Nutritionists and Dietitians in Hampshire County, MA

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Photo of Marit Harney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, IFNCP
Marit Harney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, IFNCP
Hadley, MA 01035
Marit Harney is a Registered Dietitian, practicing functional nutrition. Her private practice is at AEGIS Physical Therapy in Hadley, MA. She has been in the fitness and nutrition space for 17 years and has worked with a wide variety of patients. She specializes in digestive wellness (IBS, Celiac Disease, IBD, food allergies and sensitivities, GERD etc), though she also commonly helps with the following health concerns: Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Hypertension, Hypercholesterolemia, Autoimmune Diseases, Prenatal nutrition, and skin issues (acne, psoriasis, eczema, etc).
Marit Harney is a Registered Dietitian, practicing functional nutrition. Her private practice is at AEGIS Physical Therapy in Hadley, MA. She has been in the fitness and nutrition space for 17 years and has worked with a wide variety of patients. She specializes in digestive wellness (IBS, Celiac Disease, IBD, food allergies and sensitivities, GERD etc), though she also commonly helps with the following health concerns: Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Hypertension, Hypercholesterolemia, Autoimmune Diseases, Prenatal nutrition, and skin issues (acne, psoriasis, eczema, etc).
(413) 320-4550 View (413) 320-4550
Photo of Jennifer Belanger - Jen Belanger Nutrition LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Jen Belanger Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Belchertown, MA 01007
Jen Belanger Nutrition is a pediatric consultative services practice specializing in nutrition, feeding therapy, occupational therapy, and lactation consulting. The RDs specialize in pediatric and adolescent nutrition including eating disorders. The OTs offer sensory based therapy for autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, and more. Our breastfeeding medicine physician is an IBCLC offering lactation support.
Jen Belanger Nutrition is a pediatric consultative services practice specializing in nutrition, feeding therapy, occupational therapy, and lactation consulting. The RDs specialize in pediatric and adolescent nutrition including eating disorders. The OTs offer sensory based therapy for autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, and more. Our breastfeeding medicine physician is an IBCLC offering lactation support.
(413) 327-9745 View (413) 327-9745
Photo of Amanda K Mittman - Happy Valley Nutrition, PC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Happy Valley Nutrition, PC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Amherst, MA 01002
Do you ever eat beyond the point of fullness or feel guilty for what you ate? Do you find yourself eating for reasons other than hunger? Have you tried a diet (or a lifetime of diets) and "failed," only to put the weight back on...and then some? Are you frustrated by your relationship to food and your body? Do you know what to do but have a hard time following through? If you answered YES to any of these questions, you are not alone and you are in the right place! Happy Valley Nutrition is the Pioneer Valley's ONLY group practice of weight-inclusive, fat-positive, HAES-aligned RDs.
Do you ever eat beyond the point of fullness or feel guilty for what you ate? Do you find yourself eating for reasons other than hunger? Have you tried a diet (or a lifetime of diets) and "failed," only to put the weight back on...and then some? Are you frustrated by your relationship to food and your body? Do you know what to do but have a hard time following through? If you answered YES to any of these questions, you are not alone and you are in the right place! Happy Valley Nutrition is the Pioneer Valley's ONLY group practice of weight-inclusive, fat-positive, HAES-aligned RDs.
(413) 461-2260 View (413) 461-2260
Photo of Karen Kiver Patalano, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RD, LDN, CDE
Karen Kiver Patalano
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RD, LDN, CDE
Online Only
Areas of specialty include weight management, avoiding or lowering medications for diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol as well as food sensitivities and sports nutrition. I focus on individual's specific nutritional needs from healthy cooking ideas to supporting extreme fitness endeavors. You will receive recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes to meet your personalized needs and goals. Clients keep a detailed food intake and exercise record using a free online log. By supporting gradual changes over time, the priority is to instill a greater balance in clients thereby creating a more permanent transformation to achieve weight, medical and lifestyle goals.
Areas of specialty include weight management, avoiding or lowering medications for diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol as well as food sensitivities and sports nutrition. I focus on individual's specific nutritional needs from healthy cooking ideas to supporting extreme fitness endeavors. You will receive recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes to meet your personalized needs and goals. Clients keep a detailed food intake and exercise record using a free online log. By supporting gradual changes over time, the priority is to instill a greater balance in clients thereby creating a more permanent transformation to achieve weight, medical and lifestyle goals.
(508) 841-3561 View (508) 841-3561
Photo of Sheila Bray Moriarty, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Sheila Bray Moriarty
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
I’m a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders and helping people rebuild a more steady, trusting relationship with food. If you’re feeling stuck in cycles of restriction, bingeing, or constant thoughts about food and your body, you’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to stay this way. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to help you eat more consistently, feel more grounded around food, and move toward a place of greater ease and flexibility. My approach is collaborative, individualized, and grounded in both clinical experience and real-life practicality.
I’m a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders and helping people rebuild a more steady, trusting relationship with food. If you’re feeling stuck in cycles of restriction, bingeing, or constant thoughts about food and your body, you’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to stay this way. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to help you eat more consistently, feel more grounded around food, and move toward a place of greater ease and flexibility. My approach is collaborative, individualized, and grounded in both clinical experience and real-life practicality.
(229) 633-4504 View (229) 633-4504
Photo of Lisa Keovongsa - Actualize Counseling & Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Actualize Counseling & Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals who are accustomed to high performance but find themselves privately exhausted by a complicated relationship with food and their bodies. If you look capable and successful on the outside while struggling with perfectionism, burnout, or a cycle of restricting and overeating, I understand the weight of that silence. In my work, I provide my clients with a coordinated and compassionate path to recovery. As well as, incorporating strategies for mental health and physical nourishment, helping you move beyond rigid rules to find lasting, evidence-based peace.
I work with individuals who are accustomed to high performance but find themselves privately exhausted by a complicated relationship with food and their bodies. If you look capable and successful on the outside while struggling with perfectionism, burnout, or a cycle of restricting and overeating, I understand the weight of that silence. In my work, I provide my clients with a coordinated and compassionate path to recovery. As well as, incorporating strategies for mental health and physical nourishment, helping you move beyond rigid rules to find lasting, evidence-based peace.
(857) 688-5927 View (857) 688-5927
Photo of Erica Carneglia - Actualize Counseling & Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Actualize Counseling & Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help clients navigate eating disorder recovery, disordered eating, body image concerns, and the stress of building a healthier relationship with food. My style is warm, collaborative, and realistic—not about perfection, judgment, or rigid rules. In our first session, I want to understand what you are hoping for, where you have been, and what feels hardest right now. Whether you are actively struggling, stepping down from higher care, worried about relapse, or trying to maintain balanced eating, we move at a pace that feels supportive, clinically appropriate, and sustainable.
I help clients navigate eating disorder recovery, disordered eating, body image concerns, and the stress of building a healthier relationship with food. My style is warm, collaborative, and realistic—not about perfection, judgment, or rigid rules. In our first session, I want to understand what you are hoping for, where you have been, and what feels hardest right now. Whether you are actively struggling, stepping down from higher care, worried about relapse, or trying to maintain balanced eating, we move at a pace that feels supportive, clinically appropriate, and sustainable.
(508) 374-9602 View (508) 374-9602
Photo of Jennifer Carlson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CYT
Jennifer Carlson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CYT
Serves Area
Jennifer has a master of science degree in food and nutrition, is a Registered Dietitian and a yoga teacher. She provides both in person as well as virtual services. For over 15 years, she has provided nutrition related services to thousands of people in a variety of settings including hospitals, psychiatric facilities, community health centers, schools, cafes, bakeries, restaurants and more. For the past decade, she has provided medical nutrition therapy to clients as a licensed dietitian. In 2021 she opened her private practice, Peace and Power LLC. Learn more at www.peaceful-nutrition.com!
Jennifer has a master of science degree in food and nutrition, is a Registered Dietitian and a yoga teacher. She provides both in person as well as virtual services. For over 15 years, she has provided nutrition related services to thousands of people in a variety of settings including hospitals, psychiatric facilities, community health centers, schools, cafes, bakeries, restaurants and more. For the past decade, she has provided medical nutrition therapy to clients as a licensed dietitian. In 2021 she opened her private practice, Peace and Power LLC. Learn more at www.peaceful-nutrition.com!
(774) 484-1477 View (774) 484-1477

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Anna P Sweeney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Anna P Sweeney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Online Only
Is your relationship with food and body more challenging then you wish it to be? Do you get overwhelmed navigating health and wellness messaging? Is your body image disrupting your quality of life? Are you searching for food freedom and don't know where to look? Are you healing from an eating disorder? Is disordered eating getting in your way? This is a particularly hard time to be a human navigating omnipresent messaging that encourages the outsourcing of body wisdom as the way to well and wellbeing. You deserve better than this. if these questions are resident, I would love to support you.
Is your relationship with food and body more challenging then you wish it to be? Do you get overwhelmed navigating health and wellness messaging? Is your body image disrupting your quality of life? Are you searching for food freedom and don't know where to look? Are you healing from an eating disorder? Is disordered eating getting in your way? This is a particularly hard time to be a human navigating omnipresent messaging that encourages the outsourcing of body wisdom as the way to well and wellbeing. You deserve better than this. if these questions are resident, I would love to support you.
(781) 780-2829 View (781) 780-2829
Photo of Christine Huntley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Christine Huntley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Wenham, MA 01984
I am passionate about nutrition and believe that food should be enjoyed! I am excited about the opportunity to help you achieve your personal health goals using a holistic approach that not only looks at nutrition, but strengthens all the pillars of health, including sleep, movement, and stress. As a busy mom of young children, I understand the challenges of staying on a healthy path. Personal experience with a hectic lifestyle, stress, and insomnia opened my eyes to the importance of uncovering root causes in order to begin the process of re-balancing life.
I am passionate about nutrition and believe that food should be enjoyed! I am excited about the opportunity to help you achieve your personal health goals using a holistic approach that not only looks at nutrition, but strengthens all the pillars of health, including sleep, movement, and stress. As a busy mom of young children, I understand the challenges of staying on a healthy path. Personal experience with a hectic lifestyle, stress, and insomnia opened my eyes to the importance of uncovering root causes in order to begin the process of re-balancing life.
(351) 277-3403 View (351) 277-3403
Photo of Hannah Rivard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Hannah Rivard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Registered Dietitian passionate about providing individualized nutrition education & care, tailored to each person's specific needs. I have extensive experience working with eating disorders, in both adolescent & adult populations. I have worked closely with clients with co-occurring mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, & trauma. Outside of my specialty in eating disorders, I also have experience working in pediatric & neonatal care, as well as sport nutrition, pregnancy & women's health.
Welcome! I am a Registered Dietitian passionate about providing individualized nutrition education & care, tailored to each person's specific needs. I have extensive experience working with eating disorders, in both adolescent & adult populations. I have worked closely with clients with co-occurring mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, & trauma. Outside of my specialty in eating disorders, I also have experience working in pediatric & neonatal care, as well as sport nutrition, pregnancy & women's health.
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Photo of Joseph Feldman Lehrberg - CardioFunction Integrative Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
CardioFunction Integrative Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Your doctor told you your numbers are high. Maybe you've already tried changing your diet. Maybe you don't know where to start. Either way, that's exactly who I work with. Most people know something about eating "healthy," but are still missing the specific dietary patterns that drive high cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar. A general healthy diet isn't the same as a targeted one. Small, precise changes, and sometimes counterintuitive ones, move numbers more than overly restrictive approaches.
Your doctor told you your numbers are high. Maybe you've already tried changing your diet. Maybe you don't know where to start. Either way, that's exactly who I work with. Most people know something about eating "healthy," but are still missing the specific dietary patterns that drive high cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar. A general healthy diet isn't the same as a targeted one. Small, precise changes, and sometimes counterintuitive ones, move numbers more than overly restrictive approaches.
(857) 382-4426 View (857) 382-4426
Photo of Shelby Keys, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Shelby Keys
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
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!
(585) 401-7092 View (585) 401-7092
Photo of Rachael Utstein, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, LDN
Rachael Utstein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, LDN
Online Only
Hello, I'm Rachael! I am a registered dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image. I believe that people of all body sizes and identities deserve a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. I help my clients ditch diets & diet culture and support them in finding ways to nourish themselves, both physically & mentally, that actually feel good. Whether you are in recovery from an eating disorder, have been on & off diets for what seems like your whole life, or feel loads of stress, confusion or guilt surrounding your food choices, you've come to the right spot.
Hello, I'm Rachael! I am a registered dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, and body image. I believe that people of all body sizes and identities deserve a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. I help my clients ditch diets & diet culture and support them in finding ways to nourish themselves, both physically & mentally, that actually feel good. Whether you are in recovery from an eating disorder, have been on & off diets for what seems like your whole life, or feel loads of stress, confusion or guilt surrounding your food choices, you've come to the right spot.
(475) 241-7938 View (475) 241-7938
Photo of Kristine Anne Bahr, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, M.S.
Kristine Anne Bahr
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, M.S.
Online Only
I help women navigatie perimenopause and menopause, hormonal imbalances by creating real, lasting change in how they feel day to day. I am not offering quick tips, but deep, transformational support grounded in my own experience, extensive knowledge, and ongoing research. I offer advanced lab testing, including state of the art hormone testing, microbiome testing, and cortisol testing, so we can truly understand what is happening in your body and tailor a plan to your needs.
I help women navigatie perimenopause and menopause, hormonal imbalances by creating real, lasting change in how they feel day to day. I am not offering quick tips, but deep, transformational support grounded in my own experience, extensive knowledge, and ongoing research. I offer advanced lab testing, including state of the art hormone testing, microbiome testing, and cortisol testing, so we can truly understand what is happening in your body and tailor a plan to your needs.
(857) 575-4708 View (857) 575-4708
Photo of Hannah Auldridge, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS
Hannah Auldridge
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02124
Hannah works with individuals aged 15 and up and has a special interest in supporting athletes and former athletes—people who often experience unique challenges related to performance, food, and body image. She brings experience from higher levels of care and has supported clients with a wide range of eating disorder diagnoses, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder (BED), ARFID, and OSFED.
Hannah works with individuals aged 15 and up and has a special interest in supporting athletes and former athletes—people who often experience unique challenges related to performance, food, and body image. She brings experience from higher levels of care and has supported clients with a wide range of eating disorder diagnoses, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder (BED), ARFID, and OSFED.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Lydia Fernandes Holasek, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
Lydia Fernandes Holasek
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CNSC
1 Endorsed
Concord, MA 01742
There's an overwhelming amount of messages out there that tell us what or how we "should" eat. These messages tell us to abide by prescriptive “diets” or practices, and can keep us from trusting or connecting with ourselves. If you’re ready to break free from diet culture, and hope to restore your relationship with food, body and/or movement, but are wondering where to start, I’m here to help! I work with a variety of age groups, from adolescents to older adults. I work with those who are recovering from diet culture, disordered eating and eating disorders.
There's an overwhelming amount of messages out there that tell us what or how we "should" eat. These messages tell us to abide by prescriptive “diets” or practices, and can keep us from trusting or connecting with ourselves. If you’re ready to break free from diet culture, and hope to restore your relationship with food, body and/or movement, but are wondering where to start, I’m here to help! I work with a variety of age groups, from adolescents to older adults. I work with those who are recovering from diet culture, disordered eating and eating disorders.
(978) 709-2541 View (978) 709-2541
Photo of Kristine Berube, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, RYT-500
Kristine Berube
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, RYT-500
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your relationship with food, exercise, or body image? I’m here to support you in finding a healthier, more balanced way to approach these aspects of your life. You deserve to feel at peace with your body and to trust yourself. Together, we can work on building a positive relationship with food and movement, helping you embrace a more nourishing and respectful mindset. Let’s take steps toward a more fulfilling and joyful experience with your body and well-being.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your relationship with food, exercise, or body image? I’m here to support you in finding a healthier, more balanced way to approach these aspects of your life. You deserve to feel at peace with your body and to trust yourself. Together, we can work on building a positive relationship with food and movement, helping you embrace a more nourishing and respectful mindset. Let’s take steps toward a more fulfilling and joyful experience with your body and well-being.
(339) 217-8340 View (339) 217-8340
Photo of Matt Priven - Oceanside Nutrition | Intuitive Eating Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Oceanside Nutrition | Intuitive Eating Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Newburyport, MA 01950
Let’s face it — nutrition is a polarizing topic these days. It seems like no one can seem to agree on even the simplest nutrition questions (thanks social media and diet culture!). And even when we’re given sound advice, actually making changes to our eating habits can feel impossible. That’s why we’re here— we believe that everyone deserves evidence-based nutrition guidance and the support to make healthy changes stick. Our team of expert Registered Dietitian Nutritionists have supported thousands of clients in building lasting healthy eating routines and in establishing peaceful relationships with food.
Let’s face it — nutrition is a polarizing topic these days. It seems like no one can seem to agree on even the simplest nutrition questions (thanks social media and diet culture!). And even when we’re given sound advice, actually making changes to our eating habits can feel impossible. That’s why we’re here— we believe that everyone deserves evidence-based nutrition guidance and the support to make healthy changes stick. Our team of expert Registered Dietitian Nutritionists have supported thousands of clients in building lasting healthy eating routines and in establishing peaceful relationships with food.
(857) 453-8094 View (857) 453-8094
Photo of Kellie Conroy Steele, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kellie Conroy Steele
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Mansfield, MA 02048
Kellie Steele, MS, RD, LDN is a registered dietitian with over 7+ years of experience in outpatient nutrition counseling. She has a passion for helping people create real and lasting lifestyle changes that lead to significant improvements in health and overall quality of life. She firmly believes healthy eating should be as easy and flexible as it is enjoyable.
Kellie Steele, MS, RD, LDN is a registered dietitian with over 7+ years of experience in outpatient nutrition counseling. She has a passion for helping people create real and lasting lifestyle changes that lead to significant improvements in health and overall quality of life. She firmly believes healthy eating should be as easy and flexible as it is enjoyable.
(774) 703-4165 View (774) 703-4165
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Hampshire County?

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.