Nutritionists and Dietitians near Bothell, WA
![Photo of Janai Marie Meyer - Nutrition & Lactation with Janai, LLC, RDN, LD, IBCLC, CCE, RYT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f4648dd1-c9c9-4334-b420-c866e23bc4a6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nutrition & Lactation with Janai, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, IBCLC, CCE, RYT
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98012
I believe you found me for a reason! I am a Women's Health Functional Dietitian and Lactation Consultant. Empowering women from perinatal to perimenopause to take charge of their health with integrative support, tailored, realistic nutrition goals, supplements, sleep hygiene, meditation, breathwork, and yoga are just a few paths to your whole; authentic, healthy self. Are you ready?
I believe you found me for a reason! I am a Women's Health Functional Dietitian and Lactation Consultant. Empowering women from perinatal to perimenopause to take charge of their health with integrative support, tailored, realistic nutrition goals, supplements, sleep hygiene, meditation, breathwork, and yoga are just a few paths to your whole; authentic, healthy self. Are you ready?
![Photo of Rene Munday, MS, CN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/066e29db-82d3-4f6c-8f71-9ed474e9e29e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I bring a unique approach to wellness providing personalized guidance tailored to each individual's lifestyle and needs. With a master's degree in nutrition and formal education in herbal science, cooking, and Ayurvedic medicine, my philosophy blends up-to-date science, modern natural medicine, and Eastern philosophy. I believe in caring for both the body and emotional well-being for optimal health. My passion lies in educating and empowering people to take control of their health. I align with natural cycles and provide support that goes beyond food, to feel your best.
I bring a unique approach to wellness providing personalized guidance tailored to each individual's lifestyle and needs. With a master's degree in nutrition and formal education in herbal science, cooking, and Ayurvedic medicine, my philosophy blends up-to-date science, modern natural medicine, and Eastern philosophy. I believe in caring for both the body and emotional well-being for optimal health. My passion lies in educating and empowering people to take control of their health. I align with natural cycles and provide support that goes beyond food, to feel your best.
![Photo of Kiersten Brown Honey Nutrition, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/512d197d-5818-4709-8f0d-953a61469cd4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kiersten Brown Honey Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125 (Online Only)
I am a registered dietitian that specializes in disordered eating and eating disorders, as well as intuitive eating. My hope for each client is that their new habits can become second nature, and that I provide a warm and safe environment to bring up nutrition concerns free of weight stigma. I am certified in Intuitive Eating, which is a beautiful framework that allows many to find true peace with food and improve their lives.
I am a registered dietitian that specializes in disordered eating and eating disorders, as well as intuitive eating. My hope for each client is that their new habits can become second nature, and that I provide a warm and safe environment to bring up nutrition concerns free of weight stigma. I am certified in Intuitive Eating, which is a beautiful framework that allows many to find true peace with food and improve their lives.
![Photo of Megan Ellison - Sound Dietitians LLC, MS, RDN, CDCES, Owner, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/592e7965-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sound Dietitians LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, Owner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98046
Sound Dietitians brings the nutrition expertise of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) to you. We have RDNs in various locations around the Puget Sound region and can meet with individual clients for customized nutrition counseling. We partner with clinics and facilities to make Medical Nutrition Therapy accessible and convenient. We provide on-site presentations and nutrition counseling as part of business and government Wellness Programs.
Sound Dietitians brings the nutrition expertise of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) to you. We have RDNs in various locations around the Puget Sound region and can meet with individual clients for customized nutrition counseling. We partner with clinics and facilities to make Medical Nutrition Therapy accessible and convenient. We provide on-site presentations and nutrition counseling as part of business and government Wellness Programs.
![Photo of Shelby Erin Slenkamp - KOKUA Lifestyle and Nutrition, MS, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/27ecb5f7-2ebe-4e16-b504-a21fd887bdb0/3/320x400.jpeg)
KOKUA Lifestyle and Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98296
An impassioned self- employed private practice Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle expert with 6 years of experience working with individuals wishing to learn about or change their relationship with food and physical activity. Well versed in performing health and nutrition assessments and implementing customized lifestyle plans with a variety of health conditions and clients. Bound and committed to helping individuals achieve symptom remission and improved health through sharing knowledge, professional, and personal experience.
An impassioned self- employed private practice Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle expert with 6 years of experience working with individuals wishing to learn about or change their relationship with food and physical activity. Well versed in performing health and nutrition assessments and implementing customized lifestyle plans with a variety of health conditions and clients. Bound and committed to helping individuals achieve symptom remission and improved health through sharing knowledge, professional, and personal experience.
![Photo of Dr. Cristen Harris, PhD, RDN, CEDS, CSSD, CEP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7f089613-bf9d-43ab-9a2c-ea7a9eba09b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cristen Harris
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CEDS, CSSD, CEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenmore, WA 98028 (Online Only)
Dr. Harris (she/her) is passionate about empowering clients to nourish the joy in eating, feeding, and moving. Dr. Harris' weight-neutral and trauma-informed approach to counseling, education, and parenting are grounded in the evidence-based Eating Competence model that incorporates flexibility, attunement, trust, and embodiment in eating and moving.
Dr. Harris (she/her) is passionate about empowering clients to nourish the joy in eating, feeding, and moving. Dr. Harris' weight-neutral and trauma-informed approach to counseling, education, and parenting are grounded in the evidence-based Eating Competence model that incorporates flexibility, attunement, trust, and embodiment in eating and moving.
![Photo of Nataly Nislow, MS, CNS, CN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f3e3ce88-331b-49ca-a802-34d7d90619ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nataly Nislow
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CN
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
Nataly Nislow is a Certified Nutrition Specialist and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor specializing in supporting individuals navigating the complexities of eating disorders, disordered eating, intuitive eating, body acceptance, and recovery from chronic dieting. Nataly finds fulfillment in working closely with those diagnosed with OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Beyond her expertise in mental health nutrition, Nataly extends her services to individuals living with heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and digestive disorders.
Nataly Nislow is a Certified Nutrition Specialist and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor specializing in supporting individuals navigating the complexities of eating disorders, disordered eating, intuitive eating, body acceptance, and recovery from chronic dieting. Nataly finds fulfillment in working closely with those diagnosed with OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Beyond her expertise in mental health nutrition, Nataly extends her services to individuals living with heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and digestive disorders.
![Photo of Kaitlin Benjamin, MPH, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/fc52653d-118e-45fd-a0b6-c4d3e689d79b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaitlin Benjamin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
Have you ever been so caught up in trying to eat the “right” thing, that you become paralyzed with indecision? Maybe you’ve found yourself so anxious about trying to be healthy that you’re unable to eat anything at all. Even if it feels a long way off, food freedom is possible; yes, even for you! If you’re done with dieting and ready to try a more gentle, enjoyable approach to eating and nutrition, I’m your gal.
Have you ever been so caught up in trying to eat the “right” thing, that you become paralyzed with indecision? Maybe you’ve found yourself so anxious about trying to be healthy that you’re unable to eat anything at all. Even if it feels a long way off, food freedom is possible; yes, even for you! If you’re done with dieting and ready to try a more gentle, enjoyable approach to eating and nutrition, I’m your gal.
![Photo of Alex Gavronsky, MS, RDN, CDN, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c8b0e4a7-7421-45df-9a03-3a6c6eed0bb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Gavronsky
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CNSC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
Alex is a board-certified lead dietitian at one of New York's largest hospitals. He started his private practice to improve access to nutritional counseling and build deep, long-term relationships with patients who are managing nutrition-related health conditions. His work focuses on patients with both chronic and acute/severe conditions, ranging from rapid weight change to cancer. Regardless of health reason, Alex strives to always create a kind and caring environment for his patients.
Alex is a board-certified lead dietitian at one of New York's largest hospitals. He started his private practice to improve access to nutritional counseling and build deep, long-term relationships with patients who are managing nutrition-related health conditions. His work focuses on patients with both chronic and acute/severe conditions, ranging from rapid weight change to cancer. Regardless of health reason, Alex strives to always create a kind and caring environment for his patients.
![Photo of Danielle O'Keefe, CN, LMHCA, LMT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5910e042-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle O'Keefe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN, LMHCA, LMT
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
As an anti-diet, weight-inclusive nutritionist, I create a trusting and collaborative space to explore your relationship with food, body, and movement. With so much conflicting nutrition information in the world, often promoting restriction or ignoring what your body is telling you it needs and wants, my goal is to help you rediscover your body's inner wisdom. Diet culture and systems of oppression that tell us who we are and how we should be disconnect us from ourselves, crippling our ability to orient toward our own well-being. We may be a good fit for working together if you're looking for help:
As an anti-diet, weight-inclusive nutritionist, I create a trusting and collaborative space to explore your relationship with food, body, and movement. With so much conflicting nutrition information in the world, often promoting restriction or ignoring what your body is telling you it needs and wants, my goal is to help you rediscover your body's inner wisdom. Diet culture and systems of oppression that tell us who we are and how we should be disconnect us from ourselves, crippling our ability to orient toward our own well-being. We may be a good fit for working together if you're looking for help:
![Photo of Sadie Hitsky, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/eade7017-82a6-4936-84f7-6eef20923de1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sadie is a Seattle-based Registered Dietitian with 8 years of Integrative and Functional health experience. She completed her training in Nutrition and Dietetics at Bastyr University which emphasized a root-cause approach to healing. Sadie believes it’s within your control to be your happiest and most vibrant self and her goal is to empower you to achieve this. Sadie’s favorite part about working with others is partnering together and seeing people evolve into their healthiest selves yet. She believes in the body’s innate ability to heal when given the opportunity to do so.
Sadie is a Seattle-based Registered Dietitian with 8 years of Integrative and Functional health experience. She completed her training in Nutrition and Dietetics at Bastyr University which emphasized a root-cause approach to healing. Sadie believes it’s within your control to be your happiest and most vibrant self and her goal is to empower you to achieve this. Sadie’s favorite part about working with others is partnering together and seeing people evolve into their healthiest selves yet. She believes in the body’s innate ability to heal when given the opportunity to do so.
![Photo of Reiko Sudduth - Reiko Sudduth | Rocket Nutrition, MS, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5a7e6d2f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reiko Sudduth | Rocket Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Are you ready to make a change to improve your health? Do you have questions or concerns regarding nutrition for you or your family? Whether you are looking to prevent a health condition, to heal from a condition or simply to reduce your symptoms, your approach to eating and taking care of yourself can have a profound effect on your health. We can work together to bring clarity and create the best plan to meet your health goals. I provide individualized nutritional counseling to people of all ages to help establish diet and lifestyle habits that serve their unique needs.
Are you ready to make a change to improve your health? Do you have questions or concerns regarding nutrition for you or your family? Whether you are looking to prevent a health condition, to heal from a condition or simply to reduce your symptoms, your approach to eating and taking care of yourself can have a profound effect on your health. We can work together to bring clarity and create the best plan to meet your health goals. I provide individualized nutritional counseling to people of all ages to help establish diet and lifestyle habits that serve their unique needs.
I work with women during their childbearing years. Are you currently pregnant and wondering how to best nourish yourself and your baby? Trying to conceive and struggling, or preparing to start trying and wanting to set yourself up for success? Are you postpartum (recently or several years ago) and wanting support breastfeeding or help managing your weight? If so, let's chat! I am a registered dietitian nutritionist and mom who will support you on your childbearing journey, wherever you are. I use an evidence-based, individualized approach because that's what everyone needs - an approach that works, tailored to the you, specifically.
I work with women during their childbearing years. Are you currently pregnant and wondering how to best nourish yourself and your baby? Trying to conceive and struggling, or preparing to start trying and wanting to set yourself up for success? Are you postpartum (recently or several years ago) and wanting support breastfeeding or help managing your weight? If so, let's chat! I am a registered dietitian nutritionist and mom who will support you on your childbearing journey, wherever you are. I use an evidence-based, individualized approach because that's what everyone needs - an approach that works, tailored to the you, specifically.
![Photo of Lauren Leedy, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/fd13d3be-d2e5-4fca-baf5-4e088115ec39/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nearly a decade into my dietetic practice, I know the recipe for success. I’ve worked with clients perplexed with weight loss and weight gain alike. I’ve worked with infants and ninety year olds, ultra marathon athletes and those struggling to get off the couch. One thing I know for sure is that eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard. I’m here to teach you how to make it easy. I specialize in creating unique strategies and solutions for the busiest of people to meet their personal health goals.
Nearly a decade into my dietetic practice, I know the recipe for success. I’ve worked with clients perplexed with weight loss and weight gain alike. I’ve worked with infants and ninety year olds, ultra marathon athletes and those struggling to get off the couch. One thing I know for sure is that eating healthy doesn’t have to be hard. I’m here to teach you how to make it easy. I specialize in creating unique strategies and solutions for the busiest of people to meet their personal health goals.
![Photo of Marissa Beck, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cac16a48-0df0-4b50-9eaf-0ac5ade15739/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marissa Beck
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
Are you a high-achieving perfectionist struggling with food and your body weight? Do you or your family have disordered eating patterns? I am here to help you break free from all-or-nothing food thinking and empower you to confidently nourish yourself and your loved ones. As a dedicated and experienced nutrition counselor, I offer personalized, non-diet virtual nutrition counseling and education to help you reach your full potential in sports, career, family life and overall health. With my guidance, you can also manage chronic conditions (special focus: diabetes, PCOS, hypertension, hyperlipidemia & metabolic syndrome).
Are you a high-achieving perfectionist struggling with food and your body weight? Do you or your family have disordered eating patterns? I am here to help you break free from all-or-nothing food thinking and empower you to confidently nourish yourself and your loved ones. As a dedicated and experienced nutrition counselor, I offer personalized, non-diet virtual nutrition counseling and education to help you reach your full potential in sports, career, family life and overall health. With my guidance, you can also manage chronic conditions (special focus: diabetes, PCOS, hypertension, hyperlipidemia & metabolic syndrome).
![Photo of Beve Kindblade - Seattle Nutrition - Beve Kindblade Consulting, MS, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/581317d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Seattle Nutrition - Beve Kindblade Consulting
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
Experience counts! Why trust your nutritional health to just anyone? Private practice offers a unique opportunity to discuss your health and wellness goals; any medical issues; and evaluate your latest labs (or any labs needed) to see how you are digesting and absorbing nutrients from your diet and supplements. Beve will create a customized Nutrition Care Plan for you. Tired? Sleep issues? Weight changes? Let's find out "why?" Combining the best of traditional medicine with a natural health approach has been Beve's intention and purpose with clients for more than 32 years. Seattle Nutrition - the missing L-I-N-K in your healthcare.
Experience counts! Why trust your nutritional health to just anyone? Private practice offers a unique opportunity to discuss your health and wellness goals; any medical issues; and evaluate your latest labs (or any labs needed) to see how you are digesting and absorbing nutrients from your diet and supplements. Beve will create a customized Nutrition Care Plan for you. Tired? Sleep issues? Weight changes? Let's find out "why?" Combining the best of traditional medicine with a natural health approach has been Beve's intention and purpose with clients for more than 32 years. Seattle Nutrition - the missing L-I-N-K in your healthcare.
![Photo of Colleen Drosdeck - Colleen Drosdeck | Nutrition For Metabolic Health , RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/24d58c35-4b14-4bcd-9b32-eae15d43d28e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen Drosdeck | Nutrition For Metabolic Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036 (Online Only)
I specialize in using a low carbohydrate lifestyle to help clients feel better, move easier, reduce belly fat, improve blood sugar levels, achieve a healthier weight, lower blood pressure and decrease risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
I specialize in using a low carbohydrate lifestyle to help clients feel better, move easier, reduce belly fat, improve blood sugar levels, achieve a healthier weight, lower blood pressure and decrease risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
![Photo of Negin Ebrahimifard, RDN, CDCES, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/768353f9-f26b-43f8-a6b2-f5da33dc89a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for support with managing type 1, gestational, or type 2 diabetes? Are you confused about what/when to eat? Do you worry that your food choices will lead to blood sugars that are above or below your target range? As a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist and my personal experience of living with diabetes for the past 20 years, I am devoted to providing support, education, and compassionate understanding to you. Often our health and what we can and cannot eat are used to define us. Let's restore the joy of eating while empowering you to be your best self!
Are you looking for support with managing type 1, gestational, or type 2 diabetes? Are you confused about what/when to eat? Do you worry that your food choices will lead to blood sugars that are above or below your target range? As a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist and my personal experience of living with diabetes for the past 20 years, I am devoted to providing support, education, and compassionate understanding to you. Often our health and what we can and cannot eat are used to define us. Let's restore the joy of eating while empowering you to be your best self!
![Photo of Adrianna (Andie) Hauck, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c2acb7d9-69f3-4169-8aac-d97d9bb74ac7/1/320x400.png)
Adrianna (Andie) Hauck
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
Andie is a Registered Dietitian with a commitment to improve the health of her clients while establishing a relationship with food that is sustainable and fun. Andie believes that eating should be an enjoyable experience that both nourishes our bodies and tastes good too! She loves to help clients plan meals that they look forward to eating. Clients will learn the amazing things that food can do for our bodies that will encourage longevity and a higher quality of life. She also has a passion for sports nutrition and how food can help one reach their performance goals. She looks forward to helping you on your wellness journey.
Andie is a Registered Dietitian with a commitment to improve the health of her clients while establishing a relationship with food that is sustainable and fun. Andie believes that eating should be an enjoyable experience that both nourishes our bodies and tastes good too! She loves to help clients plan meals that they look forward to eating. Clients will learn the amazing things that food can do for our bodies that will encourage longevity and a higher quality of life. She also has a passion for sports nutrition and how food can help one reach their performance goals. She looks forward to helping you on your wellness journey.
![Photo of Karen Petermeyer, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59e53f54-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling overwhelmed and out of control? Is food often a reward or a punishment? Do you find yourself feeling guilty around your food choices or how much you eat? Do you find yourself skipping meals or changing how you eat because you are with other people? Do you struggle with feeling comfortable in your body? Are you eating or exercising to change the way you look? Food is not made to be overwhelming, stressful, guilt-provoking.
Feeling overwhelmed and out of control? Is food often a reward or a punishment? Do you find yourself feeling guilty around your food choices or how much you eat? Do you find yourself skipping meals or changing how you eat because you are with other people? Do you struggle with feeling comfortable in your body? Are you eating or exercising to change the way you look? Food is not made to be overwhelming, stressful, guilt-provoking.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Bothell?
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.