Nutritionists and Dietitians in Northampton, MA

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 Annie Schwartz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Annie Schwartz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
You’ve spent years feeling like your body is the problem—stuck in cycles of dieting, shame, or disordered eating. Maybe you’re navigating PCOS, diabetes, or IBS and have been told weight loss is the answer, even when it’s made things worse. You’re tired of rigid rules and ready for a new way forward. You want to feel more at ease with food, to care for your health without shame, and to be met with compassion—not judgment. If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place.
You’ve spent years feeling like your body is the problem—stuck in cycles of dieting, shame, or disordered eating. Maybe you’re navigating PCOS, diabetes, or IBS and have been told weight loss is the answer, even when it’s made things worse. You’re tired of rigid rules and ready for a new way forward. You want to feel more at ease with food, to care for your health without shame, and to be met with compassion—not judgment. If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place.
(413) 937-7356 View (413) 937-7356
Photo of Amanda K Mittman - Happy Valley Nutrition, PC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Happy Valley Nutrition, PC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
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 Marit Harney, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, IFNCP
Marit Harney
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, IFNCP
Serves Area
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

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Walls, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
Ashley Walls
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with cooccurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with cooccurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
(312) 262-7112 View (312) 262-7112
Photo of Stacy Garvey - Wellpoint Health Solutions, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSHS, RD, LDN, CDN
Wellpoint Health Solutions
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSHS, RD, LDN, CDN
Wilbraham, MA 01095
We are a group of Dietitians and Nurse Practitioners here to help you manage and treat a whole host of conditions with lifestyle education including obesity, diabetes, IBS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, reflux, food allergies and many more. We offer Integrative Nutrition and Wellness one-on-one support, group classes, personal training and supplements to help you reach your health goals. We have a solution that will work for everyone!
We are a group of Dietitians and Nurse Practitioners here to help you manage and treat a whole host of conditions with lifestyle education including obesity, diabetes, IBS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, reflux, food allergies and many more. We offer Integrative Nutrition and Wellness one-on-one support, group classes, personal training and supplements to help you reach your health goals. We have a solution that will work for everyone!
(413) 225-8962 View (413) 225-8962
Photo of Jacqui Campbell, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, LDN
Jacqui Campbell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, LDN
Serves Area
My goal with all my clients is to help them form and foster a healthy relationship with food. I do not do diets or quick weight loss. I help people eat to nourish their bodies and minds, overcome fear foods and food rules and eat with freedom. I work with clients of all ages and health concerns. I have several years experience working with eating disorders.
My goal with all my clients is to help them form and foster a healthy relationship with food. I do not do diets or quick weight loss. I help people eat to nourish their bodies and minds, overcome fear foods and food rules and eat with freedom. I work with clients of all ages and health concerns. I have several years experience working with eating disorders.
(860) 200-3742 View (860) 200-3742
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
What Nourishes You, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
What Nourishes You, LLC offers individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Nutrition Counseling to inspire health, prevent disease and promote healing. Separating nutrition facts from food fads, we'll explain nutrition research in terms of real food you can put on your plate. Our approach emphasizes affordable and delicious anti-inflammatory whole foods. We may recommend the inclusion or exclusion of certain foods and nutrients to treat disease and optimize health. We take a collaborative approach with you and the members of your healthcare team.
What Nourishes You, LLC offers individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Nutrition Counseling to inspire health, prevent disease and promote healing. Separating nutrition facts from food fads, we'll explain nutrition research in terms of real food you can put on your plate. Our approach emphasizes affordable and delicious anti-inflammatory whole foods. We may recommend the inclusion or exclusion of certain foods and nutrients to treat disease and optimize health. We take a collaborative approach with you and the members of your healthcare team.
(603) 727-4265 View (603) 727-4265
Photo of Jennifer Belanger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Jennifer Belanger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Belchertown, MA 01007
I am a Registered Dietitian (RD) specializing in pediatric and family nutrition. I help children and families with weight concerns (over or underweight), picky eating and food aversions, food allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, and more!
I am a Registered Dietitian (RD) specializing in pediatric and family nutrition. I help children and families with weight concerns (over or underweight), picky eating and food aversions, food allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, and more!
(413) 327-9745 View (413) 327-9745
Photo of Cara Schrager, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Cara Schrager
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Online Only
I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and Diabetes Care and Education Specialist passionate about helping you achieve your nutrition goals. I have over a decade of experience in nutrition counseling with a special focus in working with people with diabetes and weight management. I follow a nonrestrictive "all foods fit" approach and I will help you feel empowered with your nutrition choices. As an avid marathon runner, I am also passionate about sports nutrition, helping individuals learn how to optimally fuel their bodies.
I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and Diabetes Care and Education Specialist passionate about helping you achieve your nutrition goals. I have over a decade of experience in nutrition counseling with a special focus in working with people with diabetes and weight management. I follow a nonrestrictive "all foods fit" approach and I will help you feel empowered with your nutrition choices. As an avid marathon runner, I am also passionate about sports nutrition, helping individuals learn how to optimally fuel their bodies.
(508) 501-7872 View (508) 501-7872

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Ryann Hilton - NourishRX Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
NourishRX Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety around meals, guilt after eating, or physical issues like digestive problems or hormonal imbalances? Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of dieting, restriction, or binging with no end in sight? Maybe you’re watching your child struggle with body image or refusing to eat, leaving you feeling worried and helpless. We understand that healing from an eating disorder isn’t just about food—it’s about rebuilding trust with your body and mind. Our personalized, non-judgmental approach helps you develop healthy habits. Our dietitians are here to guide you in reclaiming your health and finding long-term balance.
Are you struggling with anxiety around meals, guilt after eating, or physical issues like digestive problems or hormonal imbalances? Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of dieting, restriction, or binging with no end in sight? Maybe you’re watching your child struggle with body image or refusing to eat, leaving you feeling worried and helpless. We understand that healing from an eating disorder isn’t just about food—it’s about rebuilding trust with your body and mind. Our personalized, non-judgmental approach helps you develop healthy habits. Our dietitians are here to guide you in reclaiming your health and finding long-term balance.
(978) 451-7224 View (978) 451-7224
Photo of Amanda Ruth Stegmann, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, LSW
Amanda Ruth Stegmann
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, LSW
Marblehead, MA 01945
As a Dietitian and Licensed social worker, I'm well versed in mental health and its impact on nutrition and relationship with food. I like to collaborate with my clients to make SMART goals with their participation to provide support to manage disordered eating thoughts and behaviors, conquer fears, and implement intuitive eating techniques to enjoy food freedom while improving your healt. I enjoy helping clients make food choices that meet their lifestyle (and also taste good). For others who like the structure of a meal plan, I can provide custom meal plans with grocery lists, recipes, and an app for logging with private messaging
As a Dietitian and Licensed social worker, I'm well versed in mental health and its impact on nutrition and relationship with food. I like to collaborate with my clients to make SMART goals with their participation to provide support to manage disordered eating thoughts and behaviors, conquer fears, and implement intuitive eating techniques to enjoy food freedom while improving your healt. I enjoy helping clients make food choices that meet their lifestyle (and also taste good). For others who like the structure of a meal plan, I can provide custom meal plans with grocery lists, recipes, and an app for logging with private messaging
(617) 712-0411 View (617) 712-0411
Photo of Leah Grace Barack - Grace Functional Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
Grace Functional Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help women struggling with bloat, constipation, and digestive issues find real, lasting relief. Maybe you’ve tried “eat more fiber” and cutting foods out, but nothing really works—and you're tired of feeling stuck, sluggish, and uncomfortable in your own body. You just want to have a flat belly, regular bowel movements, feel lighter, and stop obsessing over your symptoms. If you’re craving real answers, consistent relief, and a clear path forward that feels doable and sustainable, I can help you get there.
I help women struggling with bloat, constipation, and digestive issues find real, lasting relief. Maybe you’ve tried “eat more fiber” and cutting foods out, but nothing really works—and you're tired of feeling stuck, sluggish, and uncomfortable in your own body. You just want to have a flat belly, regular bowel movements, feel lighter, and stop obsessing over your symptoms. If you’re craving real answers, consistent relief, and a clear path forward that feels doable and sustainable, I can help you get there.
View
Photo of K. Maria Adams, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RDN, LDN
K. Maria Adams
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Marblehead, MA 01945
Whether you’d like to feel more confident about your fueling, want to improve your relationship with food and your body, or want to find more joy in the kitchen, Hӓlsa Nutrition has services designed for you. I specialize in helping individuals and families establish nourishing eating habits and develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.
Whether you’d like to feel more confident about your fueling, want to improve your relationship with food and your body, or want to find more joy in the kitchen, Hӓlsa Nutrition has services designed for you. I specialize in helping individuals and families establish nourishing eating habits and develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.
(339) 220-5003 View (339) 220-5003
Photo of Nicole Chenard Ms Rd Ldn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Nicole Chenard Ms Rd Ldn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114
What’s included: HIPAA-protected technology portal access & communications including chat, ability to send private documents, metrics, wearable device connection & more! Easy, flexible booking. Add your credit card or FSA or HSA card to Healthie and never get charged for anything unexpected Goal setting and continual reevaluation and reminders of goals and how to get there. Accountability, accountability, accountability. I’m only successful if I hold you to what you told me you want. We are a team. And my team likes to WIN.
What’s included: HIPAA-protected technology portal access & communications including chat, ability to send private documents, metrics, wearable device connection & more! Easy, flexible booking. Add your credit card or FSA or HSA card to Healthie and never get charged for anything unexpected Goal setting and continual reevaluation and reminders of goals and how to get there. Accountability, accountability, accountability. I’m only successful if I hold you to what you told me you want. We are a team. And my team likes to WIN.
(857) 304-9516 View (857) 304-9516
Photo of Silva Barrasso, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Silva Barrasso
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Beverly, MA 01915
*Read reviews on my website's home page* Health expression is unique to the individual and requires a personalized approach, a thorough understanding of the whole lifestyle, and respect for the personal journey. I use integrative nutrition and mind-body medicine for a holistic approach to help improve chronic disease symptoms and help you reach optimal health. The earlier you begin your work towards improving your diet, increasing your physical activity, as well as reducing your mental and emotional stress, the stronger the chance of preventing a wide range of chronic illnesses with physical and mental symptoms.
*Read reviews on my website's home page* Health expression is unique to the individual and requires a personalized approach, a thorough understanding of the whole lifestyle, and respect for the personal journey. I use integrative nutrition and mind-body medicine for a holistic approach to help improve chronic disease symptoms and help you reach optimal health. The earlier you begin your work towards improving your diet, increasing your physical activity, as well as reducing your mental and emotional stress, the stronger the chance of preventing a wide range of chronic illnesses with physical and mental symptoms.
(978) 288-0281 View (978) 288-0281
Photo of Jenna Brown, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
Jenna Brown
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
3 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01603
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sport Dietetics. She focuses on fueling for exercise/athletic performance, health, and weight management. She utilizes a food first approach and recommends supplements as needed to fill in micronutrient gaps. She builds individualized nutrition plans for weight management, and body composition changes. She provides a judgement free zone where you can feel comfortable to share your goals, current dietary practices, and exercise regimen. Jenna believes there are no healthy and unhealthy, good or bad foods, rather every day foods and every now and then foods.
Jenna is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sport Dietetics. She focuses on fueling for exercise/athletic performance, health, and weight management. She utilizes a food first approach and recommends supplements as needed to fill in micronutrient gaps. She builds individualized nutrition plans for weight management, and body composition changes. She provides a judgement free zone where you can feel comfortable to share your goals, current dietary practices, and exercise regimen. Jenna believes there are no healthy and unhealthy, good or bad foods, rather every day foods and every now and then foods.
(351) 208-1409 View (351) 208-1409
Photo of Vanessa Beauregard - Actualize Counseling & Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Actualize Counseling & Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
If you feel stuck in a cycle of food rules, guilt, or constant stress about eating, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice and drained by the pressure to eat perfectly or lose weight “for health.” Beneath that struggle is often anxiety, perfectionism, and a longing for peace. You may want to eat intuitively, feel at home in your body, and genuinely enjoy food again—but feel unsure how to get there. My role is to help you find clarity, flexibility, and a sustainable way of nourishing yourself that supports both your physical health and your mental well-being.
If you feel stuck in a cycle of food rules, guilt, or constant stress about eating, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice and drained by the pressure to eat perfectly or lose weight “for health.” Beneath that struggle is often anxiety, perfectionism, and a longing for peace. You may want to eat intuitively, feel at home in your body, and genuinely enjoy food again—but feel unsure how to get there. My role is to help you find clarity, flexibility, and a sustainable way of nourishing yourself that supports both your physical health and your mental well-being.
(857) 524-3543 View (857) 524-3543
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. Certified in Adult/Pediatric Weight Management; Sports, Cardiovascular & Wellness Nutrition; Member, Diabetes Care & Education Group, Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. NIH, Commissioned Officer, PHS; Chief Clinical Dietitian, George Washington University Hospital; teaches student/adult groups about nutrition; presenter to the Food & Nutrition Board, National Academy of Sciences on use of RDAs in Kidney Disease. Private practice, specializing in eating disorders, weight issues, diabetes, gastrointestinal and lipid disorders, sports diets, cardiovascular and wellness.
Cindy: More than as a Medical Nutrition Therapist. Certified in Adult/Pediatric Weight Management; Sports, Cardiovascular & Wellness Nutrition; Member, Diabetes Care & Education Group, Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. NIH, Commissioned Officer, PHS; Chief Clinical Dietitian, George Washington University Hospital; teaches student/adult groups about nutrition; presenter to the Food & Nutrition Board, National Academy of Sciences on use of RDAs in Kidney Disease. Private practice, specializing in eating disorders, weight issues, diabetes, gastrointestinal and lipid disorders, sports diets, cardiovascular and wellness.
(978) 616-4084 x12 View (978) 616-4084 x12
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Northampton?

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.