Nutritionists and Dietitians in Ulster County, NY

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Photo of Vicki Koenig, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Vicki Koenig
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
New Paltz, NY 12561
Creating Wellness for Individuals and Businesses. As a Masters level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I've maintained a private counseling practice and consulting business for over 25 years. Drawing on my comprehensive knowledge of nutrition throughout the life cycle, I have a broad perspective when speaking, counseling, consulting and writing; I truly specialize in Nutrition for Wellness. As a Consulting Nutritionist, I keep up-to-date on all areas of health: from Head Start to Assisted Living with Weight Loss and Wellness in between. I'm now accepting more insurances. Please inquire!
Creating Wellness for Individuals and Businesses. As a Masters level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I've maintained a private counseling practice and consulting business for over 25 years. Drawing on my comprehensive knowledge of nutrition throughout the life cycle, I have a broad perspective when speaking, counseling, consulting and writing; I truly specialize in Nutrition for Wellness. As a Consulting Nutritionist, I keep up-to-date on all areas of health: from Head Start to Assisted Living with Weight Loss and Wellness in between. I'm now accepting more insurances. Please inquire!
(845) 202-0972 View (845) 202-0972
Photo of Olivia Marie Napoleon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDN
Olivia Marie Napoleon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDN
Online Only
Navigating health and nutrition can feel overwhelming—especially with all the conflicting advice out there. I work with clients recovering from eating disorders, managing disordered eating, or struggling to eat consistently due to ADHD or executive function challenges. My clients want to feel more at ease with food and their bodies, without turning to restrictive diets or shame. Together, we’ll create a supportive, personalized plan to help you feel confident, nourished, and empowered in your daily life.
Navigating health and nutrition can feel overwhelming—especially with all the conflicting advice out there. I work with clients recovering from eating disorders, managing disordered eating, or struggling to eat consistently due to ADHD or executive function challenges. My clients want to feel more at ease with food and their bodies, without turning to restrictive diets or shame. Together, we’ll create a supportive, personalized plan to help you feel confident, nourished, and empowered in your daily life.
(610) 686-9633 View (610) 686-9633

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Abigail Rapaport, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Abigail Rapaport
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
I help simplify nutrition so you can eat smarter and optimize your body, mind and health. I am a realist and believe your food plan should fit your lifestyle - whether you’re managing an illness like epilepsy, trying to lose weight, lower your cholesterol, or just want feel and look your best. I get it; we are all constantly bombarded with different diets and workouts that guarantee weight loss or health cures. Most of the time, they lead to feeling overwhelmed, cyclical dieting and feeling deprived. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles and start to look and feel your best starting today.
I help simplify nutrition so you can eat smarter and optimize your body, mind and health. I am a realist and believe your food plan should fit your lifestyle - whether you’re managing an illness like epilepsy, trying to lose weight, lower your cholesterol, or just want feel and look your best. I get it; we are all constantly bombarded with different diets and workouts that guarantee weight loss or health cures. Most of the time, they lead to feeling overwhelmed, cyclical dieting and feeling deprived. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles and start to look and feel your best starting today.
(646) 362-3908 View (646) 362-3908
Photo of Rachel Harvest, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IFNCP
Rachel Harvest
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IFNCP
Online Only
The Harvest Method serves thoughtful, high-achieving individuals who feel successful on the outside but dysregulated within. They may struggle with digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, emotional eating, burnout, or boundary challenges. They want more than a meal plan — they want root-cause care that integrates functional nutrition, behavior change, and emotional regulation. Their goal is sustainable health, self-trust, balanced relationships, and the ability to succeed without sacrificing their wellbeing.
The Harvest Method serves thoughtful, high-achieving individuals who feel successful on the outside but dysregulated within. They may struggle with digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, emotional eating, burnout, or boundary challenges. They want more than a meal plan — they want root-cause care that integrates functional nutrition, behavior change, and emotional regulation. Their goal is sustainable health, self-trust, balanced relationships, and the ability to succeed without sacrificing their wellbeing.
(646) 970-1163 View (646) 970-1163
Photo of Adiana Castro - Compass Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
Compass Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
Online Only
Our patients are often overwhelmed, frustrated, and tired of nutrition plans that don’t work. Many are dealing with symptoms like bloating, fatigue, migraines, blood sugar swings, or weight changes—and want clear answers. They come to us for clarity, relief, and a sustainable way to eat that fits real life. We simplify nutrition with personalized, realistic plans based on how their body responds to food—helping them feel better, understand triggers, and build habits that last.
Our patients are often overwhelmed, frustrated, and tired of nutrition plans that don’t work. Many are dealing with symptoms like bloating, fatigue, migraines, blood sugar swings, or weight changes—and want clear answers. They come to us for clarity, relief, and a sustainable way to eat that fits real life. We simplify nutrition with personalized, realistic plans based on how their body responds to food—helping them feel better, understand triggers, and build habits that last.
(347) 577-9344 View (347) 577-9344
Photo of Julia Vukicevic, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CEDRD-S
Julia Vukicevic
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CEDRD-S
1 Endorsed
Scarsdale, NY 10583
As a Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian utilizing a Health at Every Size (R) approach, I believe that you deserve to experience peace with food and rediscover trust in your body. I know that your story with food is unique to you. If your story includes feelings of stress or guilt around food, striving for the “perfect” way to eat, or simply feeling stuck and defeated, I am here to tell you that there is a better way. Together, we explore your unique history with food, discuss your current struggles, and envision a new path forward.
As a Certified Eating Disorders Registered Dietitian utilizing a Health at Every Size (R) approach, I believe that you deserve to experience peace with food and rediscover trust in your body. I know that your story with food is unique to you. If your story includes feelings of stress or guilt around food, striving for the “perfect” way to eat, or simply feeling stuck and defeated, I am here to tell you that there is a better way. Together, we explore your unique history with food, discuss your current struggles, and envision a new path forward.
(914) 618-5657 View (914) 618-5657
Photo of Kate Natoli, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Kate Natoli
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Delmar, NY 12054
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 Janet Levine, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Janet Levine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
With my help, you can make a lifestyle transition to live longer, be healthy, avoid chronic diseases, and eliminate the need for many medications by enjoying a plant-based diet. Healthy plant based foods can improve health issues related to heart disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, angina), excess weight, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome) and other chronic diseases.
With my help, you can make a lifestyle transition to live longer, be healthy, avoid chronic diseases, and eliminate the need for many medications by enjoying a plant-based diet. Healthy plant based foods can improve health issues related to heart disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, angina), excess weight, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome) and other chronic diseases.
(914) 326-3060 View (914) 326-3060
Photo of Mary Ann Stockhauser - Mary's Nutritional Wellness PLLC , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Mary's Nutritional Wellness PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
Welcome to Mary’s Nutritional Wellness PLLC! As a registered dietitian, I am here to provide you with the tools, resources & knowledge to give you long term success with food, nutrition & your body! Working with me is different than any diet you’ve ever tried. Incorporating health at every size (HAES) helps me meet you wherever you are and provide you with simple, realistic goals for you to feel your best. I work with a diverse population and practice inclusivity.
Welcome to Mary’s Nutritional Wellness PLLC! As a registered dietitian, I am here to provide you with the tools, resources & knowledge to give you long term success with food, nutrition & your body! Working with me is different than any diet you’ve ever tried. Incorporating health at every size (HAES) helps me meet you wherever you are and provide you with simple, realistic goals for you to feel your best. I work with a diverse population and practice inclusivity.
(315) 847-4699 View (315) 847-4699
Photo of Shira Sussi - Shira Sussi Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Shira Sussi Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
As a registered dietitian with a background in journalism and clinical nutrition, I bring both evidence-based expertise and clear, compassionate communication to every client interaction. My years as a clinical dietitian at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital—working with adult, perinatal, and pediatric populations—taught me that nutrition is as much about support and understanding as it is about science. Today, in my private practice, I combine that professional excellence with deep empathy to guide individuals and families through the powerful transition into parenthood.
As a registered dietitian with a background in journalism and clinical nutrition, I bring both evidence-based expertise and clear, compassionate communication to every client interaction. My years as a clinical dietitian at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital—working with adult, perinatal, and pediatric populations—taught me that nutrition is as much about support and understanding as it is about science. Today, in my private practice, I combine that professional excellence with deep empathy to guide individuals and families through the powerful transition into parenthood.
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Photo of Rebecca Alcosser, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
Rebecca Alcosser
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CEDS
New York, NY 10007
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.
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 Jessica Jones Registered Dietitian Certified Diabetes Educator - Diabetes Digital (Telehealth Diabetes Nutrition), Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, CDE, CDCES
Diabetes Digital (Telehealth Diabetes Nutrition)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN, CDE, CDCES
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ready to empower yourself in managing your diabetes or prediabetes? With over 12 years of experience, we've helped thousands 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, we've helped thousands 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.
(916) 345-2088 View (916) 345-2088
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 Robin Decicco, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Robin Decicco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Online Only
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
(201) 289-5984 View (201) 289-5984
Photo of Rachel Dyckman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Rachel Dyckman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Online Only
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.
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 Rebecca Tolan Cruse, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Rebecca Tolan Cruse
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Massapequa, NY 11758
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
(914) 825-6699 View (914) 825-6699
Photo of Dr. Danielle Heard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LN, CKNS
Dr. Danielle Heard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LN, CKNS
New York, NY 10018
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+.
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+.
(212) 535-3160 View (212) 535-3160
Photo of Abby Walker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
Abby Walker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
West Hempstead, NY 11552
My heart is in helping people just like you break free from the discomfort, frustration, and uncertainty that come with health struggles. I know how exhausting it can be to feel trapped in a cycle of pain, bloating, digestive distress, inflammation, or food sensitivities. I’m here to help you uncover the root causes of your symptoms, not just manage them, so you can heal from the inside out. I create personalized wellness plans that support your body’s natural ability to restore balance. My goal is to help you feel at home in your body again. strong, energized, confident, and free to live the life you deserve.
My heart is in helping people just like you break free from the discomfort, frustration, and uncertainty that come with health struggles. I know how exhausting it can be to feel trapped in a cycle of pain, bloating, digestive distress, inflammation, or food sensitivities. I’m here to help you uncover the root causes of your symptoms, not just manage them, so you can heal from the inside out. I create personalized wellness plans that support your body’s natural ability to restore balance. My goal is to help you feel at home in your body again. strong, energized, confident, and free to live the life you deserve.
(516) 969-8564 View (516) 969-8564
Photo of Dara Bergen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDE
Dara Bergen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDE
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in sperm health. As a passionate registered dietitian with over 25 years of experience and with a focus and extensive training in male fertility optimization, I understand the science behind sperm health. I will review your health and lifestyle information and transform that into personalized fertility strategies with achievable goals and lasting results. Let's optimize your sperm parameters for natural conception, assisted reproductive technologies, and sperm for preservation. I would love to support your future family-building options and your fertility journey!
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in sperm health. As a passionate registered dietitian with over 25 years of experience and with a focus and extensive training in male fertility optimization, I understand the science behind sperm health. I will review your health and lifestyle information and transform that into personalized fertility strategies with achievable goals and lasting results. Let's optimize your sperm parameters for natural conception, assisted reproductive technologies, and sperm for preservation. I would love to support your future family-building options and your fertility journey!
(718) 544-0770 View (718) 544-0770
Photo of Amity Lui, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Amity Lui
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
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 specialize in sports nutrition and eating disorders (including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating). Whether you're looking to optimize athletic performance through nutrition, or trying to improve your relationship with food, I'm here to support you along the way. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences.
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 specialize in sports nutrition and eating disorders (including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating). Whether you're looking to optimize athletic performance through nutrition, or trying to improve your relationship with food, I'm here to support you along the way. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences.
(347) 970-8993 View (347) 970-8993
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Ulster County?

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

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

What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?

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

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

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

When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?

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

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