Nutritionists and Dietitians in Tampa, FL
![Photo of Christine E Miller - Advanced Nutrition Concepts, MS, RD, LD, IFMCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58134b5a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Advanced Nutrition Concepts
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, IFMCP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
I have been passionate about providing personalized nutrition counseling to individuals with a wide array of health concerns for over 25 years. I have achieved board certification as an Institute of Functional Medicine certified practitioner (IFMCP). This approach to integrative health promotes wellness by tailoring nutrition therapies to address root causes and root imbalances in health. My individualized approach blends traditional diet therapies with the selective use of science-based natural therapies. My goal is to help you improve and optimize your health through the power of nutrition!
I have been passionate about providing personalized nutrition counseling to individuals with a wide array of health concerns for over 25 years. I have achieved board certification as an Institute of Functional Medicine certified practitioner (IFMCP). This approach to integrative health promotes wellness by tailoring nutrition therapies to address root causes and root imbalances in health. My individualized approach blends traditional diet therapies with the selective use of science-based natural therapies. My goal is to help you improve and optimize your health through the power of nutrition!
![Photo of Brittany Moreira, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/addfae29-1808-4dd4-af3c-d8d730497c40/2/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that as a parent, caretaker (or let's be honest, a human in general) prioritizing your health and nutrition often takes a backseat. But here, I am all about cutting through the noise and getting straight to what matters: you. If you’re tired of the fad diets, the guilt trips, and the unrealistic expectations, then you’re in the right place. My approach is refreshingly non-diet, inclusive, and tailored to fit your unique lifestyle. It’s time to reclaim your well-being without all the BS. Let’s rewrite the narrative together.
I understand that as a parent, caretaker (or let's be honest, a human in general) prioritizing your health and nutrition often takes a backseat. But here, I am all about cutting through the noise and getting straight to what matters: you. If you’re tired of the fad diets, the guilt trips, and the unrealistic expectations, then you’re in the right place. My approach is refreshingly non-diet, inclusive, and tailored to fit your unique lifestyle. It’s time to reclaim your well-being without all the BS. Let’s rewrite the narrative together.
![Photo of Andres Ayesta, MS, RD, LD, CSCS, CSSD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b28ae048-11d8-40fd-8a8a-7aa41a155b52/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there! Thank you for your interest! Here are a couple of questions for you? What are your goals? and How can I help you get to them? More than a dietitian, we are a team of coaches that will give you all the support and education to help you get massive gains from your training and exercise. We help people like you overcome the dieting mentality and achieve your nutrition goals by building strong habits and a sustainable lifestyle. THIS IS A VIRTUAL ONLINE PRACTICE AND WE DO NOT OFFER IN PERSON SERVICES
Hey there! Thank you for your interest! Here are a couple of questions for you? What are your goals? and How can I help you get to them? More than a dietitian, we are a team of coaches that will give you all the support and education to help you get massive gains from your training and exercise. We help people like you overcome the dieting mentality and achieve your nutrition goals by building strong habits and a sustainable lifestyle. THIS IS A VIRTUAL ONLINE PRACTICE AND WE DO NOT OFFER IN PERSON SERVICES
![Photo of Eduardo A Gonzalez, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/15c7ecd2-a8cf-4dc9-b9ff-c4067fd95bc9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eduardo A Gonzalez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33637 (Online Only)
I focus on providing solutions to your daily struggles to improve your health, removing barriers in a slow, steady manner to achieve tangible results. I listen to your concerns and offer strategies that have been proven to solve most of your health dilemmas and previous attempts to improve them. My treatment is not one-size-fits-all but rather individualized to meet your unique needs.
I focus on providing solutions to your daily struggles to improve your health, removing barriers in a slow, steady manner to achieve tangible results. I listen to your concerns and offer strategies that have been proven to solve most of your health dilemmas and previous attempts to improve them. My treatment is not one-size-fits-all but rather individualized to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of Brooke Sobh, MS, RD, LDN, CLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/35f71cdf-18d2-4a4a-a4c3-28560870816d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Dietitian out of Tampa, Fl however I am 100% virtual. My target population is people who have been yo-yo dieting for years however they have been unable to sustainably lose weight on their own. We help you to lose fat and have a healthier relationship with food (while still eating the foods you love). This type of client is tired of dieting for what seems like their whole life and they want to find a way to lose weight forever so they do not have to keep jumping on fad diet after fad diet.
I am a Registered Dietitian out of Tampa, Fl however I am 100% virtual. My target population is people who have been yo-yo dieting for years however they have been unable to sustainably lose weight on their own. We help you to lose fat and have a healthier relationship with food (while still eating the foods you love). This type of client is tired of dieting for what seems like their whole life and they want to find a way to lose weight forever so they do not have to keep jumping on fad diet after fad diet.
![Photo of Ben Tzeel, MPH, RD, CDCES, CSCS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b255321-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I totally get it - working towards your weight loss/strength gain goals AND managing your diabetes can be tricky. There's so many moving parts that it can feel impossible to achieve. As a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and strength coach, my mission is to provide you with ALL of the tools and education that you will need to transform your body and also to stabilize your blood sugars at the same time. I use evidence-based and research-backed methods to make it as easy as possible for you, because it's not about changing your body temporarily - it's about sustaining those results for the rest of your life.
I totally get it - working towards your weight loss/strength gain goals AND managing your diabetes can be tricky. There's so many moving parts that it can feel impossible to achieve. As a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and strength coach, my mission is to provide you with ALL of the tools and education that you will need to transform your body and also to stabilize your blood sugars at the same time. I use evidence-based and research-backed methods to make it as easy as possible for you, because it's not about changing your body temporarily - it's about sustaining those results for the rest of your life.
![Photo of Jessica Heckroth, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/bafc1fec-174b-4662-8938-58befa108a34/2/320x400.jpeg)
Did you know that women who voice their health concerns are more likely to be brushed off by conventional medicine? We help women level up their health and hormones through courses, coaching, and community because when women feel their best they can change the world. If you struggle with hormone imbalances, gut issues, fertility challenges or just don't feel like yourself - this approach is for you so that you are able to better understand your body and feel like yourself again.
Did you know that women who voice their health concerns are more likely to be brushed off by conventional medicine? We help women level up their health and hormones through courses, coaching, and community because when women feel their best they can change the world. If you struggle with hormone imbalances, gut issues, fertility challenges or just don't feel like yourself - this approach is for you so that you are able to better understand your body and feel like yourself again.
![Photo of Pamela J Roney, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/23c3c32a-9811-4dd6-b96c-5fd27a60a8b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I look forward to helping you achieve your personal health goals through nutrition counseling and small gradual steps.
I look forward to helping you achieve your personal health goals through nutrition counseling and small gradual steps.
![Photo of Kristen Gooch - Kristen Gooch - Happy Tummy Nutrition, MS, RDN, CSP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/32036964-9f33-4f57-8f76-22239ce58eda/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Gooch - Happy Tummy Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33629 (Online Only)
I am a pediatric registered dietitian and lactation counselor specializing in GI nutrition and gut health. I help little ones with reflux, food allergies, FPIES, SIBO, constipation, eczema, and more by supporting healthy digestion. This also includes food allergy prevention and management. My mission is to help parents and families by providing personalized strategies, tools, and guidance with a more holistic approach, and without unnecessary medications. I also offer functional lab testing to get to the underlying cause of your family's symptoms. My services are currently offered via telehealth.
I am a pediatric registered dietitian and lactation counselor specializing in GI nutrition and gut health. I help little ones with reflux, food allergies, FPIES, SIBO, constipation, eczema, and more by supporting healthy digestion. This also includes food allergy prevention and management. My mission is to help parents and families by providing personalized strategies, tools, and guidance with a more holistic approach, and without unnecessary medications. I also offer functional lab testing to get to the underlying cause of your family's symptoms. My services are currently offered via telehealth.
![Photo of Randi Andres, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a3ebe5f5-c605-4420-b749-4eb0dae1c5ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Randi Andres
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33605 (Online Only)
Randi Andres practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Partum, and Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD, Etc.). Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
Randi Andres practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Partum, and Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD, Etc.). Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
![Photo of Caroline Riedel - The SimplyFit Dietitian, LLC, RD, LD, IFNCP, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/19481ce3-c24b-40ba-b0e6-eb9075d69d02/2/320x400.jpeg)
The SimplyFit Dietitian, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, IFNCP, CPT
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33605
I help individuals of all ages heal their gut, balance their hormones and increase metabolism to make fat loss easy. Through simple, sustainable nutrition education and fitness skills, I coach clients to a place of empowerment and confidence in their lifestyle decisions.
I help individuals of all ages heal their gut, balance their hormones and increase metabolism to make fat loss easy. Through simple, sustainable nutrition education and fitness skills, I coach clients to a place of empowerment and confidence in their lifestyle decisions.
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![Photo of Stephanie Nicholson, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/74ed8e6b-d71c-46f8-bf97-01261382de63/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Nicholson, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT is a Registered Dietitian with a Master and Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition & Dietetics. Stephanie has worked professionally in a variety of medical based settings including hemodialysis, diabetes management, eating disorders, oncology, and gastrointestinal disorders. She is also certified in Adult Weight Management and is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Stephanie has a special passion for working with individuals struggling with kidney disease. She believes that a whole foods approach to nutrition has the power to heal the body, & restore and preserve kidney health.
Stephanie Nicholson, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT is a Registered Dietitian with a Master and Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition & Dietetics. Stephanie has worked professionally in a variety of medical based settings including hemodialysis, diabetes management, eating disorders, oncology, and gastrointestinal disorders. She is also certified in Adult Weight Management and is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Stephanie has a special passion for working with individuals struggling with kidney disease. She believes that a whole foods approach to nutrition has the power to heal the body, & restore and preserve kidney health.
![Photo of Kristen Gooch, MS, RDN, CSP, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/427f6382-8ab0-4982-bbde-129c5f5fa4a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a pediatric registered dietitian and lactation counselor specializing in GI nutrition and gut health. I help little ones with reflux, food allergies, FPIES, SIBO, constipation, eczema, and more by supporting healthy digestion. This also includes food allergy prevention and management. My mission is to help parents and families by providing personalized strategies, tools, and guidance with a more holistic approach, and without unnecessary medications. I also offer functional lab testing to get to the underlying cause of your family's symptoms. My services are currently offered via telehealth.
I am a pediatric registered dietitian and lactation counselor specializing in GI nutrition and gut health. I help little ones with reflux, food allergies, FPIES, SIBO, constipation, eczema, and more by supporting healthy digestion. This also includes food allergy prevention and management. My mission is to help parents and families by providing personalized strategies, tools, and guidance with a more holistic approach, and without unnecessary medications. I also offer functional lab testing to get to the underlying cause of your family's symptoms. My services are currently offered via telehealth.
![Photo of Nourish Family Nutrition Therapy - Nourish Family Nutrition & Therapy, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dabb56f0-9540-4744-962c-ebe90b2aeecc/1/320x400.png)
Nourish Family Nutrition & Therapy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33612
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 Nora Clemens - Nutrition and Wellness Solution, IFNCP, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d74f6a5c-6e97-4205-b418-2dc639535cd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nutrition and Wellness Solution
Nutritionist/Dietitian, IFNCP, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647
Whether you want to lose weight or just feel better, 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 Personal Wellness, Weight Management, Food Sensitivities (Testing and Treatment), Disease Management: Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Autoimmune Conditions, Eating Disorders & Digestive Disorders. Let me help you get healthy, look & feel good again using Food As Medicine!
Whether you want to lose weight or just feel better, 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 Personal Wellness, Weight Management, Food Sensitivities (Testing and Treatment), Disease Management: Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Autoimmune Conditions, Eating Disorders & Digestive Disorders. Let me help you get healthy, look & feel good again using Food As Medicine!
![Photo of Yuchi Yang - American Nutrition Counseling, LLC, MS, RD, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d53ffa50-58e3-41d0-97c7-05bd8a798671/2/320x400.jpeg)
American Nutrition Counseling, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33618 (Online Only)
Yuchi Yang, MS, RD, is passionate about helping people address their nutritional questions and concerns. Many of her clients feel comfortable with her understanding etiquette and find her realistic approach motivating. Specialty areas include weight loss, food allergies, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes, eating disorders, vegan diet, pediatric nutrition, and healthy eating for healthy living.
Yuchi Yang, MS, RD, is passionate about helping people address their nutritional questions and concerns. Many of her clients feel comfortable with her understanding etiquette and find her realistic approach motivating. Specialty areas include weight loss, food allergies, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes, eating disorders, vegan diet, pediatric nutrition, and healthy eating for healthy living.
![Photo of Dina Blankenberger Garcia, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59deb8bc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dina Blankenberger Garcia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647 (Online Only)
Over 90% of covered clients have a $0 copay. BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC accepted. Reach out and if we aren't a good fit I'd be happy to help you find a Dietitian who is... We live in a food & weight obsessed society. From a young age this can damage our body image & our relationship with food, but it doesn't have to. After struggling with binge eating, prediabetes, body image & ADHD I've pulled my professional & personal experience together to create unique approaches that help my clients quiet obsessive food thoughts, feel in control of their habits & find a place of peace with food & their body. Book a FREE call on my website today!
Over 90% of covered clients have a $0 copay. BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UHC accepted. Reach out and if we aren't a good fit I'd be happy to help you find a Dietitian who is... We live in a food & weight obsessed society. From a young age this can damage our body image & our relationship with food, but it doesn't have to. After struggling with binge eating, prediabetes, body image & ADHD I've pulled my professional & personal experience together to create unique approaches that help my clients quiet obsessive food thoughts, feel in control of their habits & find a place of peace with food & their body. Book a FREE call on my website today!
![Photo of Tracy Brown, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/594800e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
It is not often we are encouraged to honor our bodies needs. We live in world that teaches us to "watch it" and "have it together", especially around weight and food. Unfortunately, this constant pressure to "be good" can play a role in constant dieting, restricting, binging, purging and an all or nothing attitude around exercise. Fortunately, we can make peace with food and our bodies again. My approach of somatic nutrition therapy and coaching teaches intuitive eating and body wisdom skills to learn to trust our bodies again.
It is not often we are encouraged to honor our bodies needs. We live in world that teaches us to "watch it" and "have it together", especially around weight and food. Unfortunately, this constant pressure to "be good" can play a role in constant dieting, restricting, binging, purging and an all or nothing attitude around exercise. Fortunately, we can make peace with food and our bodies again. My approach of somatic nutrition therapy and coaching teaches intuitive eating and body wisdom skills to learn to trust our bodies again.
![Photo of Antonio Jose Castillo, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b1a89e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Antonio Jose Castillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33609
Are you looking to drop body fat, gain muscle mass and increase your performance? Through sustainable changes & feedback, you want to build a body you’re proud of. You know you’re the steward of your ideal body & are eager to take things to the next level. My mission is to provide YOU with individualized tactic-laced strategies to improve performance & meet nutrition goals. Together, we’ll translate how food will fuel YOUR success. You’ll learn the same principles & strategies I’ve given to athletes at the University of Florida and Major League Baseball.
Are you looking to drop body fat, gain muscle mass and increase your performance? Through sustainable changes & feedback, you want to build a body you’re proud of. You know you’re the steward of your ideal body & are eager to take things to the next level. My mission is to provide YOU with individualized tactic-laced strategies to improve performance & meet nutrition goals. Together, we’ll translate how food will fuel YOUR success. You’ll learn the same principles & strategies I’ve given to athletes at the University of Florida and Major League Baseball.
![Photo of Jessica Spackman - Mindful Nutrition RDN, RDN, LDN, RYT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b8a98444-6eab-4a56-9e0f-3af760f9ade6/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Tampa?
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.