Nutritionists and Dietitians near Royal Oak, MI
![Photo of Alexandra Georgiadis - Journey Nutrition Counseling, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cac47e78-3849-4e77-8bd7-231d362837f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sara Szatkowski, RDN, RYT-200, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/61b64a60-7149-421b-9b34-cbfa72571977/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of the ongoing ups and downs of diets? Or are you recovering from an eating disorder/disordered eating and just want to be able to eat what you need to thrive and not worry about it constantly? Or maybe you feel you eat pretty healthy but you aren't feeling any better in your body? Sara helps clients to improve their health via nutrition, lifestyle modifications and a mindful based approaches that will help you to feel your best, eat food you love and provide the nutrients your body needs.
Are you tired of the ongoing ups and downs of diets? Or are you recovering from an eating disorder/disordered eating and just want to be able to eat what you need to thrive and not worry about it constantly? Or maybe you feel you eat pretty healthy but you aren't feeling any better in your body? Sara helps clients to improve their health via nutrition, lifestyle modifications and a mindful based approaches that will help you to feel your best, eat food you love and provide the nutrients your body needs.
![Photo of Shivani Sharma, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c6c89b58-54f5-4d01-b5b8-465eaf260250/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you have a chronic health condition such as IBS, Migraines, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, eczema, or others? Since 80% of your immune system is in the gut, foods can act as "triggers" causing inflammation, pain, bloating, diarrhea and more. Your immune system is as unique as a fingerprint, so there is no one-size-fits all solution. What might give one person a migraine doesn't necessarily give someone else a migraine. I personalize my approach by combining nutrition, laboratory analysis and supplements (if needed). Most importantly I listen. You know your body better. Together we'll develop an approach that works for you.
Do you have a chronic health condition such as IBS, Migraines, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, eczema, or others? Since 80% of your immune system is in the gut, foods can act as "triggers" causing inflammation, pain, bloating, diarrhea and more. Your immune system is as unique as a fingerprint, so there is no one-size-fits all solution. What might give one person a migraine doesn't necessarily give someone else a migraine. I personalize my approach by combining nutrition, laboratory analysis and supplements (if needed). Most importantly I listen. You know your body better. Together we'll develop an approach that works for you.
![Photo of Aarti Batavia, MS, RDN, CLT, FSCP, IFMCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/4f159265-a7a0-4362-986a-cfa418b303cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aarti Batavia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, FSCP, IFMCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Do you feel like a shuttlecock going from one physician to another? As an integrative and holistic nutritionist, clinical herbalist and one of the few Certified Functional Medicine Practitioners in the country, I am here to help you reclaim your health and well-being. With over 27 years of experience in clinical & outpatient counseling, I specialize in providing personalized health solutions to manage chronic conditions such as inflammation, autoimmune conditions, digestive/gut issues, IBS/ BD, food allergies, asthma, migraine, fibromyalgia, eczema, obesity metabolic syndrome, hormonal imbalances-peri/ menopause & post menopause.
Do you feel like a shuttlecock going from one physician to another? As an integrative and holistic nutritionist, clinical herbalist and one of the few Certified Functional Medicine Practitioners in the country, I am here to help you reclaim your health and well-being. With over 27 years of experience in clinical & outpatient counseling, I specialize in providing personalized health solutions to manage chronic conditions such as inflammation, autoimmune conditions, digestive/gut issues, IBS/ BD, food allergies, asthma, migraine, fibromyalgia, eczema, obesity metabolic syndrome, hormonal imbalances-peri/ menopause & post menopause.
![Photo of Michelle Roy Fraser, CNC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/dd5d7741-152c-40a5-8440-64b7897bbcd4/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Samantha Barash Intuitive Eating Dietitian - Tap Into Nutrition, LLC, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a1f25245-700e-4697-987b-595bde7274ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Metro Detroit based intuitive eating, eating disorder, registered dietitian. Does thinking about what to eat make you feel confused or frustrated? Overwhelmed by all the fad diets swarming social media? Do you wish you had a better relationship with food and your body? Are you ready to become an Intuitive Eater? You've come to the right place. Welcome to Tap Into Nutrition! We will guide you in your journey to find joy in eating, end the diet cycle, and understand how to best nourish your body utilizing evidence-based practices that are individually customized to best support your goals as you Tap Into (your) Nutrition.
Metro Detroit based intuitive eating, eating disorder, registered dietitian. Does thinking about what to eat make you feel confused or frustrated? Overwhelmed by all the fad diets swarming social media? Do you wish you had a better relationship with food and your body? Are you ready to become an Intuitive Eater? You've come to the right place. Welcome to Tap Into Nutrition! We will guide you in your journey to find joy in eating, end the diet cycle, and understand how to best nourish your body utilizing evidence-based practices that are individually customized to best support your goals as you Tap Into (your) Nutrition.
![Photo of Bethany Matus, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2ba57727-ab14-4b8d-8538-dc2319c0a205/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you or your child been encouraged to make changes to diet and lifestyle to improve your health? Are you feeling stressed at the lack of guidance revolving around feeding and nutrition? Are you looking for improvements to help you feel better or more comfortable in your own skin? Are you searching for someone to listen to you and allow you to participate in your health journey? Whether it is preventing or improving a medical diagnosis, nutritional guidance for your child, weight management, or feeling better by improving food-related symptoms, you’re in the right place.
Have you or your child been encouraged to make changes to diet and lifestyle to improve your health? Are you feeling stressed at the lack of guidance revolving around feeding and nutrition? Are you looking for improvements to help you feel better or more comfortable in your own skin? Are you searching for someone to listen to you and allow you to participate in your health journey? Whether it is preventing or improving a medical diagnosis, nutritional guidance for your child, weight management, or feeling better by improving food-related symptoms, you’re in the right place.
![Photo of Alyson McAdams, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/32a43cd7-73da-4c2d-a97d-2e1251a4810b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eating disorder and intuitive eating specialist. Virtual services available throughout Michigan. My practice specializes in eating disorders, intuitive eating, and weight inclusive nutrition.
Eating disorder and intuitive eating specialist. Virtual services available throughout Michigan. My practice specializes in eating disorders, intuitive eating, and weight inclusive nutrition.
![Photo of Joanna DiCicco - Practical Nutrition Solutions, RD, CDE, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5ac4fc63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Practical Nutrition Solutions
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDE
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
I’m Joanna DiCicco and I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and Diabetes Educator who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating. I am passionate about prioritizing well-being over weight loss, which is why I work from a weight inclusive approach that equally focuses on physical, mental, and emotional health. My approach promotes balanced eating, joyful movement, and respect for the diversity of body shapes and sizes. When looking at health in this lens, you are able to focus on what behaviors you can add to enhance your life and health instead of solely
I’m Joanna DiCicco and I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor and Diabetes Educator who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating. I am passionate about prioritizing well-being over weight loss, which is why I work from a weight inclusive approach that equally focuses on physical, mental, and emotional health. My approach promotes balanced eating, joyful movement, and respect for the diversity of body shapes and sizes. When looking at health in this lens, you are able to focus on what behaviors you can add to enhance your life and health instead of solely
![Photo of Lisa Kirkman, MS, RDN, IFNCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/25dba9b6-66f5-4926-ac75-fcdeee5f1be1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Kirkman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
I help people who are struggling with gut health problems, such as chronic bloating, irregularity, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and low energy, and those who feel frustrated because they aren’t sure which foods to eat anymore or how to manage their symptoms. Gut health problems frequently lead to other health issues, such as mood disorders, headaches, skin conditions, and weight loss resistance. I help my clients implement a highly personalized plan to promote healing in their gut to reduce bloating, regulate digestion, feel confident in their food choices, and enjoy an energetic lifestyle again.
I help people who are struggling with gut health problems, such as chronic bloating, irregularity, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and low energy, and those who feel frustrated because they aren’t sure which foods to eat anymore or how to manage their symptoms. Gut health problems frequently lead to other health issues, such as mood disorders, headaches, skin conditions, and weight loss resistance. I help my clients implement a highly personalized plan to promote healing in their gut to reduce bloating, regulate digestion, feel confident in their food choices, and enjoy an energetic lifestyle again.
![Photo of Arielle Laws, MSHS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1876b90b-55bb-4be0-8e94-90d28cea1283/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of trying to figure it out for yourself? Feel like you’re going in circles? I’ve been there, too. It's so important to eat in a way that nourishes the body at all stages of one’s journey to motherhood, but it's not set-and-forget! In fact, your nutritional needs will change during fertility, from trimester to trimester, and into postpartum recovery. But, it takes a village. And that’s where I come in.
Are you tired of trying to figure it out for yourself? Feel like you’re going in circles? I’ve been there, too. It's so important to eat in a way that nourishes the body at all stages of one’s journey to motherhood, but it's not set-and-forget! In fact, your nutritional needs will change during fertility, from trimester to trimester, and into postpartum recovery. But, it takes a village. And that’s where I come in.
![Photo of Dana Goldberg, MS, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3e68cb9e-b3f0-4a0e-b3f0-bd2ba05299e2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Goldberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Are you sick of trying every diet and never achieving or maintaining your goals? Feel confused and overwhelmed by all the different nutrition information being thrown at you every day? Feel completely ashamed and defeated because you just have no self-control to “get it together”? We will throw out those miserable diets to simplify your nutrition goals and create a life-long solution you love. Whether you’re at home in your kitchen, out to dinner with friends, or on vacation with family, I’ll help you feel confident about your food choices and in control of what you choose to eat.
Are you sick of trying every diet and never achieving or maintaining your goals? Feel confused and overwhelmed by all the different nutrition information being thrown at you every day? Feel completely ashamed and defeated because you just have no self-control to “get it together”? We will throw out those miserable diets to simplify your nutrition goals and create a life-long solution you love. Whether you’re at home in your kitchen, out to dinner with friends, or on vacation with family, I’ll help you feel confident about your food choices and in control of what you choose to eat.
![Photo of Elise Doppel, MPH, FNTP, CCRC, RWP-2, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/65e59cf0-1394-402c-beed-b3311f7b61c1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elise Doppel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, FNTP, CCRC, RWP-2
Verified Verified
Sterling Heights, MI 48312 (Online Only)
As a client at Nutritional Foundations, you'll receive a tailored, bio-individual approach to health and wellness, helping to connect what you eat with how you feel. We curate both short- and long-term goals together to address sustainable weight loss, improved digestion, and blood sugar stabilization. Beyond diet modifications and meal planning tools, I also offer fine-tuning lifestyle support such as sleep hygiene, supplement testing, essential oils, functional movement tips, mindfulness practice, grocery store navigation, and pantry cleanout. Life is too short to be fat, sick, and exhausted! You deserve your next best self.
As a client at Nutritional Foundations, you'll receive a tailored, bio-individual approach to health and wellness, helping to connect what you eat with how you feel. We curate both short- and long-term goals together to address sustainable weight loss, improved digestion, and blood sugar stabilization. Beyond diet modifications and meal planning tools, I also offer fine-tuning lifestyle support such as sleep hygiene, supplement testing, essential oils, functional movement tips, mindfulness practice, grocery store navigation, and pantry cleanout. Life is too short to be fat, sick, and exhausted! You deserve your next best self.
![Photo of Emily Camiener, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58ad28d4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you interested in changing your eating style to enhance your health and well-being? Do you have high blood pressure? Do you need support changing your diet? Are you feeling energized and vibrant? Is your digestive system working the way you want? Making lifestyle changes can increase your energy and feelings of vitality. Are you curious what supplements would benefit your body? Do you have a family member or employees that would benefit from learning about wellness and health promotion? I can provide impactful nutrition coaching, cooking demonstrations, seminars, eating experiences and share my years of experience to help you.
Are you interested in changing your eating style to enhance your health and well-being? Do you have high blood pressure? Do you need support changing your diet? Are you feeling energized and vibrant? Is your digestive system working the way you want? Making lifestyle changes can increase your energy and feelings of vitality. Are you curious what supplements would benefit your body? Do you have a family member or employees that would benefit from learning about wellness and health promotion? I can provide impactful nutrition coaching, cooking demonstrations, seminars, eating experiences and share my years of experience to help you.
![Photo of Kristen L Lorenz, RD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5b0a9c0a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen L Lorenz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CNSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, MI 48025 (Online Only)
I'm glad you're here! There's SO much information circulating about nutrition: what to do, how to do it, when, why. It can feel like you're drowning in information. That's what I'm here for! I'll quiet the noise and customize a roadmap for you and your goals. This is not a cookie-cutter program! It is individualized and YOURS. We focus on building health-supportive habits and bring more awareness to your body and mind. I want to get to know YOU - your history with food and eating, your current struggles with food, your likes and dislikes, lifestyle, health history and your personality.
I'm glad you're here! There's SO much information circulating about nutrition: what to do, how to do it, when, why. It can feel like you're drowning in information. That's what I'm here for! I'll quiet the noise and customize a roadmap for you and your goals. This is not a cookie-cutter program! It is individualized and YOURS. We focus on building health-supportive habits and bring more awareness to your body and mind. I want to get to know YOU - your history with food and eating, your current struggles with food, your likes and dislikes, lifestyle, health history and your personality.
![Photo of Julia Stevens - Active Nutrition, MPH, RDN, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/91499116-7aef-426c-a138-32f38107dc56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Active Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CPT
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with your weight? Have you tried diet after diet, had some success, then regained what you lost and then some? Are you confused about what healthy eating really means? If you answered yes to these questions, good news... you're in the right place! Let's get started with real, 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 meal 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.
Are you frustrated with your weight? Have you tried diet after diet, had some success, then regained what you lost and then some? Are you confused about what healthy eating really means? If you answered yes to these questions, good news... you're in the right place! Let's get started with real, 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 meal 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.
![Photo of Libby Stenzel, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/eecbfb0c-3cf9-4471-9ca3-03f5e0a30285/1/320x400.jpeg)
Libby Stenzel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 (Online Only)
Eating Disorder Dietitian specializing in taking an emotionally & psychologically-attuned approach to nutrition counseling. We will go beyond just the "nutrition practicals" of eating and also consider what thoughts, fears, and beliefs are driving any disordered eating patterns. If you're looking for an RD with a warm, compassionate, and creative approach, you are in the right place! Walking through my own anorexia recovery 15 years ago has given me the passion and empathy needed to help others do the same. I see clients virtually in Michigan, Idaho, & Arizona, and would love to support you in reaching lasting healing and freedom.
Eating Disorder Dietitian specializing in taking an emotionally & psychologically-attuned approach to nutrition counseling. We will go beyond just the "nutrition practicals" of eating and also consider what thoughts, fears, and beliefs are driving any disordered eating patterns. If you're looking for an RD with a warm, compassionate, and creative approach, you are in the right place! Walking through my own anorexia recovery 15 years ago has given me the passion and empathy needed to help others do the same. I see clients virtually in Michigan, Idaho, & Arizona, and would love to support you in reaching lasting healing and freedom.
![Photo of Kumkum Kumar - Nutrition4Health and Wellness, LLC, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/383616a8-c2e0-4d4d-968b-75ad1d7a5c04/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nutrition4Health and Wellness, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
Do you have chronic health issues and are overwhelmed by nutritional information overload? Are you tired of following new diets that come and go in the market? Are you diagnosed with a medical condition that needs a specialized diet? If you are trying to improve your health in areas of weight management, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, or other medical conditions that need a specialized diet then “Nutrition 4 Health and Wellness” is your go-to place that provides a whole health approach for your nutritional, emotional, behavioral, physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being.
Do you have chronic health issues and are overwhelmed by nutritional information overload? Are you tired of following new diets that come and go in the market? Are you diagnosed with a medical condition that needs a specialized diet? If you are trying to improve your health in areas of weight management, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, or other medical conditions that need a specialized diet then “Nutrition 4 Health and Wellness” is your go-to place that provides a whole health approach for your nutritional, emotional, behavioral, physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being.
![Photo of Samantha Shuflin, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b88c9f3a-2a1f-4940-a39d-e692d48b48e9/4/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Shuflin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a Masters of Science in Nutrition. I personalize my approach to each unique client. Your current health goals, medical history, diet history, family life, budget, time to cook, etc., all play a part in your nutrition plan.
I am a board-certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a Masters of Science in Nutrition. I personalize my approach to each unique client. Your current health goals, medical history, diet history, family life, budget, time to cook, etc., all play a part in your nutrition plan.
![Photo of Caitlyn Hunter, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/47f53675-a214-4c09-ba3c-fa2afeae91a2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help women lose weight without diets and the restrictions they bring by teaching them how to eat for their body, goals, and lifestyle. You're confused about where to start and knowing what is actually right because you are in diet information overload. You need a step by step plan to follow and guidance that makes nutrition simple, fun, enjoyable, and sustainable long term. You're busy and time is limited, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your health. Little changes can go a long way, and eating healthy doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
I help women lose weight without diets and the restrictions they bring by teaching them how to eat for their body, goals, and lifestyle. You're confused about where to start and knowing what is actually right because you are in diet information overload. You need a step by step plan to follow and guidance that makes nutrition simple, fun, enjoyable, and sustainable long term. You're busy and time is limited, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your health. Little changes can go a long way, and eating healthy doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Royal Oak?
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.