Nutritionists and Dietitians in New York, NY

Photo of Isabelle Carren-Le Sauter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Isabelle Carren-Le Sauter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10022
I’m Isabelle, a Registered Dietitian and founder of Nourished Roots Nutrition, offering highly personalized, identity-affirming support for eating disorder recovery. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and individuals navigating chronic pain. My clients are thoughtful, accomplished, and ready for a liberatory path to healing. As a queer, neurodivergent, fat clinician, I deeply understand the exhaustion of navigating systems that weren’t made for you. If you have experienced care that didn't honor your experience, it is not your fault. You are not broken — you are also not alone.
I’m Isabelle, a Registered Dietitian and founder of Nourished Roots Nutrition, offering highly personalized, identity-affirming support for eating disorder recovery. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and individuals navigating chronic pain. My clients are thoughtful, accomplished, and ready for a liberatory path to healing. As a queer, neurodivergent, fat clinician, I deeply understand the exhaustion of navigating systems that weren’t made for you. If you have experienced care that didn't honor your experience, it is not your fault. You are not broken — you are also not alone.
(347) 801-2471 View (347) 801-2471
Photo of Jennifer Verola, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Jennifer Verola
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Online Only
I am interested in the preventive side of healthcare, and truly believe food can be medicine. I view my health as one of the most important things in my life, and I want to encourage my clients to see the value in their health and accomplish their wellness goals. I personally follow a pescetarian, but mostly plant-based diet, and am a huge proponent of any type of movement. I would love to share my knowledge of food and passion for wellness with you, and help you reach your goals.
I am interested in the preventive side of healthcare, and truly believe food can be medicine. I view my health as one of the most important things in my life, and I want to encourage my clients to see the value in their health and accomplish their wellness goals. I personally follow a pescetarian, but mostly plant-based diet, and am a huge proponent of any type of movement. I would love to share my knowledge of food and passion for wellness with you, and help you reach your goals.
(516) 447-2552 View (516) 447-2552
Photo of Maria Alexandra Bella, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Maria Alexandra Bella
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I started my career in clinical nutrition with a weight loss of over 70 lbs. Since then, I have obtained my graduate degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University and am currently on the board of directors of the National Lipid Association and the Clinical Nutrition Coordinator at the NYU School of Medicine. My sub-specialty is weight management (loss/gain) and heart health (cholesterol, blood pressure, familial hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and pre-diabetes, and metabolic syndrome).
I started my career in clinical nutrition with a weight loss of over 70 lbs. Since then, I have obtained my graduate degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University and am currently on the board of directors of the National Lipid Association and the Clinical Nutrition Coordinator at the NYU School of Medicine. My sub-specialty is weight management (loss/gain) and heart health (cholesterol, blood pressure, familial hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and pre-diabetes, and metabolic syndrome).
(646) 461-6637 View (646) 461-6637
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 Alexandra (Alex) Leibold, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Alexandra (Alex) Leibold
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
When was the last time food was FUN for you? If it’s been a while, I’d love to help you explore how food can be more than just necessary nourishment. Eating disorders take the social, cultural, and, frankly, the joy out of eating. My goal is to guide each client on their journey, teaching clients how to nourish themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.
When was the last time food was FUN for you? If it’s been a while, I’d love to help you explore how food can be more than just necessary nourishment. Eating disorders take the social, cultural, and, frankly, the joy out of eating. My goal is to guide each client on their journey, teaching clients how to nourish themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.
(646) 640-0390 View (646) 640-0390
Photo of Rachel Harvest, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IFNCP
Rachel Harvest
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IFNCP
Online Only
The Harvest Method serves thoughtful, high-achieving individuals who feel successful on the outside but dysregulated within. They may struggle with digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, emotional eating, burnout, or boundary challenges. They want more than a meal plan — they want root-cause care that integrates functional nutrition, behavior change, and emotional regulation. Their goal is sustainable health, self-trust, balanced relationships, and the ability to succeed without sacrificing their wellbeing.
The Harvest Method serves thoughtful, high-achieving individuals who feel successful on the outside but dysregulated within. They may struggle with digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, emotional eating, burnout, or boundary challenges. They want more than a meal plan — they want root-cause care that integrates functional nutrition, behavior change, and emotional regulation. Their goal is sustainable health, self-trust, balanced relationships, and the ability to succeed without sacrificing their wellbeing.
(646) 970-1163 View (646) 970-1163
Photo of Karissa Stevens, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Karissa Stevens
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Online Only
Karissa prioritizes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach around nutrition counseling. She understands change is difficult, especially when it comes to something as personal as your relationship with food. Her goal is to build a safe space to explore the physical, mental, and emotional impact of nutrition as it fits into your life.
Karissa prioritizes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach around nutrition counseling. She understands change is difficult, especially when it comes to something as personal as your relationship with food. Her goal is to build a safe space to explore the physical, mental, and emotional impact of nutrition as it fits into your life.
(646) 846-9610 View (646) 846-9610
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 Nicole Holness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
Nicole Holness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
New York, NY 10018
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health. I’ve helped hundreds of women manage their PCOS, fertility, pregnancy, and find relief from endometriosis. With over a decade's experience in top NYC hospitals like NYU Langone and Mount Sinai, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care to women’s health. Beyond my clinical knowledge, I have a background in culinary arts—having earned a culinary degree and cooked in Michelin-star restaurants. Food is medicine, yet should be a joy, and I bring these experiences into my practice.
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health. I’ve helped hundreds of women manage their PCOS, fertility, pregnancy, and find relief from endometriosis. With over a decade's experience in top NYC hospitals like NYU Langone and Mount Sinai, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care to women’s health. Beyond my clinical knowledge, I have a background in culinary arts—having earned a culinary degree and cooked in Michelin-star restaurants. Food is medicine, yet should be a joy, and I bring these experiences into my practice.
(929) 264-5030 View (929) 264-5030
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. Services include one-on-one nutrition counseling, nutrition presentations to groups, and media writing or appearances. Elyse Metelka, MS, RD, CDN is the owner and founder of Elyse Metelka Nutrition. She is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN). Her specialties include eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight and body image issues, health at every size (HAES), sports nutrition, nutrition for figure skaters, and vegetarian nutrition.
Elyse Metelka Nutrition is a nutrition private practice located near Columbus Circle in New York City providing nutrition counseling and education. Services include one-on-one nutrition counseling, nutrition presentations to groups, and media writing or appearances. Elyse Metelka, MS, RD, CDN is the owner and founder of Elyse Metelka Nutrition. She is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN). Her specialties include eating disorders and disordered eating, intuitive eating, weight and body image issues, health at every size (HAES), sports nutrition, nutrition for figure skaters, and vegetarian nutrition.
(646) 593-7503 View (646) 593-7503
Photo of Melissa Mann - Tribeca Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
Tribeca Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
New York, NY 10007
My name is Melissa Mann; I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in working with clients with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image issues and those who want an anti-diet approach to nutrition. My career began at The Mount Sinai Hospital in 2016, where she worked as a Clinical Nutrition Coordinator specializing in oncology. I currently work as the lead dietitian at Monte Nido River Towns, a residential eating disorder treatment center in Irvington, NY. I work with clients to promote healthy, positive relationships with food and body. My approach to nutrition counseling is centered around an all foods fit philosophy.
My name is Melissa Mann; I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in working with clients with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image issues and those who want an anti-diet approach to nutrition. My career began at The Mount Sinai Hospital in 2016, where she worked as a Clinical Nutrition Coordinator specializing in oncology. I currently work as the lead dietitian at Monte Nido River Towns, a residential eating disorder treatment center in Irvington, NY. I work with clients to promote healthy, positive relationships with food and body. My approach to nutrition counseling is centered around an all foods fit philosophy.
(332) 296-2502 View (332) 296-2502
Photo of Coleen Gail De Vol, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Coleen Gail De Vol
Nutritionist/Dietitian
New York, NY 10016
I'm a NYC & Brooklyn Nutritionist and Health Coach here to help you achieve weight loss via a healthy diet, gain energy, clear up digestive issues, stop sugar addiction, manage depression, clear up skin conditions, eliminate cramps & PMS, manage PCOS and learn how to eat healthfully in an increasingly unhealthy world. Click get started or the free consultation link from my website for a free consult. I take this time hear all about your goals and concerns and explain the details of how my program works. I look forward to meeting you!
I'm a NYC & Brooklyn Nutritionist and Health Coach here to help you achieve weight loss via a healthy diet, gain energy, clear up digestive issues, stop sugar addiction, manage depression, clear up skin conditions, eliminate cramps & PMS, manage PCOS and learn how to eat healthfully in an increasingly unhealthy world. Click get started or the free consultation link from my website for a free consult. I take this time hear all about your goals and concerns and explain the details of how my program works. I look forward to meeting you!
(646) 552-2556 View (646) 552-2556
Photo of Michele Goldfine, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Michele Goldfine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
New York, NY 10016
I'm a dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, chronic dieting and intuitive eating. I provide a warm, open, and non-judgmental space to help you create a peaceful relationship with food, while developing a personalized and balanced approach to health and well-being that works for you. Do you feel preoccupied with thoughts about food and your weight, or perhaps you feel like you can’t be trusted to keep your favorite foods in your house? Maybe you feel anxiety around going out to eat with friends or that you feel stuck counting points/calories. If any of these resonate, I'd love to work with you!
I'm a dietitian specializing in disordered eating, eating disorders, chronic dieting and intuitive eating. I provide a warm, open, and non-judgmental space to help you create a peaceful relationship with food, while developing a personalized and balanced approach to health and well-being that works for you. Do you feel preoccupied with thoughts about food and your weight, or perhaps you feel like you can’t be trusted to keep your favorite foods in your house? Maybe you feel anxiety around going out to eat with friends or that you feel stuck counting points/calories. If any of these resonate, I'd love to work with you!
(347) 252-9364 View (347) 252-9364
Photo of Shelley Rothbart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Shelley Rothbart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
New York, NY 10065
I provide customized nutritional plans created around your individual medical needs. I have over 20 years of experience having worked at several NY Hospitals including Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York Presbyterian and have publications in major medical journals. I have seen significant weight loss results in my clients and improvement in cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure and diabetic control..I work intimately with each individual providing a high level of support and personal attention. I am a very goal oriented person, I don't want to prolong the process of reaching achievement.
I provide customized nutritional plans created around your individual medical needs. I have over 20 years of experience having worked at several NY Hospitals including Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, New York Presbyterian and have publications in major medical journals. I have seen significant weight loss results in my clients and improvement in cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure and diabetic control..I work intimately with each individual providing a high level of support and personal attention. I am a very goal oriented person, I don't want to prolong the process of reaching achievement.
(646) 362-5321 View (646) 362-5321
Photo of Melanie Sherman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Melanie Sherman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
New York, NY 10025
Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, or simply want to improve your relationship to food and your body, together we will work to nourish your mind, body and spirit and set you on your path towards health, healing and recovery.
Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, or simply want to improve your relationship to food and your body, together we will work to nourish your mind, body and spirit and set you on your path towards health, healing and recovery.
(646) 503-0930 View (646) 503-0930
Photo of Lisa R. Young - Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
New York, NY 10028
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
(347) 970-8559 View (347) 970-8559
Photo of Robin Decicco, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Robin Decicco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Online Only
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
(201) 289-5984 View (201) 289-5984
Photo of Ashley Beale, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
Ashley Beale
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! My name is Ashley (she/her) and I am a Registered Dietitian based out of New York City. I am the owner of Ashley Beale Nutrition where I practice through a weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit, and trauma-informed approach. I respect and appreciate body diversity, knowing that no two individual’s needs are alike. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, there is no “right” way to start this journey.
Hi! My name is Ashley (she/her) and I am a Registered Dietitian based out of New York City. I am the owner of Ashley Beale Nutrition where I practice through a weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit, and trauma-informed approach. I respect and appreciate body diversity, knowing that no two individual’s needs are alike. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, there is no “right” way to start this journey.
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Photo of Rebecca Alcosser, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
Rebecca Alcosser
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
New York, NY 10007
Rebecca's ideal clients are those struggling with eating disorders—Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Orthorexia, or ARFID—as well as dancers or athletes navigating performance pressure. They come seeking relief from food rules, guilt, and body image struggles, or needing support fueling demanding training. Rebecca meets each client with a compassionate, weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit approach—creating a safe space to heal their relationship with food, rebuild body trust, and develop sustainable nourishment habits. For performers, she integrates performance nutrition to support energy and recovery without compromising well-being.
Rebecca's ideal clients are those struggling with eating disorders—Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Orthorexia, or ARFID—as well as dancers or athletes navigating performance pressure. They come seeking relief from food rules, guilt, and body image struggles, or needing support fueling demanding training. Rebecca meets each client with a compassionate, weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit approach—creating a safe space to heal their relationship with food, rebuild body trust, and develop sustainable nourishment habits. For performers, she integrates performance nutrition to support energy and recovery without compromising well-being.
(332) 264-5969 View (332) 264-5969
Photo of Farah Zareen Khan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Farah Zareen Khan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Hi! I’m Farah and I’m a Registered Dietitian (RD) and a Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN) based in New York City. I have a Masters in Food & Nutrition, and a Masters in Fine Art! I'm a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) and the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN), and I work with clients on variety of health issues including weight management, sports nutrition, diabetes and more. My goal is to help you manage your health diet with ease and confidence for the long-term. You won't work with me forever, but you will learn for a lifetime of health!
Hi! I’m Farah and I’m a Registered Dietitian (RD) and a Certified Dietitian Nutritionist (CDN) based in New York City. I have a Masters in Food & Nutrition, and a Masters in Fine Art! I'm a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) and the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN), and I work with clients on variety of health issues including weight management, sports nutrition, diabetes and more. My goal is to help you manage your health diet with ease and confidence for the long-term. You won't work with me forever, but you will learn for a lifetime of health!
(380) 204-9595 View (380) 204-9595
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in New York?

To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, town, suburb, zip code, or a provider's name in the search bar at the top of the page. From there, you can filter by specialty, treatment technique, and gender to find a dietitian or nutritionist who matches your needs.

When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.

What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?

The terms dietitian and nutritionist are often used interchangeably. However, there are actually key credential differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to keep in mind when seeking a nutrition professional.

A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.

In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.

When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?

Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle concerns like weight loss or dietary requirements; however, it's always important to find a professional who is a good fit for you. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, your specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals near you to determine whether a dietitian or nutritionist may be a better fit.

Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.

Do I need a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?

A referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice. However, for a nutrition service to be covered by insurance, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, such as diabetes or hypertension. If insurance coverage is critical to a client's ability to see a dietitian, they should contact their insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed for nutritional counseling and to understand any potential co-pays or coverage limits that may apply in their individual circumstance.

How much does it cost to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?

The cost of seeing a dietitian or nutritionist depends on a number of variables, including their location, their specialty, whether they take insurance, and the professional's experience and training. On average, the cost of out-of-pocket sessions with a dietitian or nutritionist within the United States ranges from $50-$150. In some cases, nutrition professionals will require a longer initial evaluation session that will cost more than ongoing follow-up sessions. Dietitians and nutritionists may also offer packages for clients interested in longer-term nutritional support; in such cases, they may charge monthly or other periodic fees for more comprehensive services, such as a combination of nutrition sessions and out-of-session coaching support. If nutrition services are covered by a client's insurance plan and they are eligible for coverage based on any referral requirements, the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a dietitian may be completely covered or significantly reduced.

Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?

If your insurance covers nutrition services, the cost is usually lower than paying out-of-pocket. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis.

Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.