Nutritionists and Dietitians in Colorado Springs, CO
![Photo of Stephanie Michelle Scott, MA, RD, LPC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59fd5948-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Michelle Scott
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
As both a therapist and a registered dietitian, I specialize in helping people heal their relationship with food and body-image. This might include challenges with dieting, overeating, emotional eating, stress eating, or binge eating. I teach my clients how to break free from dieting and rigid eating plans and learn how to restore healthy eating and self-care habits. I know how exhausting it can feel to have food and body on your mind all hours of the day. I also know it's possible to finally heal the non-stop food obsession and get back to living the life you're meant to live.
As both a therapist and a registered dietitian, I specialize in helping people heal their relationship with food and body-image. This might include challenges with dieting, overeating, emotional eating, stress eating, or binge eating. I teach my clients how to break free from dieting and rigid eating plans and learn how to restore healthy eating and self-care habits. I know how exhausting it can feel to have food and body on your mind all hours of the day. I also know it's possible to finally heal the non-stop food obsession and get back to living the life you're meant to live.
![Photo of Liesel Maddox, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cba6ef30-b531-4ad5-8db7-53d7b6089bf8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Liesel Maddox is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about helping people find lasting freedom with food and their bodies. Liesel is specialized in the nutritional treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. Liesel uses a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach to nutrition and incorporates Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating principles into nutrition counseling. She helps clients break free from diet culture and ditch food rules to heal their relationships with food, exercise, and their bodies. Liesel is happy to incorporate a Christian faith-based approach to treatment when desired.
Liesel Maddox is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about helping people find lasting freedom with food and their bodies. Liesel is specialized in the nutritional treatment of eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. Liesel uses a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach to nutrition and incorporates Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating principles into nutrition counseling. She helps clients break free from diet culture and ditch food rules to heal their relationships with food, exercise, and their bodies. Liesel is happy to incorporate a Christian faith-based approach to treatment when desired.
![Photo of Sharley Jackman - Sharley Rene Nutrition, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/139f2fc3-4426-4ad8-b9f7-6a8dea7301e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharley Rene Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (Online Only)
Nutrition and health needs vary greatly for every person. My desire is to partner with you in understanding your current goals and challenges. We will work to develop an individualized plan specifically for you that is attainable, and can become not just a prescribed diet, but part of your lifestyle. There is no "one plan fits all." I am passionate in helping you discover the best plan for you so you can enjoy life and optimize your health!
Nutrition and health needs vary greatly for every person. My desire is to partner with you in understanding your current goals and challenges. We will work to develop an individualized plan specifically for you that is attainable, and can become not just a prescribed diet, but part of your lifestyle. There is no "one plan fits all." I am passionate in helping you discover the best plan for you so you can enjoy life and optimize your health!
![Photo of Erica Golden, RDN, LD, IFNCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b69b903e-c86c-4119-9f0e-f5a28a5e8468/1/320x400.png)
Are you dealing with IBS, depression, anxiety, or disordered eating? Do you want to heal your gut without restrictive diets? Do you find yourself fearful of food because you’re not sure what will cause symptoms? Have you noticed the powerful impact your mental health and wellness has on your gut symptoms, and vice versa?
Are you dealing with IBS, depression, anxiety, or disordered eating? Do you want to heal your gut without restrictive diets? Do you find yourself fearful of food because you’re not sure what will cause symptoms? Have you noticed the powerful impact your mental health and wellness has on your gut symptoms, and vice versa?
![Photo of Kelly Josephine Calabrese - Optimal Wellness Solutions, MS, CCN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cfe2e767-c7d6-4b54-ab72-fcf150e3624f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Optimal Wellness Solutions
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CCN
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
I help my patients achieve results by addressing the root causality to their health concerns. I use an 80 marker blood test I designed with Quest Diagnostics to determine nutrient deficiency, toxic exposure, hormone imbalances, Immune and Neurological deficits as well as to address stress and lifestyle changes. I PROVIDE REAL SOLUTIONS TO REAL HEALTH PROBLEMS. As we age, weight loss becomes increasingly more difficult. The body is holding onto weight to protect nerves, organs, and brain from toxic exposure. By addressing these issues, the patient will live a pain free, medication free, disease free, vibrant and energetic life.
I help my patients achieve results by addressing the root causality to their health concerns. I use an 80 marker blood test I designed with Quest Diagnostics to determine nutrient deficiency, toxic exposure, hormone imbalances, Immune and Neurological deficits as well as to address stress and lifestyle changes. I PROVIDE REAL SOLUTIONS TO REAL HEALTH PROBLEMS. As we age, weight loss becomes increasingly more difficult. The body is holding onto weight to protect nerves, organs, and brain from toxic exposure. By addressing these issues, the patient will live a pain free, medication free, disease free, vibrant and energetic life.
![Photo of Jennifer Ables, PhD, CNC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2c3c3ba8-3efc-4792-8013-012bd4c0d166/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Ables
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, CNC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (Online Only)
A Medical Intuitive is someone who uses intuition as a tool to investigate health concerns and find the root causes. This approach involves looking at health using an intuitive ability to assess physical, emotional, mental, and energetic factors that may contribute. If you're dissatisfied with conventional medicine and interested in alternative or complementary care, consider Holistic Health addresses the whole person, not just a disease or isolated symptom(s). It's based on the philosophy that the way to vibrant health is to remove toxins, nourish the body and support its processes. Jennifer has been helping clients since 1999.
A Medical Intuitive is someone who uses intuition as a tool to investigate health concerns and find the root causes. This approach involves looking at health using an intuitive ability to assess physical, emotional, mental, and energetic factors that may contribute. If you're dissatisfied with conventional medicine and interested in alternative or complementary care, consider Holistic Health addresses the whole person, not just a disease or isolated symptom(s). It's based on the philosophy that the way to vibrant health is to remove toxins, nourish the body and support its processes. Jennifer has been helping clients since 1999.
![Photo of Elise Vega, PSM, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/48f04154-5ee6-40b6-976b-879cedd0e724/1/320x400.png)
Elise Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (Online Only)
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
![Photo of Randi Andres, MS, RD, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/eff3ce92-d8b3-4f67-8637-b883ae5b9f3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Randi Andres
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (Online Only)
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
![Photo of Paulina Parra, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7cb8a7d7-87ce-4016-8a65-a3e0dc272cc9/1/320x400.png)
Paulina Parra
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (Online Only)
Paulina is a registered dietitian whose approach to wellness is holistic and invites you to explore various components of your healthy lifestyle such as mindful eating and body movement from a place of gratitude. Join her as she guides you towards unlocking optimal health so you can feel your best. She is passionate about helping women thrive in their bodies and feel their best. She believes in creating a safe space for you to paint the vision of your healthiest self and in finding that inner motivation for a healthier life and then achieving it through daily goals you set together. She is here for weekly accountability.
Paulina is a registered dietitian whose approach to wellness is holistic and invites you to explore various components of your healthy lifestyle such as mindful eating and body movement from a place of gratitude. Join her as she guides you towards unlocking optimal health so you can feel your best. She is passionate about helping women thrive in their bodies and feel their best. She believes in creating a safe space for you to paint the vision of your healthiest self and in finding that inner motivation for a healthier life and then achieving it through daily goals you set together. She is here for weekly accountability.
![Photo of Kate Bloxsom, RD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59e40932-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Bloxsom
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (Online Only)
Hoping for a baby? The transition from avoiding pregnancy to actively seeking it can be both exhilarating & daunting. But, for many of us, the road to conception isn’t straight, especially as we navigate fertility later in life. As a dietitian fertility specialist for those over 35, I understand the challenges and complexities. Whether you’re knee-deep in the complexities of IVF or justgetting started, my functional nutrition fertility packages can help. By optimizing egg and sperm health, my tailored approach aims to enhance your chances of conceiving, maintaining a healthy pregnancy, and ultimately welcoming a healthy baby.
Hoping for a baby? The transition from avoiding pregnancy to actively seeking it can be both exhilarating & daunting. But, for many of us, the road to conception isn’t straight, especially as we navigate fertility later in life. As a dietitian fertility specialist for those over 35, I understand the challenges and complexities. Whether you’re knee-deep in the complexities of IVF or justgetting started, my functional nutrition fertility packages can help. By optimizing egg and sperm health, my tailored approach aims to enhance your chances of conceiving, maintaining a healthy pregnancy, and ultimately welcoming a healthy baby.
![Photo of Bella Simpson, MD, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/65c4d7f7-901f-4cff-83bd-b57298741faa/1/320x400.png)
Bella Simpson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MD, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80901 (Online Only)
Bella is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about promoting evidence-based nutrition principles to improve health and well-being. With her extensive background working as a sports dietitian, she specializes in tailored nutritional strategies to help clients optimize their performance, recovery, and general health. Her mission is to help clients implement sustainable changes to navigate towards their goals and see improved health outcomes. Bella provides individualized care by taking evidence-based nutrition principles and applying them specifically to the client's plan of care and measurable goals.
Bella is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about promoting evidence-based nutrition principles to improve health and well-being. With her extensive background working as a sports dietitian, she specializes in tailored nutritional strategies to help clients optimize their performance, recovery, and general health. Her mission is to help clients implement sustainable changes to navigate towards their goals and see improved health outcomes. Bella provides individualized care by taking evidence-based nutrition principles and applying them specifically to the client's plan of care and measurable goals.
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Jennifer Ables
Kate Bloxsom
Pivot Nutrition Coaching
NourishRX Nutrition
![Photo of Emma Alberts, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6a587670-e02b-4117-b7c8-02fe13d191d1/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients to heal their relationship with food and body image. Disordered eating can manifest in many different ways and can be detrimental to health and wellbeing. I work to support my clients as they challenge their negative body image thoughts, detox from diet culture, and arm themselves with the the tools to nourish themselves well for life. I team-up with my clients to move away from food-obsession to achieve consistent and stress-free nutrition.
I work with clients to heal their relationship with food and body image. Disordered eating can manifest in many different ways and can be detrimental to health and wellbeing. I work to support my clients as they challenge their negative body image thoughts, detox from diet culture, and arm themselves with the the tools to nourish themselves well for life. I team-up with my clients to move away from food-obsession to achieve consistent and stress-free nutrition.
![Photo of Stephanie Willard, MS RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/41585776-5beb-4c15-b2c3-aad92b916a24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Specializing in working with adolescents and adults who need help treating their eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting, and/or body-image concerns.
Specializing in working with adolescents and adults who need help treating their eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting, and/or body-image concerns.
![Photo of Danielle Rancourt Pivot Nutrition Coaching - Pivot Nutrition Coaching, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/9400ab97-0410-45f3-863e-3881fe58bf84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pivot Nutrition Coaching
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, LD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80924 (Online Only)
Feeling frustrated on your weight loss journey? Do you just want to look and feel better? We help women, men and athletes achieve their health, performance and body composition goals (fat loss, build muscle) without giving up their favorite foods!
Feeling frustrated on your weight loss journey? Do you just want to look and feel better? We help women, men and athletes achieve their health, performance and body composition goals (fat loss, build muscle) without giving up their favorite foods!
![Photo of Tuesday Joy Brooks, MBA, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/05af6465-ccf5-4de5-a5cd-d9b88e9801b5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tuesday Joy Brooks
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80901
I help cancer survivors thrive during treatment, reduce recurrence risk, and eat without stress and fear so that you can get your energy back and feel like yourself again.
I help cancer survivors thrive during treatment, reduce recurrence risk, and eat without stress and fear so that you can get your energy back and feel like yourself again.
![Photo of Nohemi Lopez, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/51822893-7642-434d-8cda-80c69cd27ed2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nohemi Lopez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80917 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm so happy that you're here! I am a Registered Dietitian licensed to practice in Colorado and New Mexico. I specialize in disordered eating and eating disorders, women's health issues, and diabetes. My unique approach to food means that I want to help you improve your physical health realistically and sustainably, but I also care about your mental health and your relationship with food. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're curious to learn more about how I work - or get to know me a little more by visiting my website.
Hi! I'm so happy that you're here! I am a Registered Dietitian licensed to practice in Colorado and New Mexico. I specialize in disordered eating and eating disorders, women's health issues, and diabetes. My unique approach to food means that I want to help you improve your physical health realistically and sustainably, but I also care about your mental health and your relationship with food. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're curious to learn more about how I work - or get to know me a little more by visiting my website.
![Photo of Brittany C Adelman, MPH, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b2c0fe48-6a17-44e7-bae9-034bc8647843/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Functional Medicine Registered Dietitian specializing in mental health and mood disorders, gut health, food sensitivities, hormone regulation, mindful and intuitive eating, and behavior change, it is my job to dig deep to find the root causes of your chronic symptoms. It's time to feel like the best version of yourself. I can't wait to work with you!
As a Functional Medicine Registered Dietitian specializing in mental health and mood disorders, gut health, food sensitivities, hormone regulation, mindful and intuitive eating, and behavior change, it is my job to dig deep to find the root causes of your chronic symptoms. It's time to feel like the best version of yourself. I can't wait to work with you!
![Photo of Jenna Lenhart, MS, RDN, LDN, IBCLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/777cd2f9-5aaa-4f23-9ac6-cad3c86872a1/2/320x400.png)
Jenna Lenhart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80901 (Online Only)
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian who has spent much of her nutrition career helping those in the pediatric/young adult population. While seeing a variety of nutrition concerns, she specializes in helping patients in eating disorder recovery and seeks to promote a safe space to pursue a new healthy relationship with food. Jenna uses a patient-centered approach to working with clients, prioritizing patient goals for their health journey. With disordered eating, she uses an intuitive eating framework of counseling in addition to family based therapy to promote a safe and effective environment for healing.
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian who has spent much of her nutrition career helping those in the pediatric/young adult population. While seeing a variety of nutrition concerns, she specializes in helping patients in eating disorder recovery and seeks to promote a safe space to pursue a new healthy relationship with food. Jenna uses a patient-centered approach to working with clients, prioritizing patient goals for their health journey. With disordered eating, she uses an intuitive eating framework of counseling in addition to family based therapy to promote a safe and effective environment for healing.
![Photo of Tanya Goyette - Nutrition Solutions, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b0c4db5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nutrition Solutions
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80921
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Do you have chronic pain, headaches, fatigue and stomache aches? Have you tried numerous diets, with the hopes of getting it right this time, only to end up more frustrated and confused than ever? You can know exactly what foods you can eat and how to start the path to healing. I have personal experience dealing with health issues related to food and chemical sensitivities and I want to help you find your unique food triggers so you can start feeling great again, with less pain, more energy, less bloat, and better performance in work and activities. Let's get you well.
Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Do you have chronic pain, headaches, fatigue and stomache aches? Have you tried numerous diets, with the hopes of getting it right this time, only to end up more frustrated and confused than ever? You can know exactly what foods you can eat and how to start the path to healing. I have personal experience dealing with health issues related to food and chemical sensitivities and I want to help you find your unique food triggers so you can start feeling great again, with less pain, more energy, less bloat, and better performance in work and activities. Let's get you well.
![Photo of Ryann Hilton - NourishRX Nutrition, RD, LDN, CEDRD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e0e6648d-9f8a-4e80-88a3-439fb6894473/1/320x400.jpeg)
NourishRX Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80901 (Online Only)
We see each client as a unique individual with a story that led you to where you are today - not a stereotype or just a name on a chart. We first seek to listen, understand and connect with you while establishing a safe and trusted space. With an unwavering commitment to you and your family, we'll work as a supportive, grounding presence to help guide you through every moment and ultimately pursue a path of freedom, confidence, and resilience.
We see each client as a unique individual with a story that led you to where you are today - not a stereotype or just a name on a chart. We first seek to listen, understand and connect with you while establishing a safe and trusted space. With an unwavering commitment to you and your family, we'll work as a supportive, grounding presence to help guide you through every moment and ultimately pursue a path of freedom, confidence, and resilience.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Colorado Springs?
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.