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

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 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 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 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
Photo of Christina Marie Overstreet - Food Full Circle, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Food Full Circle, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Through my practice, Food Full Circle, I strive to help you reconnect to 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 to 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!
(704) 275-0714 View (704) 275-0714
Photo of Megan Carber - Nourished + Strong with Meg Carber, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Nourished + Strong with Meg Carber
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Stanley, NC 28164
Are you seeking clarity in the complex nutrition-health space? Perhaps you've tried various dietitians, diets, or treatment programs, yet lasting peace with food and self still feels out of reach. You might feel disconnected from your body, carrying years of shame and self-blame, but still desire to feel 'at home' within yourself. Your goals echo a desire to mend your relationship with food and exercise with alignment that is rooted in internal trust and understanding, not external validation. True healing and happiness can't be found in another diet; it's an embodied journey back to self—safety and self-compassion intertwined.
Are you seeking clarity in the complex nutrition-health space? Perhaps you've tried various dietitians, diets, or treatment programs, yet lasting peace with food and self still feels out of reach. You might feel disconnected from your body, carrying years of shame and self-blame, but still desire to feel 'at home' within yourself. Your goals echo a desire to mend your relationship with food and exercise with alignment that is rooted in internal trust and understanding, not external validation. True healing and happiness can't be found in another diet; it's an embodied journey back to self—safety and self-compassion intertwined.
(704) 666-4052 View (704) 666-4052

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Growing Inward Nutrition Collective, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Growing Inward Nutrition Collective
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Asheville, NC 28803
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 Brie Mills, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Brie Mills
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
2 Endorsed
Online Only
In my professional career I have provided MNT ( medical nutrition therapy) for children and adolescents, as well as MNT for adults, particularly gestational women with pregnancy induced conditions, as well as MNT for prediabetes, gestational diabetes and diabetes.
I became a registered dietitian in 2010 and most recently earned my CDCES (Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist) credential to support clients with prediabetes and diabetes. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people improve their relationship with food and manage their health conditions. I stay current with the latest research to better equip my clients with the knowledge and tools they need for personal success. With that said, it’s all about personalization and no one-size-fits-all approach. I do not believe in restrictive diets or eliminating foods you love, but discovering the joy of healthy eating.
In my professional career I have provided MNT ( medical nutrition therapy) for children and adolescents, as well as MNT for adults, particularly gestational women with pregnancy induced conditions, as well as MNT for prediabetes, gestational diabetes and diabetes.
I became a registered dietitian in 2010 and most recently earned my CDCES (Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist) credential to support clients with prediabetes and diabetes. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people improve their relationship with food and manage their health conditions. I stay current with the latest research to better equip my clients with the knowledge and tools they need for personal success. With that said, it’s all about personalization and no one-size-fits-all approach. I do not believe in restrictive diets or eliminating foods you love, but discovering the joy of healthy eating.
(980) 374-3114 View (980) 374-3114
Photo of Alex Hussey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS
Alex Hussey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS
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 Christine Corcoran, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Christine Corcoran
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
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 Yourfide Dietitian-Nutritionist Llc - YourFide Dietitian Nutritionist Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
YourFide Dietitian Nutritionist Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Services we offer: Individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Counseling for: Heart disease/ Kidney disease/pre diabetes- Diabetes/ high cholesterol/Crohn/ PCOS/ Gout/ Autoimmune-diseases/ Liver-Disease/ Cancers/ High Blood Pressure/ Eating-Disorder (Anorexia/Bulimia)/ Gastrointestinal-diseases /Lupus/ Weight-management- Obesity/ Irritable Bowel Syndrome /
Insurance Accepted: Ready to reverse abnormal blood test results? Want to see improvement in your health and prevent complications? Need a chronic disease functional medicine practitioner ? We provide whole-body assessments, functional and integrative medicine services, order blood test, and then create a personalized nutrition plan to help your body heal naturally. Schedule to see our holistic board certified dietitian. Meet with our holistic certified dietitian in-office or via Tele-health( online). We’re in-network with all major health insurances plans… doctors can fax referral to:470-239-1564
Services we offer: Individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Counseling for: Heart disease/ Kidney disease/pre diabetes- Diabetes/ high cholesterol/Crohn/ PCOS/ Gout/ Autoimmune-diseases/ Liver-Disease/ Cancers/ High Blood Pressure/ Eating-Disorder (Anorexia/Bulimia)/ Gastrointestinal-diseases /Lupus/ Weight-management- Obesity/ Irritable Bowel Syndrome /
Insurance Accepted: Ready to reverse abnormal blood test results? Want to see improvement in your health and prevent complications? Need a chronic disease functional medicine practitioner ? We provide whole-body assessments, functional and integrative medicine services, order blood test, and then create a personalized nutrition plan to help your body heal naturally. Schedule to see our holistic board certified dietitian. Meet with our holistic certified dietitian in-office or via Tele-health( online). We’re in-network with all major health insurances plans… doctors can fax referral to:470-239-1564
(678) 974-0659 View (678) 974-0659
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 Kaitlin Moses, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS
Kaitlin Moses
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS
Online Only
As I'm here to support you in achieving your goals, I'll take into consideration your medical, mental health, and social history to understand where to start, then develop concrete interventions for long term success.
My treatment approach involves meal prepping and planning, an ALL foods approach without judgment, incorporating joyful movement (aside from weight management), and measuring success through behavior change towards intuitive eating. Plus I encourage a whole team approach, providers and loved ones, within my patients' journeys.
As I'm here to support you in achieving your goals, I'll take into consideration your medical, mental health, and social history to understand where to start, then develop concrete interventions for long term success.
My treatment approach involves meal prepping and planning, an ALL foods approach without judgment, incorporating joyful movement (aside from weight management), and measuring success through behavior change towards intuitive eating. Plus I encourage a whole team approach, providers and loved ones, within my patients' journeys.
(984) 983-5384 View (984) 983-5384
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 Patrick Zeoli, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Patrick Zeoli
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28277
As a dietitian I am able to help people in a variety of ways. From sports performance, weight management, diabetes and disease management and other client needs I have been trained in a variety of areas to understand and apply science and research to develop the plan of action to help. Using evidenced based practices, I am able to create and execute a realistic and achievable plan for my clients.
As a dietitian I am able to help people in a variety of ways. From sports performance, weight management, diabetes and disease management and other client needs I have been trained in a variety of areas to understand and apply science and research to develop the plan of action to help. Using evidenced based practices, I am able to create and execute a realistic and achievable plan for my clients.
(704) 686-8547 View (704) 686-8547
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 Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
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.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
Photo of Taylor Doktycz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Taylor Doktycz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
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 Morgan Rossi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Morgan Rossi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
While I have experience working with a wide variety of EDs and disordered eating patterns, I especially enjoy working with those experiencing distress from emotional eating, burn-out, ARFID, and Binge Eating Disorder. I am additionally passionate about supporting queer folks and those who identify as neurodivergent. My practice is fundamentally based in harm reduction, curiosity, and an individualized care approach.
While I have experience working with a wide variety of EDs and disordered eating patterns, I especially enjoy working with those experiencing distress from emotional eating, burn-out, ARFID, and Binge Eating Disorder. I am additionally passionate about supporting queer folks 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
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.