Nutritionists and Dietitians near Lake Forest, CA
![Photo of Saghar Sefidbakht - Avicenna Dietetics, MS, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b11ce7e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Confused about all the different diet advices surrounding you? Concerned about your health and lifestyle? Your doctor wants you to make good nutritional choices that you do not know about? Have chronic diseases such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and heart disease? We are here to help you. Our experienced registered dietitian Saghar Sefidbakht MS, RDN has years of experience in research, hospital and skilled Nursing facilities and is here to help you find your best way to a healthy lifestyle.
Confused about all the different diet advices surrounding you? Concerned about your health and lifestyle? Your doctor wants you to make good nutritional choices that you do not know about? Have chronic diseases such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and heart disease? We are here to help you. Our experienced registered dietitian Saghar Sefidbakht MS, RDN has years of experience in research, hospital and skilled Nursing facilities and is here to help you find your best way to a healthy lifestyle.
![Photo of Kali Gilday, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ee0c45e4-10de-473d-b84b-a80a12d2e757/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you want to ditch the diet mentality and find food freedom? I can help you to achieve this with individualized, personalized 1:1 nutrition support. I work with those with eating disorders and disordered eating heal their relationship with food by guiding them to their internal wisdom in what, when, and how to eat. My passion is helping my clients gain the freedom in life that comes when they release the power that food has over their mind and body. I believe that our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made, so all bodies are good bodies that deserve love and care, even if you desire to change it.
Do you want to ditch the diet mentality and find food freedom? I can help you to achieve this with individualized, personalized 1:1 nutrition support. I work with those with eating disorders and disordered eating heal their relationship with food by guiding them to their internal wisdom in what, when, and how to eat. My passion is helping my clients gain the freedom in life that comes when they release the power that food has over their mind and body. I believe that our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made, so all bodies are good bodies that deserve love and care, even if you desire to change it.
![Photo of Sulaima Abdin, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/71992a86-8c0a-4da7-9e79-a27bd347babc/2/320x400.png)
Struggling with weight management, understanding food labels, eating habits, healthy cooking, nutritional deficiencies? I can help! I infuse my professional practice with a unique blend of relatability, creativity, and a touch of humor. I am notorious for arming my clients with the tools necessary to navigate the world of food so that healthy living is not only accessible, but enjoyable. With a genuine love of all things food related, I firmly believe in the transformative power of nutrition. We spend so much of our time around food, why not enjoy it!
Struggling with weight management, understanding food labels, eating habits, healthy cooking, nutritional deficiencies? I can help! I infuse my professional practice with a unique blend of relatability, creativity, and a touch of humor. I am notorious for arming my clients with the tools necessary to navigate the world of food so that healthy living is not only accessible, but enjoyable. With a genuine love of all things food related, I firmly believe in the transformative power of nutrition. We spend so much of our time around food, why not enjoy it!
![Photo of Tami Broderick, RD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/583f1bce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you suffer from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Crohn's disease, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, migraines, acid reflux, eczema, or other unexplained health conditions? Do you have trouble losing weight, or suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol? Do you need help with an auto-immune disorder such as celiac disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or graves disease? If so, please let me help - I would love to work with you. I've helped thousands of individuals lose weight, reduce or eliminate their medications, and put an end to the feeling of hopelessness these conditions can cause.
Do you suffer from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Crohn's disease, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, migraines, acid reflux, eczema, or other unexplained health conditions? Do you have trouble losing weight, or suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol? Do you need help with an auto-immune disorder such as celiac disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or graves disease? If so, please let me help - I would love to work with you. I've helped thousands of individuals lose weight, reduce or eliminate their medications, and put an end to the feeling of hopelessness these conditions can cause.
![Photo of Lubna Akbany, RDN, CSR, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b0b5226-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a kidney or diabetic patient ? Are you lacking energy and struggling with figuring out the best foods for your kidney-friendly diet? Get more energy, release the frustration with your diet, and keep doing the things you love in your life. I'm a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist & Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in Chronic Kidney Disease Management, diabetes, focused on CKD nutrition, which includes a plant-based/vegetarian diet as requested.
Are you a kidney or diabetic patient ? Are you lacking energy and struggling with figuring out the best foods for your kidney-friendly diet? Get more energy, release the frustration with your diet, and keep doing the things you love in your life. I'm a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist & Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in Chronic Kidney Disease Management, diabetes, focused on CKD nutrition, which includes a plant-based/vegetarian diet as requested.
![Photo of Roxy Ballesteros - RM Wellness Dietitians, MDA, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7e0c144b-fa40-4f43-80a6-9d19b7e1622d/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you're confused by the dietary advice out there and struggling to understand what's truly beneficial for your health, you've come to the right place! My personalized nutrition counseling cuts through the noise and gives you clear, evidence-based guidance tailored just for you.
If you're confused by the dietary advice out there and struggling to understand what's truly beneficial for your health, you've come to the right place! My personalized nutrition counseling cuts through the noise and gives you clear, evidence-based guidance tailored just for you.
![Photo of Yasaman 'yasi' Ansari - Yasi Ansari Nutrition, MS, RDN, CSSD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c3d62381-3ee7-41f1-a800-272b389292d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yasi Ansari Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
I am a Registered Dietitian & Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD). I have had >10 years of experience in a variety of sports & clinical settings. I specialize in working with adult and adolescent athletes in sports such as dance, gymnastics, performing arts, ice skating, cross country/track, soccer, swim, volleyball, lacrosse, tennis, softball, football & basketball. Additionally, I also specialize in working with athletes struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating. I focus on a food-first approach that is nourishing and personalized to each athlete to help them perform their best and supports their health.
I am a Registered Dietitian & Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD). I have had >10 years of experience in a variety of sports & clinical settings. I specialize in working with adult and adolescent athletes in sports such as dance, gymnastics, performing arts, ice skating, cross country/track, soccer, swim, volleyball, lacrosse, tennis, softball, football & basketball. Additionally, I also specialize in working with athletes struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating. I focus on a food-first approach that is nourishing and personalized to each athlete to help them perform their best and supports their health.
![Photo of Aditi Shah, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dc230d3e-99a7-4087-b0de-ad2f7b32c8bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Nourish By Aditi. I am Aditi and I am thrilled to be a part of your health journey! I focus on integrative nutrition to get to the root cause of illness and disease. I will provide you with the tools needed to restore, rebuild and rejuvenate your health and achieve ultimate wellness. I am truly passionate about helping people and I would love the opportunity to get to know you. My promise is to empower you to successfully achieve your health goals through non-diet, integrative nutrition consulting and lifestyle practices to feel improvement in health, fitness, and mental strength.
Welcome to Nourish By Aditi. I am Aditi and I am thrilled to be a part of your health journey! I focus on integrative nutrition to get to the root cause of illness and disease. I will provide you with the tools needed to restore, rebuild and rejuvenate your health and achieve ultimate wellness. I am truly passionate about helping people and I would love the opportunity to get to know you. My promise is to empower you to successfully achieve your health goals through non-diet, integrative nutrition consulting and lifestyle practices to feel improvement in health, fitness, and mental strength.
![Photo of Elizabeth Lee, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6fe1c491-ce68-4089-bc44-069707aa374f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Look no further if you’re seeking a health-centered, weight-neutral dietitian! I may be the right fit for your needs if you: ▸ Need help managing blood sugar/cholesterol/blood pressure without being fearful or avoidant of food ▸ Can use a trained professional’s help with navigating through all the nutrition noise ▸ Don’t want to sacrifice enjoyment of food to achieve your health goal ▸ Are ready to break the cycles of diets for an approach that doesn’t leave you feeling ashamed and defeated ▸ Are searching for pre- and post-bariatric surgery support that understands the unique mental and physical transitions involved.
Look no further if you’re seeking a health-centered, weight-neutral dietitian! I may be the right fit for your needs if you: ▸ Need help managing blood sugar/cholesterol/blood pressure without being fearful or avoidant of food ▸ Can use a trained professional’s help with navigating through all the nutrition noise ▸ Don’t want to sacrifice enjoyment of food to achieve your health goal ▸ Are ready to break the cycles of diets for an approach that doesn’t leave you feeling ashamed and defeated ▸ Are searching for pre- and post-bariatric surgery support that understands the unique mental and physical transitions involved.
![Photo of Janice Dada, MPH, RDN, CDCES, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7c7ee07d-0739-43ad-a527-8a55556c8481/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping individuals and families optimize their health, well-being, and eating behaviors. I offer personalized nutrition counseling using a non-diet, weight-inclusive framework, which means I don’t focus on body size or prescribe eating rules to follow. Instead, I use a client-centered model of care and serve as a guide on the journey to better health and wellness. My approach incorporates evidence-based nutrition principles along with an understanding of human behavior and psychology. This process looks different for everyone; there is no “one size fits all.”
I specialize in helping individuals and families optimize their health, well-being, and eating behaviors. I offer personalized nutrition counseling using a non-diet, weight-inclusive framework, which means I don’t focus on body size or prescribe eating rules to follow. Instead, I use a client-centered model of care and serve as a guide on the journey to better health and wellness. My approach incorporates evidence-based nutrition principles along with an understanding of human behavior and psychology. This process looks different for everyone; there is no “one size fits all.”
![Photo of Melanie Schuller, RDN, LD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c9b7b9bc-de7c-4b5d-9550-f5d550e72454/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Schuller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92690
I help women with digestive disorders overcome food and lifestyle anxiety in order to poop better, feel confident, and have more energy.
I help women with digestive disorders overcome food and lifestyle anxiety in order to poop better, feel confident, and have more energy.
![Photo of Joanna Richardson-Jones, RD, MBA, RPS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59307e32-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Richardson-Jones
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MBA, RPS
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Do you feel like you can't control your eating food- related behaviors ? Do you see yourself as "fat" when others see you as too thin? Would you say that food and thoughts about food dominate your life? You don't have to be alone in your struggle. My specialized and experienced empathetic approach focuses on you and your personal experience . The science of nutrition is important but struggling clients need support with their emotions around food and eating. Plan of care and recovery is developed carefully with your involvement.
Do you feel like you can't control your eating food- related behaviors ? Do you see yourself as "fat" when others see you as too thin? Would you say that food and thoughts about food dominate your life? You don't have to be alone in your struggle. My specialized and experienced empathetic approach focuses on you and your personal experience . The science of nutrition is important but struggling clients need support with their emotions around food and eating. Plan of care and recovery is developed carefully with your involvement.
![Photo of Denise Canellos, MS, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/583f71ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Denise Canellos, a Board Certified Nutritionist, author of Calm Your Inflammation, and university professor, specializing in effective nutrition therapy for cancer and chronic disease treatment. My husband George was diagnosed with colon cancer at 38. It was devastating for our family when George died from his cancer. I felt a pull to help others navigate the confusing world of healthcare and nutrition. After earning my MS in Human Nutrition, I passed my American College of Nutrition Board exam and started using science to help people like you get back their health and their hope.
I'm Denise Canellos, a Board Certified Nutritionist, author of Calm Your Inflammation, and university professor, specializing in effective nutrition therapy for cancer and chronic disease treatment. My husband George was diagnosed with colon cancer at 38. It was devastating for our family when George died from his cancer. I felt a pull to help others navigate the confusing world of healthcare and nutrition. After earning my MS in Human Nutrition, I passed my American College of Nutrition Board exam and started using science to help people like you get back their health and their hope.
![Photo of Dawn Narvaez, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e38f98dd-fbc1-4020-8028-afa33f94d513/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in a whole system approach for the mind and body wellness to meet individual goals, including; overcoming negative body image, conquer disordered eating, eliminating binge eating, overcoming food choice obsessions, stemming late-night cravings, approaching picky eaters, enhancing performance for athletes, managing autoimmune disorders, preventing and managing diabetes and pre-diabetes, weight loss or weight gain, treat and prevent constipation and other GI complaints. Learn how to find a balance between enthusiasm and success. Learn the tools to turn from emotional to intentional eating.
I specialize in a whole system approach for the mind and body wellness to meet individual goals, including; overcoming negative body image, conquer disordered eating, eliminating binge eating, overcoming food choice obsessions, stemming late-night cravings, approaching picky eaters, enhancing performance for athletes, managing autoimmune disorders, preventing and managing diabetes and pre-diabetes, weight loss or weight gain, treat and prevent constipation and other GI complaints. Learn how to find a balance between enthusiasm and success. Learn the tools to turn from emotional to intentional eating.
![Photo of Sarah Marie Jackson, MS, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/33557e8c-9d1e-4f37-8cbf-f0cb5bcd56ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help clients achieve their nutrition related health goals by coupling evidenced based practices with function nutrition therapies. I find the root cause of my clients health concerns then develop a personalized nutrition plan that is easy to follow so goals can be achieved.
I help clients achieve their nutrition related health goals by coupling evidenced based practices with function nutrition therapies. I find the root cause of my clients health concerns then develop a personalized nutrition plan that is easy to follow so goals can be achieved.
![Photo of Melissa Ann Mathes, MPH, RD, CSSD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b49b37a2-0d31-48f8-b4c5-51142f27231f/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Amy Isabella Chalker, RDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/05345877-e18a-4dd1-a756-a9987138d7cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Isabella Chalker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
Clients who seek to work with Amy have often pursued other avenues of nutrition management, including diets, traditional meal plans, and other healthcare professionals as a means to meet their goals. Frequently, Amy provides a more in-depth examination of external tools, and encourages clients to inquire within and challenge themselves to view their food and their relationship with the body and self differently. In our current health climate, Amy also sees a number of clients who seek to address gastrointestinal conditions and autoimmune issues that interfere with feeding themselves and promote or encourage disordered eating.
Clients who seek to work with Amy have often pursued other avenues of nutrition management, including diets, traditional meal plans, and other healthcare professionals as a means to meet their goals. Frequently, Amy provides a more in-depth examination of external tools, and encourages clients to inquire within and challenge themselves to view their food and their relationship with the body and self differently. In our current health climate, Amy also sees a number of clients who seek to address gastrointestinal conditions and autoimmune issues that interfere with feeding themselves and promote or encourage disordered eating.
![Photo of Erin M Macdonald, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/57fa252b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Health and wellness is more than just what you eat. As a nutrition, fitness, and wellness coach, we work together to craft a plan that helps you achieve your health and wellness goals. Your plan for successfully acheiving your goals revolves around an individualized nutrition and fitness plan and strategies to make the necessary behavior changes.
Health and wellness is more than just what you eat. As a nutrition, fitness, and wellness coach, we work together to craft a plan that helps you achieve your health and wellness goals. Your plan for successfully acheiving your goals revolves around an individualized nutrition and fitness plan and strategies to make the necessary behavior changes.
![Photo of Kristie Tovar, MS, RDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a304fc25-5057-4993-ad13-69d71c35d6c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Kristie. I'm a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist. I'm passionate about helping others nourish their bodies, minds, and spirits in ways that are rewarding and without judgment. I provide weight-neutral nutrition support to help clients heal from eating disorders and chronic dieting, PCOS and women’s health.
Hi, I’m Kristie. I'm a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist. I'm passionate about helping others nourish their bodies, minds, and spirits in ways that are rewarding and without judgment. I provide weight-neutral nutrition support to help clients heal from eating disorders and chronic dieting, PCOS and women’s health.
![Photo of Marina A Savelyeva, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b304404d-23fb-44cb-9581-94688f6d4152/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Marina, Registered Dietitian in Newport Beach, CA - your partner in achieving optimal health. With 17+ years of experience, I specialize in disease management and personalized nutrition plans. Don’t get overwhelmed by conflicting dietary advice. Online searches can't provide all the answers that is why you need a dietitian to provide clear, evidence-based guidance tailored to your needs. I have published cookbooks "Easy Gastric Sleeve Cookbook" and "The Plant-Based Weight Loss Solution," that offer practical and delicious solutions for weight management and healthy living. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me today!
I am Marina, Registered Dietitian in Newport Beach, CA - your partner in achieving optimal health. With 17+ years of experience, I specialize in disease management and personalized nutrition plans. Don’t get overwhelmed by conflicting dietary advice. Online searches can't provide all the answers that is why you need a dietitian to provide clear, evidence-based guidance tailored to your needs. I have published cookbooks "Easy Gastric Sleeve Cookbook" and "The Plant-Based Weight Loss Solution," that offer practical and delicious solutions for weight management and healthy living. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me today!
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Lake Forest?
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.