![Photo of Gregory Lafortune, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8bf9f7b8-30bb-4052-a7cd-58d8ba4251ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
You may be someone looking for a male dietitian to address your personal health issues, concerns, and symptoms. Are you struggling with weight loss, pre/diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, low testosterone, problems in the bedroom, overall health, and wellness?
You may be someone looking for a male dietitian to address your personal health issues, concerns, and symptoms. Are you struggling with weight loss, pre/diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, low testosterone, problems in the bedroom, overall health, and wellness?
![Photo of Laura Marchese MS RD LD, MS, RDN, LD, ACE-CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/910931d1-34a2-4186-b88a-4f4c8213bf4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Marchese MS RD LD
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, ACE-CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Let me help you get healthy! I'm a licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who will guide you toward more nourishing eating & lifestyle habits -so you ditch the diet mentality for good. I'll help to simplify what optimal nutrition looks like for you & how to do it in a sustainable way. Personalized nutrition sessions dynamically address your health concerns from a therapeutic nutrition perspective. Group sessions & presentations are also available to community & corporate groups. Contact us today or visit LauraMarcheseRDN.com to learn more about my spectrum of services. Can't wait to hear from you!
Let me help you get healthy! I'm a licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who will guide you toward more nourishing eating & lifestyle habits -so you ditch the diet mentality for good. I'll help to simplify what optimal nutrition looks like for you & how to do it in a sustainable way. Personalized nutrition sessions dynamically address your health concerns from a therapeutic nutrition perspective. Group sessions & presentations are also available to community & corporate groups. Contact us today or visit LauraMarcheseRDN.com to learn more about my spectrum of services. Can't wait to hear from you!
![Photo of Karen Porter, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/591da896-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that your health and wellness matters. I help people with many different conditions including: Hypertension, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Weight gain, Weight Management, Weight loss, Disordered Eating, Sports Specific Nutrition Plans, Wellness Plans, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), plus more.
I believe that your health and wellness matters. I help people with many different conditions including: Hypertension, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Weight gain, Weight Management, Weight loss, Disordered Eating, Sports Specific Nutrition Plans, Wellness Plans, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), plus more.
![Photo of Jane Guo - Habits Nutrition Counseling, MCN, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59d1d82f-9e20-455d-97f8-672db89ed3fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Habits Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MCN, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Tucker, GA 30084 (Online Only)
Are you sick of being confused about what to eat? Maybe different providers are telling you conflicting nutrition information. So then you go on the internet and become even more confused about what to eat. Maybe you read some article that lists 10 things to never eat, so now you get a pang of anxiety when you do eat those things. The internet doesn't know the nuance of your health and your goals. And spending 15 minutes at your doctor's appointment unfortunately won't get you the clarification that you need regarding your diet.
Are you sick of being confused about what to eat? Maybe different providers are telling you conflicting nutrition information. So then you go on the internet and become even more confused about what to eat. Maybe you read some article that lists 10 things to never eat, so now you get a pang of anxiety when you do eat those things. The internet doesn't know the nuance of your health and your goals. And spending 15 minutes at your doctor's appointment unfortunately won't get you the clarification that you need regarding your diet.
![Photo of Rachel Stefan, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8a110d6f-7596-4a3c-99b1-41cbe0174fcb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you dealing with acid reflux, bloating, IBS, IBD, celiac disease, or food intolerances? Let's work together to get to the root cause of your health issues. We use advanced nutritional testing combined with lifestyle changes to correct underlying imbalances (such as bacterial overgrowth, candida, and nutrient deficiencies) and optimize health. I have completed specialized training in management of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and am here to help you get on track!
Are you dealing with acid reflux, bloating, IBS, IBD, celiac disease, or food intolerances? Let's work together to get to the root cause of your health issues. We use advanced nutritional testing combined with lifestyle changes to correct underlying imbalances (such as bacterial overgrowth, candida, and nutrient deficiencies) and optimize health. I have completed specialized training in management of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and am here to help you get on track!
![Photo of Sonali Sadequee, CHHC, AADP, RYT 500, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e469d3f8-36ad-496a-8858-3c5a00f593f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sonali Sadequee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC, AADP, RYT 500
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033 (Online Only)
"As your plant-strong nutrition coach, vegan cooking instructor, & lifestyle transformation guide, I specialize in showing you HOW to easily integrate alkalizng gluten-free foods into your daily life so that you may lower inflammation & enjoy a wellness journey that meet your unique needs. Digestive wellness, weight management, & wholistic self-care are frequent offerings at my coaching practice. I support you easily transition towards creating a passionate and wholesome lifestyle. I am here for you every step of the way as you upgrade your health and align your lifestyle according to your ideal vision."
"As your plant-strong nutrition coach, vegan cooking instructor, & lifestyle transformation guide, I specialize in showing you HOW to easily integrate alkalizng gluten-free foods into your daily life so that you may lower inflammation & enjoy a wellness journey that meet your unique needs. Digestive wellness, weight management, & wholistic self-care are frequent offerings at my coaching practice. I support you easily transition towards creating a passionate and wholesome lifestyle. I am here for you every step of the way as you upgrade your health and align your lifestyle according to your ideal vision."
![Photo of Hunter Farthing, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/502f0b6b-9b53-41e3-9f91-7ddad0db1959/1/320x400.png)
Hunter Farthing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
I’m the founder of Akos Nutriton, LLC, a nutrition counseling business offering both virtual and in-person sessions with 4+ years of counseling experience. I’m committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships with food and their bodies. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs about food and changing them to effective strategies that allow for positive thoughts and self-assured choices. I’m passionate about instilling confidence in individuals struggling with their relationship with food, and I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
I’m the founder of Akos Nutriton, LLC, a nutrition counseling business offering both virtual and in-person sessions with 4+ years of counseling experience. I’m committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships with food and their bodies. My work focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs about food and changing them to effective strategies that allow for positive thoughts and self-assured choices. I’m passionate about instilling confidence in individuals struggling with their relationship with food, and I believe in taking a collaborative approach to helping clients reach their goals.
![Photo of Trisha Cherico @ Align Nutrition And Wellness, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3e1ddd48-7243-4aac-aea8-e1624bab53fa/3/320x400.png)
Trisha Cherico @ Align Nutrition And Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305 (Online Only)
Greetings! I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in nutrition counseling for those contending with the intricate emotional and psychological challenges tied to their connection with food. I extend my support to individuals wrestling with disordered eating patterns or diagnosed eating disorders. These issues substantially impact daily life, resulting in distress, anxiety, and feelings of helplessness.
Greetings! I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in nutrition counseling for those contending with the intricate emotional and psychological challenges tied to their connection with food. I extend my support to individuals wrestling with disordered eating patterns or diagnosed eating disorders. These issues substantially impact daily life, resulting in distress, anxiety, and feelings of helplessness.
![Photo of Jennifer Teems Seay, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/87d65de4-c541-4df5-93db-78cc6a2a066e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I consider myself a family practice dietitian. Much like a family practice physician or primary care provider, I have a wide range of experience helping people manage a many challenges. I chose the name Outside In Nutrition because it reflects my outlook on what I do. I believe if most of what we eat comes from a whole food plant-based diet, we will thrive. I love serving my local community here in Atlanta, but also have the capacity to work throughout the state of Georgia since I work virtually. Contact me if you’d like to learn more about my services or how I work, or visit me online if you’d like to schedule an appointment!
I consider myself a family practice dietitian. Much like a family practice physician or primary care provider, I have a wide range of experience helping people manage a many challenges. I chose the name Outside In Nutrition because it reflects my outlook on what I do. I believe if most of what we eat comes from a whole food plant-based diet, we will thrive. I love serving my local community here in Atlanta, but also have the capacity to work throughout the state of Georgia since I work virtually. Contact me if you’d like to learn more about my services or how I work, or visit me online if you’d like to schedule an appointment!
![Photo of Heather Lasco - Confidently NourishED, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f177da19-1964-4fae-aa10-dc8554ec0ed2/2/320x400.png)
Confidently NourishED
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30068 (Online Only)
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 Gloria Ochoa-Andia, MS, RDN, CDE, IBCLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d2dca287-c1f1-4a22-8fb4-e9019aeb83fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gloria Ochoa-Andia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDE, IBCLC
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
Goodness Nutrition Center focuses on helping you make the behavioral changes needed to meet your health and nutrition goals. If you are looking to lose weight, manage your diabetes, high blood pressure or other chronic diseases through nutrition, my goal is to help you regain control of your health. I also specialize in prenatal and postnatal nutritional support; while also providing breastfeeding support and Lamaze/childbirth education classes.
Goodness Nutrition Center focuses on helping you make the behavioral changes needed to meet your health and nutrition goals. If you are looking to lose weight, manage your diabetes, high blood pressure or other chronic diseases through nutrition, my goal is to help you regain control of your health. I also specialize in prenatal and postnatal nutritional support; while also providing breastfeeding support and Lamaze/childbirth education classes.
15 Second Videos
Denine Marion Rogers
YourFide Dietitian Nutritionist Services
NourishRX Nutrition
Clara Iuliano
Indulge in Nutrition
One Bite Nutrition Consulting
![Photo of Denine Marion Rogers, MS, RDN, LD, FAND, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/99d79f18-fb70-4df8-9fa9-5a80325cbe8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denine Marion Rogers
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, FAND
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30135 (Online Only)
A diversified woman aged 40 and up who is going through symptoms from peri-menopause and menopause.
A diversified woman aged 40 and up who is going through symptoms from peri-menopause and menopause.
![Photo of Margaret Schwenke, CHHC, CEPC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/583a883c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with chronic dieting or emotional eating? Are you confused about what to eat, when to eat and how to eat? I specialize in nutrition, eating psychology counseling and weight loss coaching and am interested in helping you find the food and lifestyle habits that are going to work best for you. Together we will discover what in your life may be contributing to your health issues and how to achieve nutritional and holistic healing. We must understand what drives our decisions in order to change our behaviors. For more info, please visit: www.margaretschwenke.com
Are you struggling with chronic dieting or emotional eating? Are you confused about what to eat, when to eat and how to eat? I specialize in nutrition, eating psychology counseling and weight loss coaching and am interested in helping you find the food and lifestyle habits that are going to work best for you. Together we will discover what in your life may be contributing to your health issues and how to achieve nutritional and holistic healing. We must understand what drives our decisions in order to change our behaviors. For more info, please visit: www.margaretschwenke.com
![Photo of Jessie Carpenter, MA, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ca900893-222e-4f80-8c35-4480355c3a9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessie Carpenter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, MS, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Warner Robins, GA 31098 (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Jessie, and I'm a Dietitian with 10+ years of experience who truly loves my career! I love helping clients (like you) discover practical ways to eat well, feel healthy, prevent disease, reach goals, and love life! My specialties are medical nutrition therapy for kidney health and diabetes. My grandfather had both conditions so I can empathize with others with either of these conditions, along with their caretakers/support members. I understand wanting the chocolate cake but avoiding it and other foods out of fear. I understand all the numbers. I understand the ups and downs of battling chronic diseases.
Hi! My name is Jessie, and I'm a Dietitian with 10+ years of experience who truly loves my career! I love helping clients (like you) discover practical ways to eat well, feel healthy, prevent disease, reach goals, and love life! My specialties are medical nutrition therapy for kidney health and diabetes. My grandfather had both conditions so I can empathize with others with either of these conditions, along with their caretakers/support members. I understand wanting the chocolate cake but avoiding it and other foods out of fear. I understand all the numbers. I understand the ups and downs of battling chronic diseases.
![Photo of Johane Filemon - Wonderfully Nutritious Solutions, LLC, MS, RDN, LD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ab68bc1b-7c1e-4991-8cac-25031aa0c59a/1/320x400.png)
Wonderfully Nutritious Solutions, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30044 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing bloating, acid reflux, IBS, eczema, constant migraines and have not been able to find relief? Do you experience symptoms that just won’t go away? Or you just feel “off”? I am here to help! The symptoms you are experiencing may be caused by inflammation triggered by foods you eat. Not all “healthy” foods are healthy for YOU. I can help you dig deeper and find out what works for you specifically. I'm a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with extensive training in nutrition and reversing inflammation. I hold bachelor's degrees in Exercise Science & in Dietetics and a master's degree in Food and Nutrition Science
Are you experiencing bloating, acid reflux, IBS, eczema, constant migraines and have not been able to find relief? Do you experience symptoms that just won’t go away? Or you just feel “off”? I am here to help! The symptoms you are experiencing may be caused by inflammation triggered by foods you eat. Not all “healthy” foods are healthy for YOU. I can help you dig deeper and find out what works for you specifically. I'm a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with extensive training in nutrition and reversing inflammation. I hold bachelor's degrees in Exercise Science & in Dietetics and a master's degree in Food and Nutrition Science
![Photo of Jenny Askew, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/594833af-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenny Askew
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075
Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? If you're wondering if your health issues are related to what you're eating, you're in the right place! Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties. If you're tired of being told "it's all in your head" and to "eat more fiber" we're here to offer a new approach.
Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? If you're wondering if your health issues are related to what you're eating, you're in the right place! Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties. If you're tired of being told "it's all in your head" and to "eat more fiber" we're here to offer a new approach.
![Photo of Morgan Cherry, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/9fe9885b-233a-467b-85ff-64cd822e1b68/2/320x400.jpeg)
I can not walk this journey for you, but I can be there every step of the way to provide you with support, education, and encouragement as you work towards recovery. Together we will be able to work together to improve your relationship with food and your body. There is so much confusing nutrition information out there these days, so let me help you debunk the myths and work towards creating a better relationship with food.
I can not walk this journey for you, but I can be there every step of the way to provide you with support, education, and encouragement as you work towards recovery. Together we will be able to work together to improve your relationship with food and your body. There is so much confusing nutrition information out there these days, so let me help you debunk the myths and work towards creating a better relationship with food.
![Photo of Samantha Cullen, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/4b0eec15-0a89-485e-a082-bec76a87211c/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you or your child is struggling with an eating disorder, I can help to achieve a healthy mind-body relationship. I utilize a holistic and realistic approach to nutrition while helping you reject diet culture, heal your relationship with food, and honor your health. I'm a firm believer that nutrition is never solely about food, and that our bodies as a whole function at their best when the “rules” of dieting don’t exist. If you're struggling with an eating disorder/disordered eating, or want to explore a non-diet approach to nutrition, I'm here to join you on your journey to recovery and intuitive eating.
If you or your child is struggling with an eating disorder, I can help to achieve a healthy mind-body relationship. I utilize a holistic and realistic approach to nutrition while helping you reject diet culture, heal your relationship with food, and honor your health. I'm a firm believer that nutrition is never solely about food, and that our bodies as a whole function at their best when the “rules” of dieting don’t exist. If you're struggling with an eating disorder/disordered eating, or want to explore a non-diet approach to nutrition, I'm here to join you on your journey to recovery and intuitive eating.
![Photo of Nourish Nutrition - Nourish Family Nutrition & Therapy, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3bde74c1-c6d3-401c-a24a-260f01b91c37/1/320x400.png)
Nourish Family Nutrition & Therapy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30341
At Nourish, we don’t lecture, body shame, or give clients generic nutrition plans. Our caring professionals help each individual achieve and maintain optimal health and a positive body image through collaborative goal setting, tailored, science-based nutrition plans, and other industry best practices. Tired of bouncing from diet to diet and Googling nutrition advice? Quick fixes aren’t long-term solutions. You’ll achieve and maintain your goals with our personalized, sustainable nutrition plans. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to nutrition counseling.
At Nourish, we don’t lecture, body shame, or give clients generic nutrition plans. Our caring professionals help each individual achieve and maintain optimal health and a positive body image through collaborative goal setting, tailored, science-based nutrition plans, and other industry best practices. Tired of bouncing from diet to diet and Googling nutrition advice? Quick fixes aren’t long-term solutions. You’ll achieve and maintain your goals with our personalized, sustainable nutrition plans. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to nutrition counseling.
![Photo of Abby L. Johnson, MS, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b226951-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Abby L. Johnson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alpharetta, GA 30004
I strongly believe that nutrition is the key determinant in how efficient our body works. For this reason, I am extremely thorough in my assessment of each client so that I can precisely provide a nutrition plan that will not only help my clients reach their original goal but give them the best possible life and health outcomes that good nutrition can provide.
I strongly believe that nutrition is the key determinant in how efficient our body works. For this reason, I am extremely thorough in my assessment of each client so that I can precisely provide a nutrition plan that will not only help my clients reach their original goal but give them the best possible life and health outcomes that good nutrition can provide.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Georgia?
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.