Nutritionists and Dietitians in Mecklenburg County, NC
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.
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.
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.
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.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by conflicting fertility advice online? Are you feeling both financial & emotional stress from fertility testing that provides no clarity or answers? Are you feeling isolated because friends & family don't understand the complexity of infertility and/or pregnancy loss? Are you watching others get pregnant easily while wondering what is wrong with your body?
It can feel exhausting when you're trying to figure everything out on your own, with little direction, clarity and an "unexplained infertility" diagnosis.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by conflicting fertility advice online? Are you feeling both financial & emotional stress from fertility testing that provides no clarity or answers? Are you feeling isolated because friends & family don't understand the complexity of infertility and/or pregnancy loss? Are you watching others get pregnant easily while wondering what is wrong with your body?
It can feel exhausting when you're trying to figure everything out on your own, with little direction, clarity and an "unexplained infertility" diagnosis.
If you feel stuck with food—overeating, stress eating, or constantly starting over—you’re not alone. And it’s not about willpower.
Many of my clients know what they “should” do, but something keeps getting in the way. Diets haven’t worked long-term, and more discipline isn’t the answer.
They’re ready to understand why food has taken on a bigger role in their life—and finally create lasting change without guilt or shame.
If you feel stuck with food—overeating, stress eating, or constantly starting over—you’re not alone. And it’s not about willpower.
Many of my clients know what they “should” do, but something keeps getting in the way. Diets haven’t worked long-term, and more discipline isn’t the answer.
They’re ready to understand why food has taken on a bigger role in their life—and finally create lasting change without guilt or shame.
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.
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.
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 live and practice by the belief that all foods have a place in a healthy and balanced diet, and that no one food is “bad”. In a society where we are constantly searching for the next trending diet plan or magic pill, I am committed to countering the noise with evidence-based information and a mind-body approach to nutrition and overall wellbeing. I am passionate about helping my clients make realistic and sustainable lifestyle changes that they feel good about – physically, mentally and emotionally.
I live and practice by the belief that all foods have a place in a healthy and balanced diet, and that no one food is “bad”. In a society where we are constantly searching for the next trending diet plan or magic pill, I am committed to countering the noise with evidence-based information and a mind-body approach to nutrition and overall wellbeing. I am passionate about helping my clients make realistic and sustainable lifestyle changes that they feel good about – physically, mentally and emotionally.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Every woman deserves personalized care that is fad-free. There are no quick fixes or gimmicks in holistic nourishment and it won't happen overnight. Through individualized, science-backed nutrition advise, based on real foods and mindfulness, we'll create a customized plan that will help you look and feel your absolute best. Together, we'll invest in changing your life for the better by creating healthier habits that nourish your body and mind.
Every woman deserves personalized care that is fad-free. There are no quick fixes or gimmicks in holistic nourishment and it won't happen overnight. Through individualized, science-backed nutrition advise, based on real foods and mindfulness, we'll create a customized plan that will help you look and feel your absolute best. Together, we'll invest in changing your life for the better by creating healthier habits that nourish your body and mind.
Struggling to juggle work, life, and still find time to eat well? You’re not alone. Many of my clients are busy professionals who want to feel better, have more energy, and build healthier habits - but need a plan that fits real life. As someone who’s worked 100-hour weeks in finance, I understand that balance isn’t easy. My goal is to help you find a balanced approach to nutrition, without the extremes - through realistic, sustainable changes that fit your lifestyle and last long term.
Struggling to juggle work, life, and still find time to eat well? You’re not alone. Many of my clients are busy professionals who want to feel better, have more energy, and build healthier habits - but need a plan that fits real life. As someone who’s worked 100-hour weeks in finance, I understand that balance isn’t easy. My goal is to help you find a balanced approach to nutrition, without the extremes - through realistic, sustainable changes that fit your lifestyle and last long term.
Megan is a Registered Dietitian who helps clients improve health and wellness through a compassionate, personalized approach. She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness. She collaborates with clients to create plans that support their unique health goals.
Megan is a Registered Dietitian who helps clients improve health and wellness through a compassionate, personalized approach. She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness. She collaborates with clients to create plans that support their unique health goals.
Are you constantly struggling with your weight? Uncertain how to eat for YOUR body? Sick and tired of following "trendy" diets that get you nowhere? There is oftentimes a disconnect when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle; we know what’s good for our bodies, but we don’t always act accordingly. Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC aims to mend the gap between knowing and doing, by catering to each individual's unique circumstances.
Are you constantly struggling with your weight? Uncertain how to eat for YOUR body? Sick and tired of following "trendy" diets that get you nowhere? There is oftentimes a disconnect when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle; we know what’s good for our bodies, but we don’t always act accordingly. Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC aims to mend the gap between knowing and doing, by catering to each individual's unique circumstances.
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!
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.
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.
My ideal clients are individuals who want to build a more balanced, peaceful, and sustainable relationship with food. Many come to me feeling tired of dieting, confused by nutrition advice, or stuck in patterns that do not feel supportive. As a Registered Dietitian, I use a non-diet, intuitive eating approach to provide realistic, evidence-based guidance that helps clients feel more confident, nourished, and at ease with their choices.
My ideal clients are individuals who want to build a more balanced, peaceful, and sustainable relationship with food. Many come to me feeling tired of dieting, confused by nutrition advice, or stuck in patterns that do not feel supportive. As a Registered Dietitian, I use a non-diet, intuitive eating approach to provide realistic, evidence-based guidance that helps clients feel more confident, nourished, and at ease with their choices.
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Mecklenburg County?
To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, town, suburb, zip code, or a provider's name in the search bar at the top of the page. From there, you can filter by specialty, treatment technique, and gender to find a dietitian or nutritionist who matches your needs.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
The terms dietitian and nutritionist are often used interchangeably. However, there are actually key credential differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to keep in mind when seeking a nutrition professional.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle concerns like weight loss or dietary requirements; however, it's always important to find a professional who is a good fit for you. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, your specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals near you to determine whether a dietitian or nutritionist may be a better fit.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Do I need a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
A referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice. However, for a nutrition service to be covered by insurance, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, such as diabetes or hypertension. If insurance coverage is critical to a client's ability to see a dietitian, they should contact their insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed for nutritional counseling and to understand any potential co-pays or coverage limits that may apply in their individual circumstance.
How much does it cost to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
The cost of seeing a dietitian or nutritionist depends on a number of variables, including their location, their specialty, whether they take insurance, and the professional's experience and training. On average, the cost of out-of-pocket sessions with a dietitian or nutritionist within the United States ranges from $50-$150. In some cases, nutrition professionals will require a longer initial evaluation session that will cost more than ongoing follow-up sessions. Dietitians and nutritionists may also offer packages for clients interested in longer-term nutritional support; in such cases, they may charge monthly or other periodic fees for more comprehensive services, such as a combination of nutrition sessions and out-of-session coaching support. If nutrition services are covered by a client's insurance plan and they are eligible for coverage based on any referral requirements, the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a dietitian may be completely covered or significantly reduced.
Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?
If your insurance covers nutrition services, the cost is usually lower than paying out-of-pocket. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.