Nutritionists and Dietitians near Old Lyme, CT
![Photo of Kathy S LaBella - Peak Performance, LLC, RDN, CDN, CSSD, ACE-MES, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5aafccd4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peak Performance, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, CSSD, ACE-MES, CPT
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Offering HIPAA compliant nutrition telehealth. Providing a realistic approach to nutrition, weight, and fitness by making small changes to lifestyle to help you fit it all in. Would you like to be more energetic, fit, healthy, or are you an athlete looking to improve your diet? Or are you a musician or someone looking to improve performance, strength, decrease fatigue & soreness, while improving muscle mass, mobility, and healthier food choices on the road? It is my goal to help you realistically obtain your goals for optimal energy, a healthy weight, and improved lean body mass, to achieve long-term success!
Offering HIPAA compliant nutrition telehealth. Providing a realistic approach to nutrition, weight, and fitness by making small changes to lifestyle to help you fit it all in. Would you like to be more energetic, fit, healthy, or are you an athlete looking to improve your diet? Or are you a musician or someone looking to improve performance, strength, decrease fatigue & soreness, while improving muscle mass, mobility, and healthier food choices on the road? It is my goal to help you realistically obtain your goals for optimal energy, a healthy weight, and improved lean body mass, to achieve long-term success!
![Photo of Christianna Gozzi, MA, MS, RD, LD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b65d58c1-d6d3-47a6-bef5-4b27f01c9ec3/1/320x400.png)
Christianna Gozzi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, MS, RD, LD, CDN
Verified Verified
New London, CT 06320 (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.
![Photo of Rosemary E Gentile, MS, RDN, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5802811d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
The current deluge of nutrition information can be overwhelming, and getting the right answers for your personal needs can be frustrating. I can clarify your individual nutrition needs and help you see through misconceptions and confusion about what eating better might entail. Together we'll establish simple, realistic, and flexible strategies that work to nourish your body well and help you feel better. Supporting and empowering you to take meaningful steps for reducing stress around eating, navigating challenging eating experiences, developing a healthy relationship with food, and eating in a balanced, mindful, and informed way is my intent.
The current deluge of nutrition information can be overwhelming, and getting the right answers for your personal needs can be frustrating. I can clarify your individual nutrition needs and help you see through misconceptions and confusion about what eating better might entail. Together we'll establish simple, realistic, and flexible strategies that work to nourish your body well and help you feel better. Supporting and empowering you to take meaningful steps for reducing stress around eating, navigating challenging eating experiences, developing a healthy relationship with food, and eating in a balanced, mindful, and informed way is my intent.
![Photo of Ryann Hilton - NourishRX Nutrition, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/4aa7875a-c046-414e-9fa4-64f769145e3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
NourishRX Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Norwich, CT 06360 (Online Only)
We are NourishRX Nutrition, an outpatient eating disorder practice. Ryann, our founder, is a certified eating disorder registered dietitian who began our practice in 2010. We are a team of Registered Dietitians here to listen and get to the root of what’s causing you harm while establishing a safe and trusted space. Together we will work towards letting go of diet mentality and developing healthy habits to support improved nutrition and improved body image. We will work to pursue a healing journey that helps you to create a more meaningful, confident, and connected life! Book a FREE call: www.nourishrx.com/appointments
We are NourishRX Nutrition, an outpatient eating disorder practice. Ryann, our founder, is a certified eating disorder registered dietitian who began our practice in 2010. We are a team of Registered Dietitians here to listen and get to the root of what’s causing you harm while establishing a safe and trusted space. Together we will work towards letting go of diet mentality and developing healthy habits to support improved nutrition and improved body image. We will work to pursue a healing journey that helps you to create a more meaningful, confident, and connected life! Book a FREE call: www.nourishrx.com/appointments
![Photo of Nikki Glick - Gut Well LLC, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ffacb587-c963-4b45-bac6-63eebc6fc785/1/320x400.png)
As a Registered Dietitian and Certified Yoga Instructor I focus on combining evidence based nutrition recommendations with holistic lifestyle interventions to help clients reach their desired goals. I provide nutrition counseling to a variety of conditions from digestive disorders such as IBS, GERD and SIBO to cancer patients & survivors, and more.
As a Registered Dietitian and Certified Yoga Instructor I focus on combining evidence based nutrition recommendations with holistic lifestyle interventions to help clients reach their desired goals. I provide nutrition counseling to a variety of conditions from digestive disorders such as IBS, GERD and SIBO to cancer patients & survivors, and more.
![Photo of Aurora Coleman, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/0d251ca9-73af-4837-90f8-8aded4a7d3fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
In a world with so much nutrition noise, it's hard to know what applies to you, what doesn't and to separate fact from fiction. It's especially hard when you truly want to learn how to nourish your body. Whether you have diabetes, chronic kidney disease or want to manage your weight, it can be hard to filter out what is the best way to nourish your body. Everyone has unique nutrition needs, making it hard to know the best plan for you.
In a world with so much nutrition noise, it's hard to know what applies to you, what doesn't and to separate fact from fiction. It's especially hard when you truly want to learn how to nourish your body. Whether you have diabetes, chronic kidney disease or want to manage your weight, it can be hard to filter out what is the best way to nourish your body. Everyone has unique nutrition needs, making it hard to know the best plan for you.
![Photo of Elizabeth Morris - New England Nutrition LLC, MS, RD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1d4ee78c-38e3-4f7b-af28-dbc6b3666dcb/2/320x400.jpeg)
New England Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
Verified Verified
New London, CT 06320
New England Nutrition specializes in managing gastrointestinal (GI) disorders including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, SIBO, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis), Celiac Disease, GERD, and more. New England Nutrition also provides nutrition therapy for various other medical conditions as well as healthy diet counseling.
New England Nutrition specializes in managing gastrointestinal (GI) disorders including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, SIBO, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis), Celiac Disease, GERD, and more. New England Nutrition also provides nutrition therapy for various other medical conditions as well as healthy diet counseling.
![Photo of Heather Lasco - Confidently NourishED, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/16026607-bd23-43a7-9e24-be31e2e4fe32/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of traditional eating disorder recovery routes and want to feel like you have a say in your recovery? We were too. That’s why at Confidently NourishED, we take a weight-inclusive, Health at Every Size approach to nutrition and health where YOU have a say in what your recovery journey looks like. We believe that every BODY is worthy of respect and care, regardless of size or shape. It is possible to fully enjoy eating experiences with your friends and family again, without the constant fear of having any lingering anxieties or self-consciousness.
Are you tired of traditional eating disorder recovery routes and want to feel like you have a say in your recovery? We were too. That’s why at Confidently NourishED, we take a weight-inclusive, Health at Every Size approach to nutrition and health where YOU have a say in what your recovery journey looks like. We believe that every BODY is worthy of respect and care, regardless of size or shape. It is possible to fully enjoy eating experiences with your friends and family again, without the constant fear of having any lingering anxieties or self-consciousness.
![Photo of Michelle Anderson - NutriGreene Registered Dietitians, RDN CDN, CDCES, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dbebb660-3c5b-4bbc-a28a-645ebb1cf177/2/320x400.png)
NutriGreene Registered Dietitians
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN CDN, CDCES, MS
Verified Verified
New London, CT 06320
It is our goal to help fine tune your personal nutrition. Whether you want to lose or gain weight, help prevent or treat a disease, tackle a food allergy or just want to learn how to eat healthy, NutriGreene will create an individualized meal plan to help you reach your goals. We now accept a wide variety of insurance plans and have multiple locations across the state of CT. In Office or Telehealth Sessions (insurance accepted!). Conditions Treated: Weight Management, Eating Disorders, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Hypertension, High Cholesterol, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Gastric Bypass Pre/Post Surgery, Food Allergies and Chronic Kid
It is our goal to help fine tune your personal nutrition. Whether you want to lose or gain weight, help prevent or treat a disease, tackle a food allergy or just want to learn how to eat healthy, NutriGreene will create an individualized meal plan to help you reach your goals. We now accept a wide variety of insurance plans and have multiple locations across the state of CT. In Office or Telehealth Sessions (insurance accepted!). Conditions Treated: Weight Management, Eating Disorders, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Hypertension, High Cholesterol, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Gastric Bypass Pre/Post Surgery, Food Allergies and Chronic Kid
![Photo of Linda S Caley, MS, RDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c66cb89d-6a7f-4efb-ab5d-ad4bb7775ffe/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to helping you on your journey in finding peace with food and your body. I take a non-diet, Intuitive Eating approach in helping you restore your relationship with food, your body and yourself. I provide individual nutrition therapy in a compassionate environment where together, we'll work to develop nutrition goals unique to you and your lifestyle. Congratulations on taking this step toward a more balanced and healthier life.
I am committed to helping you on your journey in finding peace with food and your body. I take a non-diet, Intuitive Eating approach in helping you restore your relationship with food, your body and yourself. I provide individual nutrition therapy in a compassionate environment where together, we'll work to develop nutrition goals unique to you and your lifestyle. Congratulations on taking this step toward a more balanced and healthier life.
![Photo of Diana Rosa, MS, RD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59ef6665-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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"!
![Photo of Rachael Utstein, MS, RD, CDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/86014458-d216-4bf0-a1d0-6897cc585f4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael Utstein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437 (Online Only)
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.
![Photo of Susan P Cohen, MA, RDN, CDN, CHC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8b7c4070-2517-4b3c-a657-5eaa0f4dfdf5/4/320x400.jpeg)
Susan P Cohen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN, CDN, CHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, CT 06492
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.
![Photo of Gina Barbetta, MS, RDN, IFNCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5af6f78e-4bb8-4522-be23-e80c4e5b9494/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Gina, a highly trained and experienced Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist with over 25 years of expertise. I approach my clients' health holistically, employing an integrative approach that combines nutrition and overall health and wellness. My areas of specialization encompass gut health, digestive disorders, cardiometabolic disease, PCOS, pediatrics, and intuitive eating. Additionally, I hold board certification in Integrative and Functional Nutrition.
Hello, I'm Gina, a highly trained and experienced Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist with over 25 years of expertise. I approach my clients' health holistically, employing an integrative approach that combines nutrition and overall health and wellness. My areas of specialization encompass gut health, digestive disorders, cardiometabolic disease, PCOS, pediatrics, and intuitive eating. Additionally, I hold board certification in Integrative and Functional Nutrition.
![Photo of Maureen Wasik, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f8458a70-ce03-4308-b0bf-fb3328b401b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to The Dietitian, LLC aka Maureen Wasik. I'm a dietitian and diabetes educator in practice for over 30 years. My work covers a range of medical challenges and one benefit of so many years of experience is that I’ve seen a lot! 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.
Welcome to The Dietitian, LLC aka Maureen Wasik. I'm a dietitian and diabetes educator in practice for over 30 years. My work covers a range of medical challenges and one benefit of so many years of experience is that I’ve seen a lot! 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.
![Photo of Rebecca Balemian - Balanced Nutrition LLC, RD, CD-N, CLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f088f12a-6c97-4b87-9231-dd064a1a3b55/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balanced Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD-N, CLC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
I am a pediatric & family dietitian and one of the owners of Balanced Nutrition LLC in Wallingford, CT. I work with children and families to help foster nutritious lifestyles. Whether you are looking to boost growth and development in your little one, increase the variety of foods your child eats, or conquer busy weeks with a healthy meal plan, I am here to help.
I am a pediatric & family dietitian and one of the owners of Balanced Nutrition LLC in Wallingford, CT. I work with children and families to help foster nutritious lifestyles. Whether you are looking to boost growth and development in your little one, increase the variety of foods your child eats, or conquer busy weeks with a healthy meal plan, I am here to help.
![Photo of Brigitta Jansen, MS, CNS, CDN, CHC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59e7fdfb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brigitta Jansen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, CHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guilford, CT 06437
Functional medicine nutrition aims to address the root cause of disease instead of just managing symptoms. As a nutritionist I believe in the body's innate ability to heal itself. By healing the gut, rebalancing nutrient levels and gently eliminating toxins we can create the conditions for true health. I enjoy working with a diverse clientele, from individuals of all ages to families, and welcome all stages of each person's healing journey, whether you are a seasoned foodie or just starting out.
Functional medicine nutrition aims to address the root cause of disease instead of just managing symptoms. As a nutritionist I believe in the body's innate ability to heal itself. By healing the gut, rebalancing nutrient levels and gently eliminating toxins we can create the conditions for true health. I enjoy working with a diverse clientele, from individuals of all ages to families, and welcome all stages of each person's healing journey, whether you are a seasoned foodie or just starting out.
![Photo of Cerina Savino, RDN, CHHP, CWPD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c5b77f49-81b4-4717-a0ce-0438a6951302/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Cerina, a licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that specializes in Integrative and Functional Nutrition and Wellness, along with coaching through behavior change. I’ve helped clients with a variety of health challenges including; a history of chronic dieting, fatigue and digestive issues (e.g., bloat, gas, etc.) and athletic performance. In my work with clients I help them to improve their relationship with food by deconstructing food cravings to increase their energy levels and focus, lose weight while also eating easy to prepare delicious foods. All this together to ultimately regain control over their health.
Hi, I’m Cerina, a licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that specializes in Integrative and Functional Nutrition and Wellness, along with coaching through behavior change. I’ve helped clients with a variety of health challenges including; a history of chronic dieting, fatigue and digestive issues (e.g., bloat, gas, etc.) and athletic performance. In my work with clients I help them to improve their relationship with food by deconstructing food cravings to increase their energy levels and focus, lose weight while also eating easy to prepare delicious foods. All this together to ultimately regain control over their health.
![Photo of Kerry Elisabeth St Pierre, MS, CNS, LDN, DipACLM, MA, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b0f855d4-9628-41bf-9d37-1a47b9296376/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry Elisabeth St Pierre
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, DipACLM, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
The Nutrition Attaché designs individualized nutrition and lifestyle plans to address cardiometabolic diseases, oncology-related needs, autoimmune conditions and functional gastrointestinal disorders. A demanding life requires innovative strategies in order to be effective and sustainable. Telehealth and In-Person appointments available.
The Nutrition Attaché designs individualized nutrition and lifestyle plans to address cardiometabolic diseases, oncology-related needs, autoimmune conditions and functional gastrointestinal disorders. A demanding life requires innovative strategies in order to be effective and sustainable. Telehealth and In-Person appointments available.
![Photo of Jane Grant, RDN, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2390f55f-2ceb-4478-b195-47e296cd8625/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Old Lyme?
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.