Nutritionists and Dietitians in Avery County, NC
I enjoy working with a number of individuals including those who are looking to improve their relationship with food and their bodies, let go of beliefs about food that are preventing them from living a full life, and those who are struggling with chronic health concerns and wanting to learn more about nutrition habits that can be supportive to their well being.
I enjoy working with a number of individuals including those who are looking to improve their relationship with food and their bodies, let go of beliefs about food that are preventing them from living a full life, and those who are struggling with chronic health concerns and wanting to learn more about nutrition habits that can be supportive to their well being.
Online Dietitians and Nutritionists
I’m a registered dietitian with a private practice that supports individuals struggling with eating disorders, chronic dieting, and body image issues - for the folks I work with, food feels hard. I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space for all individuals to share and process their experiences - my style is warm, accessible, and not without humor. I regularly integrate nutrition science with body-based (somatic) practices and therapeutic coaching to help my clients learn to nourish themselves from the bottom up, with confidence.
I’m a registered dietitian with a private practice that supports individuals struggling with eating disorders, chronic dieting, and body image issues - for the folks I work with, food feels hard. I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space for all individuals to share and process their experiences - my style is warm, accessible, and not without humor. I regularly integrate nutrition science with body-based (somatic) practices and therapeutic coaching to help my clients learn to nourish themselves from the bottom up, with confidence.
I know firsthand that health isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s also about being proactive. As a dietitian and a mom of four, I understand the challenge of juggling it all—busy schedules, family meals, and finding balance in the chaos. That’s why I am passionate about making nutrition both practical and powerful.
Food isn’t just fuel—it’s a tool for longevity, energy, and well-being. Whether it’s stabilizing blood sugar, supporting hormonal health, or creating high-protein, low-calorie meals that fit a hectic lifestyle, my goal is to help folks make smart, informed choices that work in real life.
I know firsthand that health isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s also about being proactive. As a dietitian and a mom of four, I understand the challenge of juggling it all—busy schedules, family meals, and finding balance in the chaos. That’s why I am passionate about making nutrition both practical and powerful.
Food isn’t just fuel—it’s a tool for longevity, energy, and well-being. Whether it’s stabilizing blood sugar, supporting hormonal health, or creating high-protein, low-calorie meals that fit a hectic lifestyle, my goal is to help folks make smart, informed choices that work in real life.
The Unmasked Nutrition team works with adolescents, teens, and adults who are neurodivergent and/or navigating an eating disorders through a non-diet and weight-inclusive approach.
Navigating daily food choices can be exhausting due to decision fatigue and executive dysfunction. The constant need to decide what, when, and how to eat becomes quickly becomes an overwhelming task that leaves you feeling drained, frustrated, and likely late night eating.
The Unmasked Nutrition team works with adolescents, teens, and adults who are neurodivergent and/or navigating an eating disorders through a non-diet and weight-inclusive approach.
Navigating daily food choices can be exhausting due to decision fatigue and executive dysfunction. The constant need to decide what, when, and how to eat becomes quickly becomes an overwhelming task that leaves you feeling drained, frustrated, and likely late night eating.
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Are you tired of trying different diets in hopes it will help you reach your goals? Staying in the same cycle only to have an outcome of defeat? My approach is to get you out of that comfort zone and coach you to a healthier lifestyle with no pills, no shakes, and focus on FOOD first. I can test your metabolism with science based technology and customize a nutrition plan that will fit YOUR lifestyle and won't defeat you! I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
Are you tired of trying different diets in hopes it will help you reach your goals? Staying in the same cycle only to have an outcome of defeat? My approach is to get you out of that comfort zone and coach you to a healthier lifestyle with no pills, no shakes, and focus on FOOD first. I can test your metabolism with science based technology and customize a nutrition plan that will fit YOUR lifestyle and won't defeat you! I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
A passion for teaching and educating is deep-seated in how I approach helping people learn about nutrition and healthy eating habits, and its correlation to adapting it to their lifestyle to better their health.
A passion for teaching and educating is deep-seated in how I approach helping people learn about nutrition and healthy eating habits, and its correlation to adapting it to their lifestyle to better their health.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for heart disease, diabetes, and overall wellness. They often want practical ways to improve their health but feel unsure where to start or how to create lasting habits. I provide evidence-based, personalized nutrition guidance that helps clients better understand their health conditions and how lifestyle changes can improve outcomes. Together, we develop realistic strategies that fit their lifestyle, empowering them to take ownership of their health and create sustainable, positive change.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for heart disease, diabetes, and overall wellness. They often want practical ways to improve their health but feel unsure where to start or how to create lasting habits. I provide evidence-based, personalized nutrition guidance that helps clients better understand their health conditions and how lifestyle changes can improve outcomes. Together, we develop realistic strategies that fit their lifestyle, empowering them to take ownership of their health and create sustainable, positive change.
Struggling to juggle work, life, and still find time to eat well? You’re not alone. Many of my clients are busy professionals who want to feel better, have more energy, and build healthier habits - but need a plan that fits real life. As someone who’s worked 100-hour weeks in finance, I understand that balance isn’t easy. My goal is to help you find a balanced approach to nutrition, without the extremes - through realistic, sustainable changes that fit your lifestyle and last long term.
Struggling to juggle work, life, and still find time to eat well? You’re not alone. Many of my clients are busy professionals who want to feel better, have more energy, and build healthier habits - but need a plan that fits real life. As someone who’s worked 100-hour weeks in finance, I understand that balance isn’t easy. My goal is to help you find a balanced approach to nutrition, without the extremes - through realistic, sustainable changes that fit your lifestyle and last long term.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support in building an intentional relationship with their body. I specialize in disordered eating dynamics that involve binge eating, fear of body changes, struggles with body image, and anxiety around food. I am additionally passionate about working with folks who experience sensory sensitivities, low appetite and/or trauma-associated food dysregulation. I create a space that celebrates queerness and those who identify as neurodivergent. My practice is fundamentally based in harm reduction, curiosity, and an individualized care approach.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support in building an intentional relationship with their body. I specialize in disordered eating dynamics that involve binge eating, fear of body changes, struggles with body image, and anxiety around food. I am additionally passionate about working with folks who experience sensory sensitivities, low appetite and/or trauma-associated food dysregulation. I create a space that celebrates queerness and those who identify as neurodivergent. My practice is fundamentally based in harm reduction, curiosity, and an individualized care approach.
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
Healing Nutrition provides a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body. Whether you are seeking weight management, blood sugar control, discovering the root cause of GI distress, addressing food sensitivities, or meal planning, my passion is helping you achieve your wellness goals and to feel your best.
Healing Nutrition provides a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body. Whether you are seeking weight management, blood sugar control, discovering the root cause of GI distress, addressing food sensitivities, or meal planning, my passion is helping you achieve your wellness goals and to feel your best.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support to improve their health through evidence-based, personalized nutrition. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms, medical needs, or lifestyle challenges and want realistic, sustainable guidance. I help them by meeting them where they are and focusing on education rather than restriction. Together, we explore the “why” behind symptoms and behaviors and build practical strategies that fit their daily life, goals, and needs for lasting, meaningful change.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support to improve their health through evidence-based, personalized nutrition. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms, medical needs, or lifestyle challenges and want realistic, sustainable guidance. I help them by meeting them where they are and focusing on education rather than restriction. Together, we explore the “why” behind symptoms and behaviors and build practical strategies that fit their daily life, goals, and needs for lasting, meaningful change.
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
Hello! My name is Becca! I specialize in pediatric nutrition with a focus on eating disorders, picky eating, FTT, supporting neurodivergent children, and many more! My approach is warm, supportive, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I work closely with families to create personalized strategies that help kids feel safe around food, build confidence at mealtimes, and develop a healthy relationship with eating—without power struggles or shame. Whether your child is a selective eater, struggling with food anxiety, or just needs a little extra support, I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clarity.
Hello! My name is Becca! I specialize in pediatric nutrition with a focus on eating disorders, picky eating, FTT, supporting neurodivergent children, and many more! My approach is warm, supportive, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I work closely with families to create personalized strategies that help kids feel safe around food, build confidence at mealtimes, and develop a healthy relationship with eating—without power struggles or shame. Whether your child is a selective eater, struggling with food anxiety, or just needs a little extra support, I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clarity.
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks.
Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks.
Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
Kasey Strouse (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. Kasey specializes in working with adolescents, college students, young adults, and families. She specializes in working with clients recovering from eating disorders, disordered eating, intuitive eating, family nutrition, and takes a non-diet approach with all clients.
Kasey Strouse (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. Kasey specializes in working with adolescents, college students, young adults, and families. She specializes in working with clients recovering from eating disorders, disordered eating, intuitive eating, family nutrition, and takes a non-diet approach with all clients.
If you are struggling to develop a peaceful relationship with food, know that you are not alone. Confusing messages telling us how to eat, what to eat, and when to eat can make us wonder why eating has gotten so complicated. The short answer: it doesn't have to be. Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, suffer from disordered eating, or just want to know how to nourish your body without going on another diet, I can help.
If you are struggling to develop a peaceful relationship with food, know that you are not alone. Confusing messages telling us how to eat, what to eat, and when to eat can make us wonder why eating has gotten so complicated. The short answer: it doesn't have to be. Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, suffer from disordered eating, or just want to know how to nourish your body without going on another diet, I can help.
Are you constantly struggling with your weight? Uncertain how to eat for YOUR body? Sick and tired of following "trendy" diets that get you nowhere? There is oftentimes a disconnect when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle; we know what’s good for our bodies, but we don’t always act accordingly. Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC aims to mend the gap between knowing and doing, by catering to each individual's unique circumstances.
Are you constantly struggling with your weight? Uncertain how to eat for YOUR body? Sick and tired of following "trendy" diets that get you nowhere? There is oftentimes a disconnect when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle; we know what’s good for our bodies, but we don’t always act accordingly. Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC aims to mend the gap between knowing and doing, by catering to each individual's unique circumstances.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Avery County?
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.