Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chicago, IL
My ideal clients are individuals who are tired of restrictive diets and want a sustainable approach to improving their health. They may be seeking support with weight management, emotional eating, blood sugar control, heart health, or building healthier habits while honoring their cultural food traditions. I provide personalized, culturally inclusive guidance that helps clients bridge the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. Together, we create realistic strategies that improve health, energy, and confidence while building a healthier relationship with food.
My ideal clients are individuals who are tired of restrictive diets and want a sustainable approach to improving their health. They may be seeking support with weight management, emotional eating, blood sugar control, heart health, or building healthier habits while honoring their cultural food traditions. I provide personalized, culturally inclusive guidance that helps clients bridge the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it. Together, we create realistic strategies that improve health, energy, and confidence while building a healthier relationship with food.
My down-to-earth and realistic counseling method allows me to connect to and help individuals develop sustainable, long-term habits to achieve and maintain health and fitness goals. I do not abide to a "one size fits all" diet plan; every client I meet is treated individually and we mutually work together to develop an effective plan to overcome individual barriers and concerns to achieve success. Nutrition does not have to be complication and restrictive. Learn how to adopt a life-long plan that works for you and finally end the endless cycles of dieting.
My down-to-earth and realistic counseling method allows me to connect to and help individuals develop sustainable, long-term habits to achieve and maintain health and fitness goals. I do not abide to a "one size fits all" diet plan; every client I meet is treated individually and we mutually work together to develop an effective plan to overcome individual barriers and concerns to achieve success. Nutrition does not have to be complication and restrictive. Learn how to adopt a life-long plan that works for you and finally end the endless cycles of dieting.
Carly is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about helping people live their healthiest lives while fostering a positive relationship with food. She believes in taking a holistic approach to address the complex relationship between nutrition, mental health, and chronic conditions. Carly provides HAES-aligned care and emphasizes a non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling and evidenced-based interventions in several areas of health and nutrition, including but not limited to, pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, weight management, heart health, and GI management.
Carly is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about helping people live their healthiest lives while fostering a positive relationship with food. She believes in taking a holistic approach to address the complex relationship between nutrition, mental health, and chronic conditions. Carly provides HAES-aligned care and emphasizes a non-diet approach for her nutrition counseling and evidenced-based interventions in several areas of health and nutrition, including but not limited to, pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, weight management, heart health, and GI management.
Hi, I’m Alexis! I am a Health at Every Size-aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, substance use, and medical nutrition therapy. My counseling approach is weight-neutral, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I believe every individual has the capacity to live free from the cycle of dieting and the pain of persistent body dissatisfaction. It is my belief that nourishing our bodies can be both empowering and enjoyable.
Hi, I’m Alexis! I am a Health at Every Size-aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, substance use, and medical nutrition therapy. My counseling approach is weight-neutral, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I believe every individual has the capacity to live free from the cycle of dieting and the pain of persistent body dissatisfaction. It is my belief that nourishing our bodies can be both empowering and enjoyable.
My ideal clients are women and individuals navigating weight management, sports performance, disordered eating, and building a healthier relationship with food. Many come to me feeling overwhelmed - unsure where to start, tired from trying approaches that didn't last, or simply looking for someone to help them cut through the noise. They're not looking for a rigid plan or a list of rules. They want guidance that actually fits their life.
I provide individualized, one-on-one care grounded in behavior change and realistic goal-setting.
My ideal clients are women and individuals navigating weight management, sports performance, disordered eating, and building a healthier relationship with food. Many come to me feeling overwhelmed - unsure where to start, tired from trying approaches that didn't last, or simply looking for someone to help them cut through the noise. They're not looking for a rigid plan or a list of rules. They want guidance that actually fits their life.
I provide individualized, one-on-one care grounded in behavior change and realistic goal-setting.
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking a sustainable, whole-health approach to nutrition that supports strength, mobility, and overall wellness. They often feel frustrated by restrictive diets or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle and want realistic, personalized support. I use a functional nutrition approach rooted in evidence-based care and focused on building lasting habits. Together, we create practical strategies that build on what’s already working, helping clients feel stronger, more confident, and supported in their everyday lives.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking a sustainable, whole-health approach to nutrition that supports strength, mobility, and overall wellness. They often feel frustrated by restrictive diets or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle and want realistic, personalized support. I use a functional nutrition approach rooted in evidence-based care and focused on building lasting habits. Together, we create practical strategies that build on what’s already working, helping clients feel stronger, more confident, and supported in their everyday lives.
Meredith Starr is a Registered Dietitian and Director of Nutrition Services at Allow Wellness in Chicago. She is an alumna of the University of Illinois at Chicago Coordinated Nutrition Program and began her nutrition career at UI Health general inpatient services while working part-time at a residential treatment facility for eating disorders. Meredith is deeply passionate about the treatment of eating disorders and has been practicing in this field for the past ten years.
Meredith Starr is a Registered Dietitian and Director of Nutrition Services at Allow Wellness in Chicago. She is an alumna of the University of Illinois at Chicago Coordinated Nutrition Program and began her nutrition career at UI Health general inpatient services while working part-time at a residential treatment facility for eating disorders. Meredith is deeply passionate about the treatment of eating disorders and has been practicing in this field for the past ten years.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Lizzie received her bachelor’s in nutrition and dietetics from The Ohio State University and went on to complete her dietetic internship at Loyola University Chicago. Prior to Allow Wellness, Lizzie has experience working in a residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels of care for eating disorder treatment. She also has experience in research, food insecurity and mental health acute care.
Lizzie received her bachelor’s in nutrition and dietetics from The Ohio State University and went on to complete her dietetic internship at Loyola University Chicago. Prior to Allow Wellness, Lizzie has experience working in a residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels of care for eating disorder treatment. She also has experience in research, food insecurity and mental health acute care.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support to improve their health through evidence-based, personalized nutrition. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms, medical needs, or lifestyle challenges and want realistic, sustainable guidance. I help them by meeting them where they are and focusing on education rather than restriction. Together, we explore the “why” behind symptoms and behaviors and build practical strategies that fit their daily life, goals, and needs for lasting, meaningful change.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support to improve their health through evidence-based, personalized nutrition. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms, medical needs, or lifestyle challenges and want realistic, sustainable guidance. I help them by meeting them where they are and focusing on education rather than restriction. Together, we explore the “why” behind symptoms and behaviors and build practical strategies that fit their daily life, goals, and needs for lasting, meaningful change.
Hi, I'm Stephanie! I’m a Health at Every Size aligned dietitian specializing in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and weight neutral medical nutrition therapy. I work with clients to develop an individualized nourishment plan based on their hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues – without relying on external factors like calorie counting or food restriction to guide eating. I believe that food should be satisfying, fun, and easy. I believe that wellness should be accessible to everyone. And I believe that people in all bodies deserve respectful, compassionate care.
Hi, I'm Stephanie! I’m a Health at Every Size aligned dietitian specializing in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and weight neutral medical nutrition therapy. I work with clients to develop an individualized nourishment plan based on their hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues – without relying on external factors like calorie counting or food restriction to guide eating. I believe that food should be satisfying, fun, and easy. I believe that wellness should be accessible to everyone. And I believe that people in all bodies deserve respectful, compassionate care.
My ideal client feels stuck in diet culture, food guilt, or body shame. You might be struggling with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, or feeling disconnected from your body’s needs. Maybe you're neurodivergent and navigating sensory challenges, or you’ve had frustrating experiences with weight-focused healthcare. You want to heal your relationship with food, break free from shame, and find sustainable nourishment that feels good. You’re looking for a weight-inclusive, intuitive approach that helps you trust yourself again—I’m here to help you do just that.
My ideal client feels stuck in diet culture, food guilt, or body shame. You might be struggling with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, or feeling disconnected from your body’s needs. Maybe you're neurodivergent and navigating sensory challenges, or you’ve had frustrating experiences with weight-focused healthcare. You want to heal your relationship with food, break free from shame, and find sustainable nourishment that feels good. You’re looking for a weight-inclusive, intuitive approach that helps you trust yourself again—I’m here to help you do just that.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
Stephanie is a Registered Dietitian with over 11 years of experience helping individuals manage their health through nutrition. Stephanie promotes individualized care, focusing on nutrition education, behavior change, and promoting health in a sustainable way. Stephanie enjoys connecting with her clients and developing a plan together that will work for their life and aligns with their goals.
Stephanie is a Registered Dietitian with over 11 years of experience helping individuals manage their health through nutrition. Stephanie promotes individualized care, focusing on nutrition education, behavior change, and promoting health in a sustainable way. Stephanie enjoys connecting with her clients and developing a plan together that will work for their life and aligns with their goals.
Amy is a Registered Dietitian who practices at Health Loft. She specializes in personalized dietary guidance and evidence-based nutrition strategies. Her mission is to empower individuals and communities to achieve optimal health through sustainable lifestyle changes. Amy mentors, educates, and inspires clients to make informed nutrition and wellness decisions, believing lasting change is built through patience and a strong client-provider relationship. She is honored to be part of your wellness journey.
Amy is a Registered Dietitian who practices at Health Loft. She specializes in personalized dietary guidance and evidence-based nutrition strategies. Her mission is to empower individuals and communities to achieve optimal health through sustainable lifestyle changes. Amy mentors, educates, and inspires clients to make informed nutrition and wellness decisions, believing lasting change is built through patience and a strong client-provider relationship. She is honored to be part of your wellness journey.
I have over 12 years of experience working in higher levels of care, serving in roles ranging from Diet Technician to Director of Dietetics and Nutrition Services. I’ve had the opportunity to work across a variety of therapeutic settings, which has deepened my understanding of the many treatment modalities available. This background has also strengthened my belief that nutrition plays a vital role in healing, and that each individual deserves a personalized approach to care. I practice from a HAES and weight inclusive framework. I strive to practice with cultural humility and to be a trauma informed provider.
I have over 12 years of experience working in higher levels of care, serving in roles ranging from Diet Technician to Director of Dietetics and Nutrition Services. I’ve had the opportunity to work across a variety of therapeutic settings, which has deepened my understanding of the many treatment modalities available. This background has also strengthened my belief that nutrition plays a vital role in healing, and that each individual deserves a personalized approach to care. I practice from a HAES and weight inclusive framework. I strive to practice with cultural humility and to be a trauma informed provider.
Struggling with eating healthfully, weight loss or managing your blood sugar? Do you believe food is making you sick but unsure of which food? Are you curious if Keto, Vegan and plant-based is right for you? No clue where to start? Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities. Let me empower you with the knowledge/science and tools to more effectively lose weight, control your diabetes, restore your health and regain your life!
Struggling with eating healthfully, weight loss or managing your blood sugar? Do you believe food is making you sick but unsure of which food? Are you curious if Keto, Vegan and plant-based is right for you? No clue where to start? Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities. Let me empower you with the knowledge/science and tools to more effectively lose weight, control your diabetes, restore your health and regain your life!
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable.
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Chicago?
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.