Nutritionists and Dietitians in Charlotte, NC
![Photo of Christina Marie Overstreet - Food Full Circle, LLC, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8fb5f4f9-50b5-4abb-b614-26a165a87c56/3/320x400.jpeg)
Food Full Circle, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Through my practice, Food Full Circle, I strive to help you reconnect tot the intuitive wisdom of your body through holistic nutrition counseling, so you can nourish your body & soul. Taking a holistic (whole-person/whole-picture) approach is crucial for meeting health & wellness goals. I incorporate mindfulness principles as well as integrative & functional nutrition in order to help people from all walks of life optimize their health. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you find yourself constantly thinking about food, always counting calories, or shaming yourself when you eat certain foods, I'd love to help!
Through my practice, Food Full Circle, I strive to help you reconnect tot the intuitive wisdom of your body through holistic nutrition counseling, so you can nourish your body & soul. Taking a holistic (whole-person/whole-picture) approach is crucial for meeting health & wellness goals. I incorporate mindfulness principles as well as integrative & functional nutrition in order to help people from all walks of life optimize their health. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you find yourself constantly thinking about food, always counting calories, or shaming yourself when you eat certain foods, I'd love to help!
![Photo of Kasey Strouse, LDN, RDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/01c496bd-0d7b-45a9-bdd6-27dd24e450a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kasey Strouse
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
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.
![Photo of Andrew Haffelder, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/af328fe4-0928-41f0-a324-fb04218a08ad/2/320x400.png)
Andrew Haffelder
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Andrew is a Registered Dietitian with a true calling for helping others achieve their nutrition and wellness goals. His friendly demeanor and deep passion for the field create a comfortable and supportive environment, making you feel as if you’re working with a friend. Andrew holds a Master’s in Nutrition and a Graduate Certificate in Sports Nutrition from the University of Saint Joseph. His expertise include, but are not limited to: Weight Loss, Weight Gain, Sports Nutrition, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Adolescent Nutrition, Diabetes Prevention & Management, and Overall Healthy Eating.
Andrew is a Registered Dietitian with a true calling for helping others achieve their nutrition and wellness goals. His friendly demeanor and deep passion for the field create a comfortable and supportive environment, making you feel as if you’re working with a friend. Andrew holds a Master’s in Nutrition and a Graduate Certificate in Sports Nutrition from the University of Saint Joseph. His expertise include, but are not limited to: Weight Loss, Weight Gain, Sports Nutrition, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Adolescent Nutrition, Diabetes Prevention & Management, and Overall Healthy Eating.
![Photo of Hannah Woods, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b3008777-2f70-45e4-8a2b-ad43c2b1068a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Woods
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Have you ever thought, "I can't eat this it will make me gain weight." or "I ate too much, so now I need to workout to burn it off." Have you ever wondered if there is a better way to enjoy food without the feelings of guilt associated with your choices?
Have you ever thought, "I can't eat this it will make me gain weight." or "I ate too much, so now I need to workout to burn it off." Have you ever wondered if there is a better way to enjoy food without the feelings of guilt associated with your choices?
![Photo of Sarah Poling, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/115ba7ec-5d99-4f37-8bcc-fe52bc9af690/2/320x400.png)
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. With clients, I create safe space where her clients can discover their authentic selves, meet their needs while rediscovering joy, and work toward autonomy in their relationship with food and body.
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. With clients, I create safe space where her clients can discover their authentic selves, meet their needs while rediscovering joy, and work toward autonomy in their relationship with food and body.
![Photo of Kelly Diamond, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/771de634-e7a9-427a-8963-54e709f8cd5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Basheerah Enahora - BE Nutrition LLC, RDN, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59f1ea57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Every woman deserves personalized care that is fad-free. There are no quick fixes or gimmicks in holistic nourishment and it won't happen overnight. Through individualized, science-backed nutrition advise, based on real foods and mindfulness, we'll create a customized plan that will help you look and feel your absolute best. Together, we'll invest in changing your life for the better by creating healthier habits that nourish your body and mind.
Every woman deserves personalized care that is fad-free. There are no quick fixes or gimmicks in holistic nourishment and it won't happen overnight. Through individualized, science-backed nutrition advise, based on real foods and mindfulness, we'll create a customized plan that will help you look and feel your absolute best. Together, we'll invest in changing your life for the better by creating healthier habits that nourish your body and mind.
![Photo of Jennifer Rawlings - My RDN Coach, LLC, MS, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/2d8550f0-46a9-4edc-abe6-ba33bf939c26/2/320x400.jpeg)
My RDN Coach, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Do you have type 2 diabetes or pre diabetes and want to reverse it? Are you ready to throw in the towel in trying to manage type 1 diabetes? Are you at risk due to high cholesterol, high triglycerides, or high blood pressure? If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed with having tried many different diets or have no idea where to start, I am here to help! After working with me you will feel empowered, confident, and have the tools to manage your health for the long haul!
Do you have type 2 diabetes or pre diabetes and want to reverse it? Are you ready to throw in the towel in trying to manage type 1 diabetes? Are you at risk due to high cholesterol, high triglycerides, or high blood pressure? If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed with having tried many different diets or have no idea where to start, I am here to help! After working with me you will feel empowered, confident, and have the tools to manage your health for the long haul!
![Photo of Lindsay Helton, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7b30aa30-8c8f-441c-90a9-25ac7fefea13/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you're searching for a more peaceful relationship with food, you've come to the right place. My mission is to support people as they break free from food rules and restrictions so they can reconnect with their own intuition when it comes to eating. I'm passionate about eating disorder recovery and providing a space for others to explore what it would be like to get off the diet rollercoaster and find food freedom. I'm the founder of New Paths Nutrition, a group practice that specializes in eating disorders and disordered eating.
If you're searching for a more peaceful relationship with food, you've come to the right place. My mission is to support people as they break free from food rules and restrictions so they can reconnect with their own intuition when it comes to eating. I'm passionate about eating disorder recovery and providing a space for others to explore what it would be like to get off the diet rollercoaster and find food freedom. I'm the founder of New Paths Nutrition, a group practice that specializes in eating disorders and disordered eating.
![Photo of Katie Wolf, MPH, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/41f5b0e6-ae2a-4697-8e65-cea382d4e660/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal as a Registered Dietitian is to help others find peace with food, their bodies, and movement. I work with people of all ages and specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating and those struggling with their overall relationship with food. There is a lot of nutrition misinformation available and I want to provide evidence-based nutrition to debunk diet culture myths and help clients heal their relationship with food.
My goal as a Registered Dietitian is to help others find peace with food, their bodies, and movement. I work with people of all ages and specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating and those struggling with their overall relationship with food. There is a lot of nutrition misinformation available and I want to provide evidence-based nutrition to debunk diet culture myths and help clients heal their relationship with food.
![Photo of Alex Hussey, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1694bd07-7ee1-44c1-90c8-edcaeed2b656/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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![Photo of Kristen Bunich, MA, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/72f062e0-299e-4b06-8bc2-f91c6e45b457/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find yourself frustrated with chronic dieting? Concerned that you may be sliding into disordered eating habits or perhaps looking for added support in your eating disorder journey? I am the owner and registered dietitian of The Intuitive Dietitian where we take a holistic approach to nutrition therapy.
Do you find yourself frustrated with chronic dieting? Concerned that you may be sliding into disordered eating habits or perhaps looking for added support in your eating disorder journey? I am the owner and registered dietitian of The Intuitive Dietitian where we take a holistic approach to nutrition therapy.
![Photo of Sara Geiger, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ef417edc-783b-48c8-86da-e9e8591faf6c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I’m a fiercely anti-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) specializing in eating disorders. My journey as a dietitian began at the intersection of nutrition and psychology. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science and a Bachelor of Art in Psychology degrees from North Carolina State University and a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Practice from Thomas Jefferson University. My commitment to ongoing education and practicing with humility ensures that I provide evidence-based, personalized care to each of my clients. I have eating disorder experience at multiple levels of care.
Hello there! I’m a fiercely anti-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) specializing in eating disorders. My journey as a dietitian began at the intersection of nutrition and psychology. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science and a Bachelor of Art in Psychology degrees from North Carolina State University and a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Practice from Thomas Jefferson University. My commitment to ongoing education and practicing with humility ensures that I provide evidence-based, personalized care to each of my clients. I have eating disorder experience at multiple levels of care.
![Photo of Gina Marie Gilchrist, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d379c70b-db4f-4362-88cf-ae6b7723449e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gina Gilchrist is a Registered Dietitian with 24 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice, research, and corporate health. Gina’s passion is counseling pediatric and adolescent patients and their families, however, she also enjoys and has experience working with adults and seniors. She loves to wear many hats and utilizes her creativity in the field as she has presented on various nutrition topics for colleagues, communities, and corporations. She enjoys writing and upheld a nutrition column in Silent Sports Magazine while residing in Chicago.
Gina Gilchrist is a Registered Dietitian with 24 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice, research, and corporate health. Gina’s passion is counseling pediatric and adolescent patients and their families, however, she also enjoys and has experience working with adults and seniors. She loves to wear many hats and utilizes her creativity in the field as she has presented on various nutrition topics for colleagues, communities, and corporations. She enjoys writing and upheld a nutrition column in Silent Sports Magazine while residing in Chicago.
![Photo of Kerri Holmquist, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c59fb4e4-a97a-494e-b2a1-d0ae2d21de6f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205 (Online Only)
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
![Photo of Emma A Johnson, MS, LDN, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/634206b9-15f7-426c-ab68-9539d5f01b4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emma A Johnson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, RDN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215 (Online Only)
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.
![Photo of Daniela Masciello, MPH, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/40aabacc-8db6-4b67-8763-44e420621c54/3/320x400.jpeg)
Daniela Masciello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
I’m a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about working with people who want to improve their relationship with food. If eating and body image are taking up more energy than is in line with your values, we would be a great fit together to discover how you can nourish your body with less overthinking and stress. I hope to be alongside you in the ups and downs of your journey and provide a listening ear, support, and gentle feedback and structure when you feel it's needed. I practice from a weight-inclusive lens. I am an immigrant from Venezuela and respect the importance of cultural foods and eating patterns.
I’m a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about working with people who want to improve their relationship with food. If eating and body image are taking up more energy than is in line with your values, we would be a great fit together to discover how you can nourish your body with less overthinking and stress. I hope to be alongside you in the ups and downs of your journey and provide a listening ear, support, and gentle feedback and structure when you feel it's needed. I practice from a weight-inclusive lens. I am an immigrant from Venezuela and respect the importance of cultural foods and eating patterns.
![Photo of Taryn Mattern (Women's Gut+Hormone Functional Dietitian), MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c76efa96-3f4e-48d3-9d40-235cd48f2dd9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Taryn Mattern (Women's Gut+Hormone Functional Dietitian)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
Are you struggling with bloating & gut symptoms with NO answers as to WHY? Are you lacking confidence (especially in social settings) due to your bloat & gut symptoms? Do you have symptoms that you think are related to your poor gut health (i.e. acne, hormonal imbalances, brain fog, etc.)? As a young, busy woman, it can feel exhausting when you're trying to figure everything out on your own, with little direction and clarity. I can imagine that your hormonal imbalances & frustrating gut issues are making you feel fatigued with low mood, unable to think clearly, feel overwhelmed, and lack confidence in your skin.
Are you struggling with bloating & gut symptoms with NO answers as to WHY? Are you lacking confidence (especially in social settings) due to your bloat & gut symptoms? Do you have symptoms that you think are related to your poor gut health (i.e. acne, hormonal imbalances, brain fog, etc.)? As a young, busy woman, it can feel exhausting when you're trying to figure everything out on your own, with little direction and clarity. I can imagine that your hormonal imbalances & frustrating gut issues are making you feel fatigued with low mood, unable to think clearly, feel overwhelmed, and lack confidence in your skin.
![Photo of Suzanne Doad, MS, RD, LDN, IFNCP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c6e32bce-7a56-4283-a8ba-c39700165d02/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking to manage your weight or a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, a GI disorder, or an autoimmune disease/inflammatory condition? Trying to determine how to nourish yourself while pregnant or navigating a women's health concern such as PCOS or menopause? Or perhaps looking for some guidance in a world filled with conflicting nutrition information?
Are you looking to manage your weight or a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, a GI disorder, or an autoimmune disease/inflammatory condition? Trying to determine how to nourish yourself while pregnant or navigating a women's health concern such as PCOS or menopause? Or perhaps looking for some guidance in a world filled with conflicting nutrition information?
![Photo of McKenzie Caldwell, MPH, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/87130908-edcc-4172-b78c-60f0152bf16f/3/320x400.jpeg)
McKenzie Caldwell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I help folks heal from perfectionism around food and their bodies so they can live fully nourished through fertility, pregnancy and beyond. I’m a strong believer that your body is wise, and that tuning into your innate wisdom is powerful. I want to help you find that power through reconnecting to your body, and with a little nutrition science along the way, reach your reproductive health goals and ultimately live your best life. I believe nutrition should be truly holistic - which means it takes into account your mental and emotional health too.
I help folks heal from perfectionism around food and their bodies so they can live fully nourished through fertility, pregnancy and beyond. I’m a strong believer that your body is wise, and that tuning into your innate wisdom is powerful. I want to help you find that power through reconnecting to your body, and with a little nutrition science along the way, reach your reproductive health goals and ultimately live your best life. I believe nutrition should be truly holistic - which means it takes into account your mental and emotional health too.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Charlotte?
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.