Nutritionists and Dietitians near Chesterfield, MO
![Photo of Emily Hammon - Registered Dietitian, Emily H, RD LD N, CYNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8170703a-9fc0-4efd-83a8-343371b329bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Registered Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, Emily H, RD LD N, CYNS
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017 (Online Only)
Emily is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She is enrolled in Maryland University of Integrative Health’s Doctor of Clinical Nutrition program. Her extensive years in clinical settings have made her an expert at improving dual-diagnosis outcomes for many clients and those with weight concerns. She has practitioner capabilities to order labs and food allergy/sensitivity testing through Rupa Health and Oxford Biomedical Technologies. Book on-line at: www.faynutrition.com/dietitians/emily-hammon
Emily is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She is enrolled in Maryland University of Integrative Health’s Doctor of Clinical Nutrition program. Her extensive years in clinical settings have made her an expert at improving dual-diagnosis outcomes for many clients and those with weight concerns. She has practitioner capabilities to order labs and food allergy/sensitivity testing through Rupa Health and Oxford Biomedical Technologies. Book on-line at: www.faynutrition.com/dietitians/emily-hammon
![Photo of Dani Roberts, RDN, LDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/636ed98b-91a9-4a47-8f45-477daa21963b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dani Roberts
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterfield, MO 63017
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) passionate about helping people make peace with food and their bodies. My nutrition expertise will help you sort out the truths and lies we read about nutrition. A relationship with food and eating is not meant to be so complicated and scary. I will teach you how to live a life free of ‘food rules and restrictions.’ I am able to see client virtually in the following states: AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, MI, NC, NJ, NY, MO, OK, OR, PA, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, & WY.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) passionate about helping people make peace with food and their bodies. My nutrition expertise will help you sort out the truths and lies we read about nutrition. A relationship with food and eating is not meant to be so complicated and scary. I will teach you how to live a life free of ‘food rules and restrictions.’ I am able to see client virtually in the following states: AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, MA, MI, NC, NJ, NY, MO, OK, OR, PA, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, & WY.
![Photo of Jennifer Louise Mcdaniel - McDaniel Nutrition Therapy, MS, RD, CSSD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2efce83d-9b28-4f20-905b-1153c323e7d2/1/320x400.png)
McDaniel Nutrition Therapy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
We believe you deserve to lead a life of empowered health based on your personal wisdom, experience, values. We commit to walk beside you in your personal health journey with support that is grounded in evidence, respect and a true understanding of your goals. Our team of registered dietitians trade hype for science-backed wisdom and personal experience. We exchange perfection-seeking plans for simple, human insights. And most importantly, we believe that personal growth can only come when we are curious and compassionate.
We believe you deserve to lead a life of empowered health based on your personal wisdom, experience, values. We commit to walk beside you in your personal health journey with support that is grounded in evidence, respect and a true understanding of your goals. Our team of registered dietitians trade hype for science-backed wisdom and personal experience. We exchange perfection-seeking plans for simple, human insights. And most importantly, we believe that personal growth can only come when we are curious and compassionate.
![Photo of Emma Claire Donovan, MA, NTP, LCPC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/fc31d9cb-55f9-42f6-9055-5db1f1304b14/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide truly integrative, holistic, and spiritual mind-body care to my clients. As a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, Licensed Professional Counselor, Depth Hypnosis Practitioner, Applied Shamanic Counselor, Advanced Yoga Instructor, Psychedelic Integration Therapist, and Masters Degree student in Nutrition and Functional Medicine, I most enjoy working with clients who are excited to embrace holistic care that can help them on a spiritual, emotional, mental, physical, and nutritional level.
I provide truly integrative, holistic, and spiritual mind-body care to my clients. As a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, Licensed Professional Counselor, Depth Hypnosis Practitioner, Applied Shamanic Counselor, Advanced Yoga Instructor, Psychedelic Integration Therapist, and Masters Degree student in Nutrition and Functional Medicine, I most enjoy working with clients who are excited to embrace holistic care that can help them on a spiritual, emotional, mental, physical, and nutritional level.
![Photo of Lauren Gallen - Wholemade Nutrition, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c810e509-f4f6-4288-ab3d-fa315f9674d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are three Registered Dietitian Nutritionists with a mission to empower women to create sustainable lifestyle habits and cultivate a healthy, nourishing relationship with food through individualized coaching using a whole food focused, flexible and evidenced based approach. For fertility focused clients, whether you're managing symptoms of PCOS, ready to start preparing to conceive, or on your TTC journey we can help you find a nutrition plan to support your reproductive health.
We are three Registered Dietitian Nutritionists with a mission to empower women to create sustainable lifestyle habits and cultivate a healthy, nourishing relationship with food through individualized coaching using a whole food focused, flexible and evidenced based approach. For fertility focused clients, whether you're managing symptoms of PCOS, ready to start preparing to conceive, or on your TTC journey we can help you find a nutrition plan to support your reproductive health.
![Photo of Chelsea Martin Straight - Finding Freedom Nutrition and Counseling, LLC, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d6d9f42d-9ae2-4f3f-850b-ed7038370e82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding Freedom Nutrition and Counseling, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Town And Country, MO 63017
We are a team of highly trained and specialized clinicians assisting our clients in finding freedom in their lives, body and relationships. Are you tired of the constant thoughts about food and your body? Do you find yourself stuck between what you want and what you need? Do you wish that someone would give you permission to just eating what you want without having to engage in diet culture? If you answered yes to any of these, we are the right fit for you!
We are a team of highly trained and specialized clinicians assisting our clients in finding freedom in their lives, body and relationships. Are you tired of the constant thoughts about food and your body? Do you find yourself stuck between what you want and what you need? Do you wish that someone would give you permission to just eating what you want without having to engage in diet culture? If you answered yes to any of these, we are the right fit for you!
![Photo of Damaris Karanja - Healing Streams Counseling, LLC, MA, MEd, LPC, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f0783b31-d41c-4cfb-b1c1-4762510520f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Streams Counseling, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, MEd, LPC, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
Are you struggling with a poor relationship with food or binge eating? Do you feel like you are out of control and food controls your life? Are you tired of being on diets and are ready to embrace a new relationship with your body and food? We know that diets do not work. I utilize the Intuitive Eating approach to restore a healthy relationship with your body and food. I hold dual licenses as a Licensed Mental Health Professional Counselor and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist giving me a unique set of skills to treat food related issues, including subconscious thoughts, past trauma, and difficult emotions.
Are you struggling with a poor relationship with food or binge eating? Do you feel like you are out of control and food controls your life? Are you tired of being on diets and are ready to embrace a new relationship with your body and food? We know that diets do not work. I utilize the Intuitive Eating approach to restore a healthy relationship with your body and food. I hold dual licenses as a Licensed Mental Health Professional Counselor and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist giving me a unique set of skills to treat food related issues, including subconscious thoughts, past trauma, and difficult emotions.
![Photo of Jojo Buckley, MS, RD, LD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3716bd17-8f26-42a3-aca0-abc7fde2ac18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jojo Buckley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CPT
Verified Verified
Fenton, MO 63026 (Online Only)
I am a registered dietitian (RD) passionate about going beyond conventional nutrition counseling to place a strong emphasis on fostering a positive and healing relationship with food. Understanding that each individual's journey is unique, I tailor nutrition guidance to empower clients to make choices that align with their body's needs and preferences. I prioritize integrating trauma-informed principles into every interaction due to the profound impact that trauma can have on one's relationship with food. I work to create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their nutritional needs with sensitivity and understanding.
I am a registered dietitian (RD) passionate about going beyond conventional nutrition counseling to place a strong emphasis on fostering a positive and healing relationship with food. Understanding that each individual's journey is unique, I tailor nutrition guidance to empower clients to make choices that align with their body's needs and preferences. I prioritize integrating trauma-informed principles into every interaction due to the profound impact that trauma can have on one's relationship with food. I work to create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their nutritional needs with sensitivity and understanding.
![Photo of Sarah Volling, MS, RD, LDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59f1145b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Volling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Finding foods that help you meet your health goals can be challenging. Hormonal imbalance, nutrient deficiencies, or autoimmune conditions can muddy the waters. With 80% of the body’s immune system residing in the gut, working with a practitioner that understands how food effects the microbiome and hormones, is essential to creating a practical path to wellness. Do you suffer from chronic health conditions such as lupus, IBD, fibromyalgia, RA, MS, or others? Do you have signs of poor digestion such as IBS, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or struggle with stubborn weight? The type of food you are consuming could be to blame.
Finding foods that help you meet your health goals can be challenging. Hormonal imbalance, nutrient deficiencies, or autoimmune conditions can muddy the waters. With 80% of the body’s immune system residing in the gut, working with a practitioner that understands how food effects the microbiome and hormones, is essential to creating a practical path to wellness. Do you suffer from chronic health conditions such as lupus, IBD, fibromyalgia, RA, MS, or others? Do you have signs of poor digestion such as IBS, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or struggle with stubborn weight? The type of food you are consuming could be to blame.
![Photo of Abby Malloy, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3799137e-0eed-4f6b-a7ea-eb0d9097bb1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
As your wellness bestie, I'm here for it all. If you suffer from bloating, constipation, loose stools, fatigue, or skin issues, let's fix that! I help both men and women find the true reason behind their symptoms and help them to feel their best. If you're ready to put behind the days of worrying why you're constantly struggling to manage your symptoms, cutting out foods without relief, and overwhelmed with what will work, fill out the form on my website for a free 30 minute discovery call. We chat about your struggles and how we can work together to overcome them!
As your wellness bestie, I'm here for it all. If you suffer from bloating, constipation, loose stools, fatigue, or skin issues, let's fix that! I help both men and women find the true reason behind their symptoms and help them to feel their best. If you're ready to put behind the days of worrying why you're constantly struggling to manage your symptoms, cutting out foods without relief, and overwhelmed with what will work, fill out the form on my website for a free 30 minute discovery call. We chat about your struggles and how we can work together to overcome them!
![Photo of The Food Sensitivity Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d22a06cc-d27c-48cf-b2d4-80b45629513c/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Food Sensitivity Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Are you miserable? Are you finally ready for a change? If you suffer from an inflammatory disease like eczema, brain fog/fatigue, migraines, IBS, acne, depression, MS, PCOS, insulin resistance, or hashimotos, I am here to listen to your story AND help you get relief. You might feel good on some days, but not on others. Food is mostly like the problem. I’m here to help you balance your health, so you can flourish your life! I am a certified LEAP therapist and use the MRT blood test (not EverlyWell or Alcat) to find food sensitivities. Most clients see a decrease in symptoms after 14 days on the LEAP diet.
Are you miserable? Are you finally ready for a change? If you suffer from an inflammatory disease like eczema, brain fog/fatigue, migraines, IBS, acne, depression, MS, PCOS, insulin resistance, or hashimotos, I am here to listen to your story AND help you get relief. You might feel good on some days, but not on others. Food is mostly like the problem. I’m here to help you balance your health, so you can flourish your life! I am a certified LEAP therapist and use the MRT blood test (not EverlyWell or Alcat) to find food sensitivities. Most clients see a decrease in symptoms after 14 days on the LEAP diet.
![Photo of Kristin Paver, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/fe9b9349-0bac-49cd-ba3f-a82bd6214fda/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
![Photo of Paige Aberasturi Penick, RDN, LD, CLT, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c4bbca76-f45b-497d-bffc-67a25b582677/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Aberasturi Penick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
Is food making you feel poorly? Perhaps you have chronic struggles such as migraines, eczema, or diarrhea. Or maybe you're finding yourself overeating, stress eating or feeling bad about your body and how you look. You've likely tried a variety of things to solve your nutrition problems, but they haven't worked long term. You probably wish food would be more enjoyable, less work and not leave you feeling so terrible. You aren't alone. It doesn't have to be this hard. You just haven't found your solution yet.
Is food making you feel poorly? Perhaps you have chronic struggles such as migraines, eczema, or diarrhea. Or maybe you're finding yourself overeating, stress eating or feeling bad about your body and how you look. You've likely tried a variety of things to solve your nutrition problems, but they haven't worked long term. You probably wish food would be more enjoyable, less work and not leave you feeling so terrible. You aren't alone. It doesn't have to be this hard. You just haven't found your solution yet.
![Photo of Tammy S Cook, MS, RD, LD, CEDRD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5aaf785e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered, licensed dietitian, certified eating disorder specialist and nutrition therapist. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders. I also work with clients on body image, fitness, sports nutrition, intuitive eating, weight management, medical conditions requiring dietary modification and postoperative bariatric surgery diets.
I am a registered, licensed dietitian, certified eating disorder specialist and nutrition therapist. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders. I also work with clients on body image, fitness, sports nutrition, intuitive eating, weight management, medical conditions requiring dietary modification and postoperative bariatric surgery diets.
![Photo of Nikki Finkenthal - Better Balance , MA, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3f37e299-84f4-4b98-ba13-3aaf781b27c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Nikki a registered dietitian here to help you find a life of health, happiness & balance. I started Better Balance to give you a solution to achieving the health & life of balance you deserve. A practice with no rigidity, restrictions or judgement & an individualized approach that honors your values. We strive to support, guide & encourage you every step of the way. If you are looking to have a better relationship with food, learn how to properly nourish and fuel your body, develop sustainable habits, manage your chronic disease and/ or achieve your weight loss goals through sustainable practices, we can support you.
Hi, I'm Nikki a registered dietitian here to help you find a life of health, happiness & balance. I started Better Balance to give you a solution to achieving the health & life of balance you deserve. A practice with no rigidity, restrictions or judgement & an individualized approach that honors your values. We strive to support, guide & encourage you every step of the way. If you are looking to have a better relationship with food, learn how to properly nourish and fuel your body, develop sustainable habits, manage your chronic disease and/ or achieve your weight loss goals through sustainable practices, we can support you.
![Photo of Heidi M Williams - Real Nutrition & Fitness, LLC, MPH, RD, CSSD, LD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/434e35ac-2ca0-4ffb-8e68-280766956a39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Real Nutrition & Fitness, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CSSD, LD, CPT
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
As a registered dietitian, I specialize in intuitive eating by teaching individuals to give up the diet mentality and start focusing on incorporating all foods into their diet. I also use this same philosophy among the athletes I work with and those struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating. I teach my clients to empower themselves to start saying yes to foods instead of no. Changing the way we eat is a lifestyle change but it doesn’t have to be radical either. Nutrition does not have to be difficult, but somehow we have made eating food very confusing.
As a registered dietitian, I specialize in intuitive eating by teaching individuals to give up the diet mentality and start focusing on incorporating all foods into their diet. I also use this same philosophy among the athletes I work with and those struggling with eating disorders and disordered eating. I teach my clients to empower themselves to start saying yes to foods instead of no. Changing the way we eat is a lifestyle change but it doesn’t have to be radical either. Nutrition does not have to be difficult, but somehow we have made eating food very confusing.
![Photo of Sarah Plymire, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/11d7df53-d820-4891-b6a2-147a04c57cb1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with women who desire to eat to nourish their body and prioritizes their health. I love working with women because they are AMAZING! Women are constantly catching up to the hormonal changes happening within their bodies. Whether it be pregnancy, postpartum/lactation, infertility, menopause, a new food allergy, or adapting to a new season of life, my clients understand that we can work with our body to manage symptoms by adapting our nutrition.
I work with women who desire to eat to nourish their body and prioritizes their health. I love working with women because they are AMAZING! Women are constantly catching up to the hormonal changes happening within their bodies. Whether it be pregnancy, postpartum/lactation, infertility, menopause, a new food allergy, or adapting to a new season of life, my clients understand that we can work with our body to manage symptoms by adapting our nutrition.
![Photo of Gretchen Coleman Wallace - Full Life Nutrition Counseling, MS, RD, CD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3c36cf57-abf1-462c-ac74-62b0ad6f41ae/3/320x400.jpeg)
Full Life Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63104 (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and young adults to achieve a healthy relationship with food, body, and exercise. I include families in my treatment, as needed, to ensure adequate supports for everyone. Treating an eating disorder works best with a team- I work with parents, therapists, medical providers, and any other professionals to help my clients recover.
I work with adolescents and young adults to achieve a healthy relationship with food, body, and exercise. I include families in my treatment, as needed, to ensure adequate supports for everyone. Treating an eating disorder works best with a team- I work with parents, therapists, medical providers, and any other professionals to help my clients recover.
![Photo of Cristen Luehmann - Cristen Luehmann Nutrition Counseling, LLC, MS, RDN/LD, CEDS, NBC-HWC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/905e2496-d4b7-45d4-a776-98063d0fc1fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cristen Luehmann Nutrition Counseling, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN/LD, CEDS, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I am a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Licensed in Missouri and Illinois. I have a Master’s degree in Nutrition & Allied Health. I approach nutrition from a whole-person, neuro-affirming, and non-diet/weight-neutral framework. I am a Board Certified as a Health & Wellness Coach, and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. I have been a healthcare provider since 1995, incorporating strategies from multiple mind-body practices including Intuitive Eating, Responsive Feeding, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Interoceptive Awareness.
I am a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Licensed in Missouri and Illinois. I have a Master’s degree in Nutrition & Allied Health. I approach nutrition from a whole-person, neuro-affirming, and non-diet/weight-neutral framework. I am a Board Certified as a Health & Wellness Coach, and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. I have been a healthcare provider since 1995, incorporating strategies from multiple mind-body practices including Intuitive Eating, Responsive Feeding, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Interoceptive Awareness.
![Photo of Laura Bradfield, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/0123d0ae-b1db-4b49-8edf-385a3aab4c80/1/320x400.jpeg)
My nutritional experience and expertise is primarily in eating disorders/disordered eating and behavioral health, including ARFID. I also have a background in sports nutrition.
My nutritional experience and expertise is primarily in eating disorders/disordered eating and behavioral health, including ARFID. I also have a background in sports nutrition.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Chesterfield?
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.