Nutritionists and Dietitians in Farmington Hills, MI

Photo of Julia Stevens - Active Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CPT
Active Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CPT
Online Only
Have you just started a GLP-1 medication or something similar? Maybe you're considering bariatric surgery or want to try weight loss again on your own. Join the Catalyst Weight Loss Program. A 12 week, personalized approach to weight loss. Taught by dietitians and personal trainers with practical strategies and solutions to living a healthy life all while reaching your wellness and weight goals! As an Active Nutrition client, you will receive an individualized nutrition plan focused on macronutrients and portion sizes, personalized fitness coaching, goal setting, and use of my app, so we can keep in touch as much as needed.
Have you just started a GLP-1 medication or something similar? Maybe you're considering bariatric surgery or want to try weight loss again on your own. Join the Catalyst Weight Loss Program. A 12 week, personalized approach to weight loss. Taught by dietitians and personal trainers with practical strategies and solutions to living a healthy life all while reaching your wellness and weight goals! As an Active Nutrition client, you will receive an individualized nutrition plan focused on macronutrients and portion sizes, personalized fitness coaching, goal setting, and use of my app, so we can keep in touch as much as needed.
(248) 243-8343 View (248) 243-8343
Photo of Natalie Watha, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Natalie Watha
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
Do you want to prevent heart disease or prevent a heart attack? Do you need to lower your cholesterol, blood pressure or your triglycerides? Do you need to lower your A1c? Do you want to feel better and live a longer, healthier life? I would love to help you!
Do you want to prevent heart disease or prevent a heart attack? Do you need to lower your cholesterol, blood pressure or your triglycerides? Do you need to lower your A1c? Do you want to feel better and live a longer, healthier life? I would love to help you!
(248) 985-9386 View (248) 985-9386

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Braeden Yacobucci, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CPT, CNSC
Braeden Yacobucci
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CPT, CNSC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
This client is talkative, friendly, and eager to learn. They have diagnosed IBS and sought support to work through a low FODMAP plan with a dietitian. Symptoms are limiting daily activities and enjoyment of life, so relief would help them feel like themselves again. I enjoy gut health work because it’s a complex puzzle we solve together to create a new, lower-symptom baseline. They’re typically 20–40 years old and open to exploring a variety of tools.
This client is talkative, friendly, and eager to learn. They have diagnosed IBS and sought support to work through a low FODMAP plan with a dietitian. Symptoms are limiting daily activities and enjoyment of life, so relief would help them feel like themselves again. I enjoy gut health work because it’s a complex puzzle we solve together to create a new, lower-symptom baseline. They’re typically 20–40 years old and open to exploring a variety of tools.
(513) 548-3968 View (513) 548-3968
Photo of Emma Wood, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Emma Wood
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
(904) 454-8105 View (904) 454-8105
Photo of Jill Kott, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Jill Kott
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Online Only
I provide compassionate, evidence-based nutrition care to support individuals recovering from eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating, ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), and OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder). Additionally, I support clients who are interested in intuitive eating and/or managing health concerns through a weight-inclusive lens. I partner with clients to develop sustainable strategies for managing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, digestive concerns, dyslipidemia, and more.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based nutrition care to support individuals recovering from eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating, ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), and OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder). Additionally, I support clients who are interested in intuitive eating and/or managing health concerns through a weight-inclusive lens. I partner with clients to develop sustainable strategies for managing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, digestive concerns, dyslipidemia, and more.
(425) 382-8979 View (425) 382-8979
Photo of Daniela Jannette, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Daniela Jannette
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Online Only
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
View
Photo of Kendall Shanks, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Kendall Shanks
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
As I grow older, I realize I want to help adults and older adults continue living their best lives. My ideal client is someone who doesn’t judge themselves by their chronological age, but wants to live healthfully and simply needs the right tools, guidance, and confidence to inspire both themselves and their families.
As I grow older, I realize I want to help adults and older adults continue living their best lives. My ideal client is someone who doesn’t judge themselves by their chronological age, but wants to live healthfully and simply needs the right tools, guidance, and confidence to inspire both themselves and their families.
(813) 590-1238 View (813) 590-1238
Photo of Niara Osman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Niara Osman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Online Only
I believe nutrition should feel supportive, realistic, and empowering—not overwhelming. My approach is personalized and judgment-free, focusing on evidence-based guidance that fits your lifestyle, culture, and goals. Whether you’re working on weight management, gut health, or improving lab values, I partner with you to create sustainable habits that lead to real, lasting results.
I believe nutrition should feel supportive, realistic, and empowering—not overwhelming. My approach is personalized and judgment-free, focusing on evidence-based guidance that fits your lifestyle, culture, and goals. Whether you’re working on weight management, gut health, or improving lab values, I partner with you to create sustainable habits that lead to real, lasting results.
(862) 292-9023 View (862) 292-9023
Photo of Elyse Huskey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Elyse Huskey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Online Only
I am a high-performance health & training coach with a background in nutrition. I believe purposeful training is the single greatest lever for your healthspan and longevity. Nutrition exists to support your exercise. Whether you’re focused on Zone 2 endurance, VO2 max optimization, or building lean muscle and stability, I provide the blueprint to align your fuel with your output. I help you shift from confusion to confidence by mastering strategic meal planning and precise sport fueling. My practice is for motivated individuals ready to invest in their performance and long-term athletic health.
I am a high-performance health & training coach with a background in nutrition. I believe purposeful training is the single greatest lever for your healthspan and longevity. Nutrition exists to support your exercise. Whether you’re focused on Zone 2 endurance, VO2 max optimization, or building lean muscle and stability, I provide the blueprint to align your fuel with your output. I help you shift from confusion to confidence by mastering strategic meal planning and precise sport fueling. My practice is for motivated individuals ready to invest in their performance and long-term athletic health.
(734) 371-8403 View (734) 371-8403
Photo of Abbie Widing, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Abbie Widing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
(659) 216-8557 View (659) 216-8557
Photo of Anthony Beard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CIEC
Anthony Beard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CIEC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In a 1995 Nutrition in Medical Science Class, I discovered that statistically, African Americans suffered disproportionately from many chronic diseases. I made it my goal in this life to discover a solution to alter the trajectory of the problem. I now help African-Americans develop a proper relationship with the food they eat by incorporating culture into the recipe of active living, glorious nutrition and wellness!
In a 1995 Nutrition in Medical Science Class, I discovered that statistically, African Americans suffered disproportionately from many chronic diseases. I made it my goal in this life to discover a solution to alter the trajectory of the problem. I now help African-Americans develop a proper relationship with the food they eat by incorporating culture into the recipe of active living, glorious nutrition and wellness!
(216) 666-5361 View (216) 666-5361
Photo of Nikki Fata, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CEDS
Nikki Fata
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CEDS
Online Only
If food feels difficult, confusing and/or causes you worry, let’s talk about it. I’m here to help make it a bit easier. I use a nonjudgmental, weight-neutral and gender inclusive approach, to help all people realize that food can and does mean so much more than just the nutrients on the plate, and empower them that having a normalized relationship with food is possible. I believe in utilizing an all foods fit mentality to neutralize from the notion of “good” or “bad” foods. I specialize in working with adults, but can provide referrals to other providers who work with children or adolescents, upon request.
If food feels difficult, confusing and/or causes you worry, let’s talk about it. I’m here to help make it a bit easier. I use a nonjudgmental, weight-neutral and gender inclusive approach, to help all people realize that food can and does mean so much more than just the nutrients on the plate, and empower them that having a normalized relationship with food is possible. I believe in utilizing an all foods fit mentality to neutralize from the notion of “good” or “bad” foods. I specialize in working with adults, but can provide referrals to other providers who work with children or adolescents, upon request.
(312) 626-8667 View (312) 626-8667
Photo of Paula Kerr, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Paula Kerr
Nutritionist/Dietitian
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Paula is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Professional Cook, and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who practices at Health Loft. She believes people can find a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies with a compassionate guide who listens, offers accountability, and champions their efforts. Paula supports individuals seeking freedom from dieting cycles and rigid food rules by helping them uncover the “why” behind behaviors to build sustainable habits and nourishing life rhythms.
Paula is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Professional Cook, and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who practices at Health Loft. She believes people can find a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies with a compassionate guide who listens, offers accountability, and champions their efforts. Paula supports individuals seeking freedom from dieting cycles and rigid food rules by helping them uncover the “why” behind behaviors to build sustainable habits and nourishing life rhythms.
(667) 326-8196 View (667) 326-8196
Photo of Anna Velazquez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Anna Velazquez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
(561) 709-2317 View (561) 709-2317
Photo of Samantha Barash Intuitive Eating Dietitian - Tap Into Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Tap Into Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Lathrup Village, MI 48076
Metro Detroit–based registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating and non-diet nutrition. Tap Into Nutrition provides individualized, evidence-based counseling to help clients improve nutrition, support overall health, and build a sustainable relationship with food. We help individuals step away from diet culture, reduce food stress, and reconnect with hunger, fullness, and body cues while creating realistic, sustainable eating habits that support long-term health and well-being.
Metro Detroit–based registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating and non-diet nutrition. Tap Into Nutrition provides individualized, evidence-based counseling to help clients improve nutrition, support overall health, and build a sustainable relationship with food. We help individuals step away from diet culture, reduce food stress, and reconnect with hunger, fullness, and body cues while creating realistic, sustainable eating habits that support long-term health and well-being.
(248) 218-9532 View (248) 218-9532
Photo of Ayah Muhsen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Ayah Muhsen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals who want to build a more balanced, peaceful, and sustainable relationship with food. Many come to me feeling tired of dieting, confused by nutrition advice, or stuck in patterns that do not feel supportive. As a Registered Dietitian, I use a non-diet, intuitive eating approach to provide realistic, evidence-based guidance that helps clients feel more confident, nourished, and at ease with their choices.
My ideal clients are individuals who want to build a more balanced, peaceful, and sustainable relationship with food. Many come to me feeling tired of dieting, confused by nutrition advice, or stuck in patterns that do not feel supportive. As a Registered Dietitian, I use a non-diet, intuitive eating approach to provide realistic, evidence-based guidance that helps clients feel more confident, nourished, and at ease with their choices.
(773) 985-4270 View (773) 985-4270
Photo of Katie Gross, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Katie Gross
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
Katie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist that collaborates with all clients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support their overall health and well-being. Food acts as fuel but also has the ability to cultivate memories, emotions and traditions. She believes that food should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. With an “all foods fit”, body positive approach, Katie focuses on identifying individual barriers and personal preferences as she works closely to establish confidence in clients reaching their unique goals.
(612) 326-0011 View (612) 326-0011
Photo of Danielle Herrera, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Danielle Herrera
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Danielle’s ideal client is a bariatric patient struggling to meet daily protein needs. Common concerns include low energy, confusion about which foods are appropriate, and uncertainty around high-protein sources. Clients often want guidance on protein goals and support with staying consistent with bariatric multivitamins.
Danielle’s ideal client is a bariatric patient struggling to meet daily protein needs. Common concerns include low energy, confusion about which foods are appropriate, and uncertainty around high-protein sources. Clients often want guidance on protein goals and support with staying consistent with bariatric multivitamins.
(615) 219-8246 View (615) 219-8246
Photo of Michelle Roy Fraser, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNC
Michelle Roy Fraser
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CNC
Ortonville, MI 48462
Many of my clients have been diagnosed with Cancer and other chronic conditions and are not sure how to use food to support their health as they go through treatment. It can be confusing unravelling all of the information out there. My mission is to help support people gain control of their health, leveraging food as medicine and in combination with the conventional therapies. I also work with people who are looking to prevent cancer with nutritional strategies for life long health and longevity.
Many of my clients have been diagnosed with Cancer and other chronic conditions and are not sure how to use food to support their health as they go through treatment. It can be confusing unravelling all of the information out there. My mission is to help support people gain control of their health, leveraging food as medicine and in combination with the conventional therapies. I also work with people who are looking to prevent cancer with nutritional strategies for life long health and longevity.
(248) 846-0187 View (248) 846-0187
Photo of Alexandra Georgiadis - Journey Nutrition Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Journey Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Royal Oak, MI 48073
At Journey Nutrition Counseling we deeply understand that your relationship with food and your body is much more than calorie formulas and scientific facts. Without exploring our relationship with food, facts can leave us feeling more confused and overwhelmed. At Journey we provide nutrition education based on your needs, but you will also find a safe space to identify any mental or emotional aspects of eating that may be holding you back from the life you want.
At Journey Nutrition Counseling we deeply understand that your relationship with food and your body is much more than calorie formulas and scientific facts. Without exploring our relationship with food, facts can leave us feeling more confused and overwhelmed. At Journey we provide nutrition education based on your needs, but you will also find a safe space to identify any mental or emotional aspects of eating that may be holding you back from the life you want.
(248) 780-0374 View (248) 780-0374
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Farmington Hills?

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.