allow you to commit to your goals, while strengthening your relationship with food.
If you are experiencing ANY of the following, I would love to have the opportunity to work together: You often feel guilty about your food choices, and you spend significant time and energy thinking about food. You have scoured the internet for nutrition information and guidance and are frustrated by the amount of conflicting information online. You are navigating an eating disorder or disordered eating and are looking for support from a compassionate and knowledgable RD. You are struggling to keep up with meal planning every week, unsure of how to shop for and prepare meals that support your nutrition goals.
I offer individual nutrition counseling sessions as well as 1-month and 3-month programs to allow you to commit to your goals, while strengthening your relationship with food.
If you are experiencing ANY of the following, I would love to have the opportunity to work together: You often feel guilty about your food choices, and you spend significant time and energy thinking about food. You have scoured the internet for nutrition information and guidance and are frustrated by the amount of conflicting information online. You are navigating an eating disorder or disordered eating and are looking for support from a compassionate and knowledgable RD. You are struggling to keep up with meal planning every week, unsure of how to shop for and prepare meals that support your nutrition goals.
(339) 330-2865 View (339) 330-2865
Photo of Claire A Carlton - Nourish with Claire & Associates LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Nourish with Claire & Associates LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Serves Area
Are you looking to optimize your health and nutrition in 2024? Do you suffer from poor energy, digestive disturbances (gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea), blood sugar imbalances, high cholesterol, autoimmunity or other health concerns? If so, I'd love to guide you in making positive changes to your nutrition and lifestyle to help you reach your health goals. Through my individualized nutrition therapy services, you'll gain confidence in how to appropriately fuel your body. It's my mission to empower you with the nutrition knowledge needed to make LASTING lifestyle changes.
Are you looking to optimize your health and nutrition in 2024? Do you suffer from poor energy, digestive disturbances (gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea), blood sugar imbalances, high cholesterol, autoimmunity or other health concerns? If so, I'd love to guide you in making positive changes to your nutrition and lifestyle to help you reach your health goals. Through my individualized nutrition therapy services, you'll gain confidence in how to appropriately fuel your body. It's my mission to empower you with the nutrition knowledge needed to make LASTING lifestyle changes.
(808) 400-9902 View (808) 400-9902
Photo of Shelby Joanna Becker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Shelby Joanna Becker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
Are you exhausted from thinking about food all day, caught between restricting, binging, or “starting over on Monday,” and worried about what this might mean for your future health ? Do you feel scared about things like blood sugar, cholesterol, or heart health, but also afraid that seeking help will lead to more rules, shame, or obsession around food ? ​
Are you exhausted from thinking about food all day, caught between restricting, binging, or “starting over on Monday,” and worried about what this might mean for your future health ? Do you feel scared about things like blood sugar, cholesterol, or heart health, but also afraid that seeking help will lead to more rules, shame, or obsession around food ? ​
(818) 851-0729 View (818) 851-0729
Photo of Lauren Schmitt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CPT
Lauren Schmitt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CPT
Serves Area
Initial nutrition consultations with a registered dietitian are one hour with thirty-minute follow-up sessions. These sessions will assess current dietary regimen, health status, food and beverage preferences, and exercise level, leading to recommendations that align with your health and fitness goals. If applicable, a medical history, including lab values, and any current medical conditions and medications will be taken into account when designing a lifestyle plan.
Initial nutrition consultations with a registered dietitian are one hour with thirty-minute follow-up sessions. These sessions will assess current dietary regimen, health status, food and beverage preferences, and exercise level, leading to recommendations that align with your health and fitness goals. If applicable, a medical history, including lab values, and any current medical conditions and medications will be taken into account when designing a lifestyle plan.
(323) 371-5556 View (323) 371-5556
Photo of Nicole Buchanan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Nicole Buchanan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Nicole is a registered dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity. Nicole helps them develop long-term strategies that prioritize prevention, manage existing conditions, and support a healthier, more vibrant life.
Nicole is a registered dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. These clients may be managing, or hoping to prevent, chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity. Nicole helps them develop long-term strategies that prioritize prevention, manage existing conditions, and support a healthier, more vibrant life.
(659) 247-2042 View (659) 247-2042
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.