Nutritionists and Dietitians in Illinois
You are tired of dieting and want to feel at peace with food and your body. You may be struggling with digestion issues, fatigue, or anxiety and want lasting change that feels supportive, not restrictive. You want to understand your body, feel nourished, and finally have food feel simple again.
You are tired of dieting and want to feel at peace with food and your body. You may be struggling with digestion issues, fatigue, or anxiety and want lasting change that feels supportive, not restrictive. You want to understand your body, feel nourished, and finally have food feel simple again.
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions.
If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions.
If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
I'm inviting all individuals who need a fresh start to their recovery. A fresh start looks like: needing to work through challenges that still remain from previous eating disorder treatments; an introduction to that body of yours who has been waiting to be "friended" by you; wanting to know how very different a nourished brain behaves and finally- meeting a hybrid dietitian who safely, wisely helps you eat, move and live in a body that's hungry for change.
I'm inviting all individuals who need a fresh start to their recovery. A fresh start looks like: needing to work through challenges that still remain from previous eating disorder treatments; an introduction to that body of yours who has been waiting to be "friended" by you; wanting to know how very different a nourished brain behaves and finally- meeting a hybrid dietitian who safely, wisely helps you eat, move and live in a body that's hungry for change.
Do you suffer from symptoms related to food sensitivities, but are unable to pinpoint exactly how or which foods? Do you have chronic health conditions related to inflammation, such as IBS, Migraines, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Colitis, or others? Your everyday foods can often provoke these conditions. As a Registered & Licensed Dietitian who is also a Certified LEAP Therapist, I use the MRT lab-assisted elimination diet to help treat your symptoms related to food intolerances. Having worked in OB/Gyne for 20+ years, I also specialize in all aspects of women's health, from pregnancy to menopause and more.
Do you suffer from symptoms related to food sensitivities, but are unable to pinpoint exactly how or which foods? Do you have chronic health conditions related to inflammation, such as IBS, Migraines, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Colitis, or others? Your everyday foods can often provoke these conditions. As a Registered & Licensed Dietitian who is also a Certified LEAP Therapist, I use the MRT lab-assisted elimination diet to help treat your symptoms related to food intolerances. Having worked in OB/Gyne for 20+ years, I also specialize in all aspects of women's health, from pregnancy to menopause and more.
Do you feel trapped in an endless cycle of dieting? After each new fad, do you find yourself back in the same place? Are you trying to prepare healthy meals, but struggle with time and organization? Or do you feel stuck with eating habits that don't serve you, but aren't sure how to change? You're certainly not alone. My main goal is to help you simplify eating, get rid of food "rules," and help you find joy, balance and health!
Do you feel trapped in an endless cycle of dieting? After each new fad, do you find yourself back in the same place? Are you trying to prepare healthy meals, but struggle with time and organization? Or do you feel stuck with eating habits that don't serve you, but aren't sure how to change? You're certainly not alone. My main goal is to help you simplify eating, get rid of food "rules," and help you find joy, balance and health!
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more.
Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more.
Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
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!
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.
Caitlyn is a Registered Dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. She understands that each person's relationship with food is deeply personal and strives to work alongside you in partnership. Caitlyn strongly believes that education is the key to meaningful behavior change, empowering her clients with the information they need to make informed decisions. She is ready to be your partner on your health journey, making the process achievable, sustainable, and—most importantly—enjoyable!
Caitlyn is a Registered Dietitian who works with clients ready to take charge of their health and make lasting changes. She understands that each person's relationship with food is deeply personal and strives to work alongside you in partnership. Caitlyn strongly believes that education is the key to meaningful behavior change, empowering her clients with the information they need to make informed decisions. She is ready to be your partner on your health journey, making the process achievable, sustainable, and—most importantly—enjoyable!
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.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for chronic health conditions such as diabetes, weight concerns, cardiovascular disease, and nutrition during cancer treatment. Many come to me looking for clear, practical guidance they can apply in daily life. I help them build sustainable habits that improve long-term health, confidence, and overall well-being.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for chronic health conditions such as diabetes, weight concerns, cardiovascular disease, and nutrition during cancer treatment. Many come to me looking for clear, practical guidance they can apply in daily life. I help them build sustainable habits that improve long-term health, confidence, and overall well-being.
Alexis is a Registered Dietitian passionate about functional nutrition and helping individuals build a healthy, trusting relationship with food. She believes that while food is emotional, social, and environmental, it is also a powerful tool for disease prevention and management. Her holistic, non-diet approach blends functional nutrition with evidence-based practices to address underlying factors impacting health. Alexis focuses on sustainable behavior change, honoring each client’s unique biology, lifestyle, and goals—while creating a supportive, judgment-free space for healing and growth.
Alexis is a Registered Dietitian passionate about functional nutrition and helping individuals build a healthy, trusting relationship with food. She believes that while food is emotional, social, and environmental, it is also a powerful tool for disease prevention and management. Her holistic, non-diet approach blends functional nutrition with evidence-based practices to address underlying factors impacting health. Alexis focuses on sustainable behavior change, honoring each client’s unique biology, lifestyle, and goals—while creating a supportive, judgment-free space for healing and growth.
When you are facing everyday pressure from school, work, friends, relationships, busy schedules, you can quickly feel at odds with your body or lost in your self care. Then, you layer on the mixed messages from social media and you can go down a spiral with negative thoughts on what you “should” or “shouldn’t be” doing. And that is why I’m so happy you’re here! Imagine being able to trust your body again, to take what it needs and leave what it doesn’t – this opens up space to focus on what’s really important (and fun!) in your life!
When you are facing everyday pressure from school, work, friends, relationships, busy schedules, you can quickly feel at odds with your body or lost in your self care. Then, you layer on the mixed messages from social media and you can go down a spiral with negative thoughts on what you “should” or “shouldn’t be” doing. And that is why I’m so happy you’re here! Imagine being able to trust your body again, to take what it needs and leave what it doesn’t – this opens up space to focus on what’s really important (and fun!) in your life!
For nearly a decade, I have specialized in working with adolescents and adults with disordered eating and medical nutrition therapy. I have worked as an RD in a variety of populations including eating disorders, general nutrition therapy at hospitals, the director of nutrition at a residential treatment facility and outpatient levels of care. If you are looking for nutrition support, monitoring of weight, labs, vitals, meal planning and improved symptoms related to food- I will coordinate care with those relevant to work toward our wellness goals created in our initial session.
For nearly a decade, I have specialized in working with adolescents and adults with disordered eating and medical nutrition therapy. I have worked as an RD in a variety of populations including eating disorders, general nutrition therapy at hospitals, the director of nutrition at a residential treatment facility and outpatient levels of care. If you are looking for nutrition support, monitoring of weight, labs, vitals, meal planning and improved symptoms related to food- I will coordinate care with those relevant to work toward our wellness goals created in our initial session.
Do you feel overwhelmed by a recent diagnosis? Have you been doing "all the right things" and still not seeing results? Do you feel lost when navigating all the conflicting nutrition advice out there and need help figuring what is right for you...and how to actually make a new eating plan work in your life? This is where I come in. With a listening ear, education on recognizing what your body is telling you and how food interacts with that, and support in making long term change.
Do you feel overwhelmed by a recent diagnosis? Have you been doing "all the right things" and still not seeing results? Do you feel lost when navigating all the conflicting nutrition advice out there and need help figuring what is right for you...and how to actually make a new eating plan work in your life? This is where I come in. With a listening ear, education on recognizing what your body is telling you and how food interacts with that, and support in making long term change.
People who wish to lose weight are battling a variety of factors related to behavior, psychology, and physiological adaptations that reduce how much fat our body is willing to burn while nudging us to eat more. I use only evidence based strategies to get onto flexible and sustainable meal and exercise plans that work because they are based 100% on science and tailored to the individual from a person that has gone through the weight loss and health journey herself, me!
People who wish to lose weight are battling a variety of factors related to behavior, psychology, and physiological adaptations that reduce how much fat our body is willing to burn while nudging us to eat more. I use only evidence based strategies to get onto flexible and sustainable meal and exercise plans that work because they are based 100% on science and tailored to the individual from a person that has gone through the weight loss and health journey herself, me!
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Illinois?
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.