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

Photo of Regine Lubin-Aubourg - Healthy Eating Helps LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Healthy Eating Helps LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Online Only
Your primary physician referred you to a dietitian, now what? You may feel anxious and wonder if this would work! There is so much nutrition information out there! If you suffer from high blood pressure or diabetes you may ask yourself some of these questions. Would I be able to eat my favorite foods? Would I be on a diet? Would I still be able to attend family functions? Several questions run through your mind when a physician gives you a referral. However, seeking a Registered Dietitian's expertise would make the process of therapeutic lifestyle changes much clearer and easier for you than trying to do it on your own.
Your primary physician referred you to a dietitian, now what? You may feel anxious and wonder if this would work! There is so much nutrition information out there! If you suffer from high blood pressure or diabetes you may ask yourself some of these questions. Would I be able to eat my favorite foods? Would I be on a diet? Would I still be able to attend family functions? Several questions run through your mind when a physician gives you a referral. However, seeking a Registered Dietitian's expertise would make the process of therapeutic lifestyle changes much clearer and easier for you than trying to do it on your own.
(718) 866-3709 View (718) 866-3709
Photo of Lynn Cicero, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Lynn Cicero
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Serves Area
My counseling is one on one and is tailored to the clients lifestyle and needs. While always encouraging healthy eating and physical activity, I am very practical in my approach to helping clients integrate these behaviors with today's hectic lifestyles. Because of the increasing diagnosis of Celiac Disease, I have begun to concentrate on that condition as well as all types of gluten sensitivity. In order to help clients during COVID19 I am offering telemedicine. Please inquire for details.
My counseling is one on one and is tailored to the clients lifestyle and needs. While always encouraging healthy eating and physical activity, I am very practical in my approach to helping clients integrate these behaviors with today's hectic lifestyles. Because of the increasing diagnosis of Celiac Disease, I have begun to concentrate on that condition as well as all types of gluten sensitivity. In order to help clients during COVID19 I am offering telemedicine. Please inquire for details.
(862) 260-8858 View (862) 260-8858
Photo of Andrea Doria Mowder - Andrea Doria Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Andrea Doria Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dietitian for over 20 years, I have helped a wide range of clients from pediatrics to geriatrics. I have specialized in bariatrics (weight loss surgery- sleeve, bypass, lap band) for over 10 years and encourage long term follow up to ensure lasting success. I believe in the medicinal value of food and focus my efforts on the inclusion verse the exclusion of foods. Although changing ones eating habits can be challenging, dietary changes should not cause stress or feelings of deprivation. My goal is to help my clients adjust their food choices to achieve their health goals safely and have published bariatric meal prep book.
As a dietitian for over 20 years, I have helped a wide range of clients from pediatrics to geriatrics. I have specialized in bariatrics (weight loss surgery- sleeve, bypass, lap band) for over 10 years and encourage long term follow up to ensure lasting success. I believe in the medicinal value of food and focus my efforts on the inclusion verse the exclusion of foods. Although changing ones eating habits can be challenging, dietary changes should not cause stress or feelings of deprivation. My goal is to help my clients adjust their food choices to achieve their health goals safely and have published bariatric meal prep book.
(347) 695-3810 View (347) 695-3810
Photo of Carla Coriaty-Hulla, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Carla Coriaty-Hulla
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
1 Endorsed
Staten Island, NY 10312
Carla's mission is to provide personalized, high-quality care by integrating traditional nutrition practices with holistic & complimentary interventions.We are a full-service family nutrition practice of dedicated Dietitians who believe in working with our patients to maintain and improve their health using nutrition as medicine. We work together to serve your entire family for all of your nutritional needs in all stages of life. We believe in educating our patients to achieve the best outcome possible. Carla is board certified by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics & New York State certified.
Carla's mission is to provide personalized, high-quality care by integrating traditional nutrition practices with holistic & complimentary interventions.We are a full-service family nutrition practice of dedicated Dietitians who believe in working with our patients to maintain and improve their health using nutrition as medicine. We work together to serve your entire family for all of your nutritional needs in all stages of life. We believe in educating our patients to achieve the best outcome possible. Carla is board certified by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics & New York State certified.
(347) 690-7243 View (347) 690-7243

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Adrien Paczosa, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CEDRD-S
Adrien Paczosa
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CEDRD-S
Online Only
Hi, I'm Adrien Paczosa, a registered dietitian and certified eating disorder specialist and former founder at iLiveWell Nutrition. I am now at Nabi Health, a virtual group of HAES-aligned, trauma-informed Registered Dietitians.
Hi, I'm Adrien Paczosa, a registered dietitian and certified eating disorder specialist and former founder at iLiveWell Nutrition. I am now at Nabi Health, a virtual group of HAES-aligned, trauma-informed Registered Dietitians.
(206) 339-5675 View (206) 339-5675
Photo of Lauren Manganiello - Holistic Nutrition & Intuitive Living, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CSSD, RYT
Holistic Nutrition & Intuitive Living
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CSSD, RYT
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Online nutrition therapy sessions for teens & adults.
Have you ever caught yourself wondering why you eat the way you do? Maybe you’ve asked, “Why do I overeat?” “Why do I restrict?” or even, “Why do I bounce between the two?” And maybe you’ve started to realize—it’s not just about the food, or your body. So what is it really about? As a Nutrition Counselor, Registered Dietitian and Body Image Therapist, I get how layered and frustrating this can feel. I understand the guilt, the self-blame, and that overwhelming sense that food somehow has power over you. You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. You deserve to feel comfortable.
Online nutrition therapy sessions for teens & adults.
Have you ever caught yourself wondering why you eat the way you do? Maybe you’ve asked, “Why do I overeat?” “Why do I restrict?” or even, “Why do I bounce between the two?” And maybe you’ve started to realize—it’s not just about the food, or your body. So what is it really about? As a Nutrition Counselor, Registered Dietitian and Body Image Therapist, I get how layered and frustrating this can feel. I understand the guilt, the self-blame, and that overwhelming sense that food somehow has power over you. You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. You deserve to feel comfortable.
(631) 769-9962 View (631) 769-9962
Photo of Jennifer Clemente, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Jennifer Clemente
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Online Only
I offer virtual visits through our medical platform Practice Better.
My philosophy centers on one simple, powerful truth: the gut is the foundation of health. You’re not alone if you feel trapped by symptoms yet routine labs were normal. Or you’ve been given medication, acid blockers, antidepressants or vague advice like “try eating better” without anyone asking why you have symptoms in the first place. I’ve been there too and I know a better way. My approach focuses on finding the root cause of your health concerns through deeper testing to answer key questions: What’s driving the inflammation? Is the gut lining compromised? Is the microbiome balanced? Is the body absorbing nutrients properly?
I offer virtual visits through our medical platform Practice Better.
My philosophy centers on one simple, powerful truth: the gut is the foundation of health. You’re not alone if you feel trapped by symptoms yet routine labs were normal. Or you’ve been given medication, acid blockers, antidepressants or vague advice like “try eating better” without anyone asking why you have symptoms in the first place. I’ve been there too and I know a better way. My approach focuses on finding the root cause of your health concerns through deeper testing to answer key questions: What’s driving the inflammation? Is the gut lining compromised? Is the microbiome balanced? Is the body absorbing nutrients properly?
(646) 679-7940 View (646) 679-7940
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
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
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.
You are in good hands. I have 25+ yrs experience plus additional qualifications than most registered dietitian/nutritionists. I hold a PhD in nutrition, am a published author, conducted research at prestigious medical centers, and consulted for various weight management programs. Best of all, you will not feel deprived or hungry working with me.
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.
You are in good hands. I have 25+ yrs experience plus additional qualifications than most registered dietitian/nutritionists. I hold a PhD in nutrition, am a published author, conducted research at prestigious medical centers, and consulted for various weight management programs. Best of all, you will not feel deprived or hungry working with me.
(347) 970-8559 View (347) 970-8559
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 Your Diabetes Insider, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CDCES, CSCS
Your Diabetes Insider
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CDCES, CSCS
Online Only
We totally get it - working towards your weight loss/strength gain goals & managing your diabetes can be tricky. There's so many variables that it can feel impossible to achieve. As registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, our mission is to provide you with ALL of the tools and education that you will need to transform your body and also to stabilize your blood sugars at the same time. We use evidence-based and research-backed methods to make it as easy as possible for you, because it's not about changing your body temporarily - it's about sustaining those results for the rest of your life. Join our care team today!
We totally get it - working towards your weight loss/strength gain goals & managing your diabetes can be tricky. There's so many variables that it can feel impossible to achieve. As registered dietitians, certified diabetes educators, our mission is to provide you with ALL of the tools and education that you will need to transform your body and also to stabilize your blood sugars at the same time. We use evidence-based and research-backed methods to make it as easy as possible for you, because it's not about changing your body temporarily - it's about sustaining those results for the rest of your life. Join our care team today!
(813) 548-5159 View (813) 548-5159
Photo of Haleigh Mann, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Haleigh Mann
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Haleigh is a registered dietitian who is passionate about helping her clients discover their love for food and their bodies. Haleigh provides evidence-based nutrition education and works to empower clients to make realistic changes that work with their unique lifestyles and preferences. Haleigh approaches each client personally and individually. She has an anti-diet, all-foods-fit, trauma-informed approach to care. She enjoys the challenge of working closely with each client to meet their goals and live their best life while building a healthier relationship with food and their body.
Haleigh is a registered dietitian who is passionate about helping her clients discover their love for food and their bodies. Haleigh provides evidence-based nutrition education and works to empower clients to make realistic changes that work with their unique lifestyles and preferences. Haleigh approaches each client personally and individually. She has an anti-diet, all-foods-fit, trauma-informed approach to care. She enjoys the challenge of working closely with each client to meet their goals and live their best life while building a healthier relationship with food and their body.
(640) 209-4955 View (640) 209-4955
Photo of Deanna Rondero, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RD, LDN
Deanna Rondero
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RD, LDN
Online Only
At Nourished Transitions, I provide individualized, evidence-based nutrition care rooted in a whole-person approach. As a registered dietitian, I support clients in managing chronic conditions, eating disorders, and disordered eating while fostering a more attuned relationship with food and body. My work is compassionate, collaborative, and inclusive, with a commitment to culturally responsive care that honors diverse identities, including BIPOC experiences. I also integrate support for life transitions and overall well-being.
At Nourished Transitions, I provide individualized, evidence-based nutrition care rooted in a whole-person approach. As a registered dietitian, I support clients in managing chronic conditions, eating disorders, and disordered eating while fostering a more attuned relationship with food and body. My work is compassionate, collaborative, and inclusive, with a commitment to culturally responsive care that honors diverse identities, including BIPOC experiences. I also integrate support for life transitions and overall well-being.
(872) 316-9395 View (872) 316-9395
MultiSense Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10002
Hello! I am Leticia the owner of MultiSense Nutrition, LLC. If you are wondering if you should see a Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN), you came to the right place. As an RD I focus on balanced eating and don't want you getting bogged down by "healthy" versus "unhealthy". I use a client centered approach to nutrition for children and families. My 18 years of experience as as Registered Dietitian has provided me with the knowledge to provide comprehensive nutrition education and personalized nutrition planning.
Hello! I am Leticia the owner of MultiSense Nutrition, LLC. If you are wondering if you should see a Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN), you came to the right place. As an RD I focus on balanced eating and don't want you getting bogged down by "healthy" versus "unhealthy". I use a client centered approach to nutrition for children and families. My 18 years of experience as as Registered Dietitian has provided me with the knowledge to provide comprehensive nutrition education and personalized nutrition planning.
(551) 224-0492 View (551) 224-0492
Photo of Nicole Hallissey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Nicole Hallissey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify cooking with quick, easy recipes, and I'll share realistic strategies to make meal planning a breeze. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Currently, I only offer virtual sessions. Get started ASAP, book directly using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. Together, we'll simplify cooking with quick, easy recipes, and I'll share realistic strategies to make meal planning a breeze. Let's make your wellness adventure enjoyable, achievable, and sustainable! Currently, I only offer virtual sessions. Get started ASAP, book directly using this link: bit.ly/bookRDnow
(551) 272-6869 View (551) 272-6869
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 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
Photo of Azi Ahmadi - Azi Ahmadi MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN
Azi Ahmadi MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN
Serves Area
I’m Azi Ahmadi, MS, RDN, CDCES, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 25 years of experience in diabetes care, body recomposition, sports nutrition, and longevity-focused metabolic health. I work with active men and women of all ages who want to lose fat, gain or preserve muscle, improve performance, and feel strong and energized as they age—without extreme diets. I often use Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) to help clients see how their body responds to food, exercise, stress, and sleep in real time. You don’t need diabetes to benefit—CGM is a powerful learning and personalization tool.
I’m Azi Ahmadi, MS, RDN, CDCES, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 25 years of experience in diabetes care, body recomposition, sports nutrition, and longevity-focused metabolic health. I work with active men and women of all ages who want to lose fat, gain or preserve muscle, improve performance, and feel strong and energized as they age—without extreme diets. I often use Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) to help clients see how their body responds to food, exercise, stress, and sleep in real time. You don’t need diabetes to benefit—CGM is a powerful learning and personalization tool.
(917) 809-5351 View (917) 809-5351
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 Danielle T Sobieski, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Danielle T Sobieski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Brooklyn, NY 11238
If you’re unsure where to start or want guidance that feels supportive and realistic, I provide evidence-based nutrition therapy grounded in the realities of everyday life.
I work with adults navigating polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance and prediabetes, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and triglycerides, hypertension, and weight management including weight cycling
If you’re unsure where to start or want guidance that feels supportive and realistic, I provide evidence-based nutrition therapy grounded in the realities of everyday life.
I work with adults navigating polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance and prediabetes, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and triglycerides, hypertension, and weight management including weight cycling
(347) 455-0380 View (347) 455-0380
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.