Nutritionists and Dietitians in Westfield, MA

Photo of Amber Cross, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MBA
Amber Cross
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MBA
Westfield, MA 01085
Do you feel like you've tried every diet and exercise program out there, only to end up more confused and frustrated than when you started? Are you tired of losing and regaining the same weight over and over? Trying to reach performance goals in the gym but exhausted? Or maybe you are dealing with chronic health conditions, such as EoE or IBS and don't know how to eat. You deserve support from someone who gets it! Someone who won't judge your past attempts, has been there before, and can help you build lasting habits that fit your real life, your health conditions, and your goals.
Do you feel like you've tried every diet and exercise program out there, only to end up more confused and frustrated than when you started? Are you tired of losing and regaining the same weight over and over? Trying to reach performance goals in the gym but exhausted? Or maybe you are dealing with chronic health conditions, such as EoE or IBS and don't know how to eat. You deserve support from someone who gets it! Someone who won't judge your past attempts, has been there before, and can help you build lasting habits that fit your real life, your health conditions, and your goals.
(413) 225-4533 View (413) 225-4533

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

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 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 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 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 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 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 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
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 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 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
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

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

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
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
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 Olga Michelle Arnold, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Olga Michelle Arnold
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
As a functional clinical nutritionist, I empower clients to overcome health imbalances by identifying and addressing the root causes. Through personalized nutrition, strategic lifestyle adjustments, and trust in the body's innate wisdom, we restore metabolic and gut health, reduce toxicity, and correct nutrient deficiencies for optimal wellness.
As a functional clinical nutritionist, I empower clients to overcome health imbalances by identifying and addressing the root causes. Through personalized nutrition, strategic lifestyle adjustments, and trust in the body's innate wisdom, we restore metabolic and gut health, reduce toxicity, and correct nutrient deficiencies for optimal wellness.
(774) 479-3946 View (774) 479-3946
Photo of Christina DiSegna, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Christina DiSegna
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Online Only
I’m Christina, a registered dietitian/nutritionist living in MetroWest Massachusetts. I am passionate about using evidenced-based nutrition to help people achieve their best and healthiest lives through better relationships with food. As a working mom, I know how challenging it can be to find time to make changes to improve your life. And from over a decade of working one-on-one with those undergoing and who have completed cancer treatment, I have seen first-hand how misinformation and shame surrounding food and nutrition can sabotage even those with the best intentions.
I’m Christina, a registered dietitian/nutritionist living in MetroWest Massachusetts. I am passionate about using evidenced-based nutrition to help people achieve their best and healthiest lives through better relationships with food. As a working mom, I know how challenging it can be to find time to make changes to improve your life. And from over a decade of working one-on-one with those undergoing and who have completed cancer treatment, I have seen first-hand how misinformation and shame surrounding food and nutrition can sabotage even those with the best intentions.
(508) 501-0691 View (508) 501-0691
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, binge eating, or constant stress about eating, you're not alone. Many people struggling with disordered eating feel overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice and the pressure to eat perfectly or lose weight “for health.” I specialize in helping individuals recover from eating disorders—including binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, and chronic dieting—while rebuilding trust in their bodies through intuitive eating and a sustainable relationship with food.
If you feel stuck in a cycle of food rules, guilt, binge eating, or constant stress about eating, you're not alone. Many people struggling with disordered eating feel overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice and the pressure to eat perfectly or lose weight “for health.” I specialize in helping individuals recover from eating disorders—including binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, and chronic dieting—while rebuilding trust in their bodies through intuitive eating and a sustainable relationship with food.
(857) 524-3543 View (857) 524-3543
Photo of Hannah Pfohl, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CNSC
Hannah Pfohl
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CNSC
Boston, MA 02201
Hi, I'm Hannah! An anti-diet, HAES-aligned, Registered Dietitian and body image specialist dedicated to helping you heal your relationship with food and cultivate body confidence. I empower clients to find love and compassion for themselves as well as freedom from chronic dieting and disordered eating. My work guides clients to rewire thinking about food and eating to ditch dieting for good and finally feel freedom and peace around food. I uses somatic meditations to teach individuals to interpret and respond to the hidden messages lying within the physical body.
Hi, I'm Hannah! An anti-diet, HAES-aligned, Registered Dietitian and body image specialist dedicated to helping you heal your relationship with food and cultivate body confidence. I empower clients to find love and compassion for themselves as well as freedom from chronic dieting and disordered eating. My work guides clients to rewire thinking about food and eating to ditch dieting for good and finally feel freedom and peace around food. I uses somatic meditations to teach individuals to interpret and respond to the hidden messages lying within the physical body.
(215) 608-1402 View (215) 608-1402
Photo of Samantha McCarthy, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Samantha McCarthy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Haverhill, MA 01835
If you’re here, you probably want to feel better, have more energy, and finally build habits that stick—but life keeps getting in the way. Maybe you know what to do but can’t stay consistent, your schedule makes healthy eating feel impossible, or you’re overwhelmed by mixed messages and past diets that never worked. As a registered dietitian, I help you cut through the noise, simplify nutrition, and create realistic, sustainable habits that fit your life—so you can feel confident and in control again.
If you’re here, you probably want to feel better, have more energy, and finally build habits that stick—but life keeps getting in the way. Maybe you know what to do but can’t stay consistent, your schedule makes healthy eating feel impossible, or you’re overwhelmed by mixed messages and past diets that never worked. As a registered dietitian, I help you cut through the noise, simplify nutrition, and create realistic, sustainable habits that fit your life—so you can feel confident and in control again.
(351) 666-8351 x121 View (351) 666-8351 x121
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 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
Award-winning Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist with 15+ years working with executives, professional athletes, and special operations professionals operating under sustained pressure. My work sits at the intersection of performance nutrition, behavioral science, and emotional mastery. I’ve supported elite operators and their families within hospital-based Sports Medicine and Primary Care systems, and contributed to the development of a longitudinal resiliency program for the CIA's Special Activities Center (SAC), addressing performance across the full operational lifecycle—physical, behavioral, and neurobiological.
Award-winning Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist with 15+ years working with executives, professional athletes, and special operations professionals operating under sustained pressure. My work sits at the intersection of performance nutrition, behavioral science, and emotional mastery. I’ve supported elite operators and their families within hospital-based Sports Medicine and Primary Care systems, and contributed to the development of a longitudinal resiliency program for the CIA's Special Activities Center (SAC), addressing performance across the full operational lifecycle—physical, behavioral, and neurobiological.
(857) 304-9516 View (857) 304-9516
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Westfield?

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.