Nutritionists and Dietitians near Shaker Heights, OH
![Photo of Roger E Adams, PhD, CISSN, ACE-CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/208ddb45-8019-41f0-b7fe-75519f13ee47/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Allison Occkial, CHN, FMCHC, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b50b536-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Allison is a certified Holistic Health Practitioner. Her background is in Holistic Nutrition, Functional Medicine, Fitness and 1:1 Health Coaching. She specializes in helping women who struggle with chronic stress, low energy, hormone imbalances, and thyroid and adrenal health issues. She believes in helping others finding the "root cause" to health issues, so that clients can reclaim their body and their health from a holistic, inside out approach. Through a personalized program and coaching, her clients are able to look, feel and function at their personal best, all using a sustainable approach and not quick fixes or extremes.
Allison is a certified Holistic Health Practitioner. Her background is in Holistic Nutrition, Functional Medicine, Fitness and 1:1 Health Coaching. She specializes in helping women who struggle with chronic stress, low energy, hormone imbalances, and thyroid and adrenal health issues. She believes in helping others finding the "root cause" to health issues, so that clients can reclaim their body and their health from a holistic, inside out approach. Through a personalized program and coaching, her clients are able to look, feel and function at their personal best, all using a sustainable approach and not quick fixes or extremes.
![Photo of Jennifer Lattur, RDN, LD, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/9636a875-fc4a-479e-91ba-3536e4372932/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Lattur
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CDCES
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44101 (Online Only)
Sometimes it can feel like you’re fluctuating between “good” days and “bad” days: one minute you’re organized and proud of your food choices, the next it seems everything’s falling apart. Worse, everyone has an opinion on what you should eat without knowing what’s going on in your life. You’re not alone! My mission is to provide judgment-free nutrition counseling and support, whether you want to manage a chronic disease or just have more energy. Changing isn’t easy but I'm here to listen to and support you; we’ll uncover your motivations, set realistic goals, and plan for setbacks. Here's to your future self!
Sometimes it can feel like you’re fluctuating between “good” days and “bad” days: one minute you’re organized and proud of your food choices, the next it seems everything’s falling apart. Worse, everyone has an opinion on what you should eat without knowing what’s going on in your life. You’re not alone! My mission is to provide judgment-free nutrition counseling and support, whether you want to manage a chronic disease or just have more energy. Changing isn’t easy but I'm here to listen to and support you; we’ll uncover your motivations, set realistic goals, and plan for setbacks. Here's to your future self!
![Photo of Heather Ritter, MS, RDN, LDN, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/51e45e5e-ab9f-4564-bbda-37942176a560/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Ritter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CNSC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44108 (Online Only)
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable. Through evidence-based practice and individualized care,
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable. Through evidence-based practice and individualized care,
![Photo of Vital Nutrition Dietitian - Joe Zastawny, RDN, LD, IFNP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cfd64a0b-15fe-4ade-863e-a85f232a7409/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vital Nutrition Dietitian - Joe Zastawny
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, IFNP
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124 (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who values their health and is seeking personalized guidance to achieve optimal well-being. They may have complex health issues such as chronic conditions or dietary challenges that require a holistic approach. They are motivated to make lasting changes in their lifestyle and nutrition habits to improve their quality of life. Their goals often include managing specific health concerns, enhancing energy levels, and achieving overall wellness. They want support that understands their individual needs and empowers them to take control of their health journey.
My ideal client is someone who values their health and is seeking personalized guidance to achieve optimal well-being. They may have complex health issues such as chronic conditions or dietary challenges that require a holistic approach. They are motivated to make lasting changes in their lifestyle and nutrition habits to improve their quality of life. Their goals often include managing specific health concerns, enhancing energy levels, and achieving overall wellness. They want support that understands their individual needs and empowers them to take control of their health journey.
![Photo of Anna Jones, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/9da6481d-96df-4e7b-86fc-fa1f35710200/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find yourself getting tired of cycling from diet to diet, unable to maintain their list of food rules? Have you canceled plans with friends or family to prevent "losing control" around certain foods? Are you dealing with emotional eating, disordered eating, or an eating disorder on your own? Imagine if you were able to heal your relationship with food and your body. Imagine how it would feel to finally ditch the food rules, to give yourself permission to eat ALL foods without guilt or shame, to find movement that you enjoy, and to care for your body with kindness even when you have a bad body image day.
Do you find yourself getting tired of cycling from diet to diet, unable to maintain their list of food rules? Have you canceled plans with friends or family to prevent "losing control" around certain foods? Are you dealing with emotional eating, disordered eating, or an eating disorder on your own? Imagine if you were able to heal your relationship with food and your body. Imagine how it would feel to finally ditch the food rules, to give yourself permission to eat ALL foods without guilt or shame, to find movement that you enjoy, and to care for your body with kindness even when you have a bad body image day.
![Photo of Ashley Walls, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/39d8db42-a475-4515-bcf7-16316128d585/1/320x400.png)
Ashley Walls
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44109 (Online Only)
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with co-occurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with co-occurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
![Photo of Dr. Roger E Adams, PhD, CISSN, ACE-CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58c02957-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Roger E Adams
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, CISSN, ACE-CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gates Mills, OH 44040 (Online Only)
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.
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.
![Photo of Katie Gould - Katie Gould Nutrition, MA, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3e44e1c7-6785-49cf-9bd9-bb3c058f119c/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Katie! A registered dietitian here to help you create healthy habits and sustainable systems to make healthy eating easy and enjoyable. Through my private nutrition counseling and online programs, I hope to help you find those strategies that will work for you to cultivate a nourished life. Schedule a free discovery call with me today!
I'm Katie! A registered dietitian here to help you create healthy habits and sustainable systems to make healthy eating easy and enjoyable. Through my private nutrition counseling and online programs, I hope to help you find those strategies that will work for you to cultivate a nourished life. Schedule a free discovery call with me today!
![Photo of Kali Morgenstern, MEd, RD, LD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6d7d536d-0fbb-4fef-b083-ecab906d3d62/1/320x400.png)
My approach to nutrition and fitness is simplified sustainability - creating habits that you can feasibly commit to for the long haul. Rather than looking for a quick fix, I help my clients discover ways to reach their health and body composition goals that are enjoyable, realistic, and backed by science.
My approach to nutrition and fitness is simplified sustainability - creating habits that you can feasibly commit to for the long haul. Rather than looking for a quick fix, I help my clients discover ways to reach their health and body composition goals that are enjoyable, realistic, and backed by science.
![Photo of Anthony DiMarino - Eat. Move. Improve., RD, LD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f4326a9c-7051-41ad-bee0-b0fc69485978/3/320x400.jpeg)
Have you tried to improve your health only to find yourself more frustrated than before? Are you tired of trying the most popular diets? You are not alone. I have been in your shoes. I have battled anxiety, low self esteem, and low motivation. I have had my own health journey and continue to work towards my own goals daily. Instead of a quick fix, it is important to focus on methodical and personalized strategies. Making changes slowly over time produces sustainable health results for years to come. I can help you develop a personalized and realistic plan to improve your health for the long haul.
Have you tried to improve your health only to find yourself more frustrated than before? Are you tired of trying the most popular diets? You are not alone. I have been in your shoes. I have battled anxiety, low self esteem, and low motivation. I have had my own health journey and continue to work towards my own goals daily. Instead of a quick fix, it is important to focus on methodical and personalized strategies. Making changes slowly over time produces sustainable health results for years to come. I can help you develop a personalized and realistic plan to improve your health for the long haul.
![Photo of Grace Kelley - Grace Kelley Nutrition, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/97a6d775-0d3e-4f46-b582-347fc6425973/3/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Kelley Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44113 (Online Only)
I believe in helping athletes fuel themselves to achieve their endurance goals through simple and flexible nutrition. I will meet you where you are to establish healthy relationships with food and your body while going the distance!
I believe in helping athletes fuel themselves to achieve their endurance goals through simple and flexible nutrition. I will meet you where you are to establish healthy relationships with food and your body while going the distance!
![Photo of Jessica Kruzan, MS, RD, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ae96acaf-898d-4a66-837e-43fe6b3675a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Kruzan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44102 (Online Only)
Jessica specializes in working with PCOS, Disordered/Eating Disorders, Infertility Nutrition, Pre/Post Partum, Hormonal Imbalances, and other areas. She believes that a diet should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. She works with her clients to identify their goals, understand their lifestyle and preferences, and create a plan that fits their unique needs. Jessica also recognizes that food is more than just fuel for the body – it is often tied to emotions, memories, and cultural traditions. As such, she helps her clients to build a positive relationship with food.
Jessica specializes in working with PCOS, Disordered/Eating Disorders, Infertility Nutrition, Pre/Post Partum, Hormonal Imbalances, and other areas. She believes that a diet should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. She works with her clients to identify their goals, understand their lifestyle and preferences, and create a plan that fits their unique needs. Jessica also recognizes that food is more than just fuel for the body – it is often tied to emotions, memories, and cultural traditions. As such, she helps her clients to build a positive relationship with food.
![Photo of Sara Muschkin, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5c95ce52-4b54-4395-b522-323879f867c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara has been a Registered Dietitian since 2016. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for oncology patients. She works with patients prior to starting cancer treatment, during treatment, and for nutrition therapy after completing treatment. During her spare time, Sara enjoys traveling, playing tennis, and hiking.
Sara has been a Registered Dietitian since 2016. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for oncology patients. She works with patients prior to starting cancer treatment, during treatment, and for nutrition therapy after completing treatment. During her spare time, Sara enjoys traveling, playing tennis, and hiking.
![Photo of Kelli Santiago, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7746a737-c60a-482a-8972-0770e0c8ba55/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Kelli and I'm a board certified sports dietitian specializing in running and strength training nutrition. If you're someone who follows a training plan, monitors progress, aims for enough sleep BUT still isn't seeing results- it's likely you're diet that's holding you back! Or perhaps you're aware your nutrition is lacking but have no idea where to start? That's where I come in! I help answer the confusion questions that keep you from spiralling down the 'Google' rabbit hole and provide you with the resources and framework that will help you get to the next level.
My name is Kelli and I'm a board certified sports dietitian specializing in running and strength training nutrition. If you're someone who follows a training plan, monitors progress, aims for enough sleep BUT still isn't seeing results- it's likely you're diet that's holding you back! Or perhaps you're aware your nutrition is lacking but have no idea where to start? That's where I come in! I help answer the confusion questions that keep you from spiralling down the 'Google' rabbit hole and provide you with the resources and framework that will help you get to the next level.
![Photo of Melanie Schaffer, RD/RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7ed6ed24-0a43-4b07-ae85-314406ad6772/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Schaffer is a registered dietitian who holds a bachelor's degree in nutrition and dietetics from The University of Akron, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has extensive experience working with clients who suffer from eating disorders and disordered eating and has worked in all levels of care. Her motto is All Foods Fit and counsels from a non- diet, Health at Every Size, and weight neutral stance.
Melanie Schaffer is a registered dietitian who holds a bachelor's degree in nutrition and dietetics from The University of Akron, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has extensive experience working with clients who suffer from eating disorders and disordered eating and has worked in all levels of care. Her motto is All Foods Fit and counsels from a non- diet, Health at Every Size, and weight neutral stance.
![Photo of Kylene Bogden - FWDfuel, MS, RDN, CSSD, CLT, IFNCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1dde888a-3524-406b-a10c-9f047349fa96/2/320x400.jpeg)
FWDfuel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, CLT, IFNCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44102
Have you noticed a decrease in energy or performance? Does your gut not function the way it used to? Do you have joint pain, sore muscles, fatigue, or headaches? A personalized, food-first approach can help. The vast majority of our immune system lies in the gut so it only makes sense that changing your nutrition can dramatically improve your physical symptoms and performance! No two immune systems are exactly a like and the same should be said for your nutrition plan. Kylene and her team of dietitians are ready to help you achieve optimal health!
Have you noticed a decrease in energy or performance? Does your gut not function the way it used to? Do you have joint pain, sore muscles, fatigue, or headaches? A personalized, food-first approach can help. The vast majority of our immune system lies in the gut so it only makes sense that changing your nutrition can dramatically improve your physical symptoms and performance! No two immune systems are exactly a like and the same should be said for your nutrition plan. Kylene and her team of dietitians are ready to help you achieve optimal health!
![Photo of Kristin Woodbury, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8995971f-a88f-4f8f-90ab-deb5fd2b35f2/1/320x400.png)
Kristin Woodbury
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44102 (Online Only)
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
![Photo of Michael Hershey, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dffecdb1-1883-4798-bb53-4dd0f7fe80d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Online Registered Dietitian. I help you reach nutrition, weight loss, blood sugar or health goals with personalized approaches for your goals and preferences. Health insurance accepted! I am in network with Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Medicare, and United Healthcare. Most clients pay $0 out of pocket!
Online Registered Dietitian. I help you reach nutrition, weight loss, blood sugar or health goals with personalized approaches for your goals and preferences. Health insurance accepted! I am in network with Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Medicare, and United Healthcare. Most clients pay $0 out of pocket!
![Photo of Dawn Noe, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/9aeb52a3-20fa-4f75-9f67-61ec8971e53b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I want to help YOU find your best self. I use a personalized approach to nutrition with an emphasis on sustainable lifestyle change. I believe food is meant to nourish your body, mind and soul. I specialize in diabetes and weight management (including type 2 diabetes remission). I coach you to find health and wellness AND peace with your body and food. I’m available for virtual or phone appointments. Let’s work together to find a lifestyle that’s easy, sustainable and full of your favorite foods. I love helping people find the most nutritious version of a favorite comfort food so that choosing the healthy option is easy!
I want to help YOU find your best self. I use a personalized approach to nutrition with an emphasis on sustainable lifestyle change. I believe food is meant to nourish your body, mind and soul. I specialize in diabetes and weight management (including type 2 diabetes remission). I coach you to find health and wellness AND peace with your body and food. I’m available for virtual or phone appointments. Let’s work together to find a lifestyle that’s easy, sustainable and full of your favorite foods. I love helping people find the most nutritious version of a favorite comfort food so that choosing the healthy option is easy!
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Shaker Heights?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.