Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chicago, IL

Photo of Elizabeth Walsh, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Elizabeth Walsh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
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.
(312) 584-5236 View (312) 584-5236
Photo of Katie Pinkston, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katie Pinkston
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
I serve as a filter between nutrition fact and fiction. Understanding how food choices impact day to day life is a crucial step to understanding how to eat right for your goals. I am here to help you build a foundational understanding of the nutrition and health connection, allowing you the autonomy to make choices that best align with your individual needs. My specialties include women’s health, plant-based eating, diabetes management, and gluten-free diets.
I serve as a filter between nutrition fact and fiction. Understanding how food choices impact day to day life is a crucial step to understanding how to eat right for your goals. I am here to help you build a foundational understanding of the nutrition and health connection, allowing you the autonomy to make choices that best align with your individual needs. My specialties include women’s health, plant-based eating, diabetes management, and gluten-free diets.
(630) 283-8277 View (630) 283-8277
Photo of Jennifer Sherman, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jennifer Sherman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
HI! I'm an RD who will customize a nutrition plan tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Be that to reduce weight, improve autoimmune & IBS symptoms, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, or A1C. Using a science-based approach, we'll work together to develop a personalized strategy to help you meet your goals by making small, achievable dietary and lifestyle changes as I guide you, gently, through the process. I earned my master's degree in human nutrition from UIC in 2016 and have worked in Chicago as a licensed and registered dietitian ever since. I am currently seeing all clients via tele-health. I can help you improve.
HI! I'm an RD who will customize a nutrition plan tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Be that to reduce weight, improve autoimmune & IBS symptoms, lower blood pressure, cholesterol, or A1C. Using a science-based approach, we'll work together to develop a personalized strategy to help you meet your goals by making small, achievable dietary and lifestyle changes as I guide you, gently, through the process. I earned my master's degree in human nutrition from UIC in 2016 and have worked in Chicago as a licensed and registered dietitian ever since. I am currently seeing all clients via tele-health. I can help you improve.
(872) 259-4490 View (872) 259-4490
Photo of Emily Oschmann, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Emily Oschmann
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60660
Emily is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She completed her education at Mount Mary University and her clinical internship at Roger’s Behavioral Health, both in Wisconsin. Within her first year of being an RDN, Emily presented to over 100 RDNs in her state on the importance of weight inclusive care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading as many books as possible, and being a cat mom to her big cat (Blue) and little cat (Lilly).
Emily is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She completed her education at Mount Mary University and her clinical internship at Roger’s Behavioral Health, both in Wisconsin. Within her first year of being an RDN, Emily presented to over 100 RDNs in her state on the importance of weight inclusive care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading as many books as possible, and being a cat mom to her big cat (Blue) and little cat (Lilly).
(773) 492-6435 View (773) 492-6435
Photo of Kelsey True, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kelsey True
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Kelsey is a CDR Board- certified Registered Dietitian. Kelsey graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a B.S. in dietetics. She has over 8 years of experience providing medical nutrition therapy and nutrition counseling in both inpatient and tele-health settings. Kelsey enjoys working with clients to make sustainable lifestyle changes. She has helped numerous clients meet their goals regarding weight management, diabetes, and heart health. After working with Kelsey, you will have a clear understanding on how to reach your nutrition goals.
Kelsey is a CDR Board- certified Registered Dietitian. Kelsey graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a B.S. in dietetics. She has over 8 years of experience providing medical nutrition therapy and nutrition counseling in both inpatient and tele-health settings. Kelsey enjoys working with clients to make sustainable lifestyle changes. She has helped numerous clients meet their goals regarding weight management, diabetes, and heart health. After working with Kelsey, you will have a clear understanding on how to reach your nutrition goals.
(630) 491-5593 View (630) 491-5593
Photo of Emily Hammon, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Emily Hammon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Spanning the age spectrum, from her founding her own practice as Youth Sports Dietitian LLC to her 19 years in geriatrics as a clinical dietitian, Emily is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist licensed in Illinois and Missouri and Certified Youth Nutrition Specialist. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Central Missouri State University, graduating as the chapter’s President of Kappa Omicron Nu Honors Fraternity. Her didactic practicum was completed at Jewish College of Nursing and Allied Health in association with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Washington University.
Spanning the age spectrum, from her founding her own practice as Youth Sports Dietitian LLC to her 19 years in geriatrics as a clinical dietitian, Emily is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist licensed in Illinois and Missouri and Certified Youth Nutrition Specialist. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Central Missouri State University, graduating as the chapter’s President of Kappa Omicron Nu Honors Fraternity. Her didactic practicum was completed at Jewish College of Nursing and Allied Health in association with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Washington University.
(630) 626-8479 View (630) 626-8479
Photo of Alexandra Lynch, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Alexandra Lynch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Alex is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian with experience in both medical nutrition therapy and functional medicine. She holds a current position as a full time outpatient dietitian at a top-hospital in Chicago. After completing her undergraduate nutrition degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) she wanted to expand her knowledge and pursue a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Wellness. Alex's goal is to help people adopt sustainable healthy habits even for the busiest of lifestyles without sacrificing their relationship with food.
Alex is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian with experience in both medical nutrition therapy and functional medicine. She holds a current position as a full time outpatient dietitian at a top-hospital in Chicago. After completing her undergraduate nutrition degree at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) she wanted to expand her knowledge and pursue a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Wellness. Alex's goal is to help people adopt sustainable healthy habits even for the busiest of lifestyles without sacrificing their relationship with food.
(630) 528-2113 View (630) 528-2113
Photo of Ellen Muhammad, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Ellen Muhammad
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES, CLT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
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!
(773) 245-1915 View (773) 245-1915
Photo of Haleigh Augspols, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Haleigh Augspols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Haleigh practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with clients with Eating Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Postpartum nutrition, IBS, and Food Allergies. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
Haleigh practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with clients with Eating Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Postpartum nutrition, IBS, and Food Allergies. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
(312) 779-1450 View (312) 779-1450
Photo of Eliza McLean, RD, LDN, MPH, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Eliza McLean
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MPH
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Eliza is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She received a Master’s degree in Public Health and Nutrition from the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health and completed her dietetics training through the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Coordinated RD program. Eliza has experience providing nutrition care in a variety of settings, including eating disorder treatment, group practice, and long term care. Eliza practices from a non-diet, weight-neutral approach, caring for the whole person.
Eliza is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She received a Master’s degree in Public Health and Nutrition from the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health and completed her dietetics training through the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Coordinated RD program. Eliza has experience providing nutrition care in a variety of settings, including eating disorder treatment, group practice, and long term care. Eliza practices from a non-diet, weight-neutral approach, caring for the whole person.
(630) 349-6851 View (630) 349-6851
Photo of Amanda Wagner, MEd, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Amanda Wagner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Amanda is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) that specializes in plant-based eating, sports nutrition, & the intersection of the two. She is an avid runner & former division 1 cross country/ track athlete, who is enthusiastic about & fueled by a vegan diet. She is a former high school science teacher with a M.Ed in science education who changed careers to become a RDN. Amanda also works as Certified Running Coach. Finally, she also likes to work with those who have ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) because there are not many dietitians who have experience in or understand it.
Amanda is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) that specializes in plant-based eating, sports nutrition, & the intersection of the two. She is an avid runner & former division 1 cross country/ track athlete, who is enthusiastic about & fueled by a vegan diet. She is a former high school science teacher with a M.Ed in science education who changed careers to become a RDN. Amanda also works as Certified Running Coach. Finally, she also likes to work with those who have ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) because there are not many dietitians who have experience in or understand it.
(872) 253-8493 View (872) 253-8493
Photo of Ilana Nurko, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Ilana Nurko
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Ilana has been a Registered Dietitian since 2017. She completed her dietetic internship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for various neurological conditions including epilepsy, post-traumatic brain injury, stroke prevention and post-stroke management, swallowing difficulty with use of modified diets, alternative routes of nutrition. Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss. Ilana enjoys getting to know her patients and working with them overtime to achieve and further goals.
Ilana has been a Registered Dietitian since 2017. She completed her dietetic internship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for various neurological conditions including epilepsy, post-traumatic brain injury, stroke prevention and post-stroke management, swallowing difficulty with use of modified diets, alternative routes of nutrition. Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss. Ilana enjoys getting to know her patients and working with them overtime to achieve and further goals.
(630) 451-8974 View (630) 451-8974
Photo of Amber Rosalez, RDN, LDN, CEDS-S, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Amber Rosalez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
There is no denying that we live in a world steeped in struggles with food and body image. Whether these issues are severely impacting your life or simply hard for you to manage right now, I'm here to help. I have been a registered dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating for almost 10 years.
There is no denying that we live in a world steeped in struggles with food and body image. Whether these issues are severely impacting your life or simply hard for you to manage right now, I'm here to help. I have been a registered dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating for almost 10 years.
(872) 276-9643 x2 View (872) 276-9643 x2
Photo of Mark LeVine, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Mark LeVine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
(630) 703-0028 View (630) 703-0028
Photo of Melanie Lewis, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Melanie Lewis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
Melanie Lewis is an experienced registered dietitian living in Chicago. Her curiosity for food and nutrition began at a young age harvesting and preparing the fresh fruits and vegetables grown right in her own backyard. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at Penn State University. After graduation, she traveled to New Orleans, Louisiana to complete over 1000 hours of supervised practice at Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. Her experience has allowed her to provide evidence-based nutrition education to diverse populations with a variety of nutritional needs.
Melanie Lewis is an experienced registered dietitian living in Chicago. Her curiosity for food and nutrition began at a young age harvesting and preparing the fresh fruits and vegetables grown right in her own backyard. She completed her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at Penn State University. After graduation, she traveled to New Orleans, Louisiana to complete over 1000 hours of supervised practice at Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. Her experience has allowed her to provide evidence-based nutrition education to diverse populations with a variety of nutritional needs.
(312) 874-5603 View (312) 874-5603
Photo of Lauren Grosskopf, MS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Lauren Grosskopf
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with negative thought patterns around food or body image? Frustrated with emotional eating habits caused by boredom, anxiety, or depression? Lauren works privately with clients using a non-diet approach to nutrition focused on intuitive eating and health at every size, a weight neutral approach to food. . Lauren can help you begin to understand the "why" behind choices, so you can start to create lasting change and healthier habits.
Do you struggle with negative thought patterns around food or body image? Frustrated with emotional eating habits caused by boredom, anxiety, or depression? Lauren works privately with clients using a non-diet approach to nutrition focused on intuitive eating and health at every size, a weight neutral approach to food. . Lauren can help you begin to understand the "why" behind choices, so you can start to create lasting change and healthier habits.
(312) 616-5497 View (312) 616-5497
Photo of Demi (Demetria) Maropoulos, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Demi (Demetria) Maropoulos
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
I am a registered dietitian with a virtual private practice. I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in providing support to individuals struggling with eating disorders and chronic dieting. I work from a weight-neutral lens and I utilize the principles of Intuitive Eating in my counseling. I have 5+ years experience working in the field of eating disorders, including higher levels of care such as residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient.
I am a registered dietitian with a virtual private practice. I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in providing support to individuals struggling with eating disorders and chronic dieting. I work from a weight-neutral lens and I utilize the principles of Intuitive Eating in my counseling. I have 5+ years experience working in the field of eating disorders, including higher levels of care such as residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient.
(773) 912-0658 View (773) 912-0658
Photo of Brooke Seibert, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Brooke Seibert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
I have been a Registered Dietitian for over 10 years, working mostly in clinical, and community outpatient settings. I have in depth experience with gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and heart health. After becoming a dietitian, I realized making a change is so much deeper than just “will power” and I developed fiery passion to help people navigate change through balance, which then lead me to have a passion for counseling people with disordered eating/eating disorders.
I have been a Registered Dietitian for over 10 years, working mostly in clinical, and community outpatient settings. I have in depth experience with gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and heart health. After becoming a dietitian, I realized making a change is so much deeper than just “will power” and I developed fiery passion to help people navigate change through balance, which then lead me to have a passion for counseling people with disordered eating/eating disorders.
(630) 491-4822 View (630) 491-4822
Eric Meredith
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Eric Meredith is a Registered Dietitian, Classically Trained Chef, and Certified Personal Trainer with over 10 years' experience working with a wide variety of clients including Type 1 and 2 diabetics, athletes, cancer survivors, individuals with digestive disorders, and those who are looking to better manage their weight. Eric graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Master of Education. He is also a Certified Health Education Specialist. Eric enjoys working one-on-one with clients to tailor their eating habits to support their individual health.
Eric Meredith is a Registered Dietitian, Classically Trained Chef, and Certified Personal Trainer with over 10 years' experience working with a wide variety of clients including Type 1 and 2 diabetics, athletes, cancer survivors, individuals with digestive disorders, and those who are looking to better manage their weight. Eric graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Master of Education. He is also a Certified Health Education Specialist. Eric enjoys working one-on-one with clients to tailor their eating habits to support their individual health.
(630) 552-6768 View (630) 552-6768
Photo of Marla Brodsky - Luscious life nutrition, RD, LDN, BCIM, IFNCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Luscious life nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, BCIM, IFNCP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645
I am Board Certified in Integrative and functional Medicine. That means that I work with clients to find the root causes of their symptoms in a holistic way. We are learning that maintaining our gut health is the root of treating many diseases including autoimmune, inflammatory, skin, obesity, cancer, allergies, and more. I work with clients to figure out why they are struggling with a condition and treat it using food as medicine, identifying food sensitivities, providing nutrients to maximize the body's functioning, and if needed, I do cooking sessions to teach how to make healthy food taste great.
I am Board Certified in Integrative and functional Medicine. That means that I work with clients to find the root causes of their symptoms in a holistic way. We are learning that maintaining our gut health is the root of treating many diseases including autoimmune, inflammatory, skin, obesity, cancer, allergies, and more. I work with clients to figure out why they are struggling with a condition and treat it using food as medicine, identifying food sensitivities, providing nutrients to maximize the body's functioning, and if needed, I do cooking sessions to teach how to make healthy food taste great.
(773) 840-8159 View (773) 840-8159
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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.

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.

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.

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.