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

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
Photo of Anna Lor, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Anna Lor
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
You’re here because you’re ready for a change, but with all the conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling with low energy, inconsistent eating habits, or balancing your health goals with a busy life. I’m here to help you cut through the noise and create a personalized plan that works for you. Together, we’ll build sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle, whether it’s feeling more energized, improving performance, or simply finding joy in food again. You deserve to feel confident, supported, and in control of your health—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
You’re here because you’re ready for a change, but with all the conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling with low energy, inconsistent eating habits, or balancing your health goals with a busy life. I’m here to help you cut through the noise and create a personalized plan that works for you. Together, we’ll build sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle, whether it’s feeling more energized, improving performance, or simply finding joy in food again. You deserve to feel confident, supported, and in control of your health—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
(910) 597-4190 View (910) 597-4190
Photo of Sarah Helmick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Sarah Helmick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized in the last few years in working with eating disorders and disordered eating patterns, medical nutrition therapy, intuitive eating, women's health concerns, and sports nutrition.
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 have specialized in the last few years in working with eating disorders and disordered eating patterns, medical nutrition therapy, intuitive eating, women's health concerns, and sports nutrition.
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.
(828) 516-9602 View (828) 516-9602
Photo of Jordan DeBoard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Jordan DeBoard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jordan! I’m a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and I work with adults (18+) in North Carolina who are ready to find healing and freedom with food and their bodies. While I specialize in eating disorder recovery, I also support people navigating PCOS and other hormonal concerns, diabetes, sports nutrition, and intuitive eating.
Hi, I’m Jordan! I’m a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and I work with adults (18+) in North Carolina who are ready to find healing and freedom with food and their bodies. While I specialize in eating disorder recovery, I also support people navigating PCOS and other hormonal concerns, diabetes, sports nutrition, and intuitive eating.
(828) 457-8851 View (828) 457-8851
Photo of Mandy Huffman Nix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Mandy Huffman Nix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
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.
(828) 439-0724 View (828) 439-0724

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Christina Marie Overstreet - Food Full Circle, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Food Full Circle, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Online Only
Every person deserves to have a peaceful relationship with food and their body, and I love helping my clients get there (while acknowledging the systems that limit it for many of us). By combining mindfulness principles with integrative/functional nutrition and meeting yourself where you’re at, we can create slow, sustainable, realistic changes that support YOUR personal body. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you’re ready to stop constantly thinking about food, obsessing over ingredients, counting calories, and feeling frequent guilt/shame about your food choices/body, I’d LOVE to help you!
Every person deserves to have a peaceful relationship with food and their body, and I love helping my clients get there (while acknowledging the systems that limit it for many of us). By combining mindfulness principles with integrative/functional nutrition and meeting yourself where you’re at, we can create slow, sustainable, realistic changes that support YOUR personal body. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you’re ready to stop constantly thinking about food, obsessing over ingredients, counting calories, and feeling frequent guilt/shame about your food choices/body, I’d LOVE to help you!
(704) 275-0714 View (704) 275-0714
Photo of Lindsay Helton, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Lindsay Helton
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Serves Area
If you're searching for a more peaceful relationship with food, you've come to the right place. I'm Lindsay, dietitian and founder of New Paths Nutrition, a group practice that specializes in eating disorders and disordered 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.
If you're searching for a more peaceful relationship with food, you've come to the right place. I'm Lindsay, dietitian and founder of New Paths Nutrition, a group practice that specializes in eating disorders and disordered 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.
(704) 802-1188 View (704) 802-1188

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Courtney Walker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Courtney Walker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
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.
(704) 741-0356 View (704) 741-0356
Photo of Diana Laursen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Diana Laursen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Waynesville, NC 28786
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 Sara Geiger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Sara Geiger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
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.
(704) 285-2989 View (704) 285-2989
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 Kyle Maiorana - Root Down Nutrition & Wellness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, IFNCP, CGN
Root Down Nutrition & Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, IFNCP, CGN
Online Only
I’m Kyle Maiorana, a functional medicine Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I take a whole-person, evidence-based approach to wellness and work with adults experiencing digestive issues, fatigue, inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, hormone concerns, cardiovascular and bone health issues, or those looking to optimize long-term health and longevity. Using an integrative, root-cause approach, we connect the dots between your symptoms, health history, nutrition, lifestyle, and lab work to create personalized, sustainable strategies that help you feel your best.
I’m Kyle Maiorana, a functional medicine Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I take a whole-person, evidence-based approach to wellness and work with adults experiencing digestive issues, fatigue, inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, hormone concerns, cardiovascular and bone health issues, or those looking to optimize long-term health and longevity. Using an integrative, root-cause approach, we connect the dots between your symptoms, health history, nutrition, lifestyle, and lab work to create personalized, sustainable strategies that help you feel your best.
View
Photo of Erica Blackburn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, MS
Erica Blackburn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, MS
Online Only
Erica’s ideal clients are individuals seeking support with weight management, digestive health, and building a healthier relationship with food. Many feel frustrated by restrictive diets or overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice and want a more balanced, sustainable approach. Erica provides patient-centered, individualized care focused on creating realistic habits that fit each client’s lifestyle. Together, they develop personalized strategies that support long-term health, confidence, and lasting success without labeling foods as “good” or “bad.”
Erica’s ideal clients are individuals seeking support with weight management, digestive health, and building a healthier relationship with food. Many feel frustrated by restrictive diets or overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice and want a more balanced, sustainable approach. Erica provides patient-centered, individualized care focused on creating realistic habits that fit each client’s lifestyle. Together, they develop personalized strategies that support long-term health, confidence, and lasting success without labeling foods as “good” or “bad.”
(980) 552-8334 View (980) 552-8334
Photo of Christine Corcoran, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Christine Corcoran
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
She specializes in eating disorders and her experience includes providing nutrition therapy to adolescents with anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder and bulimia.
We know change is not easy. We know finding food freedom can sound scary (maybe even impossible). It is our mission to guide you through uncharted territory and give you the knowledge and support you need to make real and lasting changes. Our approach to health and nutrition is weight-inclusive, and will always focus on finding peace and balance with food and exercise. We are continuously educating ourselves to provide a safe and welcoming space for all individuals. We work to analyze eating habits together and make changes based on where you are.
She specializes in eating disorders and her experience includes providing nutrition therapy to adolescents with anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder and bulimia.
We know change is not easy. We know finding food freedom can sound scary (maybe even impossible). It is our mission to guide you through uncharted territory and give you the knowledge and support you need to make real and lasting changes. Our approach to health and nutrition is weight-inclusive, and will always focus on finding peace and balance with food and exercise. We are continuously educating ourselves to provide a safe and welcoming space for all individuals. We work to analyze eating habits together and make changes based on where you are.
(704) 753-8712 View (704) 753-8712
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 Joy Metevier, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSN, RDN, LD
Joy Metevier
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSN, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202
Trained in family-based therapy, I collaborate with specialists to ensure the right level of care throughout recovery.
Joy is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with more than 15 years of experience, primarily serving as a dietitian for the U.S. Army. Her clinical background centers on eating disorders, and she’s passionate about helping clients define their own values around food, weight, and movement. She also facilitates eating-disorder recovery support groups through the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, supporting individuals and families throughout recovery.
Trained in family-based therapy, I collaborate with specialists to ensure the right level of care throughout recovery.
Joy is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with more than 15 years of experience, primarily serving as a dietitian for the U.S. Army. Her clinical background centers on eating disorders, and she’s passionate about helping clients define their own values around food, weight, and movement. She also facilitates eating-disorder recovery support groups through the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, supporting individuals and families throughout recovery.
(410) 873-9844 View (410) 873-9844
Photo of Lindsey McKeon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, CEDRD, LDN
Lindsey McKeon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, CEDRD, LDN
Online Only
I use a non-diet, supportive approach combined with evidence-based medical nutrition therapy.
If you struggle with a complicated relationship with food—whether through restriction, bingeing, or constant stress about eating—you may feel frustrated and overwhelmed. For more than 20 years, I’ve walked alongside people just like you who want freedom from food rules, guilt, and shame. What you really want is peace: to feel confident eating without second-guessing, to trust your body, and to focus on living your life rather than battling your plate. Your goal may be better health, but also to rebuild confidence, self-compassion, and balance in a way that lasts.
I use a non-diet, supportive approach combined with evidence-based medical nutrition therapy.
If you struggle with a complicated relationship with food—whether through restriction, bingeing, or constant stress about eating—you may feel frustrated and overwhelmed. For more than 20 years, I’ve walked alongside people just like you who want freedom from food rules, guilt, and shame. What you really want is peace: to feel confident eating without second-guessing, to trust your body, and to focus on living your life rather than battling your plate. Your goal may be better health, but also to rebuild confidence, self-compassion, and balance in a way that lasts.
(980) 400-7908 View (980) 400-7908
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 Taylor Doktycz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Taylor Doktycz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27262
Hi there, I am so glad you stopped by! If you are looking to improve your relationship with food, want to stop thinking about food 24/7, and are looking to feel better and improve your health without restriction, then you are in the right place. Nutrition does not have to feel so complicated. I am here to help make eating feel easier and for you to feel empowered in your health journey. Whether you want help with recovering from an eating disorder, want to feel stronger and improve your sports performance, or need help with feeding your family, I am here to help guide and support you along the way.
Hi there, I am so glad you stopped by! If you are looking to improve your relationship with food, want to stop thinking about food 24/7, and are looking to feel better and improve your health without restriction, then you are in the right place. Nutrition does not have to feel so complicated. I am here to help make eating feel easier and for you to feel empowered in your health journey. Whether you want help with recovering from an eating disorder, want to feel stronger and improve your sports performance, or need help with feeding your family, I am here to help guide and support you along the way.
(336) 849-5330 View (336) 849-5330
Photo of Kelly Diamond, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Diamond
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28277
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!
(617) 855-6890 View (617) 855-6890
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.