Nutritionists and Dietitians near Woodbridge, NJ
![Photo of Tracy Colin, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/926da286-9fc7-44f3-bf5f-64d6a1ddedae/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals and families with disordered eating habits and the complications that may come from it, including but not limited cycling with diets and eating disorders, struggling with weight loss and body positivity, and picky eating.
I work with individuals and families with disordered eating habits and the complications that may come from it, including but not limited cycling with diets and eating disorders, struggling with weight loss and body positivity, and picky eating.
![Photo of Lorraine Matthews-Antosiewicz, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59bb8411-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
IS YOUR BODY WEIGHING YOU DOWN? Do you go from one weight loss diet to another - only to gain weight? You have the power to change this and I can help you make it happen. When you work with me, you can expect to *Achieve and maintain your desired weight; *Love the way you look and feel; *Receive a personalized meal plan; *Enjoy the food you eat; *Become an informed consumer in the grocery store and at restaurants; *Reduce the need for medications; *Feel happier and more energetic. Call TODAY and Let's Get Started!
IS YOUR BODY WEIGHING YOU DOWN? Do you go from one weight loss diet to another - only to gain weight? You have the power to change this and I can help you make it happen. When you work with me, you can expect to *Achieve and maintain your desired weight; *Love the way you look and feel; *Receive a personalized meal plan; *Enjoy the food you eat; *Become an informed consumer in the grocery store and at restaurants; *Reduce the need for medications; *Feel happier and more energetic. Call TODAY and Let's Get Started!
![Photo of Diane Ramos, MS, RD, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f9dd3562-8c22-40b1-a648-fd24b1ce52f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Ramos
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Not accepting new clients
Making a change that actually sticks can be daunting. Getting healthy can be hard especially when there is so much information out there that is contradicting. My role always begins with being a strong support for anyone taking on the challenge of improving their eating habits, no matter how big or small. We are all human at the end of the day! I combine evidence based nutrition with behavior change strategies to help my clients achieve their goals one step at a time.
Making a change that actually sticks can be daunting. Getting healthy can be hard especially when there is so much information out there that is contradicting. My role always begins with being a strong support for anyone taking on the challenge of improving their eating habits, no matter how big or small. We are all human at the end of the day! I combine evidence based nutrition with behavior change strategies to help my clients achieve their goals one step at a time.
![Photo of Alka Sheth, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58c58003-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Eat Smart, Live Well" is my motto - a really practical and fun way to help you achieve great health! I believe in holistic approach to nutrition - wholesome, natural, minimally processed foods. Not fad diets, diet pills, or quick weight-loss gimmicks. A well-balanced, nutritious diet doesn't have to be a punishment. You can eat smart AND enjoy it too. I would love to show you how! With 20+ years of experience in nutrition counseling for management of weight, diabetes, obesity, heart disease and other medical conditions, I'm dedicated to helping you achieve healthy eating and lifestyle habits.
"Eat Smart, Live Well" is my motto - a really practical and fun way to help you achieve great health! I believe in holistic approach to nutrition - wholesome, natural, minimally processed foods. Not fad diets, diet pills, or quick weight-loss gimmicks. A well-balanced, nutritious diet doesn't have to be a punishment. You can eat smart AND enjoy it too. I would love to show you how! With 20+ years of experience in nutrition counseling for management of weight, diabetes, obesity, heart disease and other medical conditions, I'm dedicated to helping you achieve healthy eating and lifestyle habits.
![Photo of Betsy R Dubov, RD, MS, CDE, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58220e51-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a practicitioner I treat each client as an individual and help them determine their priorities for improving their diet and lifestyle. I can help you assess your most important health concerns and break down any barriers toward positive change. I teach you how to make small, manageable changes over time and you will feel proud of your success. When I counsel a client about how to improve their diet and lifestyle I take into account the many facets of their daily life and responsibilities ,personal interests and concerns, and current health status and offer an individualized care plan.
As a practicitioner I treat each client as an individual and help them determine their priorities for improving their diet and lifestyle. I can help you assess your most important health concerns and break down any barriers toward positive change. I teach you how to make small, manageable changes over time and you will feel proud of your success. When I counsel a client about how to improve their diet and lifestyle I take into account the many facets of their daily life and responsibilities ,personal interests and concerns, and current health status and offer an individualized care plan.
![Photo of Eliza Heberlein, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/616028d2-700b-4396-abe7-86a4fe2e2f6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adolescents and adults who are hoping to build a better relationship with food and their bodies. I spent 7 years working in a facility that provided inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient treatment for people healing from eating disorders; thus I have extensive experience helping people build skills and break down barriers so that they can reclaim their relationships with food. In my private practice, I have worked with clients who are healing from eating disorders, and those building new relationships with food having struggled with disordered eating, chronic dieting, and eating issues in general.
I work with adolescents and adults who are hoping to build a better relationship with food and their bodies. I spent 7 years working in a facility that provided inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient treatment for people healing from eating disorders; thus I have extensive experience helping people build skills and break down barriers so that they can reclaim their relationships with food. In my private practice, I have worked with clients who are healing from eating disorders, and those building new relationships with food having struggled with disordered eating, chronic dieting, and eating issues in general.
![Photo of Girija Ayyala - Eat Well Live Well, LLC, MS, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59e49a37-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eat Well Live Well, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piscataway, NJ 08854
I am passionate and committed to improving health and wellness through Integrative and Functional Nutrition principles and guidelines, which include in-depth nutrition history, assessment and providing personalized nutrition care plans that include- appropriate diet/meal plan, supplement recommendations, and life style modifications,etc. In the past 25 years I have helped many patients with Diabetes, Cardio Metabolic Syndrome, Weight management & Bariatric nutrition, Gastrointestinal disorders ,Food sensitivities, Chronic fatigue syndrome, etc . I am a believer of the Ayurvedic saying: "When the Diet is Wrong, Medicine is of No Use. When the Diet is Right, Medicine is of No Need."
I am passionate and committed to improving health and wellness through Integrative and Functional Nutrition principles and guidelines, which include in-depth nutrition history, assessment and providing personalized nutrition care plans that include- appropriate diet/meal plan, supplement recommendations, and life style modifications,etc. In the past 25 years I have helped many patients with Diabetes, Cardio Metabolic Syndrome, Weight management & Bariatric nutrition, Gastrointestinal disorders ,Food sensitivities, Chronic fatigue syndrome, etc . I am a believer of the Ayurvedic saying: "When the Diet is Wrong, Medicine is of No Use. When the Diet is Right, Medicine is of No Need."
![Photo of Barbara Baron - Barbara Baron Nutrition, MS, RDN, CDN, FAND, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59c92dd1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Baron Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, FAND
Verified Verified
Matawan, NJ 07747
Do you love a family meal and can't find the time or easy meals to keep your family home for dinner? Or are you tired of FAD diets aka "False Affects of Dieting? Barbara, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, helps build a healthier you ...one meal at a time! She works with corporations and busy parents who want to become their own "MVP" restoring more quality time, energy and vitality by making healthier food choices that also taste great! Barbara will guide you through food choices for Moderation, Variety and Planning to improve health and achieve a healthier weight.
Do you love a family meal and can't find the time or easy meals to keep your family home for dinner? Or are you tired of FAD diets aka "False Affects of Dieting? Barbara, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, helps build a healthier you ...one meal at a time! She works with corporations and busy parents who want to become their own "MVP" restoring more quality time, energy and vitality by making healthier food choices that also taste great! Barbara will guide you through food choices for Moderation, Variety and Planning to improve health and achieve a healthier weight.
![Photo of Lauren Carey - LBS Nutrition LLC, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58d65d5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
LBS Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Piscataway, NJ 08854
Food/nutrition plays such a big role in our lives. By fully understanding each clients' specific needs, the LBS Nutrition Registered Dietitian's educate, create, and implement appropriate plans that will suit each individual's lifestyle. It is not a "one size fits all" approach. We work very closely with clients through one on one meetings, continuous online communication, offer weigh ins, support groups, cooking events, and more. We offer both in person and virtual visits. Most insurances accepted.
Food/nutrition plays such a big role in our lives. By fully understanding each clients' specific needs, the LBS Nutrition Registered Dietitian's educate, create, and implement appropriate plans that will suit each individual's lifestyle. It is not a "one size fits all" approach. We work very closely with clients through one on one meetings, continuous online communication, offer weigh ins, support groups, cooking events, and more. We offer both in person and virtual visits. Most insurances accepted.
![Photo of John Bock, DCN, RD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58c136be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and over 15 years of experience as a registered dietitian, I have implemented specialty nutrition-focused programs for weight management, bariatric surgery, women's health, cancer, congestive heart failure, lipid management, diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders. My approach for behavior modification starts with each client setting their own goals and providing motivation to achieve these goals. I want to know what your thoughts are about food and the emotions that stimulate eating. We will openly discuss your nutrition concerns and develop a plan to overcome them.
As a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and over 15 years of experience as a registered dietitian, I have implemented specialty nutrition-focused programs for weight management, bariatric surgery, women's health, cancer, congestive heart failure, lipid management, diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders. My approach for behavior modification starts with each client setting their own goals and providing motivation to achieve these goals. I want to know what your thoughts are about food and the emotions that stimulate eating. We will openly discuss your nutrition concerns and develop a plan to overcome them.
![Photo of Gabrielle Bisogno - Lifespan Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/0b80982a-be46-4630-98a1-853cc78fbc54/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Gabby! I'm a Registered Dietitian who likes to help people create long-term, sustainable goals toward better health and feeling their best. I want to make a healthy lifestyle feel manageable, without too much restriction.
Hi, I'm Gabby! I'm a Registered Dietitian who likes to help people create long-term, sustainable goals toward better health and feeling their best. I want to make a healthy lifestyle feel manageable, without too much restriction.
![Photo of Katie Salmon, MS, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/66d31b86-ced6-4638-82b4-0ca51c77001b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Salmon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081 (Online Only)
Are tired of the conflicting nutrition recommendations and are frustrated by the confusing guidelines when it comes to your fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey? Maybe you are at a loss of what to even eat when it comes to nausea, food aversions, a new diagnosis of gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia. You are looking for a tailored approach to your needs that will work specifically for your busy lifestyle.
Are tired of the conflicting nutrition recommendations and are frustrated by the confusing guidelines when it comes to your fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey? Maybe you are at a loss of what to even eat when it comes to nausea, food aversions, a new diagnosis of gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia. You are looking for a tailored approach to your needs that will work specifically for your busy lifestyle.
![Photo of Rebecca Zeltmann, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/052869e1-5e71-4d30-8487-293aaee140fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of the diet cycle and feeling like you are not good enough as you are? We can help. The Enjoyable Plate is passionate about helping women heal their relationship with food and their body through nutrition and body image counseling, so you can spend more time on all the things you love and less time worrying about how you look and what you eat. Because changing your appearance will not make you a more deserving, lovable person - you are worthy of love, self-respect, kindness and happiness as you are.
Are you tired of the diet cycle and feeling like you are not good enough as you are? We can help. The Enjoyable Plate is passionate about helping women heal their relationship with food and their body through nutrition and body image counseling, so you can spend more time on all the things you love and less time worrying about how you look and what you eat. Because changing your appearance will not make you a more deserving, lovable person - you are worthy of love, self-respect, kindness and happiness as you are.
![Photo of Katie Hawkins - Katie Hawkins MS, RDN, Nourish & Nurture Nutrition, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f5c9f4e1-62cf-4453-804a-27c07980145a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Hawkins MS, RDN, Nourish & Nurture Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Watchung, NJ 07069 (Online Only)
Welcome, I am so glad you're here! I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that specializes in providing nutrition counseling for folks who have eating disorders and disordered eating. I am also thrilled to work with those who might not have a diagnosed eating disorder but feel their relationship with food/body could use a little nurturing. If you have a medical condition, I know how challenging it can be to meet all your needs and maintain your food/body relationship. I practice with a weight inclusive, Health At Every Size(R) approach. I care about the lived experiences you have had.
Welcome, I am so glad you're here! I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that specializes in providing nutrition counseling for folks who have eating disorders and disordered eating. I am also thrilled to work with those who might not have a diagnosed eating disorder but feel their relationship with food/body could use a little nurturing. If you have a medical condition, I know how challenging it can be to meet all your needs and maintain your food/body relationship. I practice with a weight inclusive, Health At Every Size(R) approach. I care about the lived experiences you have had.
![Photo of Natasha S Hescott - Hescott Nutrition Services, LLC, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/005ed3db-15ac-4b9b-b63b-393606480264/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hescott Nutrition Services, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roselle, NJ 07203
Hescott Nutrition Services offer nutrition services and holistic health coaching for chronic disease prevention. With 10 plus years of experience working with a diverse population, she believes in using patient-centered care and a culturally sensitive approach to helping each client reach their individualized nutrition goals. Research shows that the leading causes of death and disability in America are modifiable chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and stroke with key lifestyle risk factors being poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, tobacco, and excessive alcohol use.
Hescott Nutrition Services offer nutrition services and holistic health coaching for chronic disease prevention. With 10 plus years of experience working with a diverse population, she believes in using patient-centered care and a culturally sensitive approach to helping each client reach their individualized nutrition goals. Research shows that the leading causes of death and disability in America are modifiable chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, and stroke with key lifestyle risk factors being poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, tobacco, and excessive alcohol use.
![Photo of Cyndi Salemy, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/400f1900-ffaf-44ef-b935-961c392501d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be really hard sometimes, and cultivating a positive relationship with food and your body can feel impossible. I specialize in mental health nutrition, disordered eating, binge eating, and eating disorders and can help you find nourishment and peace with food. I offer a supportive, weight-inclusive, non-judgmental space to share, learn, and discover where you can make positive change in your life.
Life can be really hard sometimes, and cultivating a positive relationship with food and your body can feel impossible. I specialize in mental health nutrition, disordered eating, binge eating, and eating disorders and can help you find nourishment and peace with food. I offer a supportive, weight-inclusive, non-judgmental space to share, learn, and discover where you can make positive change in your life.
![Photo of Constance A Chukwuka, MPH, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59018fbd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Constance A Chukwuka
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
My goal is to make it 100% easy for you to follow your specified dietary plan and lifestyle changes to meet your goal. I always review your food likes/dislikes, make necessary changes paying attention to your food likes. I believe that good nutrition is the one that is eaten, good diet plan/lifestyle change is the one that is simple and easy to follow for a long time. I use visuals and measures to bring points home and clear, you don't have to take notes, I do give handouts which you might never have to read because my points are always clear.
My goal is to make it 100% easy for you to follow your specified dietary plan and lifestyle changes to meet your goal. I always review your food likes/dislikes, make necessary changes paying attention to your food likes. I believe that good nutrition is the one that is eaten, good diet plan/lifestyle change is the one that is simple and easy to follow for a long time. I use visuals and measures to bring points home and clear, you don't have to take notes, I do give handouts which you might never have to read because my points are always clear.
![Photo of Lexi Moriarty (Sports + Eating Disorder Dietitian), MS, RDN, CSSD, RYT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8ff36d8c-2512-4271-ac17-b0784196dcf4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lexi Moriarty (Sports + Eating Disorder Dietitian)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, RYT
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090 (Online Only)
Lexi is currently not accepting any new clients. Lexi is a Certified Sports Dietitian specializing in sports nutrition, eating disorder recovery, and intuitive eating for athletes. Do you struggle with confusion about what to eat for your goals, sport, or training? Do you overthink food decisions, feel guilt around certain choices, and not know how to blend healthy eating with an active social life? Are your low energy levels or tendency to overthink everything you eat getting in the way of your life, happiness, and sports performance? Food and nutrition do not need to be this complicated.
Lexi is currently not accepting any new clients. Lexi is a Certified Sports Dietitian specializing in sports nutrition, eating disorder recovery, and intuitive eating for athletes. Do you struggle with confusion about what to eat for your goals, sport, or training? Do you overthink food decisions, feel guilt around certain choices, and not know how to blend healthy eating with an active social life? Are your low energy levels or tendency to overthink everything you eat getting in the way of your life, happiness, and sports performance? Food and nutrition do not need to be this complicated.
![Photo of Beth A Lanzisera, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1a5e5e2a-ee81-4d5c-a10d-ca2324e0d701/1/320x400.png)
Diet and nutrition are incredibly impactful on our mental and physical well-being. Sorting through all the current diet trends swirling around in the public domain can be overwhelming and confusing. Working together, we can create lasting lifestyle changes that evolve and are personalized to your needs. If you have been imagining feeling more energetic and increasing your vitality, working together, we can make that possible!
Diet and nutrition are incredibly impactful on our mental and physical well-being. Sorting through all the current diet trends swirling around in the public domain can be overwhelming and confusing. Working together, we can create lasting lifestyle changes that evolve and are personalized to your needs. If you have been imagining feeling more energetic and increasing your vitality, working together, we can make that possible!
![Photo of Lauren Bernstein, MS, RD, CDE, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5884b3dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe finding the right motivation and support is the key to your success. Not only will I focus on what you eat but why you eat. Emotional eating has become a much more prevalent issue for many people. My clients will have the opportunity to explore the triggers that perpetuate these unhealthy eating habits. I have over 20 years of experience. Let me be your health coach and lead you to a permanent, healthy way of eating.
I believe finding the right motivation and support is the key to your success. Not only will I focus on what you eat but why you eat. Emotional eating has become a much more prevalent issue for many people. My clients will have the opportunity to explore the triggers that perpetuate these unhealthy eating habits. I have over 20 years of experience. Let me be your health coach and lead you to a permanent, healthy way of eating.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Woodbridge?
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.