Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) 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 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
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 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 Theresa Renee Saltsgaver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Theresa Renee Saltsgaver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
During your initial appointment with me, we will collect your medical and nutrition history to complete a comprehensive nutrition assessment.
​​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.
During your initial appointment with me, we will collect your medical and nutrition history to complete a comprehensive nutrition assessment.
​​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
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
(828) 383-9686 View (828) 383-9686
Photo of 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 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 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 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 Becca Fleming, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Becca Fleming
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Hello! My name is Becca! I specialize in pediatric nutrition with a focus on eating disorders, picky eating, FTT, supporting neurodivergent children, and many more! My approach is warm, supportive, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I work closely with families to create personalized strategies that help kids feel safe around food, build confidence at mealtimes, and develop a healthy relationship with eating—without power struggles or shame. Whether your child is a selective eater, struggling with food anxiety, or just needs a little extra support, I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clarity.
Hello! My name is Becca! I specialize in pediatric nutrition with a focus on eating disorders, picky eating, FTT, supporting neurodivergent children, and many more! My approach is warm, supportive, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I work closely with families to create personalized strategies that help kids feel safe around food, build confidence at mealtimes, and develop a healthy relationship with eating—without power struggles or shame. Whether your child is a selective eater, struggling with food anxiety, or just needs a little extra support, I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clarity.
(828) 540-2636 View (828) 540-2636
Photo of 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 Carol Shimberg, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS,RDN, RYT
Carol Shimberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS,RDN, RYT
Online Only
I am a integrative lifestyle medicine dietitian with over 30 years experience working in a major medical center providing evidence based nutrition therapy approaches.
My goal is to provide compassionate patient-centered medical nutrition therapy, support and guidance to you as your nutrition coach. I strive to empower my clients to create a healthier lifestyle by providing them with a quality individualized nutrition plan to prevent and treat disease. If you are suffering with a digestive/GI disorder, I can probably help!
I am a integrative lifestyle medicine dietitian with over 30 years experience working in a major medical center providing evidence based nutrition therapy approaches.
My goal is to provide compassionate patient-centered medical nutrition therapy, support and guidance to you as your nutrition coach. I strive to empower my clients to create a healthier lifestyle by providing them with a quality individualized nutrition plan to prevent and treat disease. If you are suffering with a digestive/GI disorder, I can probably help!
(828) 408-0239 View (828) 408-0239
Photo of 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 Emily Paeth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Emily Paeth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Emily practices out of Health Loft and specializes in working with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Plant Based Diets, Digestive Issues, Body Image Concerns and other conditions. She strongly believes that all foods fit and strives to help clients in their food freedom journey. Using a weight neutral and non-judgemental approach, Emily believes that health is multifactorial and will work to see you as a person, rather than a diagnosis. Emily has spent the majority of her career in higher levels of care for eating disorder treatment (RES, PHP, IOP) treating various eating disorders diagnoses.
Emily practices out of Health Loft and specializes in working with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Plant Based Diets, Digestive Issues, Body Image Concerns and other conditions. She strongly believes that all foods fit and strives to help clients in their food freedom journey. Using a weight neutral and non-judgemental approach, Emily believes that health is multifactorial and will work to see you as a person, rather than a diagnosis. Emily has spent the majority of her career in higher levels of care for eating disorder treatment (RES, PHP, IOP) treating various eating disorders diagnoses.
(754) 325-3311 View (754) 325-3311
Photo of Nicole Mobley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Nicole Mobley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Nicole Mobley! I am a Registered Dietitian and owner of Nutrition with Nicky. As an insurance-based provider, I ensure accessible care, making it easier for clients to prioritize their well-being. Most clients are covered 100% with not out of pocket costs. I am committed to empowering lasting change, while focusing on practical real-life solutions that promote balance.
Hi, I'm Nicole Mobley! I am a Registered Dietitian and owner of Nutrition with Nicky. As an insurance-based provider, I ensure accessible care, making it easier for clients to prioritize their well-being. Most clients are covered 100% with not out of pocket costs. I am committed to empowering lasting change, while focusing on practical real-life solutions that promote balance.
(980) 340-4516 View (980) 340-4516
Photo of Lindsey McKeon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, CEDRD, LDN
Lindsey McKeon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, CEDRD, LDN
Online Only
I use a non-diet, supportive approach combined with evidence-based medical nutrition therapy.
If you struggle with a complicated relationship with food—whether through restriction, bingeing, or constant stress about eating—you may feel frustrated and overwhelmed. For more than 20 years, I’ve walked alongside people just like you who want freedom from food rules, guilt, and shame. What you really want is peace: to feel confident eating without second-guessing, to trust your body, and to focus on living your life rather than battling your plate. Your goal may be better health, but also to rebuild confidence, self-compassion, and balance in a way that lasts.
I use a non-diet, supportive approach combined with evidence-based medical nutrition therapy.
If you struggle with a complicated relationship with food—whether through restriction, bingeing, or constant stress about eating—you may feel frustrated and overwhelmed. For more than 20 years, I’ve walked alongside people just like you who want freedom from food rules, guilt, and shame. What you really want is peace: to feel confident eating without second-guessing, to trust your body, and to focus on living your life rather than battling your plate. Your goal may be better health, but also to rebuild confidence, self-compassion, and balance in a way that lasts.
(980) 400-7908 View (980) 400-7908
Photo of Emma A Johnson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, RDN
Emma A Johnson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, RDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(704) 285-2447 View (704) 285-2447
Photo of Allie Richardson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Allie Richardson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28210
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
(406) 770-2158 View (406) 770-2158
Photo of Brie Mills, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Brie Mills
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
1 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 Kara Rice, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Kara Rice
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking sustainable, personalized nutrition support for chronic disease prevention and management (heart health, diabetes, weight concerns, overall wellness). They often feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice, struggle with consistency, or have a history of restrictive dieting and want a healthier relationship with food. They come for realistic, individualized guidance, accountability, and long-term change. I support them with evidence-based, personalized care focused on behavior change, habit building, and practical strategies that create lasting, sustainable health improvements.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking sustainable, personalized nutrition support for chronic disease prevention and management (heart health, diabetes, weight concerns, overall wellness). They often feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice, struggle with consistency, or have a history of restrictive dieting and want a healthier relationship with food. They come for realistic, individualized guidance, accountability, and long-term change. I support them with evidence-based, personalized care focused on behavior change, habit building, and practical strategies that create lasting, sustainable health improvements.
(773) 985-4986 View (773) 985-4986
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.