Nutritionists and Dietitians in Bridgeport, CT
Collaborative Kidney Care was launched to offer a patient-focused practice with individualized treatment plans to meet you where you are and help achieve optimized health outcomes through innovative approaches.
Collaborative Kidney Care was launched to offer a patient-focused practice with individualized treatment plans to meet you where you are and help achieve optimized health outcomes through innovative approaches.
I am a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Registered Dietitian, and Certified Diabetes Educator with more than 30 years of experience in the fields of obesity, bariatrics, and clinical nutrition. I pride myself on gathering information about your general lifestyle and medical needs and more specifically, eating behaviors, and vulnerable eating times, and design personalized programs based on this information. I am a provider for most major medical insurances as long as nutrition counseling or diabetes education are part of your particular plan.
I am a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Registered Dietitian, and Certified Diabetes Educator with more than 30 years of experience in the fields of obesity, bariatrics, and clinical nutrition. I pride myself on gathering information about your general lifestyle and medical needs and more specifically, eating behaviors, and vulnerable eating times, and design personalized programs based on this information. I am a provider for most major medical insurances as long as nutrition counseling or diabetes education are part of your particular plan.
Elizabeth is a Registered Dietitian with over six years of experience helping individuals make healthier choices and achieve their goals. Using intuitive eating principles and a compassionate, client-centered approach, she tailors evidence-based plans to meet each person’s needs. Specializing in wellness, diabetes, and heart health, Elizabeth empowers clients with the tools and support they need to make lasting changes. Her compassionate counseling ensures that clients feel heard, confident, and motivated on their journey to improved health and well-being.
Elizabeth is a Registered Dietitian with over six years of experience helping individuals make healthier choices and achieve their goals. Using intuitive eating principles and a compassionate, client-centered approach, she tailors evidence-based plans to meet each person’s needs. Specializing in wellness, diabetes, and heart health, Elizabeth empowers clients with the tools and support they need to make lasting changes. Her compassionate counseling ensures that clients feel heard, confident, and motivated on their journey to improved health and well-being.
My goal is to help adults and children incorporate healthy eating habits and heighten their awareness of the importance of health and nutrition. I find satisfaction in knowing that I helped change someone's life in a positive way. There is nothing better than watching a patient's health and well being improve as a result of implementing a healthy diet.
My goal is to help adults and children incorporate healthy eating habits and heighten their awareness of the importance of health and nutrition. I find satisfaction in knowing that I helped change someone's life in a positive way. There is nothing better than watching a patient's health and well being improve as a result of implementing a healthy diet.
If you are looking for help with alternative and holistic approach to your health condition. I can help. If you are looking for someone with a long and successful track record helping persons with your condition, whether cancer, diabetes, digestive issues, migraine headaches, insomnia, constipation and any other concern, I can help. If you are looking for someone who can recommend the right vitamins, herbs, homeopathy or nutrition plan, I can help. I have heard many stories of suffering, frustration, disappointment, bewilderment when no have the answer in the medical field. I also hear stories of gladness when healing is found.
If you are looking for help with alternative and holistic approach to your health condition. I can help. If you are looking for someone with a long and successful track record helping persons with your condition, whether cancer, diabetes, digestive issues, migraine headaches, insomnia, constipation and any other concern, I can help. If you are looking for someone who can recommend the right vitamins, herbs, homeopathy or nutrition plan, I can help. I have heard many stories of suffering, frustration, disappointment, bewilderment when no have the answer in the medical field. I also hear stories of gladness when healing is found.
Hi, I am Sheila Zarfati, MS, RD, and I’m passionate about helping people find peace with food and confidence in their bodies. I know how overwhelming and stressful eating can feel at times—especially with all the mixed messages out there. My role as your dietitian is to make nutrition feel approachable, supportive, and aligned with your unique needs. I’ve had the privilege of working in clinical, community, and eating disorder treatment settings, supporting people of all ages and backgrounds. No matter your starting point, you deserve a space where your experiences are validated, your goals are honored, and your body is respected.
Hi, I am Sheila Zarfati, MS, RD, and I’m passionate about helping people find peace with food and confidence in their bodies. I know how overwhelming and stressful eating can feel at times—especially with all the mixed messages out there. My role as your dietitian is to make nutrition feel approachable, supportive, and aligned with your unique needs. I’ve had the privilege of working in clinical, community, and eating disorder treatment settings, supporting people of all ages and backgrounds. No matter your starting point, you deserve a space where your experiences are validated, your goals are honored, and your body is respected.
More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby
If you are experiencing ANY of the following, I would love to have the opportunity to work together: You often feel guilty about your food choices, and you spend significant time and energy thinking about food. You have scoured the internet for nutrition information and guidance and are frustrated by the amount of conflicting information online. You are navigating an eating disorder or disordered eating and are looking for support from a compassionate and knowledgable RD. You are struggling to keep up with meal planning every week, unsure of how to shop for and prepare meals that support your nutrition goals.
If you are experiencing ANY of the following, I would love to have the opportunity to work together: You often feel guilty about your food choices, and you spend significant time and energy thinking about food. You have scoured the internet for nutrition information and guidance and are frustrated by the amount of conflicting information online. You are navigating an eating disorder or disordered eating and are looking for support from a compassionate and knowledgable RD. You are struggling to keep up with meal planning every week, unsure of how to shop for and prepare meals that support your nutrition goals.
Eat well, feel well. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I help people with digestive issues figure out what foods make them feel their healthiest, strongest, and most energized so they can live life to its fullest. I work closely with my patients to identify and overcome barriers to healthy eating, and I personalize each visit to meet the individual needs and preferences of my clients. I love food and so I focus a lot on what to eat and how to make foods taste good.
Eat well, feel well. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I help people with digestive issues figure out what foods make them feel their healthiest, strongest, and most energized so they can live life to its fullest. I work closely with my patients to identify and overcome barriers to healthy eating, and I personalize each visit to meet the individual needs and preferences of my clients. I love food and so I focus a lot on what to eat and how to make foods taste good.
My ideal client is a woman with PCOS who feels frustrated by vague advice and lack of answers. She may struggle with irregular cycles, fertility concerns, weight changes, or fatigue—and she wants clarity, not confusion. Her goal is to restore balance, improve confidence, and finally feel in control. Through my PCOSynergy program, she’s seeking expert guidance, a plan tailored to her unique physiology, and compassionate support to achieve lasting results.
My ideal client is a woman with PCOS who feels frustrated by vague advice and lack of answers. She may struggle with irregular cycles, fertility concerns, weight changes, or fatigue—and she wants clarity, not confusion. Her goal is to restore balance, improve confidence, and finally feel in control. Through my PCOSynergy program, she’s seeking expert guidance, a plan tailored to her unique physiology, and compassionate support to achieve lasting results.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who is transgender, queer, neurodivergent, and in long term recovery from my own eating disorders. I believe every client is truly unique and sees the world through their own lens. I strive to work from a weight inclusive and social justice stance. I believe in developing a strong therapeutic alliance with each client to work together toward lasting healing from disordered eating. Some of my core values include agency, informed consent, and intersectionality in understanding the roots of the eating disorder and the path to long term healing in a way that is authentic for each individual.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who is transgender, queer, neurodivergent, and in long term recovery from my own eating disorders. I believe every client is truly unique and sees the world through their own lens. I strive to work from a weight inclusive and social justice stance. I believe in developing a strong therapeutic alliance with each client to work together toward lasting healing from disordered eating. Some of my core values include agency, informed consent, and intersectionality in understanding the roots of the eating disorder and the path to long term healing in a way that is authentic for each individual.
Katie understands and values the importance of proper health and is passionate about educating clients on the ‘WHY’ to nutrition. Katie believes that if you understand nutrition then you'll better know how to apply it for longevity. Katie is passionate about identifying the ROOT cause of health concerns. Katie specializes in gut health (IBS, Crohns/UC, Celiac/Gluten Intolerance, GERD, SIBO, H. pylori, autoimmune, leaky gut, digestive discomfort, food sensitivities, etc.), weight management, sports nutrition, women's health, cardiovascular health, intuitive eating, behavioral habits, and preventative health.
Katie understands and values the importance of proper health and is passionate about educating clients on the ‘WHY’ to nutrition. Katie believes that if you understand nutrition then you'll better know how to apply it for longevity. Katie is passionate about identifying the ROOT cause of health concerns. Katie specializes in gut health (IBS, Crohns/UC, Celiac/Gluten Intolerance, GERD, SIBO, H. pylori, autoimmune, leaky gut, digestive discomfort, food sensitivities, etc.), weight management, sports nutrition, women's health, cardiovascular health, intuitive eating, behavioral habits, and preventative health.
My approach to nutrition counseling is a collaboration. No two people are the same so why should the nutrition counseling they receive be one-size-fits-all? We start with what you, the client want to accomplish and where you're at, and this collaboration . The results in a customized plan, making small changes that lead to long lasting results for lifelong health. It's amazing how sometimes the smallest changes make the largest impacts on our life, and I'm here to help you discover the path that gets you to your goal.
My approach to nutrition counseling is a collaboration. No two people are the same so why should the nutrition counseling they receive be one-size-fits-all? We start with what you, the client want to accomplish and where you're at, and this collaboration . The results in a customized plan, making small changes that lead to long lasting results for lifelong health. It's amazing how sometimes the smallest changes make the largest impacts on our life, and I'm here to help you discover the path that gets you to your goal.
I offer personalized, science-grounded nutrition care tailored to your unique health goals and lifestyle. Whether you're aiming to safely use GLP-1 medications, manage gut issues, improve cholesterol or blood pressure, support women’s health from fertility through post-menopause, or lose or maintain weight, I build plans designed around you. Expect realistic meal strategies, sustainable habits, and ongoing support — all delivered with warmth, evidence-based guidance, and no judgment.
I offer personalized, science-grounded nutrition care tailored to your unique health goals and lifestyle. Whether you're aiming to safely use GLP-1 medications, manage gut issues, improve cholesterol or blood pressure, support women’s health from fertility through post-menopause, or lose or maintain weight, I build plans designed around you. Expect realistic meal strategies, sustainable habits, and ongoing support — all delivered with warmth, evidence-based guidance, and no judgment.
Tori is a Functional Nutritionist, graduating Summa Cum Laude from University of Bridgeport with a Masters in Clinical Nutrition and an undergraduate degree from Brown University. She is a Licensed Dietary Nutritionist, Certified Nutritionist Specialist with a passion to help others find holistic real-life solutions.
Tori believes in a fully integrative approach to address mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Tori is a Functional Nutritionist, graduating Summa Cum Laude from University of Bridgeport with a Masters in Clinical Nutrition and an undergraduate degree from Brown University. She is a Licensed Dietary Nutritionist, Certified Nutritionist Specialist with a passion to help others find holistic real-life solutions.
Tori believes in a fully integrative approach to address mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Whether you’re struggling with chronic health conditions, gut health, metabolic changes, weight concerns, or hormone shifts, I create tailored plans that make healthy eating enjoyable, sustainable, and realistic.
Whether you’re struggling with chronic health conditions, gut health, metabolic changes, weight concerns, or hormone shifts, I create tailored plans that make healthy eating enjoyable, sustainable, and realistic.
As a Credentialed Registered Dietitian, I work with clients to develop plans that are gimmick-free and easy to follow. Fad diets don't work and ultimately lead to disappointment. I take a balanced and realistic approach to help you live a healthier life. In our first session, I develop a comprehensive and customized meal plan that addresses your specific health needs, lifestyle and nutrition concerns without deprivation. Follow up sessions support your goals, and in between office visits, I am available via phone, email or text to answer questions and offer encouragement.
As a Credentialed Registered Dietitian, I work with clients to develop plans that are gimmick-free and easy to follow. Fad diets don't work and ultimately lead to disappointment. I take a balanced and realistic approach to help you live a healthier life. In our first session, I develop a comprehensive and customized meal plan that addresses your specific health needs, lifestyle and nutrition concerns without deprivation. Follow up sessions support your goals, and in between office visits, I am available via phone, email or text to answer questions and offer encouragement.
Do you have an unhealthy relationship with food? Do you get stressed thinking about what to eat? Have you tried different ways of eating to help you feel better and nothing seems to work? Like you, I struggled. I have ADHD, Thyroid Disease, and had disordered eating patterns for many years. I help people identify the root cause of their illness and incorporate nutritional changes. I know what it's like to have a negative body image and be exhausted from thinking about what I could and couldn't eat. Food should bring joy and satisfaction, not stress.
Do you have an unhealthy relationship with food? Do you get stressed thinking about what to eat? Have you tried different ways of eating to help you feel better and nothing seems to work? Like you, I struggled. I have ADHD, Thyroid Disease, and had disordered eating patterns for many years. I help people identify the root cause of their illness and incorporate nutritional changes. I know what it's like to have a negative body image and be exhausted from thinking about what I could and couldn't eat. Food should bring joy and satisfaction, not stress.
Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I have been providing individualized, nutrition counseling to clients of all ages, for over 25 years. I split my time between my private practice and working with Yale's varsity athletes to optimize for peak performance. I specialize in disordered eating and sports and/or performance nutrition, but I also offer counseling and nutrition education, in the areas of weight loss and management, specialized diets (i.e. elevated cholesterol, cardiovascular concerns, Diabetes, etc.), pre/post-natal diets, and general wellness.
Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I have been providing individualized, nutrition counseling to clients of all ages, for over 25 years. I split my time between my private practice and working with Yale's varsity athletes to optimize for peak performance. I specialize in disordered eating and sports and/or performance nutrition, but I also offer counseling and nutrition education, in the areas of weight loss and management, specialized diets (i.e. elevated cholesterol, cardiovascular concerns, Diabetes, etc.), pre/post-natal diets, and general wellness.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Bridgeport?
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.