![Photo of Lauren Bernstein, MS, RD, CDE, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5884b3dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe finding the right motivation and support is the key to your success. Not only will I focus on what you eat but why you eat. Emotional eating has become a much more prevalent issue for many people. My clients will have the opportunity to explore the triggers that perpetuate these unhealthy eating habits. I have over 20 years of experience. Let me be your health coach and lead you to a permanent, healthy way of eating.
I believe finding the right motivation and support is the key to your success. Not only will I focus on what you eat but why you eat. Emotional eating has become a much more prevalent issue for many people. My clients will have the opportunity to explore the triggers that perpetuate these unhealthy eating habits. I have over 20 years of experience. Let me be your health coach and lead you to a permanent, healthy way of eating.
![Photo of Maggie Milone - Turn Leaf Wellness, MPH, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/041ba0df-dbbb-4227-98b0-a0cf1765c5dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maggie Milone, MPH, RD, CDN, is a dedicated Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who believes in the transformative power of food. With a compassionate approach, Maggie guides clients towards realistic and sustainable lifestyle changes, fostering a harmonious relationship with food, body, and mind. Embracing the principles of “food as medicine” and a “non-diet” philosophy, she empowers individuals to take small, meaningful steps towards improved health and well-being.
Maggie Milone, MPH, RD, CDN, is a dedicated Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who believes in the transformative power of food. With a compassionate approach, Maggie guides clients towards realistic and sustainable lifestyle changes, fostering a harmonious relationship with food, body, and mind. Embracing the principles of “food as medicine” and a “non-diet” philosophy, she empowers individuals to take small, meaningful steps towards improved health and well-being.
![Photo of Lorri B Katz, MA, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59ec3af5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a seasoned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist dedicated to partnering with patients collaboratively to achieve their nutrition and health goals. Over the past 40 plus years, I have worked in healthcare settings ranging from wellness centers in integrative and functional nutrition to hospital and medical offices.
I am a seasoned Registered Dietitian Nutritionist dedicated to partnering with patients collaboratively to achieve their nutrition and health goals. Over the past 40 plus years, I have worked in healthcare settings ranging from wellness centers in integrative and functional nutrition to hospital and medical offices.
![Photo of Alyce Cudjoe, MA, RD, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59445b5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alyce Cudjoe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDCES
Verified Verified
Vauxhall, NJ 07088 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Bridge the gap between knowledge and behavior with an individualized and behavioral approach to weight loss! I will work with you to develop a simple and realistic plan to meeting your health and nutrition needs and motivate sustainable and long-lasting change in nutrition-related behaviors. My areas of expertise include weight management, diabetes management, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular health. I am also a Certified Diabetes Education and Care Specialist (CDCES). As a CDCES, I will work with you to develop a diabetes management plan that fits your lifestyle, beliefs, and culture.
Bridge the gap between knowledge and behavior with an individualized and behavioral approach to weight loss! I will work with you to develop a simple and realistic plan to meeting your health and nutrition needs and motivate sustainable and long-lasting change in nutrition-related behaviors. My areas of expertise include weight management, diabetes management, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular health. I am also a Certified Diabetes Education and Care Specialist (CDCES). As a CDCES, I will work with you to develop a diabetes management plan that fits your lifestyle, beliefs, and culture.
![Photo of Lauren Budd Levy, MS, RDN, CSR, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/205d3d0f-f294-4a90-95f1-f433c91c5f45/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients to prevent the progression of chronic diseases (kidney disease, kidney stones, IGA Nephropathy, Polycystic Kidney Disease, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes) through plant-based mindful eating practices.
I work with clients to prevent the progression of chronic diseases (kidney disease, kidney stones, IGA Nephropathy, Polycystic Kidney Disease, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes) through plant-based mindful eating practices.
![Photo of Lexi Moriarty (Sports + Eating Disorder Dietitian), MS, RDN, CSSD, RYT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8ff36d8c-2512-4271-ac17-b0784196dcf4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lexi Moriarty (Sports + Eating Disorder Dietitian)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, RYT
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090 (Online Only)
Lexi is currently not accepting any new clients. Lexi is a Certified Sports Dietitian specializing in sports nutrition, eating disorder recovery, and intuitive eating for athletes. Do you struggle with confusion about what to eat for your goals, sport, or training? Do you overthink food decisions, feel guilt around certain choices, and not know how to blend healthy eating with an active social life? Are your low energy levels or tendency to overthink everything you eat getting in the way of your life, happiness, and sports performance? Food and nutrition do not need to be this complicated.
Lexi is currently not accepting any new clients. Lexi is a Certified Sports Dietitian specializing in sports nutrition, eating disorder recovery, and intuitive eating for athletes. Do you struggle with confusion about what to eat for your goals, sport, or training? Do you overthink food decisions, feel guilt around certain choices, and not know how to blend healthy eating with an active social life? Are your low energy levels or tendency to overthink everything you eat getting in the way of your life, happiness, and sports performance? Food and nutrition do not need to be this complicated.
![Photo of Katie Salmon, MS, RDN, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/66d31b86-ced6-4638-82b4-0ca51c77001b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Salmon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Verified Verified
Springfield, NJ 07081 (Online Only)
Are tired of the conflicting nutrition recommendations and are frustrated by the confusing guidelines when it comes to your fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey? Maybe you are at a loss of what to even eat when it comes to nausea, food aversions, a new diagnosis of gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia. You are looking for a tailored approach to your needs that will work specifically for your busy lifestyle.
Are tired of the conflicting nutrition recommendations and are frustrated by the confusing guidelines when it comes to your fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journey? Maybe you are at a loss of what to even eat when it comes to nausea, food aversions, a new diagnosis of gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia. You are looking for a tailored approach to your needs that will work specifically for your busy lifestyle.
![Photo of Rebecca Zeltmann, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/052869e1-5e71-4d30-8487-293aaee140fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of the diet cycle and feeling like you are not good enough as you are? We can help. The Enjoyable Plate is passionate about helping women heal their relationship with food and their body through nutrition and body image counseling, so you can spend more time on all the things you love and less time worrying about how you look and what you eat. Because changing your appearance will not make you a more deserving, lovable person - you are worthy of love, self-respect, kindness and happiness as you are.
Are you tired of the diet cycle and feeling like you are not good enough as you are? We can help. The Enjoyable Plate is passionate about helping women heal their relationship with food and their body through nutrition and body image counseling, so you can spend more time on all the things you love and less time worrying about how you look and what you eat. Because changing your appearance will not make you a more deserving, lovable person - you are worthy of love, self-respect, kindness and happiness as you are.
![Photo of Beth A Lanzisera, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1a5e5e2a-ee81-4d5c-a10d-ca2324e0d701/1/320x400.png)
Diet and nutrition are incredibly impactful on our mental and physical well-being. Sorting through all the current diet trends swirling around in the public domain can be overwhelming and confusing. Working together, we can create lasting lifestyle changes that evolve and are personalized to your needs. If you have been imagining feeling more energetic and increasing your vitality, working together, we can make that possible!
Diet and nutrition are incredibly impactful on our mental and physical well-being. Sorting through all the current diet trends swirling around in the public domain can be overwhelming and confusing. Working together, we can create lasting lifestyle changes that evolve and are personalized to your needs. If you have been imagining feeling more energetic and increasing your vitality, working together, we can make that possible!
![Photo of Allison Song - Allison Song Wellness, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/b0288999-7cce-4c33-85cb-0163ed822e06/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are people who would like to develop a better relationship with food. They may have a history of dieting or may just be confused and overwhelmed by what food to eat. Many of my clients have digestive issues, autoimmune diseases, mental health struggles, or markers of poor health and often come to me tired, overwhelmed and frustrated by the excess of contradictory nutrition information they see online and in the world at large. They would like a simple approach to nutrition and are willing to do the work of getting to the root cause of their issues.
My clients are people who would like to develop a better relationship with food. They may have a history of dieting or may just be confused and overwhelmed by what food to eat. Many of my clients have digestive issues, autoimmune diseases, mental health struggles, or markers of poor health and often come to me tired, overwhelmed and frustrated by the excess of contradictory nutrition information they see online and in the world at large. They would like a simple approach to nutrition and are willing to do the work of getting to the root cause of their issues.
![Photo of Lexie D'Adamo, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/21fd044e-5aa1-403d-bb05-02191de463ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lexie D'Adamo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to nutrition counseling is centered around building trust and understanding of each client’s unique needs, ensuring you receive the best care possible in your path towards recovery. In my practice, I work with individuals who are looking to heal their relationship with food and body image, have struggled with chronic dieting and the effects harmful diet culture messaging, and those in recovery from an eating disorder. When working with me, you can expect a judgement-free, empathetic, and safe space to receive support.
My approach to nutrition counseling is centered around building trust and understanding of each client’s unique needs, ensuring you receive the best care possible in your path towards recovery. In my practice, I work with individuals who are looking to heal their relationship with food and body image, have struggled with chronic dieting and the effects harmful diet culture messaging, and those in recovery from an eating disorder. When working with me, you can expect a judgement-free, empathetic, and safe space to receive support.
![Photo of John Bock, DCN, RD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58c136be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and over 15 years of experience as a registered dietitian, I have implemented specialty nutrition-focused programs for weight management, bariatric surgery, women's health, cancer, congestive heart failure, lipid management, diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders. My approach for behavior modification starts with each client setting their own goals and providing motivation to achieve these goals. I want to know what your thoughts are about food and the emotions that stimulate eating. We will openly discuss your nutrition concerns and develop a plan to overcome them.
As a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and over 15 years of experience as a registered dietitian, I have implemented specialty nutrition-focused programs for weight management, bariatric surgery, women's health, cancer, congestive heart failure, lipid management, diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders. My approach for behavior modification starts with each client setting their own goals and providing motivation to achieve these goals. I want to know what your thoughts are about food and the emotions that stimulate eating. We will openly discuss your nutrition concerns and develop a plan to overcome them.
![Photo of Jacqueline Gomes - Jacqueline Gomes Nutrition, RDN, MBA, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/688f0378-11f8-4cb7-87cd-19afcc022a99/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Gomes Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MBA
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA. A recent client wrote this; "I truly cannot thank you enough, superhero's come in all forms and you have truly rescued me from myself of yo-yo dieting and having a toxic relationship with food. I have learned so much and feel more empowered and in control then I ever have." Powerful words, and is the essence of what I try to achieve with my clients. I help individuals reach their health related goals focusing on the science of nutrition and a "food as fuel" approach. I meet you where you are today and we develop a plan together, that will support you to your desired health outcomes.
Hi, I'm Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA. A recent client wrote this; "I truly cannot thank you enough, superhero's come in all forms and you have truly rescued me from myself of yo-yo dieting and having a toxic relationship with food. I have learned so much and feel more empowered and in control then I ever have." Powerful words, and is the essence of what I try to achieve with my clients. I help individuals reach their health related goals focusing on the science of nutrition and a "food as fuel" approach. I meet you where you are today and we develop a plan together, that will support you to your desired health outcomes.
![Photo of Cyndi Salemy, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/400f1900-ffaf-44ef-b935-961c392501d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be really hard sometimes, and cultivating a positive relationship with food and your body can feel impossible. I specialize in mental health nutrition, disordered eating, binge eating, and eating disorders and can help you find nourishment and peace with food. I offer a supportive, weight-inclusive, non-judgmental space to share, learn, and discover where you can make positive change in your life.
Life can be really hard sometimes, and cultivating a positive relationship with food and your body can feel impossible. I specialize in mental health nutrition, disordered eating, binge eating, and eating disorders and can help you find nourishment and peace with food. I offer a supportive, weight-inclusive, non-judgmental space to share, learn, and discover where you can make positive change in your life.
![Photo of Jalpa Sheth - Jalpa Sheth Nutrition & Wellness LLC, MS, RD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59c5aae0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jalpa Sheth Nutrition & Wellness LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
Hi, this is Jalpa Sheth, a Registered Dietitian with a Master's degree in Health & Nutrition and special training in Adult Weight Management. Having worked as a Registered Dietitian in various settings ranging from critical care/ ICU at Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, as well as bariatric center, dialysis center and community programs supporting pre- & post-natal women, I have had intensive experience in providing medical nutrition therapy for a wide range of medical conditions. I have also obtained significant experience in the field of adult weight management as a Private Nutrition Practitioner.N
Hi, this is Jalpa Sheth, a Registered Dietitian with a Master's degree in Health & Nutrition and special training in Adult Weight Management. Having worked as a Registered Dietitian in various settings ranging from critical care/ ICU at Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, as well as bariatric center, dialysis center and community programs supporting pre- & post-natal women, I have had intensive experience in providing medical nutrition therapy for a wide range of medical conditions. I have also obtained significant experience in the field of adult weight management as a Private Nutrition Practitioner.N
![Photo of Constance A Chukwuka, MPH, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59018fbd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Constance A Chukwuka
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
My goal is to make it 100% easy for you to follow your specified dietary plan and lifestyle changes to meet your goal. I always review your food likes/dislikes, make necessary changes paying attention to your food likes. I believe that good nutrition is the one that is eaten, good diet plan/lifestyle change is the one that is simple and easy to follow for a long time. I use visuals and measures to bring points home and clear, you don't have to take notes, I do give handouts which you might never have to read because my points are always clear.
My goal is to make it 100% easy for you to follow your specified dietary plan and lifestyle changes to meet your goal. I always review your food likes/dislikes, make necessary changes paying attention to your food likes. I believe that good nutrition is the one that is eaten, good diet plan/lifestyle change is the one that is simple and easy to follow for a long time. I use visuals and measures to bring points home and clear, you don't have to take notes, I do give handouts which you might never have to read because my points are always clear.
![Photo of Tracy Colin, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/926da286-9fc7-44f3-bf5f-64d6a1ddedae/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals and families with disordered eating habits and the complications that may come from it, including but not limited cycling with diets and eating disorders, struggling with weight loss and body positivity, and picky eating.
I work with individuals and families with disordered eating habits and the complications that may come from it, including but not limited cycling with diets and eating disorders, struggling with weight loss and body positivity, and picky eating.
![Photo of Diane Ramos, MS, RD, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f9dd3562-8c22-40b1-a648-fd24b1ce52f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Ramos
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rahway, NJ 07065
Not accepting new clients
Making a change that actually sticks can be daunting. Getting healthy can be hard especially when there is so much information out there that is contradicting. My role always begins with being a strong support for anyone taking on the challenge of improving their eating habits, no matter how big or small. We are all human at the end of the day! I combine evidence based nutrition with behavior change strategies to help my clients achieve their goals one step at a time.
Making a change that actually sticks can be daunting. Getting healthy can be hard especially when there is so much information out there that is contradicting. My role always begins with being a strong support for anyone taking on the challenge of improving their eating habits, no matter how big or small. We are all human at the end of the day! I combine evidence based nutrition with behavior change strategies to help my clients achieve their goals one step at a time.
![Photo of Lori Kolodin, MPH, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/360f7110-1b9d-4ba4-a23a-680714b87807/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are struggling with weight issues or are faced with a medical diagnosis which requires nutrition intervention, I offer quality advice and support based upon years of clinical experience. I provide a comfortable, warm and friendly office environment in beautiful Martinsville, NJ with an individually patient focused practice.
Whether you are struggling with weight issues or are faced with a medical diagnosis which requires nutrition intervention, I offer quality advice and support based upon years of clinical experience. I provide a comfortable, warm and friendly office environment in beautiful Martinsville, NJ with an individually patient focused practice.
![Photo of Alexis Cascone, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/bd7aa81a-5e62-44ac-aaf1-73ccfd951151/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Cascone
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07901 (Online Only)
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! I specialize in lactation support, women's health (pre-and-post pregnancy), pediatrics, and digestive disorders. When we work together, I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify the complexities of nutrition during crucial life stages. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Email me for the quickest response or book now using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! I specialize in lactation support, women's health (pre-and-post pregnancy), pediatrics, and digestive disorders. When we work together, I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify the complexities of nutrition during crucial life stages. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Email me for the quickest response or book now using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Union 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.