Nutritionists and Dietitians in New York, NY
![Photo of Jennifer Maeng, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5a66ae1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. Jennifer completed her Dietetics Internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital and went on to specialize in adult clinical nutrition at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center and NYU Langone Health.
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. Jennifer completed her Dietetics Internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital and went on to specialize in adult clinical nutrition at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center and NYU Langone Health.
![Photo of Laura Iu, RD, CDN, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2c3dcf2d-99c1-414e-8c0f-bf4d5cb18785/2/320x400.jpeg)
I love helping my patients develop a more positive relationship with food and body image. If you're fed up with diets and ready to break free from the diet-binge-guilt cycle, I want to help. Together we can figure out a way of eating and taking care of your body, without restriction and deprivation. To facilitate this, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space to explore any beliefs you hold about food and body, helping you to replace them with compassionate thoughts and effective tools to help you feel your best from the inside, out.
I love helping my patients develop a more positive relationship with food and body image. If you're fed up with diets and ready to break free from the diet-binge-guilt cycle, I want to help. Together we can figure out a way of eating and taking care of your body, without restriction and deprivation. To facilitate this, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space to explore any beliefs you hold about food and body, helping you to replace them with compassionate thoughts and effective tools to help you feel your best from the inside, out.
![Photo of Elyse Metelka - Elyse Metelka Nutrition, MS, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59e3be11-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elyse Metelka Nutrition is a nutrition private practice located near Columbus Circle in New York City providing nutrition counseling and education. Services include one-on-one nutrition counseling, nutrition presentations to groups, and media writing or appearances. Elyse Metelka, MS, RD, CDN is the owner and founder of Elyse Metelka Nutrition. She is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN). Her specialties include eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight and body image issues, health at every size (HAES), sports nutrition, nutrition for figure skaters, and vegetarian nutrition.
Elyse Metelka Nutrition is a nutrition private practice located near Columbus Circle in New York City providing nutrition counseling and education. Services include one-on-one nutrition counseling, nutrition presentations to groups, and media writing or appearances. Elyse Metelka, MS, RD, CDN is the owner and founder of Elyse Metelka Nutrition. She is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN). Her specialties include eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight and body image issues, health at every size (HAES), sports nutrition, nutrition for figure skaters, and vegetarian nutrition.
![Photo of Melainie Rogers, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6437a103-17d2-410c-968d-177dd9641a76/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melainie Rogers, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S is a Certified Eating Disorder Registered Dietitian and clinical supervisor. She is the Founder/Executive Director of BALANCE eating disorder treatment center and melainie rogers nutrition, LLC. Her nutritional philosophy is based on the principles of Intuitive Eating & Health At Every Size. She is an adjunct professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at New York University. Melainie is the author of an online eBook, now in print, entitled Redefining Wellness: The Ultimate Diet-Free Guide. Melainie offers a clinical supervision group to dietitians & healthcare professionals.
Melainie Rogers, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S is a Certified Eating Disorder Registered Dietitian and clinical supervisor. She is the Founder/Executive Director of BALANCE eating disorder treatment center and melainie rogers nutrition, LLC. Her nutritional philosophy is based on the principles of Intuitive Eating & Health At Every Size. She is an adjunct professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at New York University. Melainie is the author of an online eBook, now in print, entitled Redefining Wellness: The Ultimate Diet-Free Guide. Melainie offers a clinical supervision group to dietitians & healthcare professionals.
![Photo of Anne Suelzer, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/da854e70-9c3d-4e64-8bd2-85a592c84cf4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
![Photo of Kristal Pilavas, CDN, MS, RD, CDCES, CLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1fa1e3db-e2cf-4b76-9875-65fe2fd1ae70/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristal Pilavas
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CDN, MS, RD, CDCES, CLC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Accepting new clients! Kristal Pilavas is a believer in getting to the root cause of a nutrition condition and alleviating symptoms via a healthy diet and lifestyle. With the right goals and tools, everyone should be able to live the life they deserve and strive for. Kristal Pilavas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, and Certified Lactation Consultant. Kristal provides nutrition care and counseling for patients and specializes in diabetes, gestational diabetes, perinatal nutrition, heart disease, weight management and more.
Accepting new clients! Kristal Pilavas is a believer in getting to the root cause of a nutrition condition and alleviating symptoms via a healthy diet and lifestyle. With the right goals and tools, everyone should be able to live the life they deserve and strive for. Kristal Pilavas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, and Certified Lactation Consultant. Kristal provides nutrition care and counseling for patients and specializes in diabetes, gestational diabetes, perinatal nutrition, heart disease, weight management and more.
![Photo of Janan S Sayyed, DC, ND, MSc, DACBN, CDC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58034439-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Active Care Nutrition! We help Nutrition Clients with a Variety of Ailments that they may have such as Weight Loss, Allergies, Cancer, Lupus,Skin Issues, Pregnancy, Kidney, Arthritis, Digestive issues, Pediatrics Weight Loss and much more. Changing your eating habits to eating HEALTHY and making the right CHOICES! Good nutrition means the right balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. To make a CHANGE. Call and Make An an Appointment With Your Doctor and Clinical Nutritionist Dr. Janan Sayyed @ 917-557-7437.
Welcome to Active Care Nutrition! We help Nutrition Clients with a Variety of Ailments that they may have such as Weight Loss, Allergies, Cancer, Lupus,Skin Issues, Pregnancy, Kidney, Arthritis, Digestive issues, Pediatrics Weight Loss and much more. Changing your eating habits to eating HEALTHY and making the right CHOICES! Good nutrition means the right balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. To make a CHANGE. Call and Make An an Appointment With Your Doctor and Clinical Nutritionist Dr. Janan Sayyed @ 917-557-7437.
![Photo of Nicole Holness, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/aaf731a4-3c5b-4998-89b5-aefc21f958c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
PCOS / Endometriosis / Fertility / Pregnancy / Prenatal / Postpartum / Women's Health / Chef. Are you curious about your hormone or fertility health? Does it seem to not be flourishing? Wherever you are on your health journey, whether you are just about to balance your hormones, or starting to try to get pregnant — naturally or you have been through cycles of IVF, whether you are addressing your PCOS diagnosis or managing other fertility-related conditions, gut health, or you simply just want to improve your general well-being.
PCOS / Endometriosis / Fertility / Pregnancy / Prenatal / Postpartum / Women's Health / Chef. Are you curious about your hormone or fertility health? Does it seem to not be flourishing? Wherever you are on your health journey, whether you are just about to balance your hormones, or starting to try to get pregnant — naturally or you have been through cycles of IVF, whether you are addressing your PCOS diagnosis or managing other fertility-related conditions, gut health, or you simply just want to improve your general well-being.
![Photo of Carlyn Rosenblum - MTHR Nutrition, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59e98933-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
MTHR Nutrition, is a concierge nutrition service for women and families during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum.
MTHR Nutrition, is a concierge nutrition service for women and families during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum.
![Photo of Vita Tambone, MPH, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/272bde74-2454-4227-a4ec-47053bbe7183/1/320x400.png)
Vita Tambone
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDCES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025
Vita has over a decade of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist helping children and adults manage a wide variety of health conditions including eating disorders, weight management, pre diabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and heart health. Vita’s approach to nutrition and lifestyle change is realistic, gentle, and non-judgmental. She aspires to help her clients develop and confidently meet health and nutrition goals while cultivating or maintaining a positive relationship with food and body image.
Vita has over a decade of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist helping children and adults manage a wide variety of health conditions including eating disorders, weight management, pre diabetes, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and heart health. Vita’s approach to nutrition and lifestyle change is realistic, gentle, and non-judgmental. She aspires to help her clients develop and confidently meet health and nutrition goals while cultivating or maintaining a positive relationship with food and body image.
![Photo of Ana Luiza Oliveira Veloso, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a3503e83-9b07-4d80-a446-c36918a791d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about guiding women in re-establishing a good relationship with food and their bodies. By focusing on health-related goals instead of body size or a number on a scale and challenging food rules that lead to disordered eating, I help individuals regain confidence in themselves and develop autonomy. I am also passionate in working with mothers and future mothers-to-be who want to raise resilient intuitive eaters.
I am passionate about guiding women in re-establishing a good relationship with food and their bodies. By focusing on health-related goals instead of body size or a number on a scale and challenging food rules that lead to disordered eating, I help individuals regain confidence in themselves and develop autonomy. I am also passionate in working with mothers and future mothers-to-be who want to raise resilient intuitive eaters.
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![Photo of Ashley Beale, MPH, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d5fe9a91-f823-4fda-90b5-43f15f5bfae9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Beale
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Ashley (she/her) and I am a Registered Dietitian based out of New York City. I am the owner of Ashley Beale Nutrition where I practice through a weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit, and trauma-informed approach. I respect and appreciate body diversity, knowing that no two individual’s needs are alike. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, there is no “right” way to start this journey.
Hi! My name is Ashley (she/her) and I am a Registered Dietitian based out of New York City. I am the owner of Ashley Beale Nutrition where I practice through a weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit, and trauma-informed approach. I respect and appreciate body diversity, knowing that no two individual’s needs are alike. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, there is no “right” way to start this journey.
![Photo of A. Fiorella DiCarlo, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/de4cd6e0-f68b-42ca-b679-500e51cf96f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Registered Dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, emotional eating and weight management issues. In addition to her Registered Dietitian credential, she also has two post graduate degrees allowing an eating disorder specialization. She uses a non-diet perspective that intends to heal one’s relationship with food.
Registered Dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, emotional eating and weight management issues. In addition to her Registered Dietitian credential, she also has two post graduate degrees allowing an eating disorder specialization. She uses a non-diet perspective that intends to heal one’s relationship with food.
![Photo of Catherine Theodorou, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c3739d65-9a1d-46be-8a3c-93c6c3c6e13a/3/320x400.png)
Catherine Theodorou
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
New York, NY 10010
Catherine obtained a Master’s Degree in Nutritional Science and has over 17 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian. Catherine has experience developing nutrition programs for a health and well-being company and a rehabilitation center. She especially enjoys the one-to-one interaction and relationship that blossoms when working with clients. During sessions with Catherine, you can expect a non-judgmental, confidential, and client centered conversation. She will meet you where you are at in your health and wellness journey and assist with setting SMART goals.
Catherine obtained a Master’s Degree in Nutritional Science and has over 17 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian. Catherine has experience developing nutrition programs for a health and well-being company and a rehabilitation center. She especially enjoys the one-to-one interaction and relationship that blossoms when working with clients. During sessions with Catherine, you can expect a non-judgmental, confidential, and client centered conversation. She will meet you where you are at in your health and wellness journey and assist with setting SMART goals.
![Photo of Lauren Minchen, MPH, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5943d2bd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren is committed to offering you nutritional guidance and meal support on your journey to optimal wellness. She will work with you to develop a personalized nutrition and menu plan that addresses your needs and works with your lifestyle. Lauren's nutrition counseling sessions include analysis of current meal patterns, lifestyle factors, medical diagnoses, medication regimen, food allergies and preferences, and your personal wellness goals. And her culinary services make achieving your health goals even easier. If you want to begin taking the right steps to achieve optimal health, contact Lauren to discuss what works for you.
Lauren is committed to offering you nutritional guidance and meal support on your journey to optimal wellness. She will work with you to develop a personalized nutrition and menu plan that addresses your needs and works with your lifestyle. Lauren's nutrition counseling sessions include analysis of current meal patterns, lifestyle factors, medical diagnoses, medication regimen, food allergies and preferences, and your personal wellness goals. And her culinary services make achieving your health goals even easier. If you want to begin taking the right steps to achieve optimal health, contact Lauren to discuss what works for you.
![Photo of Katrina Trisko, MS, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/222f1adc-62ce-462a-af4a-67e49548265c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Working with Katrina is like having a confidante and cheerleader in your back pocket. Her approach is non-judgmental, supportive, and encouraging. Katrina has gained experience working with and counseling individuals from all walks of life at a non-profit community nutrition program and private practice doctors office. Since then, Katrina has sharpened her counseling and coaching skills by working exclusively with clients 1:1, and is eager to work hand in hand with you to help you reach your goals.
Working with Katrina is like having a confidante and cheerleader in your back pocket. Her approach is non-judgmental, supportive, and encouraging. Katrina has gained experience working with and counseling individuals from all walks of life at a non-profit community nutrition program and private practice doctors office. Since then, Katrina has sharpened her counseling and coaching skills by working exclusively with clients 1:1, and is eager to work hand in hand with you to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Rachel Dyckman, MS, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c40d6077-f802-4320-b19b-5bb605ec7dcf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel works with clients on individualized, science-backed dietary strategies to achieve sustainable, long-term health. She received her Master's in Clinical Nutrition from NYU and completed clinical training at The Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. Her nutrition philosophy is centered around optimizing the gut microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms inhabiting our gut. In applying this, Rachel helps others improve their health and prevent or manage chronic conditions.
Rachel works with clients on individualized, science-backed dietary strategies to achieve sustainable, long-term health. She received her Master's in Clinical Nutrition from NYU and completed clinical training at The Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. Her nutrition philosophy is centered around optimizing the gut microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms inhabiting our gut. In applying this, Rachel helps others improve their health and prevent or manage chronic conditions.
![Photo of Jackie Erin Silver, MHSc, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/313327f2-d29e-4e37-b117-de7beabdbe05/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I’m Jackie and I see clients 1:1 in my virtual private practice. My populations of expertise include kids, teens, and adults with autism, ADHD, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities (such as Spinal Cord Injury, Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis). I am passionate about tailoring nutrition recommendations to neurodiverse clients that focus on their strengths and abilities with a focus on weight-inclusive care. I’ve worked with people of all ages and ability levels and am continuously taking courses to improve my skills to best support my clients.
Hello there! I’m Jackie and I see clients 1:1 in my virtual private practice. My populations of expertise include kids, teens, and adults with autism, ADHD, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities (such as Spinal Cord Injury, Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis). I am passionate about tailoring nutrition recommendations to neurodiverse clients that focus on their strengths and abilities with a focus on weight-inclusive care. I’ve worked with people of all ages and ability levels and am continuously taking courses to improve my skills to best support my clients.
![Photo of Jeffrey Rose, CMH, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/57da9cd6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Clinical Hypnotist and Nutritionist with over 20 years experience successfully helping people lose weight, I will help you to achieve your weight loss goals more quickly and easily than you ever imagined. You will find yourself having new and more valuable attitudes and beliefs about food and exercise. You are going to feel so much better about yourself as you automatically stop eating for emotional reasons, and no longer crave unhealthy processed foods. You will find yourself feeling fuller and completely satisfied with smaller portions, and you will be motivated to eat more healthfully and exercise more regularly.
As a Clinical Hypnotist and Nutritionist with over 20 years experience successfully helping people lose weight, I will help you to achieve your weight loss goals more quickly and easily than you ever imagined. You will find yourself having new and more valuable attitudes and beliefs about food and exercise. You are going to feel so much better about yourself as you automatically stop eating for emotional reasons, and no longer crave unhealthy processed foods. You will find yourself feeling fuller and completely satisfied with smaller portions, and you will be motivated to eat more healthfully and exercise more regularly.
![Photo of Sunny Bozymski, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6ec8e967-f603-403e-abcd-ec81264f17a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sunny Bozymski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10005
Sunny is the founder and lead nutritionist at Solis Nutrition, LLC. With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
Sunny is the founder and lead nutritionist at Solis Nutrition, LLC. With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in New York?
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.