Nutrition Counseling Nutritionists and Dietitians in New City, NY

Photo of Miriam Shurpin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Miriam Shurpin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Serves Area
As a Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist I strive to help my clients repair their relationship with food, improve their body image and uncover their self-worth. Through a combination of nutritional therapies based on scientific evidence, I teach my clients how to achieve innate health.
As a Registered Dietitian – Nutritionist I strive to help my clients repair their relationship with food, improve their body image and uncover their self-worth. Through a combination of nutritional therapies based on scientific evidence, I teach my clients how to achieve innate health.
(917) 935-4232 View (917) 935-4232
Photo of Alenka Ravnik-List, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Alenka Ravnik-List
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Serves Area
I am a functionally trained, bilingual Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), as well as the founder of Eating Right Matters. As your personal concierge dietitian, I specialize in sustainable weight loss and metabolic health, helping you unlock your body’s potential through the power of personalized nutrition.
I am a functionally trained, bilingual Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), as well as the founder of Eating Right Matters. As your personal concierge dietitian, I specialize in sustainable weight loss and metabolic health, helping you unlock your body’s potential through the power of personalized nutrition.
(845) 513-3177 View (845) 513-3177
Photo of Stacy Seslowsky - Heal From Food , Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Heal From Food
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Serves Area
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
(904) 899-4955 View (904) 899-4955

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Teela Laino - Diabetes Digital (Virtual Only), Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Diabetes Digital (Virtual Only)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
New York, NY 10001
Contact us today for transformative personalized nutrition counseling
I’m Teela, and I help people with diabetes and prediabetes improve their diet and overall health with small, sustainable changes. I'm a Certified Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist with years of professional experience, including hospital settings, long-term care, and WIC. I received my Master of Science in Nutrition at Hunter College. My journey was born from a sincere passion for food and the belief that everyone deserves equal access to healthcare. Clients find me approachable, resourceful, and caring.
Contact us today for transformative personalized nutrition counseling
I’m Teela, and I help people with diabetes and prediabetes improve their diet and overall health with small, sustainable changes. I'm a Certified Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist with years of professional experience, including hospital settings, long-term care, and WIC. I received my Master of Science in Nutrition at Hunter College. My journey was born from a sincere passion for food and the belief that everyone deserves equal access to healthcare. Clients find me approachable, resourceful, and caring.
(332) 205-9251 View (332) 205-9251
Photo of Robin Millet, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS-C, CDN
Robin Millet
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS-C, CDN
New York, NY 10001
Our relationship with food and our bodies often gets complicated. I enjoy helping people develop a new relationship; one that is not guided by judgement or strict rules. I often work with individuals with eating disorders or erratic eating patterns and have years of experience in successfully helping people apply needed changes to their behaviors but also their thoughts and beliefs. In order to find a healthful and maintainable way of taking care of yourself I create a supportive environment as we work together to make progressive changes and deal with obstacles as they arise.
Our relationship with food and our bodies often gets complicated. I enjoy helping people develop a new relationship; one that is not guided by judgement or strict rules. I often work with individuals with eating disorders or erratic eating patterns and have years of experience in successfully helping people apply needed changes to their behaviors but also their thoughts and beliefs. In order to find a healthful and maintainable way of taking care of yourself I create a supportive environment as we work together to make progressive changes and deal with obstacles as they arise.
(917) 725-2111 View (917) 725-2111
Photo of Barbara Smith, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Barbara Smith
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
Are you tired of feeling fatigued, having digestive issues(such as reflux, diarrhea, bloating, gas), having brain fog, suffering from muscle and joint pain? Do you have a history of Lyme Disease and antibiotic use that can cause "leaky gut" (GI-gastrointestinal tract)? Does your history include chronic health conditions such as IBS, Fibromyalgia, Migraines, Rheumatoid Arthritis or eczema? Through a personalized treatment plan Barbara can help you get to the root cause of your health issues and provide you with the solutions that you need to be able to enjoy life again!
Are you tired of feeling fatigued, having digestive issues(such as reflux, diarrhea, bloating, gas), having brain fog, suffering from muscle and joint pain? Do you have a history of Lyme Disease and antibiotic use that can cause "leaky gut" (GI-gastrointestinal tract)? Does your history include chronic health conditions such as IBS, Fibromyalgia, Migraines, Rheumatoid Arthritis or eczema? Through a personalized treatment plan Barbara can help you get to the root cause of your health issues and provide you with the solutions that you need to be able to enjoy life again!
(908) 988-0438 View (908) 988-0438
Photo of Wendy Lopez Registered Dietitian Certified Diabetes Educator - Diabetes Digital (Telehealth Diabetes Nutrition), Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Diabetes Digital (Telehealth Diabetes Nutrition)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Diabetes Digital, our personalized 1-on-1 nutrition counseling is designed to suit your unique needs, cultural background, and preferences.
But it's not just about the food. We understand that living with diabetes can take an emotional toll. That's why we provide the support and understanding you need to navigate the ups and downs of your journey. We'll be with you every step of the way, helping you overcome obstacles and cultivate a resilient mindset.
At Diabetes Digital, our personalized 1-on-1 nutrition counseling is designed to suit your unique needs, cultural background, and preferences.
But it's not just about the food. We understand that living with diabetes can take an emotional toll. That's why we provide the support and understanding you need to navigate the ups and downs of your journey. We'll be with you every step of the way, helping you overcome obstacles and cultivate a resilient mindset.
(332) 263-3789 View (332) 263-3789
Photo of Alyssa Glasser, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CPT
Alyssa Glasser
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CPT
Online Only
I work with adults who have ADHD and feel overwhelmed by managing emotions, energy levels, and daily tasks. They struggle with consistency in both nutrition and life routines. They’re looking for holistic support that addresses both their physical and emotional needs—whether it’s building sustainable nutrition habits, improving focus, or creating routines that actually stick. Their goal is to feel more balanced, confident, and in control of their health and life, without being overwhelmed or feeling like they’re constantly behind. They want personalized guidance that fits their unique brain and body, so they can thrive.
I work with adults who have ADHD and feel overwhelmed by managing emotions, energy levels, and daily tasks. They struggle with consistency in both nutrition and life routines. They’re looking for holistic support that addresses both their physical and emotional needs—whether it’s building sustainable nutrition habits, improving focus, or creating routines that actually stick. Their goal is to feel more balanced, confident, and in control of their health and life, without being overwhelmed or feeling like they’re constantly behind. They want personalized guidance that fits their unique brain and body, so they can thrive.
(862) 415-0502 View (862) 415-0502
Photo of Cristina Veltri Illien, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Cristina Veltri Illien
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
I’m Cristina, a passionate Registered and Licensed Dietitian based in New York City. With years of experience and a deep commitment to women’s health, I’ve dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the unique challenges my female clients face. From navigating PCOS and other hormonal imbalances, to combating fatigue, autoimmune conditions, and relentless digestive issues, I’ve witnessed firsthand the common struggles that many women experience. Recognizing the limitations of conventional approaches and wanting to offer solutions that go beyond simple dietary advice, I immersed myself in the latest research on women’s health.
I’m Cristina, a passionate Registered and Licensed Dietitian based in New York City. With years of experience and a deep commitment to women’s health, I’ve dedicated myself to understanding and addressing the unique challenges my female clients face. From navigating PCOS and other hormonal imbalances, to combating fatigue, autoimmune conditions, and relentless digestive issues, I’ve witnessed firsthand the common struggles that many women experience. Recognizing the limitations of conventional approaches and wanting to offer solutions that go beyond simple dietary advice, I immersed myself in the latest research on women’s health.
(347) 846-2831 View (347) 846-2831
Photo of Rebecca Tolan Cruse, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Rebecca Tolan Cruse
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Serves Area
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
(914) 825-6699 View (914) 825-6699
Photo of Lisamarie Karlson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
Lisamarie Karlson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I'm a plant-based dietitian, and I have followed a plant-based lifestyle for over a decade. I work with the company Plant-Based Dietitians ltd. We offer online consultations to anyone who is interested in a plant-based, vegetarian, or vegan diet. With more than 6 years of experience in the nutrition industry, I have been helping individuals enhance their health and achieve their objectives. I offer a free 20-minute discovery call (via phone or Zoom). Simply send an email, and my customer service team will supply you with the scheduling link. You also have the option to book a session directly.
Hello! I'm a plant-based dietitian, and I have followed a plant-based lifestyle for over a decade. I work with the company Plant-Based Dietitians ltd. We offer online consultations to anyone who is interested in a plant-based, vegetarian, or vegan diet. With more than 6 years of experience in the nutrition industry, I have been helping individuals enhance their health and achieve their objectives. I offer a free 20-minute discovery call (via phone or Zoom). Simply send an email, and my customer service team will supply you with the scheduling link. You also have the option to book a session directly.
(914) 331-8167 View (914) 331-8167
Photo of Angela Rein, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN-D
Angela Rein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN-D
Rye Brook, NY 10573
I work with clients to develop customized, sustainable wellness plans that are realistic and easy to follow. In our first session, I take a deep dive into your personal health journey and provide a comprehensive and customized plan that addresses your specific health and lifestyle needs. Follow up sessions help support your goals, provide implemental steps in your journey and help hold you accountable. Clients enjoy knowing that they can email, call or text me anytime between office visits.
I work with clients to develop customized, sustainable wellness plans that are realistic and easy to follow. In our first session, I take a deep dive into your personal health journey and provide a comprehensive and customized plan that addresses your specific health and lifestyle needs. Follow up sessions help support your goals, provide implemental steps in your journey and help hold you accountable. Clients enjoy knowing that they can email, call or text me anytime between office visits.
(914) 246-5732 View (914) 246-5732
Photo of Angela T. Russo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, ACN, GAPS
Angela T. Russo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, ACN, GAPS
White Plains, NY 10601
Are you ready to feel better, gain vitality and optimal health? Overwhelmed by health challenges, struggling and tired of being sick? My focus is to determine your underlying health problems and treat it. I specialize in addressing various symptoms including: nutritional deficiencies and intolerances, inflammation, fatigue, allergies, digestive issues such as gas, bloat, constipation, diabetes and sugar imbalances, high cholesterol and blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, stress, toxicity, detoxification and more. I develop weight loss programs designed around you, your goals and your commitment to achieving your ideal weight. This will be the last weight loss program you will ever need.
Are you ready to feel better, gain vitality and optimal health? Overwhelmed by health challenges, struggling and tired of being sick? My focus is to determine your underlying health problems and treat it. I specialize in addressing various symptoms including: nutritional deficiencies and intolerances, inflammation, fatigue, allergies, digestive issues such as gas, bloat, constipation, diabetes and sugar imbalances, high cholesterol and blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, stress, toxicity, detoxification and more. I develop weight loss programs designed around you, your goals and your commitment to achieving your ideal weight. This will be the last weight loss program you will ever need.
(914) 618-4764 View (914) 618-4764
Photo of Jillian Mergruen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Jillian Mergruen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are struggling with your relationship with food, movement or your body, we might be a good fit to work together! I am a registered dietitian based in New York City who specializes in disordered eating and eating disorder treatment as well as other nutrition-related issues, like diabetes and GI nutrition. If you often feel pre-occupied with food or your body, struggle with feeling chaotic or in control around food, or if it feels hard to feel confident in your food choices, we can do this work together! I am here to support you in finding peace with food and your body. My goal is to help you do sustainable work with support!
If you are struggling with your relationship with food, movement or your body, we might be a good fit to work together! I am a registered dietitian based in New York City who specializes in disordered eating and eating disorder treatment as well as other nutrition-related issues, like diabetes and GI nutrition. If you often feel pre-occupied with food or your body, struggle with feeling chaotic or in control around food, or if it feels hard to feel confident in your food choices, we can do this work together! I am here to support you in finding peace with food and your body. My goal is to help you do sustainable work with support!
(516) 604-3316 View (516) 604-3316
Photo of Iris Improvement Epstein - Nutrition Improvement Center, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CEDS, CAI
Nutrition Improvement Center
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CEDS, CAI
Pomona, NY 10970
Iris Epstein, a registered dietitian and founder of the Nutrition Improvement Center, specializing in eating disorders. With extensive experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate recovery challenges. As a Certified ARISE Interventionist, Iris provides compassionate, family-focused support. At her center, she offers personalized coaching to improve relationships with food and promote sustainable health. Her approach combines evidence-based nutrition strategies with an understanding of emotional and behavioral factors. Iris fosters communication and collaboration within families, ensuring holistic care.
Iris Epstein, a registered dietitian and founder of the Nutrition Improvement Center, specializing in eating disorders. With extensive experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate recovery challenges. As a Certified ARISE Interventionist, Iris provides compassionate, family-focused support. At her center, she offers personalized coaching to improve relationships with food and promote sustainable health. Her approach combines evidence-based nutrition strategies with an understanding of emotional and behavioral factors. Iris fosters communication and collaboration within families, ensuring holistic care.
(845) 262-6677 View (845) 262-6677
Photo of Cheryl Buckley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, MBA , LDN, MS
Cheryl Buckley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, MBA , LDN, MS
Serves Area
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
(704) 665-0042 View (704) 665-0042
Photo of Justine M Roth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDRD
Justine M Roth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDRD
New York, NY 10022
I am an experienced Registered Dietitian, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders for adults, adolescents, and children. I am currently the director of the nutrition department at the NYS Psychiatric Institute, an in-patient treatment unit at Columbia University Medical Center. My philosophy is founded on the principle that being healthy does not require dieting or deprivation. We will work towards creating a healthy relationship with food by normalizing eating behaviors and developing the skills to make mindful decisions about food and your body.
I am an experienced Registered Dietitian, specializing in the treatment of eating disorders for adults, adolescents, and children. I am currently the director of the nutrition department at the NYS Psychiatric Institute, an in-patient treatment unit at Columbia University Medical Center. My philosophy is founded on the principle that being healthy does not require dieting or deprivation. We will work towards creating a healthy relationship with food by normalizing eating behaviors and developing the skills to make mindful decisions about food and your body.
(732) 654-2060 View (732) 654-2060
Photo of Foluke Toba - Harmony Diet and Nutrition Concept, P.C, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Harmony Diet and Nutrition Concept, P.C
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
2 Endorsed
East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Welcome to Harmony Diet and Nutrition Concept. Are you ready for some life changes? Sometimes, It takes commitment, planning, and new ideas to set us in motion. We are located in the heart of Flushing, Queens. It is a welcoming and conducive environment where individualized and customized medical nutrition therapy is provided to our valued clients. You will be guided to become more informed and pro-acive about your nutritional health and weight status. Specialization is in the prevention and management of nutritionally related diseases such as diabetes, cholesterol, BP, cancer, heart and gastrointestinal health. See us for geriatric, hospice weight management and bariatric counselling.
Welcome to Harmony Diet and Nutrition Concept. Are you ready for some life changes? Sometimes, It takes commitment, planning, and new ideas to set us in motion. We are located in the heart of Flushing, Queens. It is a welcoming and conducive environment where individualized and customized medical nutrition therapy is provided to our valued clients. You will be guided to become more informed and pro-acive about your nutritional health and weight status. Specialization is in the prevention and management of nutritionally related diseases such as diabetes, cholesterol, BP, cancer, heart and gastrointestinal health. See us for geriatric, hospice weight management and bariatric counselling.
(718) 285-8526 View (718) 285-8526
Photo of Elyse Metelka - Elyse Metelka Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Elyse Metelka Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
New York, NY 10019
Elyse Metelka Nutrition is a nutrition private practice located near Columbus Circle in New York City providing nutrition counseling and education.
Elyse considers herself to be an "anti-diet" Dietitian. Put more simply, this means that she believes that diets don’t work and instead encourages her clients to incorporate all foods and eat balanced. Elyse helps her clients heal their relationships with food, eating, and their bodies by teaching her clients to practice intuitive and mindful eating.
Elyse Metelka Nutrition is a nutrition private practice located near Columbus Circle in New York City providing nutrition counseling and education.
Elyse considers herself to be an "anti-diet" Dietitian. Put more simply, this means that she believes that diets don’t work and instead encourages her clients to incorporate all foods and eat balanced. Elyse helps her clients heal their relationships with food, eating, and their bodies by teaching her clients to practice intuitive and mindful eating.
(646) 593-7503 View (646) 593-7503
Photo of Jillian Tuchman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Jillian Tuchman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
New York, NY 10028
I help people heal from chronic conditions by uncovering the root cause and bringing their bodies back into balance. If you’re ready to get the root causes of your symptoms, heal your body + mind, and are ready to recover your health to start living the life you desire, then I want to help you get there. Whether you’re managing an illness or just want to feel better, I get it - I've been there + know exactly how you feel. With so much conflicting health information out there, it's easy to feel overwhelmed + paralyzed. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles + start feeling your best.
I help people heal from chronic conditions by uncovering the root cause and bringing their bodies back into balance. If you’re ready to get the root causes of your symptoms, heal your body + mind, and are ready to recover your health to start living the life you desire, then I want to help you get there. Whether you’re managing an illness or just want to feel better, I get it - I've been there + know exactly how you feel. With so much conflicting health information out there, it's easy to feel overwhelmed + paralyzed. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles + start feeling your best.
(551) 257-2215 View (551) 257-2215
Nutrition Counseling Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is nutrition counseling?
Nutrition counseling refers to the services provided by a Registered Dietitian (RD) that focus on diet and nutrition. Individuals often seek nutrition counseling to make diet-related lifestyle changes, especially after being diagnosed with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. However, nutrition counseling is not limited to these cases, and it can often benefit anyone looking to improve their overall health. Nutrition counselors also often address other aspects of a healthy lifestyle within sessions, such as advising on physical activity, chronic disease management, and mental health. They provide guidance and motivation, often adopting a holistic approach to support clients in achieving their health and wellbeing goals.

Who should see a nutrition counselor?
Many people can benefit from seeing a nutrition counselor; however, individuals with (or at risk of developing) chronic medical conditions or who have specific dietary challenges (for example, IBS, Crohn's disease, etc.) may find a nutrition counselor particularly helpful. Nutrition counselors are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so consulting a dietitian if you have a chronic condition can be greatly beneficial. Nutrition professionals can help clients understand how their diet impacts their symptoms and suggest strategies to improve overall health. Additionally, dietitians can coordinate with other medical professionals, such as primary care physicians or specialty physicians, to help support the client's overall health.

What happens during a nutrition counseling session?
Nutrition counseling is fundamentally focused on a client's individual health goals. The initial session with a nutrition professional typically involves an evaluation, during which the dietitian seeks to understand the client's reasons for seeking nutrition counseling. This session typically includes discussing the client's health history, current eating habits, lifestyle, and specific nutrition counseling goals. In follow-up sessions, the client and dietitian will typically review progress toward these goals, and the dietitian may examine the client's food intake and suggest areas for improvement. They may also educate the client on diet-related topics, such as ensuring adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables or reducing sodium intake. Additionally, nutrition counselors can help clients stay accountable for other lifestyle changes that support overall health, such as regular exercise, smoking cessation, or moderating alcohol consumption.

What should I look for in a nutrition counselor?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from managing medical conditions to addressing lifestyle concerns like weight loss or specific dietary requirements. When looking for a nutrition counselor, it is essential to find someone with expertise in the area of nutrition relevant to your needs. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals in your area to determine the best fit. Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, making it important to look for a professional with RD credentials. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you may be interested in seeking 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), as these credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area.