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

Photo of Gigi Ravenhall, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Gigi Ravenhall
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
As a Dietitian and owner of Morning Bird Nutrition, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their unique health journeys, whether it's managing chronic conditions, achieving weight goals, improving routines and meal planning strategies, or simply building a healthier relationship with food. My approach is personalized and evidence-based, focusing on sustainable strategies that align with your lifestyle and goals.
As a Dietitian and owner of Morning Bird Nutrition, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their unique health journeys, whether it's managing chronic conditions, achieving weight goals, improving routines and meal planning strategies, or simply building a healthier relationship with food. My approach is personalized and evidence-based, focusing on sustainable strategies that align with your lifestyle and goals.
(207) 477-6786 View (207) 477-6786
Photo of Jeanette Giacinto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Jeanette Giacinto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
Are you struggling with weight management, hormone balance, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms? If you have IBS, poor energy levels, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, or fertility issues, you are not alone. I am passionate about empowering you to overcome these issues and reclaim confidence in your health journey. Imagine a life where you feel revitalized, free from PMS, acne, anxiety, and digestive discomfort. Picture the energy and vitality you'll gain. As your dedicated functional medicine dietitian, my mission is to guide you towards lasting well-being inside and out.
Are you struggling with weight management, hormone balance, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms? If you have IBS, poor energy levels, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, or fertility issues, you are not alone. I am passionate about empowering you to overcome these issues and reclaim confidence in your health journey. Imagine a life where you feel revitalized, free from PMS, acne, anxiety, and digestive discomfort. Picture the energy and vitality you'll gain. As your dedicated functional medicine dietitian, my mission is to guide you towards lasting well-being inside and out.
(516) 774-1199 View (516) 774-1199

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Asal Hakim - Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Garden City, NY 11530
, is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling.
Asal Hakim is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, and CPT. Graduated Cum Laude from Queens College, The City University of New York. Practicing since 2013, Asal Hakim provides medical nutrition therapy and nutritional counseling for individuals with nutrition related health issues. Past work experience from hospital and rehab center.
, is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling.
Asal Hakim is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, and CPT. Graduated Cum Laude from Queens College, The City University of New York. Practicing since 2013, Asal Hakim provides medical nutrition therapy and nutritional counseling for individuals with nutrition related health issues. Past work experience from hospital and rehab center.
(516) 407-7475 View (516) 407-7475
Photo of Dr. Cynthia Esparza, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MScN
Dr. Cynthia Esparza
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MScN
Online Only
I work with clients who feel overwhelmed by chronic symptoms such as fatigue, pain, digestive concerns, hormone changes, brain fog, or metabolic issues. Many have been told their labs are “normal” but still do not feel well. They are looking for clarity, structure, and a plan that makes sense. Many want to improve their health but feel uncertain where to begin or worry they may not be successful. They are seeking guidance and a thoughtful partnership to help them move forward.
I work with clients who feel overwhelmed by chronic symptoms such as fatigue, pain, digestive concerns, hormone changes, brain fog, or metabolic issues. Many have been told their labs are “normal” but still do not feel well. They are looking for clarity, structure, and a plan that makes sense. Many want to improve their health but feel uncertain where to begin or worry they may not be successful. They are seeking guidance and a thoughtful partnership to help them move forward.
(503) 868-2819 View (503) 868-2819
Photo of Lana Zinger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Lana Zinger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Whitestone, NY 11357
Medical Dietitian with a holistic approach; Certified LEAP Therapist I have been specially trained to help you overcome food intolerances.
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
Medical Dietitian with a holistic approach; Certified LEAP Therapist I have been specially trained to help you overcome food intolerances.
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
(646) 362-7135 View (646) 362-7135
Photo of Kate Natoli, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Kate Natoli
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
I'm Kate Natoli, a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal health, and pediatric nutrition. With over a decade of expertise, I specialize in providing tailored solutions for individuals and families looking to foster a healthy relationship with food. Together, we'll explore your unique needs and challenges, adopting a weight-inclusive approach to cultivate sustainable habits that promote wellness without restriction.
I'm Kate Natoli, a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal health, and pediatric nutrition. With over a decade of expertise, I specialize in providing tailored solutions for individuals and families looking to foster a healthy relationship with food. Together, we'll explore your unique needs and challenges, adopting a weight-inclusive approach to cultivate sustainable habits that promote wellness without restriction.
(518) 660-8719 View (518) 660-8719
Photo of Leah Wolofsky - The Dietitian Group, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
The Dietitian Group
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Brooklyn, NY 11219
We are a private nutrition practice accepting most commercial and medicaid insurances. Our practice philosophy is to provide quality, individualized nutrition counseling to all clients, regardless of income. Unlike some other nutrition practices, we do not sell any products, shakes, supplements or gadgets in the office. We provide you with a tailored-approach and customized meal plan. We can help you lose weight, eat more healthfully, gain more energy, manage diabetes, hypertension, IBS, or other conditions.
We are a private nutrition practice accepting most commercial and medicaid insurances. Our practice philosophy is to provide quality, individualized nutrition counseling to all clients, regardless of income. Unlike some other nutrition practices, we do not sell any products, shakes, supplements or gadgets in the office. We provide you with a tailored-approach and customized meal plan. We can help you lose weight, eat more healthfully, gain more energy, manage diabetes, hypertension, IBS, or other conditions.
(718) 866-4883 View (718) 866-4883
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 Shana Maleeff - FoodandFitnessPro, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN
FoodandFitnessPro, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
I specialize in weight loss and transformation, helping people to boost their metabolism, increase energy, improve sleep, increase confidence, and look and feel better. I also have 16+ years of experience working with diabetes, prediabetes, PCOS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fitness/sports nutrition, GI disorders, and more. I individualize meal plans and programs to fit your lifestyle and preferences and get you the results you are looking for. I use tools like metabolic testing and body fat testing to gain further insights into your unique physiology to individualize your program and goals.
I specialize in weight loss and transformation, helping people to boost their metabolism, increase energy, improve sleep, increase confidence, and look and feel better. I also have 16+ years of experience working with diabetes, prediabetes, PCOS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fitness/sports nutrition, GI disorders, and more. I individualize meal plans and programs to fit your lifestyle and preferences and get you the results you are looking for. I use tools like metabolic testing and body fat testing to gain further insights into your unique physiology to individualize your program and goals.
(516) 441-9013 View (516) 441-9013
Photo of Nicole Morgan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT, LD
Nicole Morgan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLT, LD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use evidence-based nutrition therapy and practical strategies tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
I specialize in thyroid conditions, autoimmune diseases, women's health, and food sensitivities. I've worked in these conditions for 15 years and experienced them myself! You might be struggling with unexplained fatigue, weight changes, digestive issues, or inflammatory symptoms that leave you feeling frustrated and unheard. I'm here to help you heal through the complex relationship between nutrition, hormones, and autoimmune function. Your goal is to feel like yourself again, with energy for your daily life and confidence in your body's ability to heal and thrive.
I use evidence-based nutrition therapy and practical strategies tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
I specialize in thyroid conditions, autoimmune diseases, women's health, and food sensitivities. I've worked in these conditions for 15 years and experienced them myself! You might be struggling with unexplained fatigue, weight changes, digestive issues, or inflammatory symptoms that leave you feeling frustrated and unheard. I'm here to help you heal through the complex relationship between nutrition, hormones, and autoimmune function. Your goal is to feel like yourself again, with energy for your daily life and confidence in your body's ability to heal and thrive.
(407) 986-0036 View (407) 986-0036
Photo of Ashley Danulevith, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Ashley Danulevith
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you feel caught between the medical expectations of “perfect” diabetes management and the emotional toll of rigid food rules, guilt, or shame around eating, Ashley can help!
Ashley is a clinical dietitian in a large hospital setting, so she is familiar with a wide breadth of health conditions and issues. Ashley is also a marathon runner and former collegiate swimmer, making her a great fit for individuals who are looking to fuel physical activity or begin implementing movement into their daily routine.
If you feel caught between the medical expectations of “perfect” diabetes management and the emotional toll of rigid food rules, guilt, or shame around eating, Ashley can help!
Ashley is a clinical dietitian in a large hospital setting, so she is familiar with a wide breadth of health conditions and issues. Ashley is also a marathon runner and former collegiate swimmer, making her a great fit for individuals who are looking to fuel physical activity or begin implementing movement into their daily routine.
(516) 928-4393 View (516) 928-4393
Photo of Maya Feller - Maya Feller Nutrition , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Maya Feller Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11205
Our Founder Maya Feller is a nationally recognized nutrition expert who appears on Good Morning America, is a Healthline Medical Advisor, and on the advisory board for SHAPE and Parents, as well as appearing on TODAY Show, and in The New York Times, mindbodygreen, Well+Good, Food Network, Martha Stewart, Real Simple, Good Housekeeping and more.
When working with clients, we believe in meeting the whole person where they are and using a patient-centered, antibias, culturally sensitive approach to enable each client to meet their unique nutrition-related goals. We offer personalized nutrition, group sessions as well as nutrition packages.
Our Founder Maya Feller is a nationally recognized nutrition expert who appears on Good Morning America, is a Healthline Medical Advisor, and on the advisory board for SHAPE and Parents, as well as appearing on TODAY Show, and in The New York Times, mindbodygreen, Well+Good, Food Network, Martha Stewart, Real Simple, Good Housekeeping and more.
When working with clients, we believe in meeting the whole person where they are and using a patient-centered, antibias, culturally sensitive approach to enable each client to meet their unique nutrition-related goals. We offer personalized nutrition, group sessions as well as nutrition packages.
(917) 563-4015 View (917) 563-4015
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 Bonnie R Giller, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CDE
Bonnie R Giller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CDE
West Hempstead, NY 11552
I help chronic dieters and people with medical conditions like diabetes break the spell of diets and regain the trust in themselves and their bodies.
I am a Registered Dietitian, Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator. I am also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. I teach people how to tune into their internal signals so they eat when hungry and stop when satisfied so they can regain WholeBody Trust™.
I help chronic dieters and people with medical conditions like diabetes break the spell of diets and regain the trust in themselves and their bodies.
I am a Registered Dietitian, Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator. I am also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. I teach people how to tune into their internal signals so they eat when hungry and stop when satisfied so they can regain WholeBody Trust™.
(516) 864-4058 View (516) 864-4058
Photo of Dakota Bennett, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Dakota Bennett
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Online Only
I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating. I primarily work with young adults and adults across a range of presentations, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and chronic dieting. I have experience supporting individuals at various stages of recovery including residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient levels of care. These experiences have reinforced my belief in meeting individuals where they are and honoring autonomy in our work together.
I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating. I primarily work with young adults and adults across a range of presentations, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and chronic dieting. I have experience supporting individuals at various stages of recovery including residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient levels of care. These experiences have reinforced my belief in meeting individuals where they are and honoring autonomy in our work together.
(475) 222-1397 View (475) 222-1397
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 Lindsay Krasna, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, EdM, RD, CDN
Lindsay Krasna
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, EdM, RD, CDN
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Most of the individuals I work with are in recovery from an eating disorder, and/or looking to heal a complicated relationship with food. I find tremendous reward in the process of collaborating with my clients and helping them find a more ease with eating and confidence in their bodies. My nutrition counseling style is warm, creative and compassionate. In our work together, you can expect a non-judgmental space, invitations to unpack internalized diet culture beliefs, and tailored guidance focused on cultivating behaviors that promote genuine well-being and better quality of life around food and body.
Most of the individuals I work with are in recovery from an eating disorder, and/or looking to heal a complicated relationship with food. I find tremendous reward in the process of collaborating with my clients and helping them find a more ease with eating and confidence in their bodies. My nutrition counseling style is warm, creative and compassionate. In our work together, you can expect a non-judgmental space, invitations to unpack internalized diet culture beliefs, and tailored guidance focused on cultivating behaviors that promote genuine well-being and better quality of life around food and body.
(929) 323-2505 View (929) 323-2505
Photo of Beth Machnica, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, MS
Beth Machnica
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, MS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with patients navigating the complex world of cardiometabolic conditions, PCOS, and chronic health challenges who feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice and failed quick fixes. They're seeking more than temporary solutions—they want sustainable, science-based approaches that honor their unique circumstances and busy lives. These are people ready to dig deeper, understanding that true health transformation requires addressing root causes rather than just managing symptoms. They value expertise but also need genuine understanding of how difficult it can be to change lifelong patterns while juggling work, family, and
I work with patients navigating the complex world of cardiometabolic conditions, PCOS, and chronic health challenges who feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice and failed quick fixes. They're seeking more than temporary solutions—they want sustainable, science-based approaches that honor their unique circumstances and busy lives. These are people ready to dig deeper, understanding that true health transformation requires addressing root causes rather than just managing symptoms. They value expertise but also need genuine understanding of how difficult it can be to change lifelong patterns while juggling work, family, and
(718) 550-4386 View (718) 550-4386
Photo of Jennifer Derfel - Jennifer Derfel Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Jennifer Derfel Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Serves Area
As a dietitian, I educate, empower and give you the tools needed to create new eating habits, and promote positive lifestyle changes that are sustainable and realistic. With a client centered approach, I provide individualized nutrition counseling people of all ages. There is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to achieving health.
As a dietitian, I educate, empower and give you the tools needed to create new eating habits, and promote positive lifestyle changes that are sustainable and realistic. With a client centered approach, I provide individualized nutrition counseling people of all ages. There is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to achieving health.
(914) 685-5376 View (914) 685-5376
Photo of Molly Ostrander - Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Online Only
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
(718) 550-3694 View (718) 550-3694
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.