Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians in New York, NY

Photo of Nicole Holness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
Nicole Holness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
New York, NY 10018
Worked at NYU Langone Medical Center, The Mount Sinai Hospital, Dept of Veterans Affairs among others, Monash University FODMAP trained
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.
Worked at NYU Langone Medical Center, The Mount Sinai Hospital, Dept of Veterans Affairs among others, Monash University FODMAP trained
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 Sunny Bozymski, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
Sunny Bozymski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
New York, NY 10005
Sunny is the founder and lead nutritionist at Solis Nutrition, LLC. With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
Sunny is the founder and lead nutritionist at Solis Nutrition, LLC. With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
(347) 745-8333 View (347) 745-8333
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
Ready to empower yourself in managing your diabetes or prediabetes? With over 12 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of clients lower their blood glucose levels and reclaim their lives. Imagine a future filled with energy, freedom, and confidence. At Diabetes Digital, our personalized 1-on-1 nutrition counseling is designed to suit your unique needs, cultural background, and preferences. We'll guide you towards nourishing food options and finding a comfortable balance that works for you. No more rigid rules or restrictive diets. We'll help you discover delicious and satisfying meals that align with your health goals.
Ready to empower yourself in managing your diabetes or prediabetes? With over 12 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of clients lower their blood glucose levels and reclaim their lives. Imagine a future filled with energy, freedom, and confidence. At Diabetes Digital, our personalized 1-on-1 nutrition counseling is designed to suit your unique needs, cultural background, and preferences. We'll guide you towards nourishing food options and finding a comfortable balance that works for you. No more rigid rules or restrictive diets. We'll help you discover delicious and satisfying meals that align with your health goals.
(332) 263-3789 View (332) 263-3789
Photo of Rachel Dyckman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Rachel Dyckman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Online Only
In addition to my work with clients, I am also a medical reviewer for HealthCentral, a frequent contributor to publications in the health and nutrition space, and I am on the National Scientific Advisory Committee for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation.
Rachel works with clients on individualized, science-backed dietary strategies to achieve sustainable, long-term health. She received her Master's in Clinical Nutrition from NYU and completed clinical training at The Mount Sinai Hospital. Rachel is also on the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's National Scientific Advisory Committee, where she works to help advance the nutrition care of people living with IBD. Her nutrition philosophy is centered around optimizing the gut microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms inhabiting our gut. In applying this, Rachel helps others improve their health and prevent or manage chronic conditions.
In addition to my work with clients, I am also a medical reviewer for HealthCentral, a frequent contributor to publications in the health and nutrition space, and I am on the National Scientific Advisory Committee for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation.
Rachel works with clients on individualized, science-backed dietary strategies to achieve sustainable, long-term health. She received her Master's in Clinical Nutrition from NYU and completed clinical training at The Mount Sinai Hospital. Rachel is also on the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's National Scientific Advisory Committee, where she works to help advance the nutrition care of people living with IBD. Her nutrition philosophy is centered around optimizing the gut microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms inhabiting our gut. In applying this, Rachel helps others improve their health and prevent or manage chronic conditions.
(347) 808-6529 View (347) 808-6529
Photo of Ana Luiza Oliveira Veloso, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Ana Luiza Oliveira Veloso
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about guiding women in re-establishing a good relationship with food and their bodies. By focusing on health-related goals instead of body size or a number on a scale and challenging food rules that lead to disordered eating, I help individuals regain confidence in themselves and develop autonomy. I am also passionate in working with mothers and future mothers-to-be who want to raise resilient intuitive eaters.
I am passionate about guiding women in re-establishing a good relationship with food and their bodies. By focusing on health-related goals instead of body size or a number on a scale and challenging food rules that lead to disordered eating, I help individuals regain confidence in themselves and develop autonomy. I am also passionate in working with mothers and future mothers-to-be who want to raise resilient intuitive eaters.
(332) 239-2832 View (332) 239-2832
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 Rebecca Alcosser, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
Rebecca Alcosser
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
New York, NY 10007
Sessions blend nutrition therapy, skill-building, and gentle structure to help you feel fueled, confident, and connected to your body.
Food rules have been running so long you cannot remember life without them. You plan around meals, feel guilt before finishing, and know this is not how it should feel—yet it persists. You are not looking for more rules, but a way out of the ones you already have. You know how to fuel performance, but pressure to look or eat a certain way has started shaping your choices beyond energy and recovery. The line between discipline and restriction is getting harder to see. I support dancers, athletes, and performers who want to protect performance while rebuilding a more flexible, sustainable relationship with food.
Sessions blend nutrition therapy, skill-building, and gentle structure to help you feel fueled, confident, and connected to your body.
Food rules have been running so long you cannot remember life without them. You plan around meals, feel guilt before finishing, and know this is not how it should feel—yet it persists. You are not looking for more rules, but a way out of the ones you already have. You know how to fuel performance, but pressure to look or eat a certain way has started shaping your choices beyond energy and recovery. The line between discipline and restriction is getting harder to see. I support dancers, athletes, and performers who want to protect performance while rebuilding a more flexible, sustainable relationship with food.
(332) 264-5969 View (332) 264-5969
Photo of Kristal Pilavas, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, RD, CDCES, CLC
Kristal Pilavas
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, RD, CDCES, CLC
New York, NY 10001
For weight management our therapy sessions may go on for 3 to 6 months or longer.
Struggling with weight management issues, unbalanced blood sugars, altered lab values, and in need of some help in managing your diet? With the right information, goals and tools, everyone should be able to live the life they deserve and strive for. Kristal Pilavas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, and Certified Lactation Consultant. Kristal provides nutrition care and counseling for patients and specializes in diabetes, gestational diabetes, perinatal nutrition, heart disease, weight management and more.
For weight management our therapy sessions may go on for 3 to 6 months or longer.
Struggling with weight management issues, unbalanced blood sugars, altered lab values, and in need of some help in managing your diet? With the right information, goals and tools, everyone should be able to live the life they deserve and strive for. Kristal Pilavas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, and Certified Lactation Consultant. Kristal provides nutrition care and counseling for patients and specializes in diabetes, gestational diabetes, perinatal nutrition, heart disease, weight management and more.
(646) 553-4006 View (646) 553-4006
Photo of Alana Kessler - Be Well. By Alana Kessler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Be Well. By Alana Kessler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
New York, NY 10016
I am a trained Registered Dietitan experienced in both the clinical and the counseling setting. I have completed the CDR certificate of training in Adult Weight Management and a Certification of Ayurveda Science, providing a unique blend of Eastern and Western diet and lifestyle guidance for over 8 years. I believe a healthy and balanced lifestyle and diet can benefit anyone and at any age. I founded the Yoga and Wellness Center Sangha Yoga Shala in 2009, serving as an urban sanctuary in Brooklyn, New York. I provide a comfortable counseling atmosphere for individuals or groups.
I am a trained Registered Dietitan experienced in both the clinical and the counseling setting. I have completed the CDR certificate of training in Adult Weight Management and a Certification of Ayurveda Science, providing a unique blend of Eastern and Western diet and lifestyle guidance for over 8 years. I believe a healthy and balanced lifestyle and diet can benefit anyone and at any age. I founded the Yoga and Wellness Center Sangha Yoga Shala in 2009, serving as an urban sanctuary in Brooklyn, New York. I provide a comfortable counseling atmosphere for individuals or groups.
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Photo of Trisha Shea, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Trisha Shea
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You're living with a chronic condition like heart disease or kidney disease, and you're tired of generic advice that doesn't fit your reality. Your goal is about creating clinically backed, specialized evidence that results in progress that sticks. You're looking for someone who understands that managing chronic conditions is about more than just following a meal plan; it's about creating habits that work long-term while still living a full life. You deserve support from someone who gets that every person's journey is different and that sustainable change happens one realistic step at a time.
You're living with a chronic condition like heart disease or kidney disease, and you're tired of generic advice that doesn't fit your reality. Your goal is about creating clinically backed, specialized evidence that results in progress that sticks. You're looking for someone who understands that managing chronic conditions is about more than just following a meal plan; it's about creating habits that work long-term while still living a full life. You deserve support from someone who gets that every person's journey is different and that sustainable change happens one realistic step at a time.
(929) 493-4238 View (929) 493-4238
Photo of Rachel Harvest, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IFNCP
Rachel Harvest
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IFNCP
Online Only
The Harvest Method specializes in functional and integrative nutrition therapy blended with behavioral health skills.
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 specializes in functional and integrative nutrition therapy blended with behavioral health skills.
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 Gabbi Berkow, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, CPT
Gabbi Berkow
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, CPT
New York, NY 10023
Looking for a one-stop shop for all of your nutrition & exercise needs? I am a Registered Dietitian, exercise specialist, personal trainer, & Pilates instructor who can help you lose weight & keep it off, get in shape, gain muscle, increase energy, improve health, & make peace with your body & food. If you're frustrated with not losing weight, not seeing results, dieting, feeling deprived, or experiencing symptoms that interfere with your quality of life, I offer all of the nutrition & exercise solutions you need! I provide individualized nutrition & exercise recommendations, plans, & support for sustainable results & body confidence that will last a lifetime.
Looking for a one-stop shop for all of your nutrition & exercise needs? I am a Registered Dietitian, exercise specialist, personal trainer, & Pilates instructor who can help you lose weight & keep it off, get in shape, gain muscle, increase energy, improve health, & make peace with your body & food. If you're frustrated with not losing weight, not seeing results, dieting, feeling deprived, or experiencing symptoms that interfere with your quality of life, I offer all of the nutrition & exercise solutions you need! I provide individualized nutrition & exercise recommendations, plans, & support for sustainable results & body confidence that will last a lifetime.
(410) 267-3559 View (410) 267-3559
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 Jackie Silver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Jackie Silver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jackie! I work one-on-one with clients through my virtual private practice, specializing in neurodivergent children, teens, and adults, including those with autism, ADHD, and intellectual or developmental disabilities, as well as physically disabled individuals such as those with spinal cord injury, spina bifida, and more. My passion lies in creating personalized nutrition strategies that align with your strengths and abilities. With a weight-inclusive, neuro-affirming approach, I’ve supported clients of all ages and ability levels reach their health and nutrition goals. I’d love to support you on your journey!
Hi, I’m Jackie! I work one-on-one with clients through my virtual private practice, specializing in neurodivergent children, teens, and adults, including those with autism, ADHD, and intellectual or developmental disabilities, as well as physically disabled individuals such as those with spinal cord injury, spina bifida, and more. My passion lies in creating personalized nutrition strategies that align with your strengths and abilities. With a weight-inclusive, neuro-affirming approach, I’ve supported clients of all ages and ability levels reach their health and nutrition goals. I’d love to support you on your journey!
(646) 679-2887 View (646) 679-2887
Photo of Jennifer Maeng, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC
Jennifer Maeng
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC
Online Only
Jennifer completed her Dietetics Internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital and went on to specialize in adult clinical nutrition at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center and NYU Langone Health.
As a clinical dietitian, Jennifer has extensive experience working with a wide range of medical conditions. Additionally, as a former chef and a restaurateur, Jennifer uses her broad clinical and culinary knowledge to help guide her clients in making lasting lifestyle changes.
Jennifer completed her Dietetics Internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital and went on to specialize in adult clinical nutrition at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center and NYU Langone Health.
As a clinical dietitian, Jennifer has extensive experience working with a wide range of medical conditions. Additionally, as a former chef and a restaurateur, Jennifer uses her broad clinical and culinary knowledge to help guide her clients in making lasting lifestyle changes.
(929) 226-6108 View (929) 226-6108
Photo of Justine M Roth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDRD
Justine M Roth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CEDRD
New York, NY 10022
I am currently the director of the nutrition department at the NYS Psychiatric Institute, an in-patient treatment unit at Columbia University Medical Center.
I have extensive experience working with the eating disorder population in various settings including in-patient, day program, and private practice. This has given me valuable experience to better serve you through the progression of your treatment. We will work together to indentify the stage you are in to best suit your needs.
I am currently the director of the nutrition department at the NYS Psychiatric Institute, an in-patient treatment unit at Columbia University Medical Center.
I have extensive experience working with the eating disorder population in various settings including in-patient, day program, and private practice. This has given me valuable experience to better serve you through the progression of your treatment. We will work together to indentify the stage you are in to best suit your needs.
(732) 654-2060 View (732) 654-2060
Photo of Francesca Alfano, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, CNS, IFNCP
Francesca Alfano
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, CNS, IFNCP
New York, NY 10013
I help women who are struggling to lose weight implement simple, sustainable food and lifestyle habits so they can support a healthy metabolism, balance hormones, increase energy levels, and permanently lose weight without counting calories or following restrictive diets. Unlike traditional diets, I use an individualized functional medicine and culinary nutrition approach to help my clients build lifelong healthy habits so they can confidently nourish their bodies in a delicious and satisfying way.
I help women who are struggling to lose weight implement simple, sustainable food and lifestyle habits so they can support a healthy metabolism, balance hormones, increase energy levels, and permanently lose weight without counting calories or following restrictive diets. Unlike traditional diets, I use an individualized functional medicine and culinary nutrition approach to help my clients build lifelong healthy habits so they can confidently nourish their bodies in a delicious and satisfying way.
(631) 856-2213 View (631) 856-2213
Photo of Jennifer Shane Medina - Brown & Medina Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CDE
Brown & Medina Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CDE
New York, NY 10022
Brown & Medina Nutrition (formerly of Joy Bauer Nutrition) is a comprehensive private nutrition practice specializing in individual and family nutrition counseling for all ages. Our eclectic group of registered dietitians caters to the diverse needs of our patients and collectively specializes in eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating), weight management, pediatric nutrition (failure to thrive, picky eaters, food allergies, epilepsy and weight control), gastrointestinal diseases (IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, reflux), diabetes, sports nutrition, pregnancy related issues & cardiovascular disease. We also treat those with PDD, autism and provide family meal planning.
Brown & Medina Nutrition (formerly of Joy Bauer Nutrition) is a comprehensive private nutrition practice specializing in individual and family nutrition counseling for all ages. Our eclectic group of registered dietitians caters to the diverse needs of our patients and collectively specializes in eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating), weight management, pediatric nutrition (failure to thrive, picky eaters, food allergies, epilepsy and weight control), gastrointestinal diseases (IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, reflux), diabetes, sports nutrition, pregnancy related issues & cardiovascular disease. We also treat those with PDD, autism and provide family meal planning.
(646) 480-6240 View (646) 480-6240
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 Lauren Minchen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
Lauren Minchen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
New York, NY 10016
Lauren's nutrition counseling sessions include analysis of current meal patterns, lifestyle factors, medical diagnoses, medication regimen, food allergies and preferences, and your personal wellness goals.
Lauren provides nutrition counseling for individuals (in-person and virtual), culinary services in the form of meal preparation and classes, group workshops and support, corporate consulting services, and in-home nutrition services for the elderly.
Lauren's nutrition counseling sessions include analysis of current meal patterns, lifestyle factors, medical diagnoses, medication regimen, food allergies and preferences, and your personal wellness goals.
Lauren provides nutrition counseling for individuals (in-person and virtual), culinary services in the form of meal preparation and classes, group workshops and support, corporate consulting services, and in-home nutrition services for the elderly.
(646) 863-5398 View (646) 863-5398
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is medical nutrition therapy?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves the use of personalized dietary changes to prevent or manage chronic conditions. Typically conducted in an outpatient setting by a Registered Dietitian (RD), MNT aims to address specific health issues through tailored nutrition plans. Clients are often referred for MNT by healthcare professionals who identify conditions that could benefit from dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. The goal of MNT is to improve overall health outcomes by making adjustments to the client's diet based on their individual needs and medical conditions.

What conditions is medical nutrition therapy for?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is often used for individuals with diseases caused or worsened by poor diet, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases. However, other conditions can also benefit from nutrition therapy. MNT is typically not intended to replace other treatments, such as medication, but rather to complement them. By improving a person's overall diet and health, MNT aims to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms and complement other treatments.

Is medical nutrition therapy covered by insurance?
Medical nutrition therapy is frequently covered by insurance. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis. While a referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary to obtain coverage for medical nutrition services. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, such as diabetes or hypertension. Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee.

What does medical nutrition therapy involve?
The approach a dietitian will take in a medical nutrition therapy session will depend on a number of factors, including what conditions the client has and what the goals of the client are. An initial session often involves an assessment of the client's overall health and current dietary intake; a dietitian may also speak with a client's medical doctor prior to or following a first session to obtain information on the medical condition(s) the client is seeking nutrition therapy counseling for. The dietitian will then work with the client to create goals of medical nutrition therapy sessions, such as weight loss, eating a more plant-based diet, or reducing sodium intake. Then, in ongoing sessions, the dietitian will work with the client to meet their stated goals. These ongoing sessions often include menu planning and coaching, which involve the dietitian working with the client to develop strategies for a healthier and more balanced diet. Dietitians may suggest recipes, put together grocery shopping lists, and/or recommend tracking one's intake in order to help clients make desired changes.