Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Henderson County, NC

Photo of Taft Draper - Taft Draper Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, CSCS, CLT
Taft Draper Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, CSCS, CLT
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Each patient that comes in to see me has a story to tell. I listen and address the root causes that guides each person towards a path to health and well-being. We will create an individualized program that includes meal planning and recipes, along with a functional approach to feeling better and getting the results you want. If needed, we can test for food sensitivities using LEAP/MRT, hormones, micronutrient deficiencies, cardiometabolic, and stool testing for gut health. This holistic approach assesses someone's body as a whole to bring balance back into one's life.
Each patient that comes in to see me has a story to tell. I listen and address the root causes that guides each person towards a path to health and well-being. We will create an individualized program that includes meal planning and recipes, along with a functional approach to feeling better and getting the results you want. If needed, we can test for food sensitivities using LEAP/MRT, hormones, micronutrient deficiencies, cardiometabolic, and stool testing for gut health. This holistic approach assesses someone's body as a whole to bring balance back into one's life.
(828) 835-2858 View (828) 835-2858
Photo of Carol Shimberg, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS,RDN, RYT
Carol Shimberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS,RDN, RYT
Online Only
I am a integrative lifestyle medicine dietitian with over 30 years experience working in a major medical center providing evidence based nutrition therapy approaches.
My goal is to provide compassionate patient-centered medical nutrition therapy, support and guidance to you as your nutrition coach. I strive to empower my clients to create a healthier lifestyle by providing them with a quality individualized nutrition plan to prevent and treat disease. If you are suffering with a digestive/GI disorder, I can probably help!
I am a integrative lifestyle medicine dietitian with over 30 years experience working in a major medical center providing evidence based nutrition therapy approaches.
My goal is to provide compassionate patient-centered medical nutrition therapy, support and guidance to you as your nutrition coach. I strive to empower my clients to create a healthier lifestyle by providing them with a quality individualized nutrition plan to prevent and treat disease. If you are suffering with a digestive/GI disorder, I can probably help!
(828) 408-0239 View (828) 408-0239
Photo of Cayla Jablonski Bousaba, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Cayla Jablonski Bousaba
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Issues we can tackle together: eating disorders, gut health (IBS, SIBO, UC), yo-yo dieting, weight management, prenatal nutrition, postpartum nutrition, childhood nutrition, and/or preventative nutrition. I want every client to feel better, reach their health goals, and gain a healthy relationship with ALL foods. I do not take a one size fits all approach and I work with you based on where you are now.
Issues we can tackle together: eating disorders, gut health (IBS, SIBO, UC), yo-yo dieting, weight management, prenatal nutrition, postpartum nutrition, childhood nutrition, and/or preventative nutrition. I want every client to feel better, reach their health goals, and gain a healthy relationship with ALL foods. I do not take a one size fits all approach and I work with you based on where you are now.
(804) 375-5253 View (804) 375-5253
Photo of Growing Inward Nutrition Collective, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Growing Inward Nutrition Collective
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Serves Area
We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting.
We understand this might be an exciting and scary leap, so fostering a safe space to explore the intricacies of your relationship with food and body is a priority for me. We aim to promote flexible, individualized eating based on hunger and fullness cues, nutritional needs, and pleasure rather than devise strict meal plans focused on weight control.
We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting.
We understand this might be an exciting and scary leap, so fostering a safe space to explore the intricacies of your relationship with food and body is a priority for me. We aim to promote flexible, individualized eating based on hunger and fullness cues, nutritional needs, and pleasure rather than devise strict meal plans focused on weight control.
(626) 605-1838 View (626) 605-1838
Photo of Diana Laursen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Diana Laursen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Serves Area
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.
(828) 576-5748 View (828) 576-5748
Photo of Traci S Malone - Traci Malone Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHS, RD, LDN
Traci Malone Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Are you feeling frustrated with dieting, following rigid eating plans, or overwhelmed with so much nutrition information out there? Are you looking for a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body or hoping to better manage a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or PCOS? I focus on a non-diet health first approach and together we create a personalized nutrition plan that helps you meet your individual nutrition goals. I enjoy working with adults, teens, and families with young children. My services are covered by most BCBS health insurance policies.
Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Are you feeling frustrated with dieting, following rigid eating plans, or overwhelmed with so much nutrition information out there? Are you looking for a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body or hoping to better manage a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or PCOS? I focus on a non-diet health first approach and together we create a personalized nutrition plan that helps you meet your individual nutrition goals. I enjoy working with adults, teens, and families with young children. My services are covered by most BCBS health insurance policies.
(828) 592-2592 View (828) 592-2592
Photo of Becca Fleming, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Becca Fleming
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
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.
(828) 540-2636 View (828) 540-2636
Photo of Michelle Rizzi Shelfer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Michelle Rizzi Shelfer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Serves Area
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
(828) 337-5148 View (828) 337-5148

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Kendra Leanne Gaffney - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Nutritious Thoughts, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Asheville, NC 28801
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.
(828) 348-5822 View (828) 348-5822
Photo of Lauren Furgiuele, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Lauren Furgiuele
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
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.
(828) 383-9686 View (828) 383-9686
Photo of Nicole Mobley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Nicole Mobley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Nicole Mobley! I am a Registered Dietitian and owner of Nutrition with Nicky. As an insurance-based provider, I ensure accessible care, making it easier for clients to prioritize their well-being. Most clients are covered 100% with not out of pocket costs. I am committed to empowering lasting change, while focusing on practical real-life solutions that promote balance.
Hi, I'm Nicole Mobley! I am a Registered Dietitian and owner of Nutrition with Nicky. As an insurance-based provider, I ensure accessible care, making it easier for clients to prioritize their well-being. Most clients are covered 100% with not out of pocket costs. I am committed to empowering lasting change, while focusing on practical real-life solutions that promote balance.
(980) 340-4516 View (980) 340-4516
Photo of Maggie G Gartman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP
Maggie G Gartman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP
Online Only
We Are A Modern Nutrition Practice Offering Virtual Nutrition Therapy.
Hello! I am an Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in Gut, Inflammatory and Metabolic Conditions. I believe in the power of food as medicine and root-cause methodology to support my patients optimal health, to prevent and manage chronic diseases, and to promote wellness. My approach utilizes an expanded toolkit of evidence-based Integrative and Functional Nutrition practices and can be employed to support a wide range of conditions. I offer advanced functional nutrition testing for food sensitivities, micronutrient deficiencies and stool testing.
We Are A Modern Nutrition Practice Offering Virtual Nutrition Therapy.
Hello! I am an Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in Gut, Inflammatory and Metabolic Conditions. I believe in the power of food as medicine and root-cause methodology to support my patients optimal health, to prevent and manage chronic diseases, and to promote wellness. My approach utilizes an expanded toolkit of evidence-based Integrative and Functional Nutrition practices and can be employed to support a wide range of conditions. I offer advanced functional nutrition testing for food sensitivities, micronutrient deficiencies and stool testing.
(984) 230-9334 View (984) 230-9334
Photo of Morgan Rossi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Morgan Rossi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
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.
(828) 522-9371 View (828) 522-9371
Photo of Rhya Pachin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
Rhya Pachin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT
Online Only
I have a functional/integrative approach to nutrition which includes getting to the root of inflammation, pain, and imbalance using various lab tests such as MRT food sensitivity testing, nutrition counseling, and vitamin/herb supplement therapy as needed.
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions and a deeper level of nutritional support? Struggling to get answers? My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you achieve optimal health.
I have a functional/integrative approach to nutrition which includes getting to the root of inflammation, pain, and imbalance using various lab tests such as MRT food sensitivity testing, nutrition counseling, and vitamin/herb supplement therapy as needed.
Looking for relief from chronic health conditions and a deeper level of nutritional support? Struggling to get answers? My focus is to identify and address the root cause of symptoms in order to help you achieve optimal health.
(704) 761-7796 View (704) 761-7796
Photo of Sarah Poling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Sarah Poling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
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.
(980) 351-3524 View (980) 351-3524
Photo of Alex Hussey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Alex Hussey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Charlotte, NC 28203
In my practice, I draw upon my extensive experience working at higher levels of care for persons with eating disorders, as well as additional training in Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Intuitive Eating, Binge Eating Disorder (BED), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Dietitians.
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.
In my practice, I draw upon my extensive experience working at higher levels of care for persons with eating disorders, as well as additional training in Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Intuitive Eating, Binge Eating Disorder (BED), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Dietitians.
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.
(704) 237-6539 View (704) 237-6539
Photo of Kara Rice, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Kara Rice
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking sustainable, personalized nutrition support for chronic disease prevention and management (heart health, diabetes, weight concerns, overall wellness). They often feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice, struggle with consistency, or have a history of restrictive dieting and want a healthier relationship with food. They come for realistic, individualized guidance, accountability, and long-term change. I support them with evidence-based, personalized care focused on behavior change, habit building, and practical strategies that create lasting, sustainable health improvements.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking sustainable, personalized nutrition support for chronic disease prevention and management (heart health, diabetes, weight concerns, overall wellness). They often feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice, struggle with consistency, or have a history of restrictive dieting and want a healthier relationship with food. They come for realistic, individualized guidance, accountability, and long-term change. I support them with evidence-based, personalized care focused on behavior change, habit building, and practical strategies that create lasting, sustainable health improvements.
(773) 985-4986 View (773) 985-4986
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
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.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Gina Marie Gilchrist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Gina Marie Gilchrist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28227
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.
(704) 327-0257 View (704) 327-0257
Photo of Allie Richardson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Allie Richardson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28210
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
(406) 770-2158 View (406) 770-2158
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is medical nutrition therapy?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves the use of personalized dietary changes to prevent or manage chronic conditions. Typically conducted in an outpatient setting by a Registered Dietitian (RD), MNT aims to address specific health issues through tailored nutrition plans. Clients are often referred for MNT by healthcare professionals who identify conditions that could benefit from dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. The goal of MNT is to improve overall health outcomes by making adjustments to the client's diet based on their individual needs and medical conditions.

What conditions is medical nutrition therapy for?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is often used for individuals with diseases caused or worsened by poor diet, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases. However, other conditions can also benefit from nutrition therapy. MNT is typically not intended to replace other treatments, such as medication, but rather to complement them. By improving a person's overall diet and health, MNT aims to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms and complement other treatments.

Is medical nutrition therapy covered by insurance?
Medical nutrition therapy is frequently covered by insurance. 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. While a referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary to obtain coverage for medical nutrition services. 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. 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.

What does medical nutrition therapy involve?
The approach a dietitian will take in a medical nutrition therapy session will depend on a number of factors, including what conditions the client has and what the goals of the client are. An initial session often involves an assessment of the client's overall health and current dietary intake; a dietitian may also speak with a client's medical doctor prior to or following a first session to obtain information on the medical condition(s) the client is seeking nutrition therapy counseling for. The dietitian will then work with the client to create goals of medical nutrition therapy sessions, such as weight loss, eating a more plant-based diet, or reducing sodium intake. Then, in ongoing sessions, the dietitian will work with the client to meet their stated goals. These ongoing sessions often include menu planning and coaching, which involve the dietitian working with the client to develop strategies for a healthier and more balanced diet. Dietitians may suggest recipes, put together grocery shopping lists, and/or recommend tracking one's intake in order to help clients make desired changes.