Nutritionists and Dietitians in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Kristy Lombardo, MS, CNS, LDN, NBC-HWC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kristy Lombardo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
It is not normal not to feel well. If you are tired of living with symptoms like fatigue, headaches, anxiety, allergies, skin issues, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, reflux, or difficulty sleeping, let me help you so you can get on with enjoying your life! Do you have elevated cholesterol or blood sugar labs? Let me help lower your cardiac risk naturally w/o meds. Have you been diagnosed with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis, but don't know the root cause? Are you concerned about your brain fog or family history of dementia? All of this can be profoundly helped through nutrition. Your body is trying to tell you something. Let me help.
It is not normal not to feel well. If you are tired of living with symptoms like fatigue, headaches, anxiety, allergies, skin issues, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, reflux, or difficulty sleeping, let me help you so you can get on with enjoying your life! Do you have elevated cholesterol or blood sugar labs? Let me help lower your cardiac risk naturally w/o meds. Have you been diagnosed with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis, but don't know the root cause? Are you concerned about your brain fog or family history of dementia? All of this can be profoundly helped through nutrition. Your body is trying to tell you something. Let me help.
(317) 526-5956 View (317) 526-5956
Photo of Aaron Michael Davis - Davis and Davis Dietary LLC, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Davis and Davis Dietary LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46254
Our mission is to reduce obesity rates and improve the quality of life for clients in underserved populations. We make this possible by staffing Board-certified Registered Dietitians who provide high quality, professional recommendations, medical nutrition therapy, to improve relationships with food, teach about how to read nutrition labels, and making healthy food choices to clients with diabetes, renal disease, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.
Our mission is to reduce obesity rates and improve the quality of life for clients in underserved populations. We make this possible by staffing Board-certified Registered Dietitians who provide high quality, professional recommendations, medical nutrition therapy, to improve relationships with food, teach about how to read nutrition labels, and making healthy food choices to clients with diabetes, renal disease, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.
(317) 934-2425 View (317) 934-2425
Photo of Allison Jade Neal, MA, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Allison Jade Neal
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
My ideal client struggles with diabetes or pre-diabetes & disordered eating. They've been told by medical professionals that weight loss or restricting carbs will improve their A1c and their health, but many clients are left confused, frustrated, and even hopeless. They want to improve their health and prevent diabetic complications without going on crazy diets or losing weight and gaining it back. They don't want to be shamed or afraid of eating their favorite foods. They want to learn what works best for their bodies and create sustainable, healthy habits to improve wellbeing now and in the future.
My ideal client struggles with diabetes or pre-diabetes & disordered eating. They've been told by medical professionals that weight loss or restricting carbs will improve their A1c and their health, but many clients are left confused, frustrated, and even hopeless. They want to improve their health and prevent diabetic complications without going on crazy diets or losing weight and gaining it back. They don't want to be shamed or afraid of eating their favorite foods. They want to learn what works best for their bodies and create sustainable, healthy habits to improve wellbeing now and in the future.
(317) 933-8349 View (317) 933-8349
Photo of Joleen Wilson - RestorED Nutrition Therapy, RD, LD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
RestorED Nutrition Therapy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CNSC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46201
Registered dietitians specializing in the nutrition treatment of adults and adolescents with eating disorders. We offer a unique holistic medically-informed approach. Our passion is offering care for those with limited access to eating disorder providers in their area and to walk alongside them in their recovery transformation from beginning to end. Based out of Oklahoma, we see clients virtually via our secure Telehealth platform in multiple states, including Louisiana, Minnesota, and Indiana. Please visit our website for a complete list of states where we provide services.
Registered dietitians specializing in the nutrition treatment of adults and adolescents with eating disorders. We offer a unique holistic medically-informed approach. Our passion is offering care for those with limited access to eating disorder providers in their area and to walk alongside them in their recovery transformation from beginning to end. Based out of Oklahoma, we see clients virtually via our secure Telehealth platform in multiple states, including Louisiana, Minnesota, and Indiana. Please visit our website for a complete list of states where we provide services.
(918) 416-4441 View (918) 416-4441
Photo of Deanna Campbell - Always NutritionWorks, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Always NutritionWorks
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
I work with people that have Prediabetes or Diabetes to get their blood sugar where it needs to be, avoid or reduce the need for medication, feel more energy and lose weight. Would you like to change your health for the better? How about getting your lab results into the normal range? Is your weight on an uphill trajectory? Call or email me to see how you can achieve all this and still eat the foods you like. Along the way you will boost your immunity and healthy eating will become a way of life. Other benefits include: increased energy, focus during the day, and even better fitting clothing.
I work with people that have Prediabetes or Diabetes to get their blood sugar where it needs to be, avoid or reduce the need for medication, feel more energy and lose weight. Would you like to change your health for the better? How about getting your lab results into the normal range? Is your weight on an uphill trajectory? Call or email me to see how you can achieve all this and still eat the foods you like. Along the way you will boost your immunity and healthy eating will become a way of life. Other benefits include: increased energy, focus during the day, and even better fitting clothing.
(765) 375-1478 View (765) 375-1478
Photo of Kaitlyn Anna Wong, RD, CD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kaitlyn Anna Wong
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, LD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46201
Navigating the world of nutrition/diet culture is exhausting. What is true? What will really work? Maybe you feel like you've tried everything but nothing has really "stuck". Let me walk with you on the journey back to yourself. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist my goal is to provide you with evidence-based care that will transform your relationship with food, ideally allowing you to love this body you live in.
Navigating the world of nutrition/diet culture is exhausting. What is true? What will really work? Maybe you feel like you've tried everything but nothing has really "stuck". Let me walk with you on the journey back to yourself. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist my goal is to provide you with evidence-based care that will transform your relationship with food, ideally allowing you to love this body you live in.
(463) 220-4322 View (463) 220-4322
Photo of Megan Salazar, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Megan Salazar
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46203  (Online Only)
Megan is a Registered Dietitian with over 12 years of experience that is passionate about helping you establish good nutrition so that you an soar in your purpose. After going through her own health journey, she embraces a holistic approach by addressing stress, sleep, hormone balance, and your relationship with your food and body, in addition to nutrition. Understanding that every body is different in needs and reactions to foods, she creates personalized nutrition programs that promote life-long habits and changes that create whole, optimal health outcomes.
Megan is a Registered Dietitian with over 12 years of experience that is passionate about helping you establish good nutrition so that you an soar in your purpose. After going through her own health journey, she embraces a holistic approach by addressing stress, sleep, hormone balance, and your relationship with your food and body, in addition to nutrition. Understanding that every body is different in needs and reactions to foods, she creates personalized nutrition programs that promote life-long habits and changes that create whole, optimal health outcomes.
(331) 259-8859 View (331) 259-8859
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Kittle, MA, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Sarah Elizabeth Kittle
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
What would it look like to have a good relationship with food? To not feel guilty for eating certain foods. To not label foods as good or bad. To learn how to fuel your body with foods you enjoy! My mission as a HAES and intuitive eating dietitian, is to help you to learn how to nourish your body, enjoy food, avoid restrictions, and eliminate diets. Through my experience as a collegiate runner, and seeing what poor fueling and under-fueling can do, I am passionate about working with athletes, as well as eating disorders. Let me help you enjoy food again, ditch the diet, and fuel your body.
What would it look like to have a good relationship with food? To not feel guilty for eating certain foods. To not label foods as good or bad. To learn how to fuel your body with foods you enjoy! My mission as a HAES and intuitive eating dietitian, is to help you to learn how to nourish your body, enjoy food, avoid restrictions, and eliminate diets. Through my experience as a collegiate runner, and seeing what poor fueling and under-fueling can do, I am passionate about working with athletes, as well as eating disorders. Let me help you enjoy food again, ditch the diet, and fuel your body.
(937) 358-8174 View (937) 358-8174
Photo of Katie Hake, RDN, CD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katie Hake
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD, CPT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
There is a way you can reach your health goals AND keep your favorite foods in the house! Intuitive eating is validated by research and what that means to you is that when you work with us, you take an assessment before and after 90 days. The real value is staying motivated with progress beyond the scale. My client scored high in all areas except unconditional permission to eat and then when we reevaluated at 90 days she had improved significantly in all areas. Because having confidence in what you’re investing your time money and energy on is actually working is what you really want right?!
There is a way you can reach your health goals AND keep your favorite foods in the house! Intuitive eating is validated by research and what that means to you is that when you work with us, you take an assessment before and after 90 days. The real value is staying motivated with progress beyond the scale. My client scored high in all areas except unconditional permission to eat and then when we reevaluated at 90 days she had improved significantly in all areas. Because having confidence in what you’re investing your time money and energy on is actually working is what you really want right?!
(463) 275-2599 View (463) 275-2599
Photo of Amber Ray, RD, LD, IFNCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Amber Ray
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, IFNCP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone struggling with chronic inflammation, digestive issues, or weight management. They seek a holistic approach to health, understanding that food can be a powerful tool for healing! Often overwhelmed by conflicting dietary advice, they need personalized guidance to create an anti-inflammatory eating plan that fits their unique lifestyle. Their goal is to regain control over their health, alleviate symptoms, and improve their overall well-being. They want to feel empowered and informed, ready to make lasting changes for a vibrant life.
My ideal client is someone struggling with chronic inflammation, digestive issues, or weight management. They seek a holistic approach to health, understanding that food can be a powerful tool for healing! Often overwhelmed by conflicting dietary advice, they need personalized guidance to create an anti-inflammatory eating plan that fits their unique lifestyle. Their goal is to regain control over their health, alleviate symptoms, and improve their overall well-being. They want to feel empowered and informed, ready to make lasting changes for a vibrant life.
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Photo of Kelsey Thomas, RD, LD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kelsey Thomas
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46201
I help ambitious professionals get to the root cause of their bloating, fatigue, weight loss resistance, and anxiety using functional medicine testing and holistic approaches. I'm a firm believer that the conventional medical system has failed so many people. If you're ready to finally have answers, feel like yourself again, and love natural approaches, we'd be a great fit to work together!
I help ambitious professionals get to the root cause of their bloating, fatigue, weight loss resistance, and anxiety using functional medicine testing and holistic approaches. I'm a firm believer that the conventional medical system has failed so many people. If you're ready to finally have answers, feel like yourself again, and love natural approaches, we'd be a great fit to work together!
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Photo of Nicole Burkhalter, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nicole Burkhalter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46201  (Online Only)
As a registered dietitian with a passion for empowering individuals to achieve their health goals, I am dedicated to providing personalized nutrition counseling tailored to your unique needs. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that you receive the most current and effective guidance on your journey to better health. Whether you're seeking to manage a specific health condition, or simply adopt a healthier lifestyle, I am here to work side by side with you to offer compassionate support and practical solutions.
As a registered dietitian with a passion for empowering individuals to achieve their health goals, I am dedicated to providing personalized nutrition counseling tailored to your unique needs. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that you receive the most current and effective guidance on your journey to better health. Whether you're seeking to manage a specific health condition, or simply adopt a healthier lifestyle, I am here to work side by side with you to offer compassionate support and practical solutions.
(219) 327-8011 View (219) 327-8011
Photo of Elizabeth Tapp - Nutrition Advancement, MS, RD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nutrition Advancement
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CLT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46239
Chronic inflammation is now recognized as the leading cause of illness in the development of digestive conditions, skin conditions, autoimmune conditions, fatigue, frequent headaches or migraines, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. There is a starting line for inflammation and it is in the gut. What we also know is that the majority of the immune system lives in our gut. If our gut is not healthy and damaged by this inflammation we can have symptoms that vary from one person to another but the root cause is the similar. Inflammation in the gut is carried throughout the entire body.
Chronic inflammation is now recognized as the leading cause of illness in the development of digestive conditions, skin conditions, autoimmune conditions, fatigue, frequent headaches or migraines, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. There is a starting line for inflammation and it is in the gut. What we also know is that the majority of the immune system lives in our gut. If our gut is not healthy and damaged by this inflammation we can have symptoms that vary from one person to another but the root cause is the similar. Inflammation in the gut is carried throughout the entire body.
(317) 458-9680 View (317) 458-9680
Photo of Valerie Lynn Polley, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Valerie Lynn Polley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Managing gastrointestinal and autoimmune issues can be overwhelming. I see clients with a variety of GI and autoimmune issues, but I don't take a one size fits all approach. I start with what has been found to help most individuals with specific GI/autoimmune issues, then make changes from there. I work in collaboration with my clients to develop a plan that works to help with symptom management. Majority of my clients are frustrated with the length of their struggle, so I am available for questions, concerns and overall support.
Managing gastrointestinal and autoimmune issues can be overwhelming. I see clients with a variety of GI and autoimmune issues, but I don't take a one size fits all approach. I start with what has been found to help most individuals with specific GI/autoimmune issues, then make changes from there. I work in collaboration with my clients to develop a plan that works to help with symptom management. Majority of my clients are frustrated with the length of their struggle, so I am available for questions, concerns and overall support.
(317) 342-1281 View (317) 342-1281
Photo of Nicole Havlik, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nicole Havlik
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Not Verified Not Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Nicole is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She completed her dietetic internship through the coordinated graduate program at Northern Illinois University after attending the University of Minnesota for her undergraduate degree in nutrition. After sessions with Nicole, you can expect to feel empowered to make food choices that make you feel your best. You will gain a better understanding about how food and nutrition work in the body. Nicole excels at assisting clients with goal setting and providing clients with tools to achieve their goals.
Nicole is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She completed her dietetic internship through the coordinated graduate program at Northern Illinois University after attending the University of Minnesota for her undergraduate degree in nutrition. After sessions with Nicole, you can expect to feel empowered to make food choices that make you feel your best. You will gain a better understanding about how food and nutrition work in the body. Nicole excels at assisting clients with goal setting and providing clients with tools to achieve their goals.
(332) 378-5228 View (332) 378-5228
Photo of Natalie Van Beek, MS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Natalie Van Beek
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN
Not Verified Not Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Natalie is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian licensed in the state of Illinois. She attended Dominican University, where she completed her BS in Nutrition and Dietetics as well as her MS in Nutrition. Spanning her career, Natalie has worked with a wide variety of individuals, from adolescents to adults with varying health conditions. It was after working with a private practice group in Chicago that Natalie discovered her passion for helping those suffering with eating disorders or years of disordered eating patterns repair their relationship with food.
Natalie is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian licensed in the state of Illinois. She attended Dominican University, where she completed her BS in Nutrition and Dietetics as well as her MS in Nutrition. Spanning her career, Natalie has worked with a wide variety of individuals, from adolescents to adults with varying health conditions. It was after working with a private practice group in Chicago that Natalie discovered her passion for helping those suffering with eating disorders or years of disordered eating patterns repair their relationship with food.
(332) 239-7311 View (332) 239-7311
Photo of Jennifer Cayemberg, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jennifer Cayemberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience in the field of nutrition. After earning her bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Ohio University, Jennifer completed an accredited dietetic internship and master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. When working with Jennifer, she will support you in accomplishing your health goals in a non-judgmental environment. Jennifer has enjoyed working in various healthcare settings providing medical nutrition therapy to adults with chronic diseases as well as ensuring pregnant women are meeting their nutrition requirements.
Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience in the field of nutrition. After earning her bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Ohio University, Jennifer completed an accredited dietetic internship and master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. When working with Jennifer, she will support you in accomplishing your health goals in a non-judgmental environment. Jennifer has enjoyed working in various healthcare settings providing medical nutrition therapy to adults with chronic diseases as well as ensuring pregnant women are meeting their nutrition requirements.
(630) 749-2280 View (630) 749-2280
Photo of Katelyn Rybolt, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katelyn Rybolt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46201  (Online Only)
I am a registered dietitian/nutritionist with a NASM personal training certificate. I work in the acute care setting as well as for Nutrition Collaborative, LLC serving my clients via one-on-one coaching. We at Nutrition Collaborative educate patients, clients and the public about nutrition principles and strategies for long-term success. I work with the adult population (18+ years of age) looking to promote their health and well-being through nutrition and exercise. I pride myself in helping my clients find realistic ways to reach their health goals by formulating individualized plans while providing close follow up and feedback.
I am a registered dietitian/nutritionist with a NASM personal training certificate. I work in the acute care setting as well as for Nutrition Collaborative, LLC serving my clients via one-on-one coaching. We at Nutrition Collaborative educate patients, clients and the public about nutrition principles and strategies for long-term success. I work with the adult population (18+ years of age) looking to promote their health and well-being through nutrition and exercise. I pride myself in helping my clients find realistic ways to reach their health goals by formulating individualized plans while providing close follow up and feedback.
(513) 998-6550 View (513) 998-6550
Photo of Melanie Lewis, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Melanie Lewis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46205
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 Nikki Finkenthal - Better Balance , MA, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Better Balance
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46201
Hi, I'm Nikki a registered dietitian here to help you find a life of health, happiness & balance. I started Better Balance to give you a solution to achieving the health & life of balance you deserve. A practice with no rigidity, restrictions or judgement & an individualized approach that honors your values. We strive to support, guide & encourage you every step of the way. If you are looking to have a better relationship with food, learn how to properly nourish and fuel your body, develop sustainable habits, manage your chronic disease and/ or achieve your weight loss goals through sustainable practices, we can support you.
Hi, I'm Nikki a registered dietitian here to help you find a life of health, happiness & balance. I started Better Balance to give you a solution to achieving the health & life of balance you deserve. A practice with no rigidity, restrictions or judgement & an individualized approach that honors your values. We strive to support, guide & encourage you every step of the way. If you are looking to have a better relationship with food, learn how to properly nourish and fuel your body, develop sustainable habits, manage your chronic disease and/ or achieve your weight loss goals through sustainable practices, we can support you.
(314) 866-9443 View (314) 866-9443
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FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Indianapolis?

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.