Nutritionists and Dietitians in Watauga County, NC

Photo of Sarah Helmick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Sarah Helmick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
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 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 Jenny Askew, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP
Jenny Askew
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? If you're wondering if your health issues are related to what you're eating, you're in the right place! Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties. If you're tired of being told "it's all in your head" and to "eat more fiber" we're here to offer a new approach.
Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? If you're wondering if your health issues are related to what you're eating, you're in the right place! Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties. If you're tired of being told "it's all in your head" and to "eat more fiber" we're here to offer a new approach.
(678) 582-1475 View (678) 582-1475
Photo of Michelle Rizzi Shelfer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Michelle Rizzi Shelfer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Boone, NC 28607
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 Theresa Renee Saltsgaver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Theresa Renee Saltsgaver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
​​Are you struggling with your weight? Have you been diagnosed with prediabetes or gestational diabetes? Have you been diagnosed with high cholesterol or high blood pressure? ​ No matter what stage of life you are in, nutrition plays an important role in your health, and I am here to help. I am licensed in WV and NC and taking new clients via online Telehealth appointments.
​​Are you struggling with your weight? Have you been diagnosed with prediabetes or gestational diabetes? Have you been diagnosed with high cholesterol or high blood pressure? ​ No matter what stage of life you are in, nutrition plays an important role in your health, and I am here to help. I am licensed in WV and NC and taking new clients via online Telehealth appointments.
(919) 823-3077 View (919) 823-3077
Photo of Lauren Furgiuele, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Lauren Furgiuele
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
Hi! I’m Lauren, your period dietitian. I help women in their 20s through early 40s regulate their periods, ease frustrating PMS, and boost their energy and fertility, so they can feel more like themselves again. My clients are tired of extreme dieting, being told their labs are “normal” when they feel like trash, and that birth control is their only option to regulate hormones and manage symptoms until they want to get pregnant. I get it, which is why we do things a bit different around here.
Hi! I’m Lauren, your period dietitian. I help women in their 20s through early 40s regulate their periods, ease frustrating PMS, and boost their energy and fertility, so they can feel more like themselves again. My clients are tired of extreme dieting, being told their labs are “normal” when they feel like trash, and that birth control is their only option to regulate hormones and manage symptoms until they want to get pregnant. I get it, which is why we do things a bit different around here.
(828) 383-9686 View (828) 383-9686
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

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Avance Nutrition-Onsite And Virtual Services - Avance Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Avance Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Charlotte, NC 28204
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
(984) 789-5087 View (984) 789-5087
Photo of Growing Inward Nutrition Collective, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Growing Inward Nutrition Collective
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Asheville, NC 28803
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
(626) 605-1838 View (626) 605-1838
Photo of Megan Byrd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Megan Byrd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
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.
(346) 572-9634 View (346) 572-9634
Photo of Lindsey McKeon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, CEDRD, LDN
Lindsey McKeon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, CEDRD, LDN
Online Only
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.
(980) 400-7908 View (980) 400-7908
Photo of Samantha Berkowitz - Unmasked Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Unmasked Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Online Only
The Unmasked Nutrition team works with adolescents, teens, and adults who are neurodivergent and/or navigating an eating disorders through a non-diet and weight-inclusive approach. Navigating daily food choices can be exhausting due to decision fatigue and executive dysfunction. The constant need to decide what, when, and how to eat becomes quickly becomes an overwhelming task that leaves you feeling drained, frustrated, and likely late night eating.
The Unmasked Nutrition team works with adolescents, teens, and adults who are neurodivergent and/or navigating an eating disorders through a non-diet and weight-inclusive approach. Navigating daily food choices can be exhausting due to decision fatigue and executive dysfunction. The constant need to decide what, when, and how to eat becomes quickly becomes an overwhelming task that leaves you feeling drained, frustrated, and likely late night eating.
(828) 656-5497 View (828) 656-5497
Photo of Rachel Murray, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, CSCS, LD
Rachel Murray
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, CSCS, LD
Charlotte, NC 28209
I help people build a healthier relationship with food while also meeting their real-life nutrition needs and goals. My approach is grounded in science, but always uniquely tailored to fit the needs of my clients - no one-size-fits-all solution. Sessions are collaborative and judgment-free, and I tailor strategies to your schedule, preferences, culture, and budget so they are realistic and sustainable. While I specialize in athletes and active individuals of all ages, my skills extend to serve a wide variety of nutrition needs. My goal is for you to leave our sessions feeling more confident, informed, and empowered.
I help people build a healthier relationship with food while also meeting their real-life nutrition needs and goals. My approach is grounded in science, but always uniquely tailored to fit the needs of my clients - no one-size-fits-all solution. Sessions are collaborative and judgment-free, and I tailor strategies to your schedule, preferences, culture, and budget so they are realistic and sustainable. While I specialize in athletes and active individuals of all ages, my skills extend to serve a wide variety of nutrition needs. My goal is for you to leave our sessions feeling more confident, informed, and empowered.
(980) 449-2310 View (980) 449-2310
Photo of Samantha Siegel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Samantha Siegel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Online Only
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.
(980) 377-2647 View (980) 377-2647
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 Amanda Averett, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Amanda Averett
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Amanda (she/her), one of the registered dietitians at Redefined Nutrition. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD/Autism navigate the challenges they face with eating and nourishing their bodies, as it can often feel like one more thing to juggle. Distractions, sensory sensitivities, and inconsistent eating habits make things like meal planning and staying on track feel like a constant struggle. As a neurodivergent dietitian, I understand these challenges firsthand. Managing nutrition isn’t just about food—it’s about understanding how your unique brain works and finding ways to make eating less overwhelming.
Welcome! I’m Amanda (she/her), one of the registered dietitians at Redefined Nutrition. I specialize in helping individuals with ADHD/Autism navigate the challenges they face with eating and nourishing their bodies, as it can often feel like one more thing to juggle. Distractions, sensory sensitivities, and inconsistent eating habits make things like meal planning and staying on track feel like a constant struggle. As a neurodivergent dietitian, I understand these challenges firsthand. Managing nutrition isn’t just about food—it’s about understanding how your unique brain works and finding ways to make eating less overwhelming.
(980) 370-2839 View (980) 370-2839
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 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 Diana Laursen - Carolina Nutritional Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Carolina Nutritional Services
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 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 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
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Watauga 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.

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.

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.

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.