Nutritionists and Dietitians near Franktown, CO
![Photo of Theresa Munkvold, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c93d712e-4230-48c4-b133-da63e75a81c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
You know how eating can be so confusing because maybe you have dieted for most of your life and you don't know how or what or how much to eat? Maybe you fear food or gaining weight and nutrition in the media makes it MORE confusing. I can help you eat with confidence and freedom and move on to live your life! Or you are confused because you have gut issues and everything you eat causes pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhea? For clients with chronic digestive/health issues, I use functional testing that provides a targeted roadmap to return you to your optimal health. Contact me today!
You know how eating can be so confusing because maybe you have dieted for most of your life and you don't know how or what or how much to eat? Maybe you fear food or gaining weight and nutrition in the media makes it MORE confusing. I can help you eat with confidence and freedom and move on to live your life! Or you are confused because you have gut issues and everything you eat causes pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhea? For clients with chronic digestive/health issues, I use functional testing that provides a targeted roadmap to return you to your optimal health. Contact me today!
![Photo of Tori Taggart - Rooted Health & Wellness, LLC, MS, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59ef94b9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rooted Health & Wellness, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104
Integrative Clinical nutrition is based on a scientific, evidence-based approach that considers the uniqueness of each person's biochemical individuality, in conjunction with genetic, environmental , lifestyle, mental, emotional, spiritual and relationship factors that impact the state of health. My personal story may be just like your own. Like many of you reading this, I suffered many years with health conditions that didn't fit into the mold of conventional medicine.
Integrative Clinical nutrition is based on a scientific, evidence-based approach that considers the uniqueness of each person's biochemical individuality, in conjunction with genetic, environmental , lifestyle, mental, emotional, spiritual and relationship factors that impact the state of health. My personal story may be just like your own. Like many of you reading this, I suffered many years with health conditions that didn't fit into the mold of conventional medicine.
![Photo of Carrie Weitzel - Colorado Nutrition Counseling, LLC, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e29baee5-ad29-4bcf-a10a-e66aaa3ed78b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colorado Nutrition Counseling, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
I help adults prevent, reduce, and eliminate their need for diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol medication through an anti-inflammatory, Mediterranean diet approach. If you feel like you have tried every diet out there to improve your health, let's talk! By following my program I have helped multiple patients lose weight, control their blood sugar, and improve their heart health. This isn’t some fad diet that provides temporary results...This is a lifestyle that will improve your health so that you can live a better life free from medication. No supplements, no shakes, no bs.
I help adults prevent, reduce, and eliminate their need for diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol medication through an anti-inflammatory, Mediterranean diet approach. If you feel like you have tried every diet out there to improve your health, let's talk! By following my program I have helped multiple patients lose weight, control their blood sugar, and improve their heart health. This isn’t some fad diet that provides temporary results...This is a lifestyle that will improve your health so that you can live a better life free from medication. No supplements, no shakes, no bs.
![Photo of Danielle Zold, RD, LDN, CLC, CGN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/069291c3-7e93-4b70-91f0-d28fef7c9a0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with kids via telehealth who are picky eaters (including those diagnosed with Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD), ARFID, and Autism Spectrum Disorder), individuals who are underweight or have growth concerns, and/or suffer from poor gut health (constipation, diarrhea, bloating, excess gas). I provide individualized advice instead of one size fits all care. I dig deep to uncover the reasoning for selectivity and set realistic goals. My goal is to not only ensure calories are adequate, but also make sure that we are setting your child up for long-term nutrition and health success.
I specialize in working with kids via telehealth who are picky eaters (including those diagnosed with Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD), ARFID, and Autism Spectrum Disorder), individuals who are underweight or have growth concerns, and/or suffer from poor gut health (constipation, diarrhea, bloating, excess gas). I provide individualized advice instead of one size fits all care. I dig deep to uncover the reasoning for selectivity and set realistic goals. My goal is to not only ensure calories are adequate, but also make sure that we are setting your child up for long-term nutrition and health success.
![Photo of Christine MacCarroll, MA, FNTP, RWP, BCHN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5949a0e7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine MacCarroll
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, FNTP, RWP, BCHN
Verified Verified
Lone Tree, CO 80124
My clients have often been frustrated by the medical system and are looking to do things differently. In my practice, I offer deep clinical knowledge and powerful personal insight. I help women heal their brains and hormones naturally so that they can get their mood, energy, and mojo back. With my unique tools and proven methods, we figure out how things got jacked up in the first place instead of just throwing a bandaid on the problem or playing “kick the can” with symptoms. And bodies actually heal, so women can start living the badass lives they were designed for.
My clients have often been frustrated by the medical system and are looking to do things differently. In my practice, I offer deep clinical knowledge and powerful personal insight. I help women heal their brains and hormones naturally so that they can get their mood, energy, and mojo back. With my unique tools and proven methods, we figure out how things got jacked up in the first place instead of just throwing a bandaid on the problem or playing “kick the can” with symptoms. And bodies actually heal, so women can start living the badass lives they were designed for.
![Photo of Debbie Lew - Created For Wellness Nutritional Therapy Llc, FNTP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5a8d1c5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Lew - Created For Wellness Nutritional Therapy Llc
Nutritionist/Dietitian, FNTP
Verified Verified
Centennial, CO 80122
Are you seeking a natural approach to mental wellness? Did you know that nutrients from food and supplements can make a difference in supporting ADHD, mood, anxiety and depression? I utilize natural, evidence-based strategies that are effective such as targeted nutrients to support brain health, gut healing & restoration, detox, homeopathy and lifestyle changes. Food can be your medicine – there are options other than pharmaceutical medications! Nutrition is the foundation of health as every cell, tissue and organ in your body depends on nutrients to function properly. I can be your trusted partner in your health journey.
Are you seeking a natural approach to mental wellness? Did you know that nutrients from food and supplements can make a difference in supporting ADHD, mood, anxiety and depression? I utilize natural, evidence-based strategies that are effective such as targeted nutrients to support brain health, gut healing & restoration, detox, homeopathy and lifestyle changes. Food can be your medicine – there are options other than pharmaceutical medications! Nutrition is the foundation of health as every cell, tissue and organ in your body depends on nutrients to function properly. I can be your trusted partner in your health journey.
![Photo of Stephanie Michelle Scott, MA, RD, LPC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59fd5948-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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 Kristin Dennis - New Heights Nutrition Coaching- Kristin Dennis, RDN, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d9c3d84b-d830-4c86-945e-5b4bd6b59b22/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Heights Nutrition Coaching- Kristin Dennis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CPT
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
Are you struggling to implement change that lasts? Do you feel like you know what to do but just can’t seem to stick it out till the end? Or maybe you don’t quite know, and you need help cutting through the clutter of information and misinformation. Or perhaps you've got bigger things going on. You have unexplained symptoms or just know you don't feel "right" but are told that's every is ok. Or maybe told you can just take a pill for it, but you don't want to.
Are you struggling to implement change that lasts? Do you feel like you know what to do but just can’t seem to stick it out till the end? Or maybe you don’t quite know, and you need help cutting through the clutter of information and misinformation. Or perhaps you've got bigger things going on. You have unexplained symptoms or just know you don't feel "right" but are told that's every is ok. Or maybe told you can just take a pill for it, but you don't want to.
![Photo of Jennifer H Anderson, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/54fb8cea-cb1f-4b30-a591-81c11d2ce71e/5/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! Are you struggling with disordered eating like Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Yo-Yo Dieting or rigid food rules? I'm Jen and my team and I are passionate about helping people achieve genuine food freedom and dramatic health transformation. My specialty is helping clients discover a healthy relationship with food. I will teach you mindful and intuitive eating principles while thoughtfully addressing your health & weight concerns. Together we can get to the root & make sustainable lifestyle changes, all without sabotaging your joy of eating! My colleagues also address a broad range of health issues through this same lens!
Hello! Are you struggling with disordered eating like Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Yo-Yo Dieting or rigid food rules? I'm Jen and my team and I are passionate about helping people achieve genuine food freedom and dramatic health transformation. My specialty is helping clients discover a healthy relationship with food. I will teach you mindful and intuitive eating principles while thoughtfully addressing your health & weight concerns. Together we can get to the root & make sustainable lifestyle changes, all without sabotaging your joy of eating! My colleagues also address a broad range of health issues through this same lens!
![Photo of Roxanne Sardone, RD, CEDS-C, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d70012ed-a5af-4790-bc31-ab07a70f136b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Food is so much more than just nutrition. It's a part of tradition, celebration, and fellowship. It can also be tied to self-worth, feelings of control, productivity, and safety. It plays a huge role in our mental health as well as our physical health and impacts all areas of our lives. Struggling with disordered eating, chronic dieting, meal planning stress, body image, or a medical condition that impacts your nutrition can take a toll on your health and wellbeing. But you don't have to figure it out on your own.
Food is so much more than just nutrition. It's a part of tradition, celebration, and fellowship. It can also be tied to self-worth, feelings of control, productivity, and safety. It plays a huge role in our mental health as well as our physical health and impacts all areas of our lives. Struggling with disordered eating, chronic dieting, meal planning stress, body image, or a medical condition that impacts your nutrition can take a toll on your health and wellbeing. But you don't have to figure it out on your own.
![Photo of Jen D Birge, MS, RDN, CDE, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cbdbf3c4-4d90-4be1-8dc5-bdf741eaef07/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jen D Birge
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDE, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Castle Rock, CO 80108 (Online Only)
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions or a slow metabolism? Do you suspect that something you are eating is causing you issues like digestive distress or inflammation? Are you struggling to get answers when you are told "everything is normal?" or to "eat less and move more" for weight loss? My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you feel better and get the results you're after!
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions or a slow metabolism? Do you suspect that something you are eating is causing you issues like digestive distress or inflammation? Are you struggling to get answers when you are told "everything is normal?" or to "eat less and move more" for weight loss? My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you feel better and get the results you're after!
![Photo of Kimberly Marsh, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b2e8df3-be4d-46ec-aee4-61f806659883/2/320x400.jpeg)
All services offered via telehealth. Healthy eating does not look the same for everyone. Health is not defined by a number on the scale. Your worth is not determined by a number on the scale. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated, include lots of rules, or take over your life. My services are individualized for YOUR life and circumstances. We don’t focus on restriction. We focus on a healthy relationship with your body and your eating. Food is meant to be delicious and be enjoyed.
All services offered via telehealth. Healthy eating does not look the same for everyone. Health is not defined by a number on the scale. Your worth is not determined by a number on the scale. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated, include lots of rules, or take over your life. My services are individualized for YOUR life and circumstances. We don’t focus on restriction. We focus on a healthy relationship with your body and your eating. Food is meant to be delicious and be enjoyed.
![Photo of Emily Dorko, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/886514fb-80ef-430f-84ce-095e439043c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help adults and children with bodies of all shapes and sizes to let go of restrictive rules around food, dieting, and exercise. Instead, I help individuals find more flexible and sustainable ways of taking care of themselves, so they can start living a better life and stop obsessing over food and their bodies. I specialize in pediatric nutrition, binge-eating disorder, intuitive eating, diabetes and general nutrition. No two individuals are the same; our relationship with food and our body is complicated and unique. My approach to helping you find peace with food and body is catered to your own past experiences, wants and needs.
I help adults and children with bodies of all shapes and sizes to let go of restrictive rules around food, dieting, and exercise. Instead, I help individuals find more flexible and sustainable ways of taking care of themselves, so they can start living a better life and stop obsessing over food and their bodies. I specialize in pediatric nutrition, binge-eating disorder, intuitive eating, diabetes and general nutrition. No two individuals are the same; our relationship with food and our body is complicated and unique. My approach to helping you find peace with food and body is catered to your own past experiences, wants and needs.
![Photo of Sterling Claudette Weaver - Sterling Dietetics, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/692f3dd9-abe5-4cf1-9b39-b82526a8a42b/1/320x400.png)
My mission is to transform how individuals approach their health and nutrition by promoting mindful eating habits over restrictive diets. I’m committed to providing personalized nutrition counseling that honors each person's unique lifestyle and health goals. By focusing on mindful food choices, I aim to help clients build a positive, sustainable relationship with food. I aim to support and educate individuals in making nourishing choices that enhance their overall well-being and vitality.
My mission is to transform how individuals approach their health and nutrition by promoting mindful eating habits over restrictive diets. I’m committed to providing personalized nutrition counseling that honors each person's unique lifestyle and health goals. By focusing on mindful food choices, I aim to help clients build a positive, sustainable relationship with food. I aim to support and educate individuals in making nourishing choices that enhance their overall well-being and vitality.
![Photo of Jerry Casados - Plant-Based Nutrition and Lifestyle, NTP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58375b4d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients to create nutrition plans based on their health goals and objectives. I will provide the personal coaching, nutritional information, tools, resources to guide and educate you to optimal health with a healthy lifestyle. I promote a dietary approach through whole foods and making the right dietary choices for optimal health by eliminating toxins in the diet. By adopting a plant-based diet that is based on decades of peer-reviewed scientific evidence in medical journals. In fact, it has been shown that 80 percent of chronic diseases are preventable, especially with a shift to a plant-based diet.
I work with clients to create nutrition plans based on their health goals and objectives. I will provide the personal coaching, nutritional information, tools, resources to guide and educate you to optimal health with a healthy lifestyle. I promote a dietary approach through whole foods and making the right dietary choices for optimal health by eliminating toxins in the diet. By adopting a plant-based diet that is based on decades of peer-reviewed scientific evidence in medical journals. In fact, it has been shown that 80 percent of chronic diseases are preventable, especially with a shift to a plant-based diet.
![Photo of Angela B Moore, MS, RD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/588c9c17-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela B Moore
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centennial, CO 80112
I have been providing consulting and counseling services for over 20 years in general nutrition, nutrition and disease, food allergies and sensitivities, eating disorders, cardiac rehabilitation, weight management, sports nutrition, exercise prescription, corporate health, health education and program development. I enjoy helping clients meet their health and wellness needs and provide direction for their specific goals. During my free time I like to run, hike, mountain bike, ski, and travel. I offer remote counseling all over the country and reside South Denver and Crested Butte, CO.
I have been providing consulting and counseling services for over 20 years in general nutrition, nutrition and disease, food allergies and sensitivities, eating disorders, cardiac rehabilitation, weight management, sports nutrition, exercise prescription, corporate health, health education and program development. I enjoy helping clients meet their health and wellness needs and provide direction for their specific goals. During my free time I like to run, hike, mountain bike, ski, and travel. I offer remote counseling all over the country and reside South Denver and Crested Butte, CO.
![Photo of Asia Thompson, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58af85e3-0608-4bb2-8d9d-cee3ea8f7269/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered dietitian with a masters degree in nutrition and dietetics. I was diagnosed with celiac disease while in college and it inspired me to pursue my career in nutrition. I felt confused and alone learning about this disease I had to live with, and I wish someone was there to listen to all my questions and help me along the way. I love working with people with a wide range of health conditions. I specialize in celiac disease and building a healthy relationship with food. I am passionate about working with people one on one and building a unique plan. Nutrition is extremely personal, and I am excited to work with you!
I am a registered dietitian with a masters degree in nutrition and dietetics. I was diagnosed with celiac disease while in college and it inspired me to pursue my career in nutrition. I felt confused and alone learning about this disease I had to live with, and I wish someone was there to listen to all my questions and help me along the way. I love working with people with a wide range of health conditions. I specialize in celiac disease and building a healthy relationship with food. I am passionate about working with people one on one and building a unique plan. Nutrition is extremely personal, and I am excited to work with you!
![Photo of Cassie Petro, MS, CN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/01a8c296-863b-4d49-9f2d-7263aa10f43a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Our lives revolve around and depend on food, which is why nurturing your relationship to food is crucial to your health and something I strive to help strengthen. My approach to nutrition therapy is collaborative and personalized to optimize function within the whole body. Evidence-based nutrition science, health coaching, and trauma-informed care guide my practice to meet the needs of each individual I work with. I recognize the various challenges that can impact proper nutrition and aim to reduce internal and external limitations through nutrition education, empowerment, and behavior change.
Our lives revolve around and depend on food, which is why nurturing your relationship to food is crucial to your health and something I strive to help strengthen. My approach to nutrition therapy is collaborative and personalized to optimize function within the whole body. Evidence-based nutrition science, health coaching, and trauma-informed care guide my practice to meet the needs of each individual I work with. I recognize the various challenges that can impact proper nutrition and aim to reduce internal and external limitations through nutrition education, empowerment, and behavior change.
![Photo of Allison Grooms, RDN, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f7ac9b31-d61e-4880-b298-363e9ab66790/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in getting to the root cause of your health concerns! If you find yourself with low energy, unexplained inflammation, "normal" lab work despite feeling "off", or elevated labs like cholesterol, blood pressure, etc and feel you are getting nowhere with diet and exerice - I can help! By testing your current mineral status we can reveal stages of stress, adreneal and thyroid activity, metabolism, blood sugar and digestive markers and help you reach balance with lifestyle, diet and proper supplementation.
I specialize in getting to the root cause of your health concerns! If you find yourself with low energy, unexplained inflammation, "normal" lab work despite feeling "off", or elevated labs like cholesterol, blood pressure, etc and feel you are getting nowhere with diet and exerice - I can help! By testing your current mineral status we can reveal stages of stress, adreneal and thyroid activity, metabolism, blood sugar and digestive markers and help you reach balance with lifestyle, diet and proper supplementation.
![Photo of Cassandra Anne Becker, MS, RDN, LDN, ACE-cPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/95a1610b-b144-497b-8de6-a27eccc254dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra Anne Becker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, ACE-cPT
Verified Verified
Castle Rock, CO 80104 (Online Only)
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions, metabolic resistance, or and a deeper level of nutritional support? Struggling to get answers when your doctor says "everything is normal?" My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you achieve optimal health. I use a holistic approach to empower individuals to achieve optimal wellness.
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions, metabolic resistance, or and a deeper level of nutritional support? Struggling to get answers when your doctor says "everything is normal?" My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you achieve optimal health. I use a holistic approach to empower individuals to achieve optimal wellness.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Franktown?
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.