Nutritionists and Dietitians near Westport, CT
![Photo of Nicole Greene Barrato, MS, RD, CDE, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1f2cf5f2-dbfb-49ba-a598-beffd05d9461/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Greene Barrato
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDE, CDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
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 Abby Kolbrener Greenspun - Abby Greenspun Nutrition, MS, RD, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5803d154-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help adults and children incorporate healthy eating habits and heighten their awareness of the importance of health and nutrition. I find satisfaction in knowing that I helped change someone's life in a positive way. There is nothing better than watching a patient's health and well being improve as a result of implementing a healthy diet.
My goal is to help adults and children incorporate healthy eating habits and heighten their awareness of the importance of health and nutrition. I find satisfaction in knowing that I helped change someone's life in a positive way. There is nothing better than watching a patient's health and well being improve as a result of implementing a healthy diet.
![Photo of Lisa M Canada, MS, RD, CSSD, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5803ce35-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa M Canada
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, CD-N
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I have been providing individualized, nutrition counseling to clients of all ages, for over 25 years. I split my time between my private practice and working with Yale's varsity athletes to optimize for peak performance. I specialize in disordered eating and sports and/or performance nutrition, but I also offer counseling and nutrition education, in the areas of weight loss and management, specialized diets (i.e. elevated cholesterol, cardiovascular concerns, Diabetes, etc.), pre/post-natal diets, and general wellness.
Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I have been providing individualized, nutrition counseling to clients of all ages, for over 25 years. I split my time between my private practice and working with Yale's varsity athletes to optimize for peak performance. I specialize in disordered eating and sports and/or performance nutrition, but I also offer counseling and nutrition education, in the areas of weight loss and management, specialized diets (i.e. elevated cholesterol, cardiovascular concerns, Diabetes, etc.), pre/post-natal diets, and general wellness.
![Photo of Michelle Didner - Michelle Didner Nutrition, MD, CNS, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/41aaa28b-590b-47ad-98bc-72fcd8a9b8ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
With a focus on personalized nutrition counseling, GI support, and lifestyle management, my unique approach applies therapeutic functional nutrition integrated with tools to balance hormones and the nervous system. Looking at your unique story, biochemistry, and goals; your prescription will bridge the space between where you are and your optimal health, not just for today, but for years into the future.
With a focus on personalized nutrition counseling, GI support, and lifestyle management, my unique approach applies therapeutic functional nutrition integrated with tools to balance hormones and the nervous system. Looking at your unique story, biochemistry, and goals; your prescription will bridge the space between where you are and your optimal health, not just for today, but for years into the future.
![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 Suzanne Henrick, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58d77e05-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
What does 35 years of experience bring you? I have enjoyed a substantial private practice with a specialty in eating disorders and weight control. Your difficulties are my puzzles, and we will solve them together to make your goals attainable. I can do metabolic testing to verify roadblocks, or as a tool in learning to trust eating and your body signals. I use body fat testing for an emphasis on health, not numbers on a scale. My goal is to have to learn tools to understand yourself, make better choices regarding wellness, and to enjoy your time with me! I bring a sense of lightness to things and text outside sessions for support
What does 35 years of experience bring you? I have enjoyed a substantial private practice with a specialty in eating disorders and weight control. Your difficulties are my puzzles, and we will solve them together to make your goals attainable. I can do metabolic testing to verify roadblocks, or as a tool in learning to trust eating and your body signals. I use body fat testing for an emphasis on health, not numbers on a scale. My goal is to have to learn tools to understand yourself, make better choices regarding wellness, and to enjoy your time with me! I bring a sense of lightness to things and text outside sessions for support
![Photo of Alyssa Lavy - Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness LLC, MS, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b9cdae6d-44fe-42f7-a4dd-5a8183165488/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
At Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, our team focuses on repairing gut health and food relationships. Our nutrition experts specialize in digestive health, sports nutrition and eating disorders, using our foodie-first approach and motivational interviewing skills. We offer 1:1 individualized nutrition counseling, as well as the opportunity to work together in our Trust Your Gut small group coaching IBS management online course. We offer complimentary 30 minute discovery calls prior to booking to assist you with choosing the best fit for you within our practice and to make sure we are a good fit to work together.
At Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, our team focuses on repairing gut health and food relationships. Our nutrition experts specialize in digestive health, sports nutrition and eating disorders, using our foodie-first approach and motivational interviewing skills. We offer 1:1 individualized nutrition counseling, as well as the opportunity to work together in our Trust Your Gut small group coaching IBS management online course. We offer complimentary 30 minute discovery calls prior to booking to assist you with choosing the best fit for you within our practice and to make sure we are a good fit to work together.
![Photo of Victoria Kobliner, MS, RDN, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58810ed3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Kobliner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD-N
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilton, CT 06897
Struggling with chronic inflammatory diseases such as heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ADHD, anxiety, depression, migraines, arthritis, Crohn's, colitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, fibromyalgia, Lyme, chronic pain, eczema? Have a child with autism, PANS/PANDAS, developmental delay, colic? Want to plan for a healthy baby? Enhance fertilty? Food sensitivities, impaired gut health, nutritional deficiencies and poor food quality all play a role in chronic illness.
Struggling with chronic inflammatory diseases such as heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ADHD, anxiety, depression, migraines, arthritis, Crohn's, colitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, fibromyalgia, Lyme, chronic pain, eczema? Have a child with autism, PANS/PANDAS, developmental delay, colic? Want to plan for a healthy baby? Enhance fertilty? Food sensitivities, impaired gut health, nutritional deficiencies and poor food quality all play a role in chronic illness.
![Photo of Nancy A Murphy, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58c08e5f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Registered Dietitian, and Certified Diabetes Educator with more than 30 years of experience in the fields of obesity, bariatrics, and clinical nutrition. I pride myself on gathering information about your general lifestyle and medical needs and more specifically, eating behaviors, and vulnerable eating times, and design personalized programs based on this information. I am a provider for most major medical insurances as long as nutrition counseling or diabetes education are part of your particular plan.
I am a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Registered Dietitian, and Certified Diabetes Educator with more than 30 years of experience in the fields of obesity, bariatrics, and clinical nutrition. I pride myself on gathering information about your general lifestyle and medical needs and more specifically, eating behaviors, and vulnerable eating times, and design personalized programs based on this information. I am a provider for most major medical insurances as long as nutrition counseling or diabetes education are part of your particular plan.
![Photo of Katie Diehl, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dd6142c0-8532-44ad-9c7a-c89fa670b3fb/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Elizabeth Jackowitz, MS, CNS, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/4d301ab8-aa35-48cf-9613-aada088aa605/1/320x400.jpeg)
In a world where information is around every corner or click, it can be challenging to know what foods and supplements are right for YOU! Whether you are looking to improve a current health condition or an out of range lab result, maintain a healthy weight or you simply want to feel better; diet and lifestyle can help! I will work with you to create a highly personalized and sustainable nutrition plan AND teach you how to make small and sustainable changes that, over time, yield BIG results.
In a world where information is around every corner or click, it can be challenging to know what foods and supplements are right for YOU! Whether you are looking to improve a current health condition or an out of range lab result, maintain a healthy weight or you simply want to feel better; diet and lifestyle can help! I will work with you to create a highly personalized and sustainable nutrition plan AND teach you how to make small and sustainable changes that, over time, yield BIG results.
![Photo of Laura Henry - One Potato Two Tomato, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e7fb32bb-aca6-49e5-84e3-489134113b6b/4/320x400.jpeg)
One Potato Two Tomato
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880 (Online Only)
Hello, My Name is Laura Henry MS,RDN,CDN,LDN. I am a Telehealth Nutriton Pediatric-Adolescent Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of expertise in child, adolescent and family nutrition. Kids & Teens are my Jam! I understand the ins and outs of how different nutrients impact a child's growth and development in a healthy or nutrition disease state. My passion lies in empowering parents, children and adolescents with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices about nutrition. I enjoy teaching and educating the nuances of nutrition science to parents and children in a way thats accessible, relatable and easy to understand.
Hello, My Name is Laura Henry MS,RDN,CDN,LDN. I am a Telehealth Nutriton Pediatric-Adolescent Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of expertise in child, adolescent and family nutrition. Kids & Teens are my Jam! I understand the ins and outs of how different nutrients impact a child's growth and development in a healthy or nutrition disease state. My passion lies in empowering parents, children and adolescents with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices about nutrition. I enjoy teaching and educating the nuances of nutrition science to parents and children in a way thats accessible, relatable and easy to understand.
![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
Westport, CT 06880
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 Rebecca Bonetti, MS, RD, CD-N, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/9eaf81a7-aa79-4dc2-a633-781b93251790/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Chloe Cerino - Chloe Cerino Nutrition, LLC, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/0139d2fb-947e-448b-b40d-31dbf62ee4d7/3/320x400.png)
Chloe Cerino Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06430
Ready for a healthy relationship with food? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you're ready to put an end to yo-yo dieting, you’re in recovery from an eating disorder, or simply want to improve your relationship with food and overall health, Chloe and her team are here to help. Chloe has over six years of experience treating individuals with eating disorders and disordered eating and has worked at several eating disorder treatment centers in Manhattan. She has training in nutrition related to a variety of health conditions, including gastrointestinal conditions like celiac disease and IBS.
Ready for a healthy relationship with food? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you're ready to put an end to yo-yo dieting, you’re in recovery from an eating disorder, or simply want to improve your relationship with food and overall health, Chloe and her team are here to help. Chloe has over six years of experience treating individuals with eating disorders and disordered eating and has worked at several eating disorder treatment centers in Manhattan. She has training in nutrition related to a variety of health conditions, including gastrointestinal conditions like celiac disease and IBS.
![Photo of Lellieth Latchman, MS, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5833fe94-f621-46f8-9d89-ee605c511bb0/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Gabrielle Wade, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/31646c0b-5499-43d9-b970-1377c9436408/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gabrielle Wade is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Nutrition from NYU. Gabrielle completed her dietetic internship at Lenox Hill Hospital on the Upper East Side in Manhattan. Gabrielle has a private office in Greenwich, CT, where she primarily works with clients with various eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, and binge eating disorder.
Gabrielle Wade is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Nutrition from NYU. Gabrielle completed her dietetic internship at Lenox Hill Hospital on the Upper East Side in Manhattan. Gabrielle has a private office in Greenwich, CT, where she primarily works with clients with various eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, and binge eating disorder.
![Photo of Nicole Celarek, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/75ce0fd9-b3ff-4b0f-a0b2-c06bbc0f5168/1/320x400.png)
Nicole Celarek
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06431 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health.Nicole believes in functional nutrition, inside-outside healing with a balanced nutritional and lifestyle environment. She believes in client-centered counseling, which focuses on individualizing care to me
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health.Nicole believes in functional nutrition, inside-outside healing with a balanced nutritional and lifestyle environment. She believes in client-centered counseling, which focuses on individualizing care to me
![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
Fairfield, CT 06430
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 Brooke Rosenfeld, MS, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e1d06d6f-e70d-46e1-9e92-9170890e2bc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to help you improve your relationship with food & ditch the fad diets. My goal is to not only help my clients lose weight but also the skills you will need to maintain results you achieve by building a solid foundation of baseline habits that will serve you for the rest of your life. Whether you want to lose weight, help aid in preventing or a plan that will help you treat a disease, you want to just improve your overall health & wellness, I am here to help you! I accept insurance as well as private pay.
My goal is to help you improve your relationship with food & ditch the fad diets. My goal is to not only help my clients lose weight but also the skills you will need to maintain results you achieve by building a solid foundation of baseline habits that will serve you for the rest of your life. Whether you want to lose weight, help aid in preventing or a plan that will help you treat a disease, you want to just improve your overall health & wellness, I am here to help you! I accept insurance as well as private pay.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Westport?
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.