Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Saint Petersburg, FL

Photo of Jessica Spackman - Mindful Nutrition RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, RYT
Mindful Nutrition RDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, RYT
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
I can assure you working with me will be a life changing experience. I often see clients who want to develop a positive relationship with their bodies and their food. Nourishing our bodies should be enjoyable. However, that is not always everyone's experience.
I can assure you working with me will be a life changing experience. I often see clients who want to develop a positive relationship with their bodies and their food. Nourishing our bodies should be enjoyable. However, that is not always everyone's experience.
(727) 855-6137 View (727) 855-6137
Photo of Dr. Johanna Lopez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LD/N
Dr. Johanna Lopez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LD/N
Online Only
I’m Johanna López, a Registered Dietitian, owner of EatFit4U. Fluent in English and Spanish, EatFit4U was created with one mission in mind: to empower individuals to take control of their health through personalized, science-based nutrition. I go beyond meal plans—I teach you the ‘why’ behind every recommendation so you can confidently take control of your health. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, preparing or recovering from transplant, or striving for healthy weight loss, you’ll find a partner here who listens, guides, and empowers you.
I’m Johanna López, a Registered Dietitian, owner of EatFit4U. Fluent in English and Spanish, EatFit4U was created with one mission in mind: to empower individuals to take control of their health through personalized, science-based nutrition. I go beyond meal plans—I teach you the ‘why’ behind every recommendation so you can confidently take control of your health. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, preparing or recovering from transplant, or striving for healthy weight loss, you’ll find a partner here who listens, guides, and empowers you.
(727) 758-4311 View (727) 758-4311
Photo of Melanie Schuller, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Melanie Schuller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Online Only
I help women who are frustrated, exhausted, and constantly wondering what foods will set her off. She’s been dismissed or overwhelmed by rigid plans that don’t address the root of her symptoms. She just wants to feel normal again - less bloating, more energy, consistent digestion, and peace around food. She wants a plan that works in real life and a provider who listens. She’s ready to stop guessing, feel confident in her body, and finally enjoy food and life again.
I help women who are frustrated, exhausted, and constantly wondering what foods will set her off. She’s been dismissed or overwhelmed by rigid plans that don’t address the root of her symptoms. She just wants to feel normal again - less bloating, more energy, consistent digestion, and peace around food. She wants a plan that works in real life and a provider who listens. She’s ready to stop guessing, feel confident in her body, and finally enjoy food and life again.
(727) 353-6260 View (727) 353-6260
Photo of Missy Hall, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Missy Hall
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Saint Petersburg, FL 33704
Are you looking for clarity on your diet? Whether it involves general health, autoimmune issues, gut issues, or weight goals, I’m here to help! I strive to educate you, be your guide on your health journey, and streamline your goals to find a manageable plan that fits your lifestyle! Working with me should never feel like you are on a diet!
Are you looking for clarity on your diet? Whether it involves general health, autoimmune issues, gut issues, or weight goals, I’m here to help! I strive to educate you, be your guide on your health journey, and streamline your goals to find a manageable plan that fits your lifestyle! Working with me should never feel like you are on a diet!
(727) 435-7756 View (727) 435-7756
Photo of Jeff Cervero - St. Petersburg Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CSCS
St. Petersburg Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CSCS
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33712
Are you frustrated with yo-yo dieting and weight that keeps coming back? Tired of losing muscle along with fat, leaving you weaker with a slower metabolism? Maybe you're an athlete or active person struggling to fuel performance while managing weight. You want lasting results—a strong, lean body that looks good, feels amazing, and supports lifelong health. You deserve to feel confident, energetic, and in control. Jeff has helped thousands over 30 years. With personalized nutrition, body composition testing, and integrated fitness guidance, he'll build your habits and metabolism for lasting success. Book your free consultation today.
Are you frustrated with yo-yo dieting and weight that keeps coming back? Tired of losing muscle along with fat, leaving you weaker with a slower metabolism? Maybe you're an athlete or active person struggling to fuel performance while managing weight. You want lasting results—a strong, lean body that looks good, feels amazing, and supports lifelong health. You deserve to feel confident, energetic, and in control. Jeff has helped thousands over 30 years. With personalized nutrition, body composition testing, and integrated fitness guidance, he'll build your habits and metabolism for lasting success. Book your free consultation today.
(727) 235-7527 View (727) 235-7527
Photo of Ciara Dove-Reid - 3 In 1 Nutrition LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 In 1 Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
God is very attentive to reproductive disorders. Throughout scripture, we see him opening the womb of the barren, protecting the womb during pregnancy, curing menstrual disorders, and allowing couples to conceive under the most likely conditions. It goes to show you how important it is to include God on your journey of reproductive health. That is why at 3 In 1 Nutrition, we not only apply the latest evidence in nutrition science to help you manage reproductive disorders, but we also incorporate Christian lifestyle coaching to ensure you are putting your trust in God's will, and following God’s template for a healthy life.
God is very attentive to reproductive disorders. Throughout scripture, we see him opening the womb of the barren, protecting the womb during pregnancy, curing menstrual disorders, and allowing couples to conceive under the most likely conditions. It goes to show you how important it is to include God on your journey of reproductive health. That is why at 3 In 1 Nutrition, we not only apply the latest evidence in nutrition science to help you manage reproductive disorders, but we also incorporate Christian lifestyle coaching to ensure you are putting your trust in God's will, and following God’s template for a healthy life.
(904) 395-4547 View (904) 395-4547
Photo of Kourtney C Gordon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD/LD, CEDS-C, CSSD
Kourtney C Gordon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD/LD, CEDS-C, CSSD
Serves Area
A few of the services provided will be addressing medical nutrition needs, assisting parents/clients with meal planning, providing meal support including out of office exposures to the grocery store and restaurants.
With more than 25 years of clinical practice experience in both residential and outpatient environments, I have transformed my personal recovery journey into a passion for assisting clients in developing healthier relationships with food and their bodies. Whether working with adolescents or adults, my goal is to guide them in understanding, valuing, and embracing their body’s needs, enabling them to thrive and lead fulfilling lives in recovery from an eating disorder. I was also awarded my Board Certification in Sports Dietetics expanding my guidance to athletes struggling with disordered eating, REDS or eating disorders.
A few of the services provided will be addressing medical nutrition needs, assisting parents/clients with meal planning, providing meal support including out of office exposures to the grocery store and restaurants.
With more than 25 years of clinical practice experience in both residential and outpatient environments, I have transformed my personal recovery journey into a passion for assisting clients in developing healthier relationships with food and their bodies. Whether working with adolescents or adults, my goal is to guide them in understanding, valuing, and embracing their body’s needs, enabling them to thrive and lead fulfilling lives in recovery from an eating disorder. I was also awarded my Board Certification in Sports Dietetics expanding my guidance to athletes struggling with disordered eating, REDS or eating disorders.
(813) 590-7901 View (813) 590-7901
Photo of Astrid Moller Gonzalez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Astrid Moller Gonzalez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Serves Area
Together, we'll review your medical history, eating habits, and lifestyle to create a realistic and personalized nutrition plan.
As a bilingual, licensed nutritionist, I help adults and teens who feel stuck with their eating habits, energy, or health. Many of my clients struggle with digestive issues like bloating or constipation, high blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar concerns, ADHD, anxiety, or emotional eating. My approach is practical, science-based, and personalized to fit real life, helping you feel more energized, improve gut and metabolic health, manage symptoms, and build a healthy relationship with food without rigid diets or judgment.
Together, we'll review your medical history, eating habits, and lifestyle to create a realistic and personalized nutrition plan.
As a bilingual, licensed nutritionist, I help adults and teens who feel stuck with their eating habits, energy, or health. Many of my clients struggle with digestive issues like bloating or constipation, high blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar concerns, ADHD, anxiety, or emotional eating. My approach is practical, science-based, and personalized to fit real life, helping you feel more energized, improve gut and metabolic health, manage symptoms, and build a healthy relationship with food without rigid diets or judgment.
(786) 386-1889 View (786) 386-1889
Photo of Nora Clemens - Nutrition and Wellness Solution, Nutritionist/Dietitian, IFNCP, RDN, CLT
Nutrition and Wellness Solution
Nutritionist/Dietitian, IFNCP, RDN, CLT
Online Only
Let me help you get to the root cause of your health or medical condition with cutting edge testing.
Whether you want to lose weight or address your gut health, I can help you make changes in your eating & lifestyle habits so that you achieve your personal health and nutrition goals. I’ve been providing Virtual Nutrition Services for years successfully. As an Integrative and Functional Dietitian Nutritionist, I specialize in Nutrition for Digestive Disorders, Personal Wellness, Weight Management, Food Sensitivities (Testing and Treatment), Disease Management: Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, & Autoimmune Conditions. Let me help you get healthy, look & feel good again using Food As Medicine!
Let me help you get to the root cause of your health or medical condition with cutting edge testing.
Whether you want to lose weight or address your gut health, I can help you make changes in your eating & lifestyle habits so that you achieve your personal health and nutrition goals. I’ve been providing Virtual Nutrition Services for years successfully. As an Integrative and Functional Dietitian Nutritionist, I specialize in Nutrition for Digestive Disorders, Personal Wellness, Weight Management, Food Sensitivities (Testing and Treatment), Disease Management: Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, & Autoimmune Conditions. Let me help you get healthy, look & feel good again using Food As Medicine!
(941) 219-4089 View (941) 219-4089
Photo of Lynise Perry - Lynise Perry Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Lynise Perry Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’ve been dealing with ongoing gut issues, hormone changes, or chronic symptoms and feel like you’re not getting real answers, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining it. Clients often come to me feeling dismissed, overwhelmed, or stuck—and leave with clarity, direction, and a deeper understanding of their body. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start feeling better, I’d love to support you.
If you’ve been dealing with ongoing gut issues, hormone changes, or chronic symptoms and feel like you’re not getting real answers, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining it. Clients often come to me feeling dismissed, overwhelmed, or stuck—and leave with clarity, direction, and a deeper understanding of their body. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start feeling better, I’d love to support you.
(757) 418-6052 View (757) 418-6052
Photo of Michaila Byers, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Michaila Byers
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Michaila is a registered dietitian who seeks to help patients achieve an overall sense of health and wellness. She creates a safe space for exploring nutritional patterns and concerns in a kind and non-judgmental way. Having worked at Cleveland Clinic's Center for Functional Medicine, she takes a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of symptoms. Her approach is patient-centered, tailoring each session to the client's individual wants and needs. When you collaborate with Michaila, she will guide you on a path to better health, optimizing nutrition and improving well-being.
Michaila is a registered dietitian who seeks to help patients achieve an overall sense of health and wellness. She creates a safe space for exploring nutritional patterns and concerns in a kind and non-judgmental way. Having worked at Cleveland Clinic's Center for Functional Medicine, she takes a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of symptoms. Her approach is patient-centered, tailoring each session to the client's individual wants and needs. When you collaborate with Michaila, she will guide you on a path to better health, optimizing nutrition and improving well-being.
(469) 382-5972 View (469) 382-5972

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
Photo of Teresa Rodriguez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, IFNCP, LDN, CLT
Teresa Rodriguez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, IFNCP, LDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As the author of The Keto Solution for Kidney Disease: Reversing Metabolic Disorders with a Ketogenic Diet, her goal is to empower individuals with the necessary nutrition therapy knowledge to help control their disease and positively impact their quality of life.
Area of Expertise: Integrative & Functional Nutrition Certified Practitioner/ Renal Dietitian/Keto for Polycystic kidney disease/ Certified LEAP Therapist/Ketogenic/Low Carbohydrate Dietitian/Nutrigenomic Consultant/Metabolic disease/Mold toxicity/Speaker
As the author of The Keto Solution for Kidney Disease: Reversing Metabolic Disorders with a Ketogenic Diet, her goal is to empower individuals with the necessary nutrition therapy knowledge to help control their disease and positively impact their quality of life.
Area of Expertise: Integrative & Functional Nutrition Certified Practitioner/ Renal Dietitian/Keto for Polycystic kidney disease/ Certified LEAP Therapist/Ketogenic/Low Carbohydrate Dietitian/Nutrigenomic Consultant/Metabolic disease/Mold toxicity/Speaker
(727) 270-8567 View (727) 270-8567
Photo of Cindy Wu, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Cindy Wu
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
Cindy is a Registered Dietitian with a background in individualized client care and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Cindy has developed rapport with clients from a variety of diagnoses, with a specialization in eating disorders. Cindy's primary goal is to help clients foster a strong and sustainable relationship with food that ultimately meets long-term goals. Cindy is a Registered Dietitian who provides an empathetic, trauma-informed, Health-At-Every-Size-informed, and weight-inclusive approach to care. Ensuring that clients feel supported and ready to make changes towards their nutritional goals is her main priority.
(612) 324-6528 View (612) 324-6528
Photo of Nicole Hallissey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Nicole Hallissey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify cooking with quick, easy recipes, and I'll share realistic strategies to make meal planning a breeze. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Currently, I only offer virtual sessions. Get started ASAP, book directly using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify cooking with quick, easy recipes, and I'll share realistic strategies to make meal planning a breeze. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Currently, I only offer virtual sessions. Get started ASAP, book directly using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
(551) 272-6869 View (551) 272-6869
Photo of Stone Jamison, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Stone Jamison
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Stone is a committed registered dietitian with expertise in outpatient nutritional care who enjoys working with clients for weight loss, heart health and gastrointestinal disorders. Grounded in evidence-based practices, Stone meets you where you are, crafting personalized interventions to align with your unique goals. Dedicated to inclusivity, Stone fosters a welcoming, judgment-free space that honors all body types, cultures, and aspirations. Passionate about empowering others, Stone will guide and support you on your wellness journey, making sure you feel understood and encouraged at every step.
Stone is a committed registered dietitian with expertise in outpatient nutritional care who enjoys working with clients for weight loss, heart health and gastrointestinal disorders. Grounded in evidence-based practices, Stone meets you where you are, crafting personalized interventions to align with your unique goals. Dedicated to inclusivity, Stone fosters a welcoming, judgment-free space that honors all body types, cultures, and aspirations. Passionate about empowering others, Stone will guide and support you on your wellness journey, making sure you feel understood and encouraged at every step.
(508) 501-3837 View (508) 501-3837
Photo of Brayden Goldblatt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Brayden Goldblatt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
Brayden’s specialties include weight management, weight loss/gain, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, heart-healthy nutrition therapy, oncology, enteral nutrition, as well as intuitive eating, disordered eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), mindful eating, and general wellness.
Brayden is a registered dietitian with a passion for health and wellness. She supports clients through realistic, sustainable lifestyle changes using a compassionate, inclusive, and client-centered approach. Brayden blends evidence-based nutrition with practical habits to help clients feel their best in the long term. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for exploring goals and challenges, offering personalized counseling and education to build lasting, meaningful change.
(971) 365-3205 View (971) 365-3205
Photo of Dr. Kim Ross, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN
Dr. Kim Ross
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN
Ellenton, FL 34222
If you are 1) Missing out on fully enjoying your life because of your health or symptoms 2) Confused by all the "nutrition noise" circulating on social media  3) Looking for natural solutions for your health concerns 4) Ready to say goodbye to PMS or menopausal symptoms 5) Looking to manage anxiety, depression, or sleep naturally 6) Seeking expert care from a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and/or Certified Nutrition Specialist... I invite you to connect with me. : )
If you are 1) Missing out on fully enjoying your life because of your health or symptoms 2) Confused by all the "nutrition noise" circulating on social media  3) Looking for natural solutions for your health concerns 4) Ready to say goodbye to PMS or menopausal symptoms 5) Looking to manage anxiety, depression, or sleep naturally 6) Seeking expert care from a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and/or Certified Nutrition Specialist... I invite you to connect with me. : )
(941) 770-3683 View (941) 770-3683
Photo of Elise Vega, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
Elise Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
(321) 468-9298 View (321) 468-9298
Photo of Ashley Lambert, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Ashley Lambert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Thank you for checking out my profile! I’m Ashley, a passionate and dedicated registered dietitian based in Florida. With over four years of experience in the field, including three years in a clinical setting, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients. My approach to nutrition is rooted in making small, sustainable changes that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, ensuring that our goals are not just achievable but also realistic and long-lasting. I believe that nutrition should be simplified and personalized, and I am here to guide you through every step of your health journey with empathy and expertise.
Thank you for checking out my profile! I’m Ashley, a passionate and dedicated registered dietitian based in Florida. With over four years of experience in the field, including three years in a clinical setting, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients. My approach to nutrition is rooted in making small, sustainable changes that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, ensuring that our goals are not just achievable but also realistic and long-lasting. I believe that nutrition should be simplified and personalized, and I am here to guide you through every step of your health journey with empathy and expertise.
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Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is medical nutrition therapy?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves the use of personalized dietary changes to prevent or manage chronic conditions. Typically conducted in an outpatient setting by a Registered Dietitian (RD), MNT aims to address specific health issues through tailored nutrition plans. Clients are often referred for MNT by healthcare professionals who identify conditions that could benefit from dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. The goal of MNT is to improve overall health outcomes by making adjustments to the client's diet based on their individual needs and medical conditions.

What conditions is medical nutrition therapy for?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is often used for individuals with diseases caused or worsened by poor diet, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases. However, other conditions can also benefit from nutrition therapy. MNT is typically not intended to replace other treatments, such as medication, but rather to complement them. By improving a person's overall diet and health, MNT aims to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms and complement other treatments.

Is medical nutrition therapy covered by insurance?
Medical nutrition therapy is frequently covered by insurance. 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. While a referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary to obtain coverage for medical nutrition services. 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. 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.

What does medical nutrition therapy involve?
The approach a dietitian will take in a medical nutrition therapy session will depend on a number of factors, including what conditions the client has and what the goals of the client are. An initial session often involves an assessment of the client's overall health and current dietary intake; a dietitian may also speak with a client's medical doctor prior to or following a first session to obtain information on the medical condition(s) the client is seeking nutrition therapy counseling for. The dietitian will then work with the client to create goals of medical nutrition therapy sessions, such as weight loss, eating a more plant-based diet, or reducing sodium intake. Then, in ongoing sessions, the dietitian will work with the client to meet their stated goals. These ongoing sessions often include menu planning and coaching, which involve the dietitian working with the client to develop strategies for a healthier and more balanced diet. Dietitians may suggest recipes, put together grocery shopping lists, and/or recommend tracking one's intake in order to help clients make desired changes.