Nutritionists and Dietitians near Santa Ana, CA
![Photo of Joanna Richardson-Jones, RD, MBA, RPS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59307e32-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 April L. Murray, RD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8cebb98c-537e-4025-b7a8-db4b92c0bda2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with losing weight, uncomfortable bloating or an unhealthy relationship with food? Do you want to work with someone who understands what you're going through... At OC Nutrition Coaching we truly care about the people we work with, that's why we take a one-on-one approach and focus on lifestyle changes.
Are you struggling with losing weight, uncomfortable bloating or an unhealthy relationship with food? Do you want to work with someone who understands what you're going through... At OC Nutrition Coaching we truly care about the people we work with, that's why we take a one-on-one approach and focus on lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Ilana Nurko, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2fe7a6a1-b0e0-4241-bf24-5c776e86043f/2/320x400.png)
Ilana has been a Registered Dietitian since 2017. She completed her dietetic internship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for various neurological conditions including epilepsy, post-traumatic brain injury, stroke prevention and post-stroke management, swallowing difficulty with use of modified diets, alternative routes of nutrition. Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss. Ilana enjoys getting to know her patients and working with them overtime to achieve and further goals.
Ilana has been a Registered Dietitian since 2017. She completed her dietetic internship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for various neurological conditions including epilepsy, post-traumatic brain injury, stroke prevention and post-stroke management, swallowing difficulty with use of modified diets, alternative routes of nutrition. Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss. Ilana enjoys getting to know her patients and working with them overtime to achieve and further goals.
![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 Carly Marenna - June Nutrition Therapy, MHA, RD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c0cf0008-45e5-424b-8f21-7a6dad556198/3/320x400.jpeg)
I’m Carly - a RD-N specializing in eating disorders, disordered eating, mental health, & body image. My clients and I work 1:1 at the outpatient level to support their individual health concerns. Not all of my clients have diagnosed eating disorders - some of them have developed habits over the years that they'd like to change, need accountability for their health and wellness goals, or thanks in part to media representations about how we "should" look or "should" eat or "should" exercise, they just got confused along the way of how to relate to their own body. We fix that here.
I’m Carly - a RD-N specializing in eating disorders, disordered eating, mental health, & body image. My clients and I work 1:1 at the outpatient level to support their individual health concerns. Not all of my clients have diagnosed eating disorders - some of them have developed habits over the years that they'd like to change, need accountability for their health and wellness goals, or thanks in part to media representations about how we "should" look or "should" eat or "should" exercise, they just got confused along the way of how to relate to their own body. We fix that here.
![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 Safieh Ajine - Olea Nutrition & Wellness, MS, RD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/bd3dac59-471c-4f87-9a40-ca3100c701d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
My philosophy is to treat each individual as a unique case, focusing on you as a whole entity, and addressing the root of the problem. I want to help you reach your wellness goals, not just focus on symptom management. If you’re tired of feeling like you’re doing everything “right” and hearing that your lab results are “normal”, but you still feel “off” and can’t pinpoint it, then it’s time to schedule your 15 min consultation to see how I can support you.
My philosophy is to treat each individual as a unique case, focusing on you as a whole entity, and addressing the root of the problem. I want to help you reach your wellness goals, not just focus on symptom management. If you’re tired of feeling like you’re doing everything “right” and hearing that your lab results are “normal”, but you still feel “off” and can’t pinpoint it, then it’s time to schedule your 15 min consultation to see how I can support you.
![Photo of Whitney Lau, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a46c560c-f51b-4adb-86e7-07a108cfdec0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diagnosed with PCOS? Struggling with digestive issues, period problems, thyroid problems, or fertility challenges? Experiencing symptoms of fatigue, low energy, bloating, acne, and/ or hair loss? If you’re finding it difficult to get answers from your doctor, or if you were simply told "your labs look normal", and are tired of the trial-and-error approach, wasting time and money on random supplements and treatments, know that there's a better solution. You deserve to have the tools to learn how to manage your health issues, heal your body, and feel like yourself while living a life you love to its fullest potential.
Diagnosed with PCOS? Struggling with digestive issues, period problems, thyroid problems, or fertility challenges? Experiencing symptoms of fatigue, low energy, bloating, acne, and/ or hair loss? If you’re finding it difficult to get answers from your doctor, or if you were simply told "your labs look normal", and are tired of the trial-and-error approach, wasting time and money on random supplements and treatments, know that there's a better solution. You deserve to have the tools to learn how to manage your health issues, heal your body, and feel like yourself while living a life you love to its fullest potential.
![Photo of Dahlia Marin - Married to Health, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f782eed7-c821-41fb-857a-dc9d47cf4a72/2/320x400.png)
Patients come to our practice seeking to not only treat symptoms, but identify root causes as to why they have those symptoms in the first place. Nutrition and lifestyle are extremely important for root cause prevention and reversal of disease, therefore we use any and all evidence-based resources at our disposal to help our patients identify, treat, and evolve a sustainable action plan centered around an in-depth, root cause approach.
Patients come to our practice seeking to not only treat symptoms, but identify root causes as to why they have those symptoms in the first place. Nutrition and lifestyle are extremely important for root cause prevention and reversal of disease, therefore we use any and all evidence-based resources at our disposal to help our patients identify, treat, and evolve a sustainable action plan centered around an in-depth, root cause approach.
![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 Brittany Bettingen, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/94c19d3e-afc6-419c-b24f-63ef3c4087ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Dietitian with experience treating hormone imbalances, inflammation and gut/digestive issues that manifest in conditions such as PCOS, pre diabetes, insulin resistance, weight gain, bloating and IBS. Clients often come to me seeking not only the treatment for their symptoms, but to identify the root causes as to why they have those symptoms in the first place. I help my patients regain a sense of confidence in their body and eating patterns. I work with patients with goals to lose weight, improve their fertility/hormone balance, restore digestive health & regain a sense of energy as well as brain function & memory.
I am a Registered Dietitian with experience treating hormone imbalances, inflammation and gut/digestive issues that manifest in conditions such as PCOS, pre diabetes, insulin resistance, weight gain, bloating and IBS. Clients often come to me seeking not only the treatment for their symptoms, but to identify the root causes as to why they have those symptoms in the first place. I help my patients regain a sense of confidence in their body and eating patterns. I work with patients with goals to lose weight, improve their fertility/hormone balance, restore digestive health & regain a sense of energy as well as brain function & memory.
![Photo of Katie Chapmon - Katie Chapmon Nutrition, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/60839db2-27f1-420b-bb37-3d98946f50da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Chapmon Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Tustin, CA 92780 (Online Only)
Do you have bloating, irregular bowel movements, irregular periods, and are wanting to take a functional approach to feeling better? Together, we take a deep dive into your personal gut microbiome, overall digestion and hormones using functional testing and a whole person approach. Additionally, I specialize in working with people to prepare, recover and continue forward after metabolic and bariatric surgery - focusing on a non-judgmental environment to combine nutrition and mindset transformation
Do you have bloating, irregular bowel movements, irregular periods, and are wanting to take a functional approach to feeling better? Together, we take a deep dive into your personal gut microbiome, overall digestion and hormones using functional testing and a whole person approach. Additionally, I specialize in working with people to prepare, recover and continue forward after metabolic and bariatric surgery - focusing on a non-judgmental environment to combine nutrition and mindset transformation
![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 Dr. Rosa M Keller - Rosa Keller Nutrition, PhD, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/829aa431-f4b0-435f-8e30-d57696c1d188/1/320x400.png)
As a nutrition scientist and registered dietitian, my goal is to help you pin-point the current challenges you are facing with your health and nutrition. Through remote Telehealth services, we will work together to create actionable steps towards long-term healthy habits. Whether that means understanding how to improve your relationships with food, weight management, fuel exercise performance, finding a meal pattern that improves digestive symptoms, managing chronic disease and more.
As a nutrition scientist and registered dietitian, my goal is to help you pin-point the current challenges you are facing with your health and nutrition. Through remote Telehealth services, we will work together to create actionable steps towards long-term healthy habits. Whether that means understanding how to improve your relationships with food, weight management, fuel exercise performance, finding a meal pattern that improves digestive symptoms, managing chronic disease and more.
![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 Nesreen Khouraki, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58e5de56-f9b9-4862-bbf4-63017f330935/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Nesreen - an eating disorder dietitian with a passion for helping guide individuals to a healthy relationship with food and the body. Eating disorders are diseases of connection, and I support clients to rebuild connection to themselves- their senses, their body's cues and function, enjoyment of food, and honoring their worth and the need for life source- food. From rebuilding connection to ourselves, the connections to others and the environment begins to realign and heal, and energy flows.
I'm Nesreen - an eating disorder dietitian with a passion for helping guide individuals to a healthy relationship with food and the body. Eating disorders are diseases of connection, and I support clients to rebuild connection to themselves- their senses, their body's cues and function, enjoyment of food, and honoring their worth and the need for life source- food. From rebuilding connection to ourselves, the connections to others and the environment begins to realign and heal, and energy flows.
![Photo of On Ki Chan, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/098dd7f7-889e-4a65-857e-c6d96cc50f49/1/320x400.jpeg)
Food First. Science Based. Imagine living a LONG & HEALTHY life and being present with your friends and family without the distractions of being in a state of dis”ease”. Imagine what it would be like to be free of your symptoms and just be you…healthy. Have more energy, mental clarity, normal bowel movements and stop worrying about what to eat & stop suffering consequences after you eat. Feel good in your own body. Everyone is different. Starting with food as your foundation and discover what foods can nourish you and help you in your healing. I use food as nourishment, cell signaling, and healing to get you back to being healthy.
Food First. Science Based. Imagine living a LONG & HEALTHY life and being present with your friends and family without the distractions of being in a state of dis”ease”. Imagine what it would be like to be free of your symptoms and just be you…healthy. Have more energy, mental clarity, normal bowel movements and stop worrying about what to eat & stop suffering consequences after you eat. Feel good in your own body. Everyone is different. Starting with food as your foundation and discover what foods can nourish you and help you in your healing. I use food as nourishment, cell signaling, and healing to get you back to being healthy.
![Photo of Emily Marashian - Off-Road Nutrition LLC, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/18011253-9946-4376-a34d-a4c8c518367e/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Off-Road Nutrition, my goal is to work with you to develop sustainable, healthy nutrition habits that fit your individual life. I specialize in: Working with Military Veterans; Sports Performance Nutrition; Eating Disorders; Disordered Eating; Food Freedom & Intuitive Eating; and General Health & Wellness.
At Off-Road Nutrition, my goal is to work with you to develop sustainable, healthy nutrition habits that fit your individual life. I specialize in: Working with Military Veterans; Sports Performance Nutrition; Eating Disorders; Disordered Eating; Food Freedom & Intuitive Eating; and General Health & Wellness.
![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 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 Santa Ana?
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.