Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Hopkinton, MA

Photo of Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes - 360Girls&Women, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES , LDN, CPT
360Girls&Women
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES , LDN, CPT
Hopkinton, MA 01748
As your personal women's health dietitian I provide customized assessments and plans using our comprehensive 360health review (nutrition, fitness, beauty, & mental clarity) + medical history, nutrient analysis, hormone testing, target supplement & herbal recommendations, inbetween sessions check-ins, access to our resources like hormone blanced meals & more.
Are you or your loved one struggling with hormone imbalances such as insulin resistance, low libido, irregular periods, early puberty, fibroids, PCOS, early menopause, hot flashes, gut issues, constant hunger, sugar cravings, etc? Chronic disease (Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes..) significantly affect your reproductive health? If you're struggling with these health issues expert professional guidance is available at 360Girls&Women. We help you manage, prevent, often times reverse diet & lifestyle related diseases, those specifically that affect the health of girls & women, using evidence-based holistic methods
As your personal women's health dietitian I provide customized assessments and plans using our comprehensive 360health review (nutrition, fitness, beauty, & mental clarity) + medical history, nutrient analysis, hormone testing, target supplement & herbal recommendations, inbetween sessions check-ins, access to our resources like hormone blanced meals & more.
Are you or your loved one struggling with hormone imbalances such as insulin resistance, low libido, irregular periods, early puberty, fibroids, PCOS, early menopause, hot flashes, gut issues, constant hunger, sugar cravings, etc? Chronic disease (Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes..) significantly affect your reproductive health? If you're struggling with these health issues expert professional guidance is available at 360Girls&Women. We help you manage, prevent, often times reverse diet & lifestyle related diseases, those specifically that affect the health of girls & women, using evidence-based holistic methods
(508) 625-7042 View (508) 625-7042
Photo of Maureen Hodgdon - Aligned Nutrition Counseling, Inc., Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Aligned Nutrition Counseling, Inc.
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients! Are you ready to ditch the diet, learn how to fuel your body and realign your gut? Do you want to optimize your health and wellness? Our gastrointestinal tract houses the majority of our immune system. The foods we eat can directly affect our immune system causing inflammation and digestive issues. Maureen specializes in the area of gastroenterology and works closely with those with various digestive issues and food sensitivities.
Currently accepting new clients! Are you ready to ditch the diet, learn how to fuel your body and realign your gut? Do you want to optimize your health and wellness? Our gastrointestinal tract houses the majority of our immune system. The foods we eat can directly affect our immune system causing inflammation and digestive issues. Maureen specializes in the area of gastroenterology and works closely with those with various digestive issues and food sensitivities.
(508) 388-1733 View (508) 388-1733
Photo of Leslie Sanford - Sanford Nutrition Consulting, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Sanford Nutrition Consulting
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
With over 30 years of experience in the field of nutrition and dietetics, and a passion for helping people improve their health, I have the experience and compassion necessary to understand what makes it challenging for you to eat healthy. I’ll work with you to create a pathway to healthier eating, and provide personalized, realistic, long-term recommendations in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Together we’ll set reachable goals, catered to your specific needs and lifestyle.
With over 30 years of experience in the field of nutrition and dietetics, and a passion for helping people improve their health, I have the experience and compassion necessary to understand what makes it challenging for you to eat healthy. I’ll work with you to create a pathway to healthier eating, and provide personalized, realistic, long-term recommendations in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Together we’ll set reachable goals, catered to your specific needs and lifestyle.
(508) 306-8825 View (508) 306-8825

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Anna P Sweeney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Anna P Sweeney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Online Only
I offer virtual nutrition therapy sessions via a HIPAA compliant software, Simple Practice.
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.
I offer virtual nutrition therapy sessions via a HIPAA compliant software, Simple Practice.
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 Chloe Schweinshaut, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
Chloe Schweinshaut
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
Online Only
Whether you are changing the way you eat for personal reasons or medical reasons, we pride ourselves on being able to work with all types of people to find an individualized way of eating that is not only sustainable but also enjoyable.
We are a functional medicine practice that specializes in weight loss, cardiometabolic health, prenatal and postpartum health, family nutrition, skin health, hormone health, gut health, food sensitivities and workplace wellness. Please email or visit our website to schedule a free 15-minute consultation call to see if we would be a good fit to work together.
Whether you are changing the way you eat for personal reasons or medical reasons, we pride ourselves on being able to work with all types of people to find an individualized way of eating that is not only sustainable but also enjoyable.
We are a functional medicine practice that specializes in weight loss, cardiometabolic health, prenatal and postpartum health, family nutrition, skin health, hormone health, gut health, food sensitivities and workplace wellness. Please email or visit our website to schedule a free 15-minute consultation call to see if we would be a good fit to work together.
(617) 410-5947 View (617) 410-5947
Photo of Katherine L Fernald, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, Reiki, Master
Katherine L Fernald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, Reiki, Master
Online Only
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 am very comfortable with all types of people who have all kinds of concerns. I speak the language of 12 steps and am experienced with people in Overeater's Anonymous and other Anonymous groups related to food or other issues. I help with any co-occurring medical nutritional problem.
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 am very comfortable with all types of people who have all kinds of concerns. I speak the language of 12 steps and am experienced with people in Overeater's Anonymous and other Anonymous groups related to food or other issues. I help with any co-occurring medical nutritional problem.
(508) 955-0579 View (508) 955-0579
Photo of Ellen Harris, Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdM, RDN, LDN, CLT
Ellen Harris
Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdM, RDN, LDN, CLT
Natick, MA 01760
I work with you to target inflammation and food sensitivities using Integrative Nutrition Therapy combining western and complementary approaches.
If you are among the estimated 15-20% of the population potentially affected by food sensitivities, I offer LEAP Mediator Release Testing to help determine which foods and chemicals are problematic for you and which are likely to be safe. I also offer the Spectracell Micronutrient test. I help you interpret results and implement for positive change.
I work with you to target inflammation and food sensitivities using Integrative Nutrition Therapy combining western and complementary approaches.
If you are among the estimated 15-20% of the population potentially affected by food sensitivities, I offer LEAP Mediator Release Testing to help determine which foods and chemicals are problematic for you and which are likely to be safe. I also offer the Spectracell Micronutrient test. I help you interpret results and implement for positive change.
(617) 209-4796 View (617) 209-4796
Photo of Karen Kiver Patalano, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDE, MBA
Karen Kiver Patalano
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDE, MBA
2 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
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) 859-4113 View (508) 859-4113
Photo of Stuti Purohit, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Stuti Purohit
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Needham, MA 02492
I provide evidence based and practical nutrition therapy to clients with Diabetes, Heart problems, GI conditions – IBS, Chron’s disease, Ulcerative colitis , gastroparesis and pre and post partum pregnancy.
I am conducting sessions via telehealth at this time. which means you don’t have to travel and work with me in your safe setting. Please email or call me to make an appointment.
I provide evidence based and practical nutrition therapy to clients with Diabetes, Heart problems, GI conditions – IBS, Chron’s disease, Ulcerative colitis , gastroparesis and pre and post partum pregnancy.
I am conducting sessions via telehealth at this time. which means you don’t have to travel and work with me in your safe setting. Please email or call me to make an appointment.
(781) 437-7745 View (781) 437-7745
Photo of Kim Greene Murachver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDE
Kim Greene Murachver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDE
Acton, MA 01720
Learn to use nutrition to help manage medical conditions, reach health goals, and cultivate a more positive relationship with food and with yourself.
Kim Murachver, MS, RD, LDN, CDE is the founder and owner of Greene Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian/nutritionist, certified diabetes educator, and certified intuitive eating counselor. She believes that how we feed our body and our mind matters. She emphasizes foods that taste good and make you feel good, as well as the important of balance and self-compassion in all aspects of our life. She utilizes a non-diet approach/intuitive eating principles and her love of food and cooking in her practice to help bring joy back to the eating experience for her clients.
Learn to use nutrition to help manage medical conditions, reach health goals, and cultivate a more positive relationship with food and with yourself.
Kim Murachver, MS, RD, LDN, CDE is the founder and owner of Greene Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian/nutritionist, certified diabetes educator, and certified intuitive eating counselor. She believes that how we feed our body and our mind matters. She emphasizes foods that taste good and make you feel good, as well as the important of balance and self-compassion in all aspects of our life. She utilizes a non-diet approach/intuitive eating principles and her love of food and cooking in her practice to help bring joy back to the eating experience for her clients.
(978) 631-2978 View (978) 631-2978
Photo of Alexis Beck, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Alexis Beck
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Online Only
Led by Alexis Beck, RD, an Advanced Practice Nutritionist specializing in Medical Obesity, NutritionRx collaborates with top obesity physicians in Boston.
At NutritionRx, we specialize in obesity, medical weight loss management, disordered eating, and chronic overweight. Alexis Beck, RD, offers personalized nutrition plans and evidence-based therapies to help you achieve sustainable weight management and a healthier relationship with food.
Led by Alexis Beck, RD, an Advanced Practice Nutritionist specializing in Medical Obesity, NutritionRx collaborates with top obesity physicians in Boston.
At NutritionRx, we specialize in obesity, medical weight loss management, disordered eating, and chronic overweight. Alexis Beck, RD, offers personalized nutrition plans and evidence-based therapies to help you achieve sustainable weight management and a healthier relationship with food.
(617) 606-5360 View (617) 606-5360
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 Kate Killion, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Kate Killion
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
First, we will discuss your (or your child's!) medical history, food likes and dislikes, and lifestyle.
Deciding what to eat can be exhausting, especially if you or your child struggle with physical or mental health. Food allergies, Autism, ADHD, ARFID, and chronic illness diagnoses can make eating even more frustrating for children and adults alike. If you are looking for a neurodiversity-affirming provider who can help you make eating easy again, I invite you to reach out!
First, we will discuss your (or your child's!) medical history, food likes and dislikes, and lifestyle.
Deciding what to eat can be exhausting, especially if you or your child struggle with physical or mental health. Food allergies, Autism, ADHD, ARFID, and chronic illness diagnoses can make eating even more frustrating for children and adults alike. If you are looking for a neurodiversity-affirming provider who can help you make eating easy again, I invite you to reach out!
(508) 625-5959 View (508) 625-5959
Photo of Cynthia Milner Woodman - Risk Management Incorporated - Health Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Risk Management Incorporated - Health Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Shirley, MA 01464
Cindy: More than as a Medical Nutrition Therapist.
Individual Nutrition Assessment/Counseling : Weight Management, Eating Disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorders) Diabetes Mellitus, Lipid Disorders, High Blood Pressure, Hypoglycemia, PCOS. Corporate Wellness Programs. Lectures and Interactive Presentations for Businesses, Schools, and Municipal Health Agencies. Expert Witness Services.
Cindy: More than as a Medical Nutrition Therapist.
Individual Nutrition Assessment/Counseling : Weight Management, Eating Disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorders) Diabetes Mellitus, Lipid Disorders, High Blood Pressure, Hypoglycemia, PCOS. Corporate Wellness Programs. Lectures and Interactive Presentations for Businesses, Schools, and Municipal Health Agencies. Expert Witness Services.
(978) 616-4084 x12 View (978) 616-4084 x12
Photo of Kristine Berube, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, RYT-500
Kristine Berube
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, RYT-500
Needham, MA 02494
I believe in an integrative approach combining nutrition therapy with mindfulness principles.
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.
I believe in an integrative approach combining nutrition therapy with mindfulness principles.
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 Colleen Elizabeth Johnson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, CDCES
Colleen Elizabeth Johnson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, CDCES
Worcester, MA 01602
I am dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve lasting health and wellness through personalized medical nutrition therapy.
My specialties include: Adult, Young Adult, and Pediatric Care, Weight Management and GLP-1 Nutrition, Newly Diagnosed Diabetes + Diabetes Remission, Gestational Diabetes and Postpartum Nutrition, Type 1, Type 2, and LADA Diabetes Care, Cancer, Cardiac Care. I service all ages and have both in-person and telehealth availability.
I am dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve lasting health and wellness through personalized medical nutrition therapy.
My specialties include: Adult, Young Adult, and Pediatric Care, Weight Management and GLP-1 Nutrition, Newly Diagnosed Diabetes + Diabetes Remission, Gestational Diabetes and Postpartum Nutrition, Type 1, Type 2, and LADA Diabetes Care, Cancer, Cardiac Care. I service all ages and have both in-person and telehealth availability.
(508) 625-6212 View (508) 625-6212
Photo of Allison Fargo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, RMT
Allison Fargo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, RMT
Serves Area
She uses the latest in evidence-based nutrition practice to find the root cause of illness by reviewing and analyzing medical history, symptoms, diet history, and lifestyle for each individual.
Allison is especially passionate about working with individuals in addiction recovery. She takes an evidence-based approach using cutting-edge research to provide custom-tailored nutrition advice and care plans that help replete nutrient deficiencies, restore nutrient and microbiome balance to curb cravings and promote mental and physical wellbeing.
She uses the latest in evidence-based nutrition practice to find the root cause of illness by reviewing and analyzing medical history, symptoms, diet history, and lifestyle for each individual.
Allison is especially passionate about working with individuals in addiction recovery. She takes an evidence-based approach using cutting-edge research to provide custom-tailored nutrition advice and care plans that help replete nutrient deficiencies, restore nutrient and microbiome balance to curb cravings and promote mental and physical wellbeing.
(844) 612-3954 View (844) 612-3954
Photo of Merissa Mills - Merissa Mills, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Merissa Mills
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Online Only
I have a Masters in Medical Nutrition Therapy.
I work with clients 16 years old and older. Specialties include but are not limited to: weight loss, diabetes management, disordered eating, improving body image, IBS/IBD, and more. I help clients reach their nutrition goals as well as gain the knowledge and skills to move on from appointments confident in their abilities to maintain whatever changes they have made.
I have a Masters in Medical Nutrition Therapy.
I work with clients 16 years old and older. Specialties include but are not limited to: weight loss, diabetes management, disordered eating, improving body image, IBS/IBD, and more. I help clients reach their nutrition goals as well as gain the knowledge and skills to move on from appointments confident in their abilities to maintain whatever changes they have made.
(774) 500-3162 View (774) 500-3162
Photo of Alison Swiggard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Alison Swiggard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Online Only
My specialties include: Eating disorders and disordered eating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Intuitive Eating and fostering a positive relationship with food Medical nutrition therapy for chronic health concerns
Hi, I’m Alison, a HAES-aligned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in compassionate, weight-inclusive care. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or harmed by weight-focused healthcare, I’m here to offer a different approach—one that prioritizes your well-being and helps you reconnect with your body in a way that feels empowering and supportive. Using a weight-inclusive lens, I’ll guide you toward sustainable, compassionate strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll focus on what supports your health and well-being—no diets, no shame, just real solutions designed for you.
My specialties include: Eating disorders and disordered eating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Intuitive Eating and fostering a positive relationship with food Medical nutrition therapy for chronic health concerns
Hi, I’m Alison, a HAES-aligned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in compassionate, weight-inclusive care. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or harmed by weight-focused healthcare, I’m here to offer a different approach—one that prioritizes your well-being and helps you reconnect with your body in a way that feels empowering and supportive. Using a weight-inclusive lens, I’ll guide you toward sustainable, compassionate strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll focus on what supports your health and well-being—no diets, no shame, just real solutions designed for you.
(207) 255-7360 View (207) 255-7360
Photo of Laney Morse, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CPT
Laney Morse
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CPT
Serves Area
I provide counseling using evidence-based nutrition research and medical nutrition therapy.
I work with clients who struggle with their relationship with food and their body, want to establish positive habits centered around food, and who are ready to make peace with their health! I take an anti-diet, intuitive eating-based approach to my counseling to help you determine what your ideal picture of health looks like. We'll identify your goals and help you establish habits that lead to feeling satisfied and fulfilled, without any stress, dieting or restriction. During our first session we'll do a comprehensive nutrition assessment, as well as education and counseling to help determine a unique plan for your goals!
I provide counseling using evidence-based nutrition research and medical nutrition therapy.
I work with clients who struggle with their relationship with food and their body, want to establish positive habits centered around food, and who are ready to make peace with their health! I take an anti-diet, intuitive eating-based approach to my counseling to help you determine what your ideal picture of health looks like. We'll identify your goals and help you establish habits that lead to feeling satisfied and fulfilled, without any stress, dieting or restriction. During our first session we'll do a comprehensive nutrition assessment, as well as education and counseling to help determine a unique plan for your goals!
(781) 819-5563 View (781) 819-5563
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians

What is medical nutrition therapy?

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves the use of personalized dietary changes to prevent or manage chronic conditions. Typically conducted in an outpatient setting by a Registered Dietitian (RD), MNT aims to address specific health issues through tailored nutrition plans. Clients are often referred for MNT by healthcare professionals who identify conditions that could benefit from dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. The goal of MNT is to improve overall health outcomes by making adjustments to the client's diet based on their individual needs and medical conditions.

What conditions is medical nutrition therapy for?

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is often used for individuals with diseases caused or worsened by poor diet, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases. However, other conditions can also benefit from nutrition therapy. MNT is typically not intended to replace other treatments, such as medication, but rather to complement them. By improving a person's overall diet and health, MNT aims to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms and complement other treatments.

Is medical nutrition therapy covered by insurance?

Medical nutrition therapy is frequently covered by insurance. 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. While a referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary to obtain coverage for medical nutrition services. 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. 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.

What does medical nutrition therapy involve?

The approach a dietitian will take in a medical nutrition therapy session will depend on a number of factors, including what conditions the client has and what the goals of the client are. An initial session often involves an assessment of the client's overall health and current dietary intake; a dietitian may also speak with a client's medical doctor prior to or following a first session to obtain information on the medical condition(s) the client is seeking nutrition therapy counseling for. The dietitian will then work with the client to create goals of medical nutrition therapy sessions, such as weight loss, eating a more plant-based diet, or reducing sodium intake. Then, in ongoing sessions, the dietitian will work with the client to meet their stated goals. These ongoing sessions often include menu planning and coaching, which involve the dietitian working with the client to develop strategies for a healthier and more balanced diet. Dietitians may suggest recipes, put together grocery shopping lists, and/or recommend tracking one's intake in order to help clients make desired changes.