Nutritionists and Dietitians near Simsbury, CT
![Photo of Michelle Irvin, RD, LDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ede8e80c-268a-49ed-a3ec-f8909703e54e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Irvin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Simsbury, CT 06070
I have a passion for helping clients with chronic disease and helping them understand their nutritional needs. Nutrition plays a key role in delaying disease progression. If you have been told by your health care provider to make some dietary changes it can be overwhelming. I can help you with knowing exactly how to make the necessary changes to help improve blood sugar levels or prevent further kidney disease progression.
I have a passion for helping clients with chronic disease and helping them understand their nutritional needs. Nutrition plays a key role in delaying disease progression. If you have been told by your health care provider to make some dietary changes it can be overwhelming. I can help you with knowing exactly how to make the necessary changes to help improve blood sugar levels or prevent further kidney disease progression.
![Photo of Amy G Woodman, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cd272830-71d7-4a18-9c8f-d5beaf6f8bc3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to eat healthier and don't know where to start? Nutrition doesn't have to be confusing. Whether you want to lose weight, manage a medical condition, or just eat healthier for general wellness, I can help.
Are you struggling to eat healthier and don't know where to start? Nutrition doesn't have to be confusing. Whether you want to lose weight, manage a medical condition, or just eat healthier for general wellness, I can help.
![Photo of Jill Lynnae Hebert, RDN, CYT, LD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2a345137-b833-4c34-a286-e6c5853ec440/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Lynnae Hebert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CYT, LD, CDN
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06117
I am a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist and a Certified Yoga Teacher with over 20 years of experience. If you are struggling to find peace with with food, a chronic dieter, wanting to improve your body image or just want a "nutrition tune up" I can help. You will develop a more peaceful relationship with food and regain trust with your body’s own cues of hunger and fullness. We will work together, utilizing Intuitive Eating strategies and mindfulness techniques in a non judgemental, health at every size approach. All ages, sizes and genders are welcome.
I am a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist and a Certified Yoga Teacher with over 20 years of experience. If you are struggling to find peace with with food, a chronic dieter, wanting to improve your body image or just want a "nutrition tune up" I can help. You will develop a more peaceful relationship with food and regain trust with your body’s own cues of hunger and fullness. We will work together, utilizing Intuitive Eating strategies and mindfulness techniques in a non judgemental, health at every size approach. All ages, sizes and genders are welcome.
![Photo of Hunter Bahre, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5abf6bc3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Work with Registered Dietitian Hunter Bahre for a 100% personalized nutrition experience designed to help you achieve your goals. Hunter has specialized training in clinical management of adverse food reactions and can help you quickly overcome food-sensitivity, GI conditions, and other related health problems. Hunter also has a passion for sports nutrition and regularly works with amateur and professional athletes including those pursuing weightlifting and power-lifting, CrossFit, football, and running. Hunter also specializes in weight loss and weight management.
Work with Registered Dietitian Hunter Bahre for a 100% personalized nutrition experience designed to help you achieve your goals. Hunter has specialized training in clinical management of adverse food reactions and can help you quickly overcome food-sensitivity, GI conditions, and other related health problems. Hunter also has a passion for sports nutrition and regularly works with amateur and professional athletes including those pursuing weightlifting and power-lifting, CrossFit, football, and running. Hunter also specializes in weight loss and weight management.
![Photo of Brenda Holian, MS, LDN, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c857a2d3-9f0c-48eb-bc59-12f12bac45b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda Holian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06117
Hi, I am a holistic nutritionist and personal trainer with a focus on gut heath, hormone imbalances, pre-natal and fertility nutrition, and intuitive eating. If you are experiencing bloating, GI distress, fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, hormone imbalances, and do not want to try a crazy elimination diet, I am here to help. Maybe you have been told by your doctor that you need to make dietary changes without individualized guidance; I can help you navigate these changes in a meaningful, sustainable way.
Hi, I am a holistic nutritionist and personal trainer with a focus on gut heath, hormone imbalances, pre-natal and fertility nutrition, and intuitive eating. If you are experiencing bloating, GI distress, fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, hormone imbalances, and do not want to try a crazy elimination diet, I am here to help. Maybe you have been told by your doctor that you need to make dietary changes without individualized guidance; I can help you navigate these changes in a meaningful, sustainable way.
![Photo of Robin Gatter - Robin Gatter Nutrition, MS, CNS, LDN, NBC-HWC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/bb149111-3d76-4915-a55a-f2a1ab8eb3db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Gatter Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Simsbury, CT 06092
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.
![Photo of Dr Senior - Drs 2 Health, ND, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1d2ac2d7-5f9b-4391-8598-f10a8285864f/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Evelyn M DeDominicis, MS, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b2dfaac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you doing everything "right" with little to no results? Have you struggled with weight loss resistance or persistent symptoms? Or maybe you struggle with being consistent with your approach. I help women lose weight and feel great WITHOUT obsessing about food or restrictive "YO-YO" dieting. With access to daily text support and live weekly Zoom sessions, you'll feel more confident and empowered around food. I specialize in mindset and a moderate, sustainable approach to eating. I also have extensive expertise around hormones, digestive issues, Hashimoto's, Menopause, Adrenal Dysfunction & Insulin Resistance.
Are you doing everything "right" with little to no results? Have you struggled with weight loss resistance or persistent symptoms? Or maybe you struggle with being consistent with your approach. I help women lose weight and feel great WITHOUT obsessing about food or restrictive "YO-YO" dieting. With access to daily text support and live weekly Zoom sessions, you'll feel more confident and empowered around food. I specialize in mindset and a moderate, sustainable approach to eating. I also have extensive expertise around hormones, digestive issues, Hashimoto's, Menopause, Adrenal Dysfunction & Insulin Resistance.
![Photo of Jackie Muszynska - Balanced Nutrition LLC, RDN, CDN, CLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6feef66b-96b4-4c0d-b23d-dfe7c740667d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Balanced Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, CLC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06105
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?
![Photo of Sharon Knight - NutriGreene Registered Dietitians, MS, RD, CCTD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b28b73b2-a60e-4bc5-a32b-0fb762b88f19/1/320x400.png)
NutriGreene Registered Dietitians
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CCTD
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06105
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 healthily, NutriGreene will create an individualized meal plan to help you reach your goals.
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 healthily, NutriGreene will create an individualized meal plan to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Sarah Ladden, RDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/864e4a06-96a2-4f2d-b590-3b3614d0e166/1/320x400.jpeg)
Has your dinner table transformed into a battle zone? If feeding your family is causing stress - for you and your child - I'm here to help. As a pediatric dietitian and family feeding expert, I'll help you tackle the everyday challenges of feeding your kids. From picky eating and food anxiety to constant snacking and sneaking sweets, I'll give you the confidence to address your most frustrating feeding issues. You'll learn strategies that shun trickery and pressure tactics and promote trust and independence. And you'll gain tools to enjoy mealtimes without stress, meltdowns, or battles.
Has your dinner table transformed into a battle zone? If feeding your family is causing stress - for you and your child - I'm here to help. As a pediatric dietitian and family feeding expert, I'll help you tackle the everyday challenges of feeding your kids. From picky eating and food anxiety to constant snacking and sneaking sweets, I'll give you the confidence to address your most frustrating feeding issues. You'll learn strategies that shun trickery and pressure tactics and promote trust and independence. And you'll gain tools to enjoy mealtimes without stress, meltdowns, or battles.
![Photo of Linda Oechsle, MS, CDN, NBC-HWC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/38e86e61-0028-468a-8bb8-90b84c6ab067/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Nicole Barrato - NutriGreene, RD, CDE, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/14ebd81c-b220-4bf9-839e-c77ca0f89d8c/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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.
![Photo of Jay S Wolkoff, MS, CNS, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/594ca110-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jay S Wolkoff
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
Have you been there, done that, tried everything and still not feeling better? Perhaps you went on a diet, lost significant weight, only to stagnate, and watch in disbelief as it all crept back with a little more. Maybe you are at your ideal weight, look great on the outside, but struggle with digestive, endocrine, and mental health challenges that defy conventional interventions when you are lucky enough to receive a proper diagnosis. Do you struggle maintaining a healthy cholesterol or blood sugar balance? Are you tired of trying to navigate through conflicting and continually changing guidelines?
Have you been there, done that, tried everything and still not feeling better? Perhaps you went on a diet, lost significant weight, only to stagnate, and watch in disbelief as it all crept back with a little more. Maybe you are at your ideal weight, look great on the outside, but struggle with digestive, endocrine, and mental health challenges that defy conventional interventions when you are lucky enough to receive a proper diagnosis. Do you struggle maintaining a healthy cholesterol or blood sugar balance? Are you tired of trying to navigate through conflicting and continually changing guidelines?
![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 Nicole Barrato, RD, CDE, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d80709ff-9d41-4bd0-ab9c-0deca71e3eab/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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.
![Photo of Monica Marcello (Dietitian Driven), MS, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cdf91e86-c2fa-4de7-b2b4-b5952fe16cb0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Marcello (Dietitian Driven)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032
Dietitian Driven is a 100% insurance based nutrition practice. As the founder and lead dietitian at Dietitian Driven LLC, I specialize in providing personalized care that emphasizes gut health and digestive issues, recognizing its impact on women's health, mental health, and longevity. My approach is rooted in a holistic perspective, utilizing science-backed protocols, creative meal planning, therapeutic diets, education, supplements, tests (as needed), regular communication with your doctors, and coordination with your healthcare team.
Dietitian Driven is a 100% insurance based nutrition practice. As the founder and lead dietitian at Dietitian Driven LLC, I specialize in providing personalized care that emphasizes gut health and digestive issues, recognizing its impact on women's health, mental health, and longevity. My approach is rooted in a holistic perspective, utilizing science-backed protocols, creative meal planning, therapeutic diets, education, supplements, tests (as needed), regular communication with your doctors, and coordination with your healthcare team.
![Photo of Alexis Cascone - Alexis Cascone Nutrition , MS, RD, CDN, LDN, CLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e46e8f57-31cd-463b-9842-1cd2fa2d0ee2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Cascone Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, LDN, CLC
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001 (Online Only)
Alexis is the founder of Alexis Cascone Nutrition, LLC. Which is a virtual nutrition consulting practice based out of Central Connecticut. Alexis practices health at every size and body weight inclusivity within her practice. You and Alexis will work together to establish a road map to get you or your child feeling your best! Alexis Cascone Nutrition accepts many major forms of health insurance including Cigna, Aetna, Anthem BCBS, and UHC. Most insurance will cover close to 100% of the cost to see a Dietitian!
Alexis is the founder of Alexis Cascone Nutrition, LLC. Which is a virtual nutrition consulting practice based out of Central Connecticut. Alexis practices health at every size and body weight inclusivity within her practice. You and Alexis will work together to establish a road map to get you or your child feeling your best! Alexis Cascone Nutrition accepts many major forms of health insurance including Cigna, Aetna, Anthem BCBS, and UHC. Most insurance will cover close to 100% of the cost to see a Dietitian!
![Photo of Sarah Larocque - NutriGreene Registered Dietitians, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c60deb07-320c-48fe-bbe5-ff4e91185c5d/1/320x400.png)
NutriGreene Registered Dietitians
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06105
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 Julia Cobuzzi, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1de7c30f-2d89-4ad3-9a6b-f9271bf402e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 healthily, NutriGreene will create an individualized meal plan to help you reach your goals.
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 healthily, NutriGreene will create an individualized meal plan to help you reach your goals.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Simsbury?
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.