Nutritionists and Dietitians in Hamden, CT

Photo of Julianne Kaphar - Vital Practice Nutrition, MS, CNS, LDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Vital Practice Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CDN
Verified Verified
Online Only
We live in a diet-obsessed culture that hyper-focuses on thinness as a proxy for health. Many of us have lost touch with our body's innate hunger and fullness cues because we have tried so many different diet plans, detoxes, cleanses, and "lifestyle changes." All of these dietary experiments ultimately wreak havoc on our mental and physical health, leading to disordered eating, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, and weight cycling, among other things. Many of my clients tell me they just don't know what to eat anymore because of all the dietary rules to which they have been adhering.
We live in a diet-obsessed culture that hyper-focuses on thinness as a proxy for health. Many of us have lost touch with our body's innate hunger and fullness cues because we have tried so many different diet plans, detoxes, cleanses, and "lifestyle changes." All of these dietary experiments ultimately wreak havoc on our mental and physical health, leading to disordered eating, anxiety, obsessive thoughts, and weight cycling, among other things. Many of my clients tell me they just don't know what to eat anymore because of all the dietary rules to which they have been adhering.
(203) 489-2142 View (203) 489-2142
Photo of Linda Oechsle, MS, CDN, NBC-HWC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Linda Oechsle
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514
Are you living with a chronic health condition that you would like to improve but don’t know where to start? Are you confused or overwhelmed by all the advice you get from family, friends, or healthcare providers about what you should eat or do to feel better? Have you already tried to make some healthy changes, but just haven’t been able to make them stick? If you're looking for evidence-based nutrition guidance and a nonjudgmental partner who can help you build and maintain healthy habits, I can help. My holistic, coaching-based approach to diet and lifestyle change empowers you to reach your health goals and live your best life.
Are you living with a chronic health condition that you would like to improve but don’t know where to start? Are you confused or overwhelmed by all the advice you get from family, friends, or healthcare providers about what you should eat or do to feel better? Have you already tried to make some healthy changes, but just haven’t been able to make them stick? If you're looking for evidence-based nutrition guidance and a nonjudgmental partner who can help you build and maintain healthy habits, I can help. My holistic, coaching-based approach to diet and lifestyle change empowers you to reach your health goals and live your best life.
(475) 244-9841 View (475) 244-9841
Photo of Diana Rosa, MS, RD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Diana Rosa
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD-N
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
Hi ! My name is Diana Rosa and I have been a private practice Registered Dietitian in the New Haven area for over 25 years. My focus is to help people realize their health and wellness goals by providing nutrition and exercise advice that really works...not just a short term fix, but lasting results that can be maintained over a lifetime! I believe in REAL FOOD and counseling that recognize your food preferences, lifestyle and busy schedule. I want to help develop a personalized plan that works for you as an individual, not just hand you a one size fits all "diet sheet"!
Hi ! My name is Diana Rosa and I have been a private practice Registered Dietitian in the New Haven area for over 25 years. My focus is to help people realize their health and wellness goals by providing nutrition and exercise advice that really works...not just a short term fix, but lasting results that can be maintained over a lifetime! I believe in REAL FOOD and counseling that recognize your food preferences, lifestyle and busy schedule. I want to help develop a personalized plan that works for you as an individual, not just hand you a one size fits all "diet sheet"!
(203) 463-4154 View (203) 463-4154
Photo of Maureen Wasik, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Maureen Wasik
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDCES
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
Welcome to The Dietitian, LLC aka Maureen Wasik. I'm a dietitian and diabetes educator in practice for over 30 years. Many people come to me for weight loss and I offer a whole food approach that encompasses a wide variety of diet choices, i.e., low carb, keto, Mediterranean, plant based, etc. I also offer the Dynamo Weight Loss Protocol. Dynamo is great if you are looking to quickly lower BMI to normalize health markers like glucose and blood pressure or to quickly get yourself ready for joint replacement surgery. FYI, I Will Be OUT of the OFFICE 9/18/24 - 10/12/24
Welcome to The Dietitian, LLC aka Maureen Wasik. I'm a dietitian and diabetes educator in practice for over 30 years. Many people come to me for weight loss and I offer a whole food approach that encompasses a wide variety of diet choices, i.e., low carb, keto, Mediterranean, plant based, etc. I also offer the Dynamo Weight Loss Protocol. Dynamo is great if you are looking to quickly lower BMI to normalize health markers like glucose and blood pressure or to quickly get yourself ready for joint replacement surgery. FYI, I Will Be OUT of the OFFICE 9/18/24 - 10/12/24
(475) 207-4239 View (475) 207-4239
Photo of Brigitta Jansen, MS, CNS, CDN, CHC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Brigitta Jansen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, CHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Certified Nutrition Specialist CNS and Certified Health Coach CHC with a MS in Human Nutrition and 7 years of experience as a nutritionist and health coach. I am passionate about helping clients achieve optimum health naturally. My areas of expertise are weight management, diabetes management and prevention, hormone balancing, anti-inflammatory diets, and autoimmune and digestive disorders. I believe restoring gut health is fundamental to improving all kinds of chronic conditions so this is a major focus of my practice. I have helped many clients who are frustrated and don't know what to eat improve or eliminate digestive
I am a Certified Nutrition Specialist CNS and Certified Health Coach CHC with a MS in Human Nutrition and 7 years of experience as a nutritionist and health coach. I am passionate about helping clients achieve optimum health naturally. My areas of expertise are weight management, diabetes management and prevention, hormone balancing, anti-inflammatory diets, and autoimmune and digestive disorders. I believe restoring gut health is fundamental to improving all kinds of chronic conditions so this is a major focus of my practice. I have helped many clients who are frustrated and don't know what to eat improve or eliminate digestive
(917) 818-0992 View (917) 818-0992
Photo of Amy Corcoran (Dietitian Driven), MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Amy Corcoran (Dietitian Driven)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06511
Dietitian Driven is a 100% insurance-based nutrition practice. My work at Dietitian Driven is rooted in helping you reconnect with food in a peaceful, nourishing way—free from guilt, shame, and restriction—while also cultivating body acceptance and healing. If you are struggling with disordered eating, a history of dieting, or negative body image, I am here to support you in building a healthier, more compassionate relationship with food.
Dietitian Driven is a 100% insurance-based nutrition practice. My work at Dietitian Driven is rooted in helping you reconnect with food in a peaceful, nourishing way—free from guilt, shame, and restriction—while also cultivating body acceptance and healing. If you are struggling with disordered eating, a history of dieting, or negative body image, I am here to support you in building a healthier, more compassionate relationship with food.
(475) 335-8241 View (475) 335-8241

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Bonetti, MS, RD, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Rebecca Bonetti
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD-N
Verified Verified
Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Hi I'm Rebecca Bonetti! I am a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who specializes in intuitive eating, mindfulness-based nutrition, body image, and trauma-informed care. Together, we will delve into your relationship with food and factors that impact your choices, so I can best counsel you how to put an end to the miserable cycle of restrictive dieting. We will always work as a team, as you know your body best. I will be your guide in learning to listen to your body again, instead of following the rules and restrictions nowadays prevalent around food and health.
Hi I'm Rebecca Bonetti! I am a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who specializes in intuitive eating, mindfulness-based nutrition, body image, and trauma-informed care. Together, we will delve into your relationship with food and factors that impact your choices, so I can best counsel you how to put an end to the miserable cycle of restrictive dieting. We will always work as a team, as you know your body best. I will be your guide in learning to listen to your body again, instead of following the rules and restrictions nowadays prevalent around food and health.
(475) 284-8973 View (475) 284-8973
Photo of Victoria Lawlor - Your Wellness Way, LLC, MS,  CDN, LDN, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Your Wellness Way, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, LDN, CNS
Verified Verified
Milford, CT 06460
Tori is a Functional Nutritionist, graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of Bridgeport with a Masters in Clinical Nutrition and an undergraduate degree from Brown University. She is a Licensed Dietary Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Specialist with a passion to help others to find holistic real-life solutions to truly be well. How is she different? Tori believes in a fully integrative approach to address mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health. Each client is assessed individually, including diet, biochemistry, medical history, genetics, environment, stress and lifestyle.
Tori is a Functional Nutritionist, graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of Bridgeport with a Masters in Clinical Nutrition and an undergraduate degree from Brown University. She is a Licensed Dietary Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Specialist with a passion to help others to find holistic real-life solutions to truly be well. How is she different? Tori believes in a fully integrative approach to address mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health. Each client is assessed individually, including diet, biochemistry, medical history, genetics, environment, stress and lifestyle.
(203) 941-5399 View (203) 941-5399
Photo of Christopher Irish, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Christopher Irish
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
New Haven, CT 06501
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.
(339) 330-2865 View (339) 330-2865
Photo of Eekra A Ahsan, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Eekra A Ahsan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
Plantsville, CT 06479
Welcome! I’m Eekra (but please call me Lola), a passionate Registered Dietitian dedicated to supporting your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling relationship with food. I specialize in eating disorders, intuitive eating, weight loss, chronic illness, and sports performance, with a strong belief that food is the most powerful form of preventative medicine. My mission is to empower you to nourish not just your body, but your soul as well. Together, we'll develop a personalized, sustainable plan that allows you to break free from restrictive diets and discover a place of peace, joy, and satisfaction with food.
Welcome! I’m Eekra (but please call me Lola), a passionate Registered Dietitian dedicated to supporting your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling relationship with food. I specialize in eating disorders, intuitive eating, weight loss, chronic illness, and sports performance, with a strong belief that food is the most powerful form of preventative medicine. My mission is to empower you to nourish not just your body, but your soul as well. Together, we'll develop a personalized, sustainable plan that allows you to break free from restrictive diets and discover a place of peace, joy, and satisfaction with food.
(860) 512-9974 View (860) 512-9974
Photo of Lellieth Latchman, MS, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Lellieth Latchman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06851
I am a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist (RDN) and a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) with more than 14 years of experience in helping individuals reach their goal of improving their A1C levels, losing weight, keeping it off, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. I provide exercise prescriptions along with medical nutrition therapy to improve your quality of life and will collaborate with you to achieve the best treatment plan that will meet your needs.
I am a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist (RDN) and a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) with more than 14 years of experience in helping individuals reach their goal of improving their A1C levels, losing weight, keeping it off, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. I provide exercise prescriptions along with medical nutrition therapy to improve your quality of life and will collaborate with you to achieve the best treatment plan that will meet your needs.
(475) 889-7953 View (475) 889-7953
Photo of Addison Hagge, MS,  RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Addison Hagge
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Addison is a registered dietitian who works to understand your needs by taking a comprehensive and personalized approach to nutrition therapy. She believes in weight-inclusive care, Health at Every Size, and strives to help her clients find balance with nutrition, movement, and their bodies. You can expect Addison to listen to you, support you, and provide you with the tools to find healing and balance. She will work with you to find ways to achieve your goals and understand the challenges you face. She is devoted to providing you with the most effective and up-to-date nutrition care and information possible.
Addison is a registered dietitian who works to understand your needs by taking a comprehensive and personalized approach to nutrition therapy. She believes in weight-inclusive care, Health at Every Size, and strives to help her clients find balance with nutrition, movement, and their bodies. You can expect Addison to listen to you, support you, and provide you with the tools to find healing and balance. She will work with you to find ways to achieve your goals and understand the challenges you face. She is devoted to providing you with the most effective and up-to-date nutrition care and information possible.
(785) 665-2186 View (785) 665-2186
Photo of Rachael Utstein, MS, RD, CDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Rachael Utstein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I'm Rachael! I am a registered dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image. I believe that people of all body sizes and identities deserve a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. I help my clients ditch diets & diet culture and support them in finding ways to nourish themselves, both physically & mentally, that actually feel good. Whether you are in recovery from an eating disorder, have been on & off diets for what seems like your whole life, or feel loads of stress, confusion or guilt surrounding your food choices, you've come to the right spot.
Hello, I'm Rachael! I am a registered dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image. I believe that people of all body sizes and identities deserve a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. I help my clients ditch diets & diet culture and support them in finding ways to nourish themselves, both physically & mentally, that actually feel good. Whether you are in recovery from an eating disorder, have been on & off diets for what seems like your whole life, or feel loads of stress, confusion or guilt surrounding your food choices, you've come to the right spot.
(475) 241-7938 View (475) 241-7938
Photo of Susan P Cohen, MA, RDN, CDN, CHC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Susan P Cohen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN, CDN, CHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheshire, CT 06410
I am a registered dietitian/nutritionist with a passion for helping individuals transform their lives through personalized nutrition and lifestyle choices. I believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. Your unique body, goals, and preferences deserve a tailored plan that suits your individual needs. I take the time to understand your specific circumstances, challenges, and aspirations, ensuring that the guidance I provide is personalized just for you.
I am a registered dietitian/nutritionist with a passion for helping individuals transform their lives through personalized nutrition and lifestyle choices. I believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. Your unique body, goals, and preferences deserve a tailored plan that suits your individual needs. I take the time to understand your specific circumstances, challenges, and aspirations, ensuring that the guidance I provide is personalized just for you.
(203) 272-4797 View (203) 272-4797
Photo of Katie Diehl, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katie Diehl
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06851
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 offers nutrition & wellness counseling to individuals virtually through her online portal. 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 offers nutrition & wellness counseling to individuals virtually through her online portal. 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.
(203) 816-6024 View (203) 816-6024
Photo of Jackie Muszynska - Balanced Nutrition LLC, RDN, CDN, CLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Balanced Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, CLC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
Do you ever feel like you are working really hard to reach your nutrition goals but not seeing results? Are you hoping to find balance between your busy life, the food you like and reaching your goals? Are you looking for a sustainable guide that you can follow no matter what the day brings?
Do you ever feel like you are working really hard to reach your nutrition goals but not seeing results? Are you hoping to find balance between your busy life, the food you like and reaching your goals? Are you looking for a sustainable guide that you can follow no matter what the day brings?
(959) 214-4694 View (959) 214-4694
Photo of Katrina Darling Friedman, MD, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katrina Darling Friedman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MD, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Katrina is a registered dietitian and functional practitioner specializing in women's health and metabolic conditions. Her mission is to guide clients from overwhelm to ease, and empower them with a better understanding of their own needs to help them reconnect with their bodies, optimize their fertility, and transform their lives with targeted nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement therapies. Katrina takes a non-restrictive, food-first, root-cause approach to functional care. Katrina encourages her clients to take charge of their healing journey through her education-focused sessions and communication style.
Katrina is a registered dietitian and functional practitioner specializing in women's health and metabolic conditions. Her mission is to guide clients from overwhelm to ease, and empower them with a better understanding of their own needs to help them reconnect with their bodies, optimize their fertility, and transform their lives with targeted nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement therapies. Katrina takes a non-restrictive, food-first, root-cause approach to functional care. Katrina encourages her clients to take charge of their healing journey through her education-focused sessions and communication style.
(321) 475-6080 View (321) 475-6080
Photo of Jane Grant, RDN, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jane Grant
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD-N
Verified Verified
Berlin, CT 06037
I work with clients who suffer with GI disorders, auto immune diseases, food sensitivities and those who struggle with weight management. A personalized treatment plan is provided to help you get to the root cause of your health issues and provide you with the solutions that is needed to be able to enjoy life again. Your care includes nutrition education and counseling, nutritional supplement recommendations as needed, and physical activity guidance. Genetic, metabolic, food sensitivity, and micronutrient testing is offered for a well rounded approach to optimal health.
I work with clients who suffer with GI disorders, auto immune diseases, food sensitivities and those who struggle with weight management. A personalized treatment plan is provided to help you get to the root cause of your health issues and provide you with the solutions that is needed to be able to enjoy life again. Your care includes nutrition education and counseling, nutritional supplement recommendations as needed, and physical activity guidance. Genetic, metabolic, food sensitivity, and micronutrient testing is offered for a well rounded approach to optimal health.
(860) 772-0129 View (860) 772-0129
Photo of Christianna Gozzi, MA,  MS, RD, LD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Christianna Gozzi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, MS, RD, LD, CDN
Verified Verified
Online Only
Have you or your child recently been diagnosed with a form of chronic kidney disease? A diagnosis can be scary! The good news is that proper nutrition can help you manage symptoms, improve lab values and slow the need for dialysis. I'm here to help.
Have you or your child recently been diagnosed with a form of chronic kidney disease? A diagnosis can be scary! The good news is that proper nutrition can help you manage symptoms, improve lab values and slow the need for dialysis. I'm here to help.
(203) 220-4527 View (203) 220-4527
Photo of Beth Rosen, MS, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Beth Rosen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southbury, CT 06488
I am a non-diet Registered Dietitian and a gut health expert practicing from a weight-inclusive approach. I help my clients find relief from digestive disorders such as Irritable Bowel Disease (IBS), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Gastroparesis, Colitis, and GERD. I have also designed techniques and programs to empower chronic dieters, disordered eaters, and those in eating disorder recovery to mend their relationship with food and their bodies. My goal is to empower you to choose dietary interventions for the pursuit of health and wellness instead of using diets to manipulate your body for thinness.
I am a non-diet Registered Dietitian and a gut health expert practicing from a weight-inclusive approach. I help my clients find relief from digestive disorders such as Irritable Bowel Disease (IBS), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Gastroparesis, Colitis, and GERD. I have also designed techniques and programs to empower chronic dieters, disordered eaters, and those in eating disorder recovery to mend their relationship with food and their bodies. My goal is to empower you to choose dietary interventions for the pursuit of health and wellness instead of using diets to manipulate your body for thinness.
(475) 224-2102 View (475) 224-2102
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Hamden?

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.

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.

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.

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.