Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians in San Jose, CA

Photo of Stephanie Brooks - Bay Area Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Bay Area Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
This allows us to care for any nutrition challenge via individual & family based nutrition therapy, meal supervision/support, groups, workshops and our Wellness Program.
If you or a family member is struggling with food/nutrition, frustrated with random nutrition information out there or has a nutrition related problem or diagnosis, the RDs and Nutrition Support Mentors at Bay Area Nutrition are available to help. We are dedicated to treating you, the whole person, via education, support, and devising a plan with you and for you. Our team will collaborate with other care providers on your team as needed so you can optimize your health and well-being.
This allows us to care for any nutrition challenge via individual & family based nutrition therapy, meal supervision/support, groups, workshops and our Wellness Program.
If you or a family member is struggling with food/nutrition, frustrated with random nutrition information out there or has a nutrition related problem or diagnosis, the RDs and Nutrition Support Mentors at Bay Area Nutrition are available to help. We are dedicated to treating you, the whole person, via education, support, and devising a plan with you and for you. Our team will collaborate with other care providers on your team as needed so you can optimize your health and well-being.
(408) 956-6783 View (408) 956-6783
Photo of Niara Osman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Niara Osman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Online Only
I believe nutrition should feel supportive, realistic, and empowering—not overwhelming. My approach is personalized and judgment-free, focusing on evidence-based guidance that fits your lifestyle, culture, and goals. Whether you’re working on weight management, gut health, or improving lab values, I partner with you to create sustainable habits that lead to real, lasting results.
I believe nutrition should feel supportive, realistic, and empowering—not overwhelming. My approach is personalized and judgment-free, focusing on evidence-based guidance that fits your lifestyle, culture, and goals. Whether you’re working on weight management, gut health, or improving lab values, I partner with you to create sustainable habits that lead to real, lasting results.
(862) 292-9023 View (862) 292-9023
Photo of Marissa Weissbuch, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Marissa Weissbuch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
Marissa, a dedicated Registered Dietitian, is passionate about helping others heal their relationship with food. Inspired by her own health journey, she brings empathy, understanding, and practical tools to guide clients in quieting “food noise” and finding sustainable balance. With a whole-person, individualized approach, she simplifies nutrition, making structure and routine attainable. Rejecting diet culture, she empowers clients to nourish their bodies, supporting digestion, metabolism, mental health, skin, and hormones.
(213) 263-4843 View (213) 263-4843
Photo of Ashley Fortenberry, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD/RDN, LDN, CDN, CDCES, IFNCP
Ashley Fortenberry
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD/RDN, LDN, CDN, CDCES, IFNCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ebb & Flow Medical Nutrition Therapy & Consulting: helping people with chronic conditions - such as PCOS, diabetes, hypertension, and disordered eating - find solutions and peace with food through evidence-based, functional nutrition. I use food and nutrients to remit or improve chronic conditions, while teaching you about food/your body along the way. We look forward to meeting and working with you!
Ebb & Flow Medical Nutrition Therapy & Consulting: helping people with chronic conditions - such as PCOS, diabetes, hypertension, and disordered eating - find solutions and peace with food through evidence-based, functional nutrition. I use food and nutrients to remit or improve chronic conditions, while teaching you about food/your body along the way. We look forward to meeting and working with you!
(916) 409-3008 View (916) 409-3008
Photo of Amanda Ghighi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Amanda Ghighi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Amanda is an RD specializing in general health and wellness, eating disorders and disordered eating. She is dedicated to helping individuals heal their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda believes in creating a compassionate and supportive environment, incorporating evidence-based nutrition practices to guide clients toward sustainable changes. She strives to empower her clients to break free from diet culture and develop a nourishing and balanced approach to eating. Amanda offers compassionate, patient-centered nutrition care, focusing on non-diet, weight-inclusive principles.
Amanda is an RD specializing in general health and wellness, eating disorders and disordered eating. She is dedicated to helping individuals heal their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda believes in creating a compassionate and supportive environment, incorporating evidence-based nutrition practices to guide clients toward sustainable changes. She strives to empower her clients to break free from diet culture and develop a nourishing and balanced approach to eating. Amanda offers compassionate, patient-centered nutrition care, focusing on non-diet, weight-inclusive principles.
(862) 225-6191 View (862) 225-6191
Photo of Dr. Lillie Luu Nguyen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN
Dr. Lillie Luu Nguyen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Navigating the path to better nutrition and well-being can be challenging, but you don't have to go it alone. Using doctorate-level education rooted in evidence-based science, I'm here to support you with a personalized nutrition plan that not only tastes great, but also nourishes your body. We'll take a holistic approach to your health, considering all aspects of your life. If you're curious about lab tests, supplements, or assessments, we can explore those options together.
Navigating the path to better nutrition and well-being can be challenging, but you don't have to go it alone. Using doctorate-level education rooted in evidence-based science, I'm here to support you with a personalized nutrition plan that not only tastes great, but also nourishes your body. We'll take a holistic approach to your health, considering all aspects of your life. If you're curious about lab tests, supplements, or assessments, we can explore those options together.
(415) 322-5629 View (415) 322-5629
Photo of Christine Rosche - Digestive Health Center, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BA, MPH, CNS, CBT
Digestive Health Center
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BA, MPH, CNS, CBT
Serves Area
I combine customized holistic, integrated nutritional counseling with state of the art biofeedback therapy and guided imagery for permanent results
Do you have Bloating, Gas, Heartburn, GERD, constipation or other digestive issues? Have you been diagnosed with Colitis or Inflammation? Auto Immune Disorder? Do you feel something is not right with your Gut? Are you ready to find and address the Root Cause of your digestive issues? Do you know that 80 percent of your body's immunity is located in the digestive system? That most of your neurotransmitters/serotonin/feel good brain chemicals are made in the gut? Do you know that all Disease starts in the digestive system? Please go to my website at www.digestivehealth.center/watch video SVHI June 2018.
I combine customized holistic, integrated nutritional counseling with state of the art biofeedback therapy and guided imagery for permanent results
Do you have Bloating, Gas, Heartburn, GERD, constipation or other digestive issues? Have you been diagnosed with Colitis or Inflammation? Auto Immune Disorder? Do you feel something is not right with your Gut? Are you ready to find and address the Root Cause of your digestive issues? Do you know that 80 percent of your body's immunity is located in the digestive system? That most of your neurotransmitters/serotonin/feel good brain chemicals are made in the gut? Do you know that all Disease starts in the digestive system? Please go to my website at www.digestivehealth.center/watch video SVHI June 2018.
(650) 830-7224 View (650) 830-7224
Photo of Megan Salazar, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Megan Salazar
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
Megan is a Registered Dietitian with over 12 years of experience that is passionate about helping you establish good nutrition so that you an soar in your purpose. After going through her own health journey, she embraces a holistic approach by addressing stress, sleep, hormone balance, and your relationship with your food and body, in addition to nutrition. Understanding that every body is different in needs and reactions to foods, she creates personalized nutrition programs that promote life-long habits and changes that create whole, optimal health outcomes.
Megan is a Registered Dietitian with over 12 years of experience that is passionate about helping you establish good nutrition so that you an soar in your purpose. After going through her own health journey, she embraces a holistic approach by addressing stress, sleep, hormone balance, and your relationship with your food and body, in addition to nutrition. Understanding that every body is different in needs and reactions to foods, she creates personalized nutrition programs that promote life-long habits and changes that create whole, optimal health outcomes.
(331) 259-8859 View (331) 259-8859

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Aiysha Ahmed, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Aiysha Ahmed
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Newark, CA 94560
I'm passionate about nutrition education and helping clients create long term healthy habits through a personalized approach. As an individual we often wear many hats throughout the day. We are often a mother, father, cook, artist, handyman, banker, runner and so much more. By focusing on the common meals you share as a family and your lifestyle needs I will work with you to simplify your meal prep and diversify your diet. I will ensure your nutrition goals are met in timely, yet sustainable manner. As we start our journey together we will set an intention for a healthier and happier you!
I'm passionate about nutrition education and helping clients create long term healthy habits through a personalized approach. As an individual we often wear many hats throughout the day. We are often a mother, father, cook, artist, handyman, banker, runner and so much more. By focusing on the common meals you share as a family and your lifestyle needs I will work with you to simplify your meal prep and diversify your diet. I will ensure your nutrition goals are met in timely, yet sustainable manner. As we start our journey together we will set an intention for a healthier and happier you!
(833) 497-3689 View (833) 497-3689
Photo of Tiffany Mei Haug, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Tiffany Mei Haug
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
I specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID) with a focus on supporting those also managing chronic health conditions and neurodivergence such as: ADHD, OCD, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Dysautonomia, EDS, GI disorders (IBS, gastroparesis, SIBO, etc.), and autoimmune diseases.
—Currently Accepting New Patients— Perhaps you have an eating disorder (or disordered eating) + an autoimmune disease, MCAS, ADHD or other chronic illness and feel that no one truly understands how complicated this makes navigating food, your body, and your recovery. I’m an eating disorder and chronic illness dietitian who’s been in your shoes. I had an eating disorder in my teens, and was later diagnosed (following recovery) with a chronic autoimmune illness. That experience decades ago reshaped how I view healing, health, and recovery, and it shapes how I support my clients today.
I specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID) with a focus on supporting those also managing chronic health conditions and neurodivergence such as: ADHD, OCD, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Dysautonomia, EDS, GI disorders (IBS, gastroparesis, SIBO, etc.), and autoimmune diseases.
—Currently Accepting New Patients— Perhaps you have an eating disorder (or disordered eating) + an autoimmune disease, MCAS, ADHD or other chronic illness and feel that no one truly understands how complicated this makes navigating food, your body, and your recovery. I’m an eating disorder and chronic illness dietitian who’s been in your shoes. I had an eating disorder in my teens, and was later diagnosed (following recovery) with a chronic autoimmune illness. That experience decades ago reshaped how I view healing, health, and recovery, and it shapes how I support my clients today.
(615) 701-4984 View (615) 701-4984
Photo of Tawny Schaefer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Tawny Schaefer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Pleasanton, CA 94566
I believe that a multi-disciplinary approach works best when treating complex medical conditions.
Developing a positive relationship with your body is primary to having a healthy relationship with food. Understanding our bodies need for nutrition helps to foster a better relationship with food. My goal is to help clients understand how proper nutrition can help to improve overall quality of life.
I believe that a multi-disciplinary approach works best when treating complex medical conditions.
Developing a positive relationship with your body is primary to having a healthy relationship with food. Understanding our bodies need for nutrition helps to foster a better relationship with food. My goal is to help clients understand how proper nutrition can help to improve overall quality of life.
(925) 574-8963 View (925) 574-8963
Photo of Anna-Kaisa Manolova, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Anna-Kaisa Manolova
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Online Only
With my unique combination of evidence-based nutrition therapy, gut healthy lifestyle habits and nervous system calming yoga practices, I assess and address your situation from all angels - for the best results.
I help people with IBS ease their symptoms by going to the root of the issue. IBS is vicious! You never know when symptoms will hit and what triggers them. And food – something you ate yesterday just fine might be your worst enemy today! Imagine a life where IBS didn’t control you anymore. That you knew your triggers and how to avoid them. Or that when symptoms hit, you knew how to dial them down and make them go away sooner than before. That you can finally make travel plans and confidently buy your favorite foods in the grocery store. You just want to have a normal life, and I get that.
With my unique combination of evidence-based nutrition therapy, gut healthy lifestyle habits and nervous system calming yoga practices, I assess and address your situation from all angels - for the best results.
I help people with IBS ease their symptoms by going to the root of the issue. IBS is vicious! You never know when symptoms will hit and what triggers them. And food – something you ate yesterday just fine might be your worst enemy today! Imagine a life where IBS didn’t control you anymore. That you knew your triggers and how to avoid them. Or that when symptoms hit, you knew how to dial them down and make them go away sooner than before. That you can finally make travel plans and confidently buy your favorite foods in the grocery store. You just want to have a normal life, and I get that.
(408) 539-6106 View (408) 539-6106
Photo of Molly Ostrander - Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Online Only
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
(913) 430-9415 View (913) 430-9415
Photo of Naia Riley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, BS
Naia Riley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, BS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach blends medical nutrition therapy with neuroscience, body trust, and a non-diet philosophy.
Accepting New Clients! Tired of feeling like food is the enemy or your body is a problem to fix? If you're exhausted from second-guessing every bite, overwhelmed by food decisions, or disconnected from your body’s cues, you're not alone — and you don’t have to heal alone either. Many of my clients come to me feeling like they’ve tried everything and still feel stuck. I’m here to offer a new way forward: one rooted in safety, compassion, creativity, and who You are as a whole person.
My approach blends medical nutrition therapy with neuroscience, body trust, and a non-diet philosophy.
Accepting New Clients! Tired of feeling like food is the enemy or your body is a problem to fix? If you're exhausted from second-guessing every bite, overwhelmed by food decisions, or disconnected from your body’s cues, you're not alone — and you don’t have to heal alone either. Many of my clients come to me feeling like they’ve tried everything and still feel stuck. I’m here to offer a new way forward: one rooted in safety, compassion, creativity, and who You are as a whole person.
(510) 201-5672 View (510) 201-5672
Photo of Terri Oberto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNC, CPT, PHT, BS
Terri Oberto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNC, CPT, PHT, BS
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
NES Health, Biofeedback (EPFX), Bemer therapy, Laser therapy, far-infrared therapy, and essential oil therapy are some of the modalities that I offer.
Our office provides extensive evaluation of questionnaires, diet analysis, urine and blood analysis from state of the art labs, in-office and home testing, Kinesiology and Sclerology. This evaluation generates a detailed protocol which is discussed in a lengthy consultation with you. We also offer several modalities which may help with issues you would like to address. These include Biofeedback, Rife, Galvanic Spa and infra red laser technologies, as well as aromatherapy, infra red sauna, cellular detox foot bath, and alkalizing therapies.
NES Health, Biofeedback (EPFX), Bemer therapy, Laser therapy, far-infrared therapy, and essential oil therapy are some of the modalities that I offer.
Our office provides extensive evaluation of questionnaires, diet analysis, urine and blood analysis from state of the art labs, in-office and home testing, Kinesiology and Sclerology. This evaluation generates a detailed protocol which is discussed in a lengthy consultation with you. We also offer several modalities which may help with issues you would like to address. These include Biofeedback, Rife, Galvanic Spa and infra red laser technologies, as well as aromatherapy, infra red sauna, cellular detox foot bath, and alkalizing therapies.
(831) 400-3405 View (831) 400-3405
Photo of Masha Sardari - Masha Sardari MS, RD, LD - Fearlessly Nourished , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Masha Sardari MS, RD, LD - Fearlessly Nourished
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
At Fearlessly Nourished, I’m passionate about working with clients struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating who are ready to transform their relationship with food and rediscover body trust. Together, we’ll break free from judgment and stress around nutrition, creating space for balance, body acceptance, and self-compassion.
At Fearlessly Nourished, I’m passionate about working with clients struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating who are ready to transform their relationship with food and rediscover body trust. Together, we’ll break free from judgment and stress around nutrition, creating space for balance, body acceptance, and self-compassion.
(904) 921-3421 View (904) 921-3421
Photo of Annie Rubin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP, CLT
Annie Rubin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP, CLT
Online Only
Are you struggling with symptoms caused by an underlying inflammatory and autoimmune condition? Do you experience pain, fatigue or digestive challenges? Are you finding that your quality of life just isn’t what it used to be? Inflammatory and autoimmune conditions can be extremely challenging, and unfortunately adjusting your diet is usually not part of the “typical” treatment plan.
Are you struggling with symptoms caused by an underlying inflammatory and autoimmune condition? Do you experience pain, fatigue or digestive challenges? Are you finding that your quality of life just isn’t what it used to be? Inflammatory and autoimmune conditions can be extremely challenging, and unfortunately adjusting your diet is usually not part of the “typical” treatment plan.
View
Photo of Lisa Cross - Cross into Wellness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN, FNTP
Cross into Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN, FNTP
Los Gatos, CA 95032
Waitlist for new clients
You are not a cookie, so you will not get a cookie-cutter approach from me! When your body feels inflamed, tired, or you are not feeling like your best self, I’m here to help identify what’s driving your symptoms. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of fatigue, brain fog, and weight resistance through a functional nutrition lens. I use highly personalized strategies which may include functional testing, blood sugar tracking, and targeted diet & lifestyle shifts to support women with metabolic health, gut health challenges, hormonal changes, and autoimmunity to help them feel their best.
You are not a cookie, so you will not get a cookie-cutter approach from me! When your body feels inflamed, tired, or you are not feeling like your best self, I’m here to help identify what’s driving your symptoms. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of fatigue, brain fog, and weight resistance through a functional nutrition lens. I use highly personalized strategies which may include functional testing, blood sugar tracking, and targeted diet & lifestyle shifts to support women with metabolic health, gut health challenges, hormonal changes, and autoimmunity to help them feel their best.
(669) 341-6261 View (669) 341-6261
Photo of Mary Ellen Banevedes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Mary Ellen Banevedes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Serves Area
I help people stop obsessing about food and their bodies, offering 1:1 nutrition therapy and body image coaching based in Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size®.
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!
I help people stop obsessing about food and their bodies, offering 1:1 nutrition therapy and body image coaching based in Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size®.
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 Elena Zorn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MA, CNP, CNE, FMCHC, DSS
Elena Zorn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MA, CNP, CNE, FMCHC, DSS
Online Only
Over the years, I've developed a protocol to break unhealthy habits like excessive sugar consumption, late-night eating, snacking, and negative self-talk. This promotes healthier habits such as enjoying vegetables and making better food choices. I prioritize nutrition and emotional health in healthcare, focusing on interventions for chronic, degenerative, and autoimmune diseases, cancer support, energy and brain health, food intolerances, chronic infections, disease prevention, and optimal wellness. I also specialize in supporting diabetes management, weight control, and addressing food cravings effectively.
Over the years, I've developed a protocol to break unhealthy habits like excessive sugar consumption, late-night eating, snacking, and negative self-talk. This promotes healthier habits such as enjoying vegetables and making better food choices. I prioritize nutrition and emotional health in healthcare, focusing on interventions for chronic, degenerative, and autoimmune diseases, cancer support, energy and brain health, food intolerances, chronic infections, disease prevention, and optimal wellness. I also specialize in supporting diabetes management, weight control, and addressing food cravings effectively.
(628) 250-4892 View (628) 250-4892
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is medical nutrition therapy?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves the use of personalized dietary changes to prevent or manage chronic conditions. Typically conducted in an outpatient setting by a Registered Dietitian (RD), MNT aims to address specific health issues through tailored nutrition plans. Clients are often referred for MNT by healthcare professionals who identify conditions that could benefit from dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. The goal of MNT is to improve overall health outcomes by making adjustments to the client's diet based on their individual needs and medical conditions.

What conditions is medical nutrition therapy for?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is often used for individuals with diseases caused or worsened by poor diet, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases. However, other conditions can also benefit from nutrition therapy. MNT is typically not intended to replace other treatments, such as medication, but rather to complement them. By improving a person's overall diet and health, MNT aims to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms and complement other treatments.

Is medical nutrition therapy covered by insurance?
Medical nutrition therapy is frequently covered by insurance. 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. While a referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary to obtain coverage for medical nutrition services. 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. 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.

What does medical nutrition therapy involve?
The approach a dietitian will take in a medical nutrition therapy session will depend on a number of factors, including what conditions the client has and what the goals of the client are. An initial session often involves an assessment of the client's overall health and current dietary intake; a dietitian may also speak with a client's medical doctor prior to or following a first session to obtain information on the medical condition(s) the client is seeking nutrition therapy counseling for. The dietitian will then work with the client to create goals of medical nutrition therapy sessions, such as weight loss, eating a more plant-based diet, or reducing sodium intake. Then, in ongoing sessions, the dietitian will work with the client to meet their stated goals. These ongoing sessions often include menu planning and coaching, which involve the dietitian working with the client to develop strategies for a healthier and more balanced diet. Dietitians may suggest recipes, put together grocery shopping lists, and/or recommend tracking one's intake in order to help clients make desired changes.