Nutritionists and Dietitians near Brighton, MA
![Photo of Kate Mitchell - Nutrition by Kate , RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dc16c551-eb99-4747-9898-5caef72b0cd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered dietitian dedicated to helping neurodivergent adults fuel themselves and their lives. From my lived experience and time working with hundreds of different people, I understand how hard it can be to feed ourselves. I am passionate about debunking nutrition myths, sharing nutrition facts and creating meal prep strategies to help balance mood and energy. It is my joy to do this all through the lens of intuitive eating, Health at Every Size (HEAS) and gentle nutrition
I am a registered dietitian dedicated to helping neurodivergent adults fuel themselves and their lives. From my lived experience and time working with hundreds of different people, I understand how hard it can be to feed ourselves. I am passionate about debunking nutrition myths, sharing nutrition facts and creating meal prep strategies to help balance mood and energy. It is my joy to do this all through the lens of intuitive eating, Health at Every Size (HEAS) and gentle nutrition
![Photo of Christopher Irish, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a330b166-f781-4748-a34c-9541dfce7c42/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are experiencing ANY of the following, I would love to have the opportunity to work together: You often feel guilty about your food choices, and you spend significant time and energy thinking about food. You have scoured the internet for nutrition information and guidance and are frustrated by the amount of conflicting information online. You are navigating an eating disorder or disordered eating and are looking for support from a compassionate and knowledgable RD. You are struggling to keep up with meal planning every week, unsure of how to shop for and prepare meals that support your nutrition goals.
If you are experiencing ANY of the following, I would love to have the opportunity to work together: You often feel guilty about your food choices, and you spend significant time and energy thinking about food. You have scoured the internet for nutrition information and guidance and are frustrated by the amount of conflicting information online. You are navigating an eating disorder or disordered eating and are looking for support from a compassionate and knowledgable RD. You are struggling to keep up with meal planning every week, unsure of how to shop for and prepare meals that support your nutrition goals.
![Photo of Rachel Artus, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f2958e91-eab6-43d8-93eb-337b9b5b12c0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Telehealth appointments only. Rachel's goal is to empower her clients to make food and lifestyle changes that will not only stick for decades, but will result in joyful and wholesome living. Rachel helps her clients to ditch their restrictive mindset and find food freedom through one-on-one coaching for behavior change, while promoting attainable and realistic goal-setting along the way. She believes in the power of balanced nutrition and food freedom, while using a hands-on approach to assist clients in making and then meeting their individualized goals.
Telehealth appointments only. Rachel's goal is to empower her clients to make food and lifestyle changes that will not only stick for decades, but will result in joyful and wholesome living. Rachel helps her clients to ditch their restrictive mindset and find food freedom through one-on-one coaching for behavior change, while promoting attainable and realistic goal-setting along the way. She believes in the power of balanced nutrition and food freedom, while using a hands-on approach to assist clients in making and then meeting their individualized goals.
![Photo of Erin Angelillo, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ad60d0f7-50e7-4313-b859-e34c9e0af7f9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you consumed by worries about your food choices and their effects on your health and body? If you're ready to make peace with food, mend your relationship with your body, and begin living the life you desire, I'm here to help. Get ready for a sustainable, radical approach to nutrition through my weight-inclusive practice, specializing in Intuitive Eating and the Health at Every Size (HAES) framework.
Are you consumed by worries about your food choices and their effects on your health and body? If you're ready to make peace with food, mend your relationship with your body, and begin living the life you desire, I'm here to help. Get ready for a sustainable, radical approach to nutrition through my weight-inclusive practice, specializing in Intuitive Eating and the Health at Every Size (HAES) framework.
![Photo of Rachna Rajpal, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/0a95d9dd-f3c8-41d0-9b14-f0ef6f306ef9/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have an extensive background in working in hospital settings and specialized care for eating disorders. My dedication lies in promoting health and well-being through personalized and evidence-based nutrition strategies. I successfully navigate the complex challenges of the hospital environment and treat a diverse range of health diagnoses.
I have an extensive background in working in hospital settings and specialized care for eating disorders. My dedication lies in promoting health and well-being through personalized and evidence-based nutrition strategies. I successfully navigate the complex challenges of the hospital environment and treat a diverse range of health diagnoses.
![Photo of Janel Funk - Janel Funk Nutrition and Wellness, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6a72a43d-16e1-4efc-8464-af4d10bcf08f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janel Funk Nutrition and Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I am a Registered Dietitian and Lactation Specialist in Natick, MA and have been working with clients for over 16 years. My goal is to help you reach your health goals, "one bite at a time," by creating small goals that lead to sustainable changes. I am passionate about providing customized nutrition services with a realistic and empathetic approach, as I recognize we all have different needs, mindsets and lifestyles.
I am a Registered Dietitian and Lactation Specialist in Natick, MA and have been working with clients for over 16 years. My goal is to help you reach your health goals, "one bite at a time," by creating small goals that lead to sustainable changes. I am passionate about providing customized nutrition services with a realistic and empathetic approach, as I recognize we all have different needs, mindsets and lifestyles.
![Photo of Sarah Elyse Galicki - Appetite Health LLC, MS, RDN, CSOWM, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5a582ac8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Appetite Health LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSOWM, LD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02135
Do you have a healthy appetite? Have you tried several diets and failed? Do you eat beyond fullness or feel guilty after eating? If you answered YES to any of these questions, then you are in the right place! I strongly believe that part of healthy eating, is eating! No one food or drink is going to give you all the nutrients your body needs and no foods are off limits. I personalize nutrition to fit your lifestyle and want you to develop a healthy relationship with food, in addition to achieving meaningful weight loss. As a Registered Dietitian who has had her own struggles with weight and food, I'm here for you!
Do you have a healthy appetite? Have you tried several diets and failed? Do you eat beyond fullness or feel guilty after eating? If you answered YES to any of these questions, then you are in the right place! I strongly believe that part of healthy eating, is eating! No one food or drink is going to give you all the nutrients your body needs and no foods are off limits. I personalize nutrition to fit your lifestyle and want you to develop a healthy relationship with food, in addition to achieving meaningful weight loss. As a Registered Dietitian who has had her own struggles with weight and food, I'm here for you!
![Photo of Katherine L Fernald, MS, RD, LDN, Reiki, Master, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58081910-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine L Fernald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, Reiki, Master
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138 (Online Only)
I am a registered, licensed, insurance accepting, psych-specialist nutritionist with over 20 years experience. Referrals and inquiries accepted for nutritional concerns including: eating disorders, weight control issues for all ages, Alzheimers, diabetes, digestive disorders, and other medical concerns. I offer assistance with 12 step recovery programs, medication induced weight gain, complex issues involving: nutrition and pregnancy, breast feeding, cholesterol, blood pressure, heart related issues, and vegetarian nutrition. I also specialize in co-occurring mental illness and eating disorders or other medical issues. I have experience in geriatric and childhood psychiatric nutrition. I provide family support and involvement as necessary.
I am a registered, licensed, insurance accepting, psych-specialist nutritionist with over 20 years experience. Referrals and inquiries accepted for nutritional concerns including: eating disorders, weight control issues for all ages, Alzheimers, diabetes, digestive disorders, and other medical concerns. I offer assistance with 12 step recovery programs, medication induced weight gain, complex issues involving: nutrition and pregnancy, breast feeding, cholesterol, blood pressure, heart related issues, and vegetarian nutrition. I also specialize in co-occurring mental illness and eating disorders or other medical issues. I have experience in geriatric and childhood psychiatric nutrition. I provide family support and involvement as necessary.
![Photo of Shelby Burns, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/4d820d7f-b493-4ec2-918a-979f6f645bfa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shelby Burns
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445 (Online Only)
I am a Registered Dietitian who specializes in gut health/digestive conditions, weight loss, and behavior modification to sustain a healthier lifestyle. My goal is to help busy individuals optimize and improve their health while implementing science-based, sustainable, and personalized strategies. With over 11+ years of nutrition counseling experience, I am here to empower, educate, and collaborate with you in order to help you achieve your nutrition goals. In our first session you can expect a comprehensive nutrition assessment, as well as education, and counseling in order to create a plan that works specifically for you!
I am a Registered Dietitian who specializes in gut health/digestive conditions, weight loss, and behavior modification to sustain a healthier lifestyle. My goal is to help busy individuals optimize and improve their health while implementing science-based, sustainable, and personalized strategies. With over 11+ years of nutrition counseling experience, I am here to empower, educate, and collaborate with you in order to help you achieve your nutrition goals. In our first session you can expect a comprehensive nutrition assessment, as well as education, and counseling in order to create a plan that works specifically for you!
![Photo of Chloe Schweinshaut, RD, LDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/82816fa0-c3ae-4a3e-9ee2-ee7c932fc348/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Schweinshaut
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139 (Online Only)
Our practice specializes in weight loss, cardiometabolic health, prenatal and postpartum health, family nutrition, skin health, hormone health, gut health, food sensitivities and workplace wellness My past clients will tell you that a lot of the work you do with me comes in-between sessions. There's a lot of accountability check-ins and coaching so you feel as though you have a strategic partner in your health journey.
Our practice specializes in weight loss, cardiometabolic health, prenatal and postpartum health, family nutrition, skin health, hormone health, gut health, food sensitivities and workplace wellness My past clients will tell you that a lot of the work you do with me comes in-between sessions. There's a lot of accountability check-ins and coaching so you feel as though you have a strategic partner in your health journey.
![Photo of Megan Bradshaw, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/85ac2579-ba98-4c11-af73-a70f8481fc1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan is Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating. She has clinical experience in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient settings, allowing her to understand the different levels of support people need throughout their recovery journey.
Megan is Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating. She has clinical experience in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient settings, allowing her to understand the different levels of support people need throughout their recovery journey.
![Photo of Ryan Maciel, RDN, Pn2, CSCS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59db6715-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and Precision Nutrition Level 2 Coach (Pn2). I have worked in the health industry for over 11 years. I believe that eating healthy and achieving good health shouldn't be complicated. Everyone is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all diet. I meet my clients where they are and collaborate with them to craft a plan that is easy to follow yet effective to meets their needs and goals. Finally, I provide my clients with the guidance, support, and accountability to help them succeed.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and Precision Nutrition Level 2 Coach (Pn2). I have worked in the health industry for over 11 years. I believe that eating healthy and achieving good health shouldn't be complicated. Everyone is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all diet. I meet my clients where they are and collaborate with them to craft a plan that is easy to follow yet effective to meets their needs and goals. Finally, I provide my clients with the guidance, support, and accountability to help them succeed.
![Photo of Kylie Lebel, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/4dd1d03d-e4e4-4e98-b198-09c302fed38e/1/320x400.png)
I specialize in weight management, women's health, emotional/mindful eating, meal planning, and digestive issues. I have extensive experience with culinary nutrition and share healthy recipes on my Instagram @kylieatshealthy. I create personalized plans with all my clients and believe in a all foods fit, mind-body approach.
I specialize in weight management, women's health, emotional/mindful eating, meal planning, and digestive issues. I have extensive experience with culinary nutrition and share healthy recipes on my Instagram @kylieatshealthy. I create personalized plans with all my clients and believe in a all foods fit, mind-body approach.
![Photo of Caroline Arnold - Caroline Arnold Nutrition, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e62bbd67-e2da-4acf-b342-7f782d90ea06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Arnold Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Caroline and I am a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping you prioritize your relationship with food. After earning my degree in Nutritional Sciences from Boston University, I went on to complete my supervised practice training through Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The rigorous nature of this clinical internship, coupled with my experience working in eating disorder treatment, gives me the experience needed to care for a wide range of populations.
Hello! My name is Caroline and I am a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping you prioritize your relationship with food. After earning my degree in Nutritional Sciences from Boston University, I went on to complete my supervised practice training through Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. The rigorous nature of this clinical internship, coupled with my experience working in eating disorder treatment, gives me the experience needed to care for a wide range of populations.
![Photo of Caitlin M Crews, RD, CLT, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/588e3ff0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlin M Crews
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLT, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
Nutrition is more than the essential nutrients required for life, it is a way of living in balance of the body and soul. Together we navigate your specific journey to optimal health. I use functional nutrition medicine counseling and diagnostic testing if needed to get to the root cause of underlying health issues. My goal for you is to learn to incorporate foods that speak to your body and your lifestyle allowing you to live your best life.
Nutrition is more than the essential nutrients required for life, it is a way of living in balance of the body and soul. Together we navigate your specific journey to optimal health. I use functional nutrition medicine counseling and diagnostic testing if needed to get to the root cause of underlying health issues. My goal for you is to learn to incorporate foods that speak to your body and your lifestyle allowing you to live your best life.
![Photo of Liberated Nutrition, MS, RD, LDN, CSN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/23b3877d-5e3b-442e-9eba-fee24b55aa44/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of obsessing over food and your body? Sick of feeling at war with your body instead of confident and empowered? Struggling with disordered eating or body image concerns? I've been there! And there's a way out of it. I help liberate my clients from diets and food shame through positive, personalized and straight-forward nutrition and body image counseling. If you have concerns with your relationship with food and how that might impact overall wellbeing, or feel preoccupied with food and body, you've come to the right place. Together, we can help you re-discover the joy in eating. Wellness should not require obsession.
Are you tired of obsessing over food and your body? Sick of feeling at war with your body instead of confident and empowered? Struggling with disordered eating or body image concerns? I've been there! And there's a way out of it. I help liberate my clients from diets and food shame through positive, personalized and straight-forward nutrition and body image counseling. If you have concerns with your relationship with food and how that might impact overall wellbeing, or feel preoccupied with food and body, you've come to the right place. Together, we can help you re-discover the joy in eating. Wellness should not require obsession.
![Photo of Julia Moore, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a9fec6b7-7682-4d07-bd2f-2e32e5f17c4e/1/320x400.png)
Julia Moore
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115 (Online Only)
Julia is a registered dietitian who is passionate about helping others cultivate a healthy relationship with food, their body, and movement. Julia provides evidence-based nutrition education and works to empower clients to make sustainable changes that work with their unique lifestyles and preferences. Julia takes a client-centered approach to care, ditching the diet and emphasizing All Foods Fit and Intuitive Eating concepts in her nutrition counseling. She will work with you to create an individualized and realistic plan to help you meet your goals and optimize your health.
Julia is a registered dietitian who is passionate about helping others cultivate a healthy relationship with food, their body, and movement. Julia provides evidence-based nutrition education and works to empower clients to make sustainable changes that work with their unique lifestyles and preferences. Julia takes a client-centered approach to care, ditching the diet and emphasizing All Foods Fit and Intuitive Eating concepts in her nutrition counseling. She will work with you to create an individualized and realistic plan to help you meet your goals and optimize your health.
![Photo of Elizabeth Ann Barth - Teker Nutrition, LLC, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1b52b7ea-2592-48df-9198-52bc9695c3ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Teker Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02456 (Online Only)
Whether you are pregnant, post partum or have older children, food will always play a critical role. However, many people struggle with eating a balanced diet for a number of reasons. I focus one on one with patients to learn about your goals so we can comeup with a plan together that works best for you.
Whether you are pregnant, post partum or have older children, food will always play a critical role. However, many people struggle with eating a balanced diet for a number of reasons. I focus one on one with patients to learn about your goals so we can comeup with a plan together that works best for you.
![Photo of Gabrielle McGrath, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/eb6990d1-2e1a-412b-84a9-a18960caf1af/2/320x400.jpeg)
Virtual Dietitian nutrition coaching program helping you drop dieting and excess weight while gaining freedom, energy and confidence by unlearning behaviors, embodying new habits, nourishing your body through a simple method, resetting your metabolism and balancing hormones.I can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and never worry about weight loss again.
Virtual Dietitian nutrition coaching program helping you drop dieting and excess weight while gaining freedom, energy and confidence by unlearning behaviors, embodying new habits, nourishing your body through a simple method, resetting your metabolism and balancing hormones.I can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and never worry about weight loss again.
![Photo of Roberta Laredo, RD, LDN, CDE, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/57f45997-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a nutrition coach who you can partner with to best meet your health goals? I focus on working collaboratively with each client to make positive lifestyle changes towards long term health. Whether your concern is a new health challenge or you are ready to work on better managing more long term issues, my approach is holistic and individualized to each client toward meeting his or her health goals. I look forward to working with you!
Are you looking for a nutrition coach who you can partner with to best meet your health goals? I focus on working collaboratively with each client to make positive lifestyle changes towards long term health. Whether your concern is a new health challenge or you are ready to work on better managing more long term issues, my approach is holistic and individualized to each client toward meeting his or her health goals. I look forward to working with you!
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Brighton?
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.