Nutritionists and Dietitians near Clarksburg, MD
![Photo of Veena Rajpal, MS RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cc0de3fc-337a-469e-9758-33071399288f/1/320x400.png)
I provide nutrition education and counseling to help you with healthy eating lifestyle which can assist you with weight management, control of diabetes, gestational diabetes and many other health conditions such as hyperlipidemia, kidney disease or any digestive issues to include Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, bariatric surgery. I have many years of experience helping patients with tube feedings and assisted patients with Total Parenteral Nutrition. I have over 20 years of experience working in the field of dietetics and nutrition. I offer one on one coaching. Please feel free to call me for a conversation and consultation.
I provide nutrition education and counseling to help you with healthy eating lifestyle which can assist you with weight management, control of diabetes, gestational diabetes and many other health conditions such as hyperlipidemia, kidney disease or any digestive issues to include Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, bariatric surgery. I have many years of experience helping patients with tube feedings and assisted patients with Total Parenteral Nutrition. I have over 20 years of experience working in the field of dietetics and nutrition. I offer one on one coaching. Please feel free to call me for a conversation and consultation.
![Photo of Christina Brockett - Encompass Integrative Wellness, LLC, MS, CNS, LDN, SFN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b33832c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Encompass Integrative Wellness, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, SFN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
My ideal client is someone seeking optimal health. Have you recently been diagnosed with an issue and told that diet and lifestyle changes could help? Do you have digestive issues? Do you feel fatigued and wonder if the food you're eating is the root of the problem? Do you "know" you "should" eat better but just don't know how? When you read all the news on different diets/foods, are you unsure what is best for you? Do you want to be the healthiest you can at any age? If so, I may be able to help. Schedule a free get to know you call: https://p.bttr.to/3rYfZQZ
My ideal client is someone seeking optimal health. Have you recently been diagnosed with an issue and told that diet and lifestyle changes could help? Do you have digestive issues? Do you feel fatigued and wonder if the food you're eating is the root of the problem? Do you "know" you "should" eat better but just don't know how? When you read all the news on different diets/foods, are you unsure what is best for you? Do you want to be the healthiest you can at any age? If so, I may be able to help. Schedule a free get to know you call: https://p.bttr.to/3rYfZQZ
![Photo of Bailey Saneman, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/07df276c-7f90-4461-bbf6-2035a67a9b21/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bailey Saneman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20853 (Online Only)
As a dietitian with a non-diet approach, my nutrition philosophy is rooted in intuitive eating, honoring our bodies, and experiencing joyful movement. I believe that everyone deserves a peaceful relationship with food, movement and their bodies. I work with clients who struggle with food labeling/judgements, weight-cycling and chronic dieting. Together, we will identify goals that meet your own unique needs that allow for a sustainable recovery.
As a dietitian with a non-diet approach, my nutrition philosophy is rooted in intuitive eating, honoring our bodies, and experiencing joyful movement. I believe that everyone deserves a peaceful relationship with food, movement and their bodies. I work with clients who struggle with food labeling/judgements, weight-cycling and chronic dieting. Together, we will identify goals that meet your own unique needs that allow for a sustainable recovery.
![Photo of Ann M Porter - Nutrition On The Go, Inc., RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3364acc1-3ca1-42bb-8143-49b728f6ebf1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our programs at Nutrition On The Go, Inc. are specifically designed and customized to target the unique needs of each client depending on their health circumstances or nutrition diagnosis. We focus on diabetes management, Gestational diabetes, chronic kidney disease, heart disease, cancer, weight management , general healthy nutrition, gastrointestinal issues to include Celiac disease etc. Our dietitian has over 15 years of experience working in the field of dietetics and nutrition.
Our programs at Nutrition On The Go, Inc. are specifically designed and customized to target the unique needs of each client depending on their health circumstances or nutrition diagnosis. We focus on diabetes management, Gestational diabetes, chronic kidney disease, heart disease, cancer, weight management , general healthy nutrition, gastrointestinal issues to include Celiac disease etc. Our dietitian has over 15 years of experience working in the field of dietetics and nutrition.
![Photo of Annelise McGraw - Modyfi Health, MS, LDN, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e2283bf9-aacd-4aaa-b58b-9fbc65f47ab3/1/320x400.png)
Modyfi Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, CNS
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (Online Only)
Welcome to Modyfi! We're an all virtual practice that offers appointments exclusively via Telehealth. Our providers accept most major insurances, and are welcoming new patients with appointments often available in days, not weeks or months. We employ a functional nutrition approach, integrating food, natural medicines, and complementary healing modalities. This approach not only leverages the biochemical pathways but also considers environmental and psycho-social factors critical in adapting to stress and thriving daily.
Welcome to Modyfi! We're an all virtual practice that offers appointments exclusively via Telehealth. Our providers accept most major insurances, and are welcoming new patients with appointments often available in days, not weeks or months. We employ a functional nutrition approach, integrating food, natural medicines, and complementary healing modalities. This approach not only leverages the biochemical pathways but also considers environmental and psycho-social factors critical in adapting to stress and thriving daily.
![Photo of Meagan Lampley, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cf317db9-008c-4f38-a6a3-1abbde32dfba/1/320x400.png)
Are you tired of jumping from diet to diet? Are you interested in a lifestyle that does not revolve around "what I CAN'T eat" but "what makes my body feel good?" If you're ready to leave the world of weight obsession, you've come to the right place! Together we can work to break the diet cycle and find healthful, lasting changes so you can live life to the fullest. Ready to get started?
Are you tired of jumping from diet to diet? Are you interested in a lifestyle that does not revolve around "what I CAN'T eat" but "what makes my body feel good?" If you're ready to leave the world of weight obsession, you've come to the right place! Together we can work to break the diet cycle and find healthful, lasting changes so you can live life to the fullest. Ready to get started?
![Photo of Gabriella Nowicki, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3e050073-e192-4701-ab78-127e595020ff/1/320x400.png)
Gabriella Nowicki
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Hello! My name is Gabby. I am a registered dietitian that works with clients in Maryland and virtually across the USA. I have lived with chronic illness since I was 14, which inspired me to get into the nutrition field. However, over the many years of my education, I developed a poor relationship with food and body image.
Hello! My name is Gabby. I am a registered dietitian that works with clients in Maryland and virtually across the USA. I have lived with chronic illness since I was 14, which inspired me to get into the nutrition field. However, over the many years of my education, I developed a poor relationship with food and body image.
![Photo of Helena Ezzeldin, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/126ed8f4-c6a6-4411-8a51-095ce75783e7/1/320x400.png)
Helena Ezzeldin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
Helena is a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist in the VA, DC, and MD area who is dedicated to helping her clients re-discover a healthy relationship with food and their body.Over the years she has found a deep connection working with co-morbid health challenges that many times accompany disordered eating such as gastrointestinal conditions, Crohn’s Disease, and Hormonal Imbalances. She has strong experience working with the Binge Eating Population, along with other disorder. In all her practices she leads with the Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size(HAES) principles as she guides her clients towards food freedom
Helena is a Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist in the VA, DC, and MD area who is dedicated to helping her clients re-discover a healthy relationship with food and their body.Over the years she has found a deep connection working with co-morbid health challenges that many times accompany disordered eating such as gastrointestinal conditions, Crohn’s Disease, and Hormonal Imbalances. She has strong experience working with the Binge Eating Population, along with other disorder. In all her practices she leads with the Intuitive Eating and Health at Every Size(HAES) principles as she guides her clients towards food freedom
![Photo of Isabelle Harris, MDS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/10ad595f-afba-4aa8-9bcb-ee36a835d141/2/320x400.jpeg)
Isabelle Harris
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MDS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20906
Isabelle is a bilingual (Spanish) dietitian who has helped hundreds of patients living with chronic disease improve their relationship with food to aid in their health outcomes. Isabelle’s main focus is on preventing and treating disease through nutrition education and lifestyle changes. Her mantra: Prevention is key in health! In her free time, Isabelle does photography, goes to new restaurants around the city, plays tennis with her local team, and plans her next destination to travel to. The next place on her list is Japan, for its culture, food, and people.
Isabelle is a bilingual (Spanish) dietitian who has helped hundreds of patients living with chronic disease improve their relationship with food to aid in their health outcomes. Isabelle’s main focus is on preventing and treating disease through nutrition education and lifestyle changes. Her mantra: Prevention is key in health! In her free time, Isabelle does photography, goes to new restaurants around the city, plays tennis with her local team, and plans her next destination to travel to. The next place on her list is Japan, for its culture, food, and people.
![Photo of Erin Lopynski - Eat with Erin, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/96ff4bb4-d70f-44ef-b322-d87ed73da877/1/320x400.jpeg)
Personalized, sustainable outcomes for you and your body. Find or regain confidence that you are making the right food, wellness, and fitness choices to feel your personal best! If you are struggling with weight concerns or looking for disease prevention with root cause lab testing, Erin is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a certificate of training in adult weight management and has 10+ years of clinical experience. If you are here because you want to eliminate mysterious pain and digestion struggles caused by food sensitivities, as an RDN and Certified LEAP Therapist, Erin can help you!
Personalized, sustainable outcomes for you and your body. Find or regain confidence that you are making the right food, wellness, and fitness choices to feel your personal best! If you are struggling with weight concerns or looking for disease prevention with root cause lab testing, Erin is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a certificate of training in adult weight management and has 10+ years of clinical experience. If you are here because you want to eliminate mysterious pain and digestion struggles caused by food sensitivities, as an RDN and Certified LEAP Therapist, Erin can help you!
![Photo of Alyson Roux, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dc645d7f-1550-4afe-b677-e5c7eda36fdd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've been there; exhausted and stressed out where food is my last priority. I help clients identify simple, easy ways to support their bodies.
I've been there; exhausted and stressed out where food is my last priority. I help clients identify simple, easy ways to support their bodies.
![Photo of Blair Solberger, MS , RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/fe42b319-bfe0-424e-ba11-4979d3cd90d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Blair Solberger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS , RD, LDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
My ideal client is someone who has wrestled with finding a healthy relationship with food. I love working with people who feel confused about what information is correct, who feel lost or unsure where to go with their nutrition journey, or who feel like they're stuck in a cycle. I also love working with young athletes whose aim is to perform their best and take care of their nutrition to fuel their play.
My ideal client is someone who has wrestled with finding a healthy relationship with food. I love working with people who feel confused about what information is correct, who feel lost or unsure where to go with their nutrition journey, or who feel like they're stuck in a cycle. I also love working with young athletes whose aim is to perform their best and take care of their nutrition to fuel their play.
![Photo of Carly Fisher, MS, LDN, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f093bde9-ce45-4a9a-8cdb-c87c4f1195c2/1/320x400.png)
Carly Fisher
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, CNS
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (Online Only)
I firmly believe in the transformative power of food to promote and sustain health. Adequate nutrition is fundamental for well-being; without it, true health is unattainable. However, I also recognize that nutrition is just one aspect of holistic wellness. My passion lies in guiding individuals to cultivate a balanced relationship with food, alleviating concerns about weight and chronic conditions. By fostering this harmony, my goal is to empower clients to prioritize what truly matters in life, embracing a sense of peace within their own bodies.
I firmly believe in the transformative power of food to promote and sustain health. Adequate nutrition is fundamental for well-being; without it, true health is unattainable. However, I also recognize that nutrition is just one aspect of holistic wellness. My passion lies in guiding individuals to cultivate a balanced relationship with food, alleviating concerns about weight and chronic conditions. By fostering this harmony, my goal is to empower clients to prioritize what truly matters in life, embracing a sense of peace within their own bodies.
![Photo of Ashley Comparin, MS, LDN, CNS , Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ed0cb7e3-b5df-486d-8d4f-9880478580e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Comparin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, CNS
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (Online Only)
Because of my own personal health journey, I empathize with people who feel trapped and worried that their health challenges have become the new normal. I support my clients and make their voices heard in order to tackle the health challenge head-on.
Because of my own personal health journey, I empathize with people who feel trapped and worried that their health challenges have become the new normal. I support my clients and make their voices heard in order to tackle the health challenge head-on.
![Photo of Victoria Goodman - Victoria Goodman Nutrition, DSC, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/62fcd5c9-1a4a-4b53-9e5d-496c991c2f7c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Goodman Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DSC, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Victoria W. Goodman, DSC,RD,LDN,CLT is a registered dietitian and nutrition therapist with a private practice in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Due to safety concerns with COVID- 19, she now offers virtual appointments only via platforms such as Zoom or FaceTime, or by telephone. Not only is Victoria accomplished in the science of medical nutrition therapy, she is passionate about promoting healthy dietary and lifestyle changes and has helped a diverse group of clients obtain their individual goals. A functional and holistic approach in accordance to medical needs and food presences help to support her mission.
Victoria W. Goodman, DSC,RD,LDN,CLT is a registered dietitian and nutrition therapist with a private practice in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Due to safety concerns with COVID- 19, she now offers virtual appointments only via platforms such as Zoom or FaceTime, or by telephone. Not only is Victoria accomplished in the science of medical nutrition therapy, she is passionate about promoting healthy dietary and lifestyle changes and has helped a diverse group of clients obtain their individual goals. A functional and holistic approach in accordance to medical needs and food presences help to support her mission.
![Photo of Meg Bowman, MS, CNS, LDN, CHES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/593c9808-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Meg Bowman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CHES
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Anxiety, Depression, Stress, ADHD, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Crohn's/Colitis (IBD). These are just a few of the conditions that can be successfully treated through integrative nutrition. At Nutrition Hive, each client is treated as an individual. From diet to supplement recommendations to herbs, you'll get a completely customized care plan that addresses the root causes of your condition in order to shorten the duration and reduce the severity of symptoms.
Anxiety, Depression, Stress, ADHD, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and Crohn's/Colitis (IBD). These are just a few of the conditions that can be successfully treated through integrative nutrition. At Nutrition Hive, each client is treated as an individual. From diet to supplement recommendations to herbs, you'll get a completely customized care plan that addresses the root causes of your condition in order to shorten the duration and reduce the severity of symptoms.
![Photo of Morgan Schmitt, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a079479a-2c82-4d6d-854c-9dead4d4b5ef/2/320x400.png)
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
![Photo of Kaitlin Williams Eckstein, MPH, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8635120f-d36c-4027-85c1-c3075fea09eb/1/320x400.png)
Kaitlin Williams Eckstein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20850
Ever since I was a child, I have been passionate about cooking. Much of my passion probably has to do with growing up with a mom who is a professional chef. Now, I enjoy teaching others to plan and prepare healthy, home-cooked meals. Planning meals for fertility, prenatal nutrition, women's health, hormones, diabetes, PCOS, kidney disease and heart health are my specialties. In addition to individual counseling, I lead grocery store tours and cooking classes and diabetes talks. My personal and professional background provides the ideal support you need to make changes, and offers realistic solutions to the challenges of daily life.
Ever since I was a child, I have been passionate about cooking. Much of my passion probably has to do with growing up with a mom who is a professional chef. Now, I enjoy teaching others to plan and prepare healthy, home-cooked meals. Planning meals for fertility, prenatal nutrition, women's health, hormones, diabetes, PCOS, kidney disease and heart health are my specialties. In addition to individual counseling, I lead grocery store tours and cooking classes and diabetes talks. My personal and professional background provides the ideal support you need to make changes, and offers realistic solutions to the challenges of daily life.
![Photo of Mary Davis, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/bdbd831b-72b5-4877-8596-db5bc4fc50ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you're living with gastrointestinal issues such as IBS, Crohns disease, reflux, bloating, colitis, IBD, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, food sensitivities and GI cancers I can help you to find relief from your symptoms. I specialize in gastrointestinal nutrition and get results for my clients by working with them on highly individualized plans.
If you're living with gastrointestinal issues such as IBS, Crohns disease, reflux, bloating, colitis, IBD, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, food sensitivities and GI cancers I can help you to find relief from your symptoms. I specialize in gastrointestinal nutrition and get results for my clients by working with them on highly individualized plans.
![Photo of Dr. Leandro Pucci, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8e052fb3-6443-4ae5-b146-43f925f13195/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Leandro Pucci
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Glenelg, MD 21737 (Online Only)
Do you want to improve your metabolic health? Struggling with weight, and blood sugar, you are on GLP-1 medication, have issues with male and female hormones, or mental and physical performance? I strive to identify the root cause of my patient's health concerns and develop data-centric, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle interventions based on the low-carb spectrum of Medical Nutrition Therapies that address individual needs, not just fix the symptoms. I can help you reach your health goals with a Personalized and Sustainable plan that fits your goals and concerns.
Do you want to improve your metabolic health? Struggling with weight, and blood sugar, you are on GLP-1 medication, have issues with male and female hormones, or mental and physical performance? I strive to identify the root cause of my patient's health concerns and develop data-centric, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle interventions based on the low-carb spectrum of Medical Nutrition Therapies that address individual needs, not just fix the symptoms. I can help you reach your health goals with a Personalized and Sustainable plan that fits your goals and concerns.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Clarksburg?
To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, town, suburb, zip code, or a provider's name in the search bar at the top of the page. From there, you can filter by specialty, treatment technique, and gender to find a dietitian or nutritionist who matches your needs.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
The terms dietitian and nutritionist are often used interchangeably. However, there are actually key credential differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to keep in mind when seeking a nutrition professional.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle concerns like weight loss or dietary requirements; however, it's always important to find a professional who is a good fit for you. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, your specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals near you to determine whether a dietitian or nutritionist may be a better fit.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Do I need a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
A referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice. However, for a nutrition service to be covered by insurance, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, such as diabetes or hypertension. If insurance coverage is critical to a client's ability to see a dietitian, they should contact their insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed for nutritional counseling and to understand any potential co-pays or coverage limits that may apply in their individual circumstance.
How much does it cost to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
The cost of seeing a dietitian or nutritionist depends on a number of variables, including their location, their specialty, whether they take insurance, and the professional's experience and training. On average, the cost of out-of-pocket sessions with a dietitian or nutritionist within the United States ranges from $50-$150. In some cases, nutrition professionals will require a longer initial evaluation session that will cost more than ongoing follow-up sessions. Dietitians and nutritionists may also offer packages for clients interested in longer-term nutritional support; in such cases, they may charge monthly or other periodic fees for more comprehensive services, such as a combination of nutrition sessions and out-of-session coaching support. If nutrition services are covered by a client's insurance plan and they are eligible for coverage based on any referral requirements, the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a dietitian may be completely covered or significantly reduced.
Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?
If your insurance covers nutrition services, the cost is usually lower than paying out-of-pocket. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.