Behavior Modification Nutritionists and Dietitians in Westchester, NY

Photo of Silvia Carolina Ross - SRoss Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
SRoss Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Serves Area
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/breastfeeding/pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client! My method employs an integrative functional and holistic approach, along with structured lifestyle guidance. I offer group consultations and corporate events.
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/breastfeeding/pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client! My method employs an integrative functional and holistic approach, along with structured lifestyle guidance. I offer group consultations and corporate events.
(914) 415-6489 View (914) 415-6489
Photo of Chloe Ring, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Chloe Ring
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with irregular cycles, GI disturbances, weight fluctuations, or conditions like PCOS? Feeling constantly fatigued? You’re not alone. I'm passionate about empowering and educating my clients to support their hormones and overall health. With so much nutrition information available, it's easy to feel lost. That's why my goal is to help you navigate the landscape and create sustainable changes. I offer evidence-based guidance and understand that there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to nutrition therapy. I use an integrative approach combining diet and lifestyle to help you tap into your power.
Are you struggling with irregular cycles, GI disturbances, weight fluctuations, or conditions like PCOS? Feeling constantly fatigued? You’re not alone. I'm passionate about empowering and educating my clients to support their hormones and overall health. With so much nutrition information available, it's easy to feel lost. That's why my goal is to help you navigate the landscape and create sustainable changes. I offer evidence-based guidance and understand that there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to nutrition therapy. I use an integrative approach combining diet and lifestyle to help you tap into your power.
(929) 470-0680 View (929) 470-0680

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Robin Decicco, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Robin Decicco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Online Only
- How whole foods act as preventive medicine in the body, how to implement long-lasting changes that result in optimal health, how feelings of exhaustion, mental fog, stress correlate to making poor food choices, how to change habits through behavior modification strategies.
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.
- How whole foods act as preventive medicine in the body, how to implement long-lasting changes that result in optimal health, how feelings of exhaustion, mental fog, stress correlate to making poor food choices, how to change habits through behavior modification strategies.
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 Jessica Jaeger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Jessica Jaeger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Online Only
Jessica utilizes motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy to help you create long-lasting, sustainable changes.
Are you ready to find joy in food again? Jessica helps clients struggling with food, exercise, and weight. If food preoccupies your thoughts, she can help. Jessica combines her expertise in disordered eating research with practical, real-life experience to guide her clients toward recovery.
Jessica utilizes motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy to help you create long-lasting, sustainable changes.
Are you ready to find joy in food again? Jessica helps clients struggling with food, exercise, and weight. If food preoccupies your thoughts, she can help. Jessica combines her expertise in disordered eating research with practical, real-life experience to guide her clients toward recovery.
(516) 703-4921 View (516) 703-4921
Photo of Emily Reilly, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Emily Reilly
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11238
We will set realistic goals for behavioral changes necessary to support you in your recovery.
I have over 18 years of specialized training and experience working with individuals with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive exercise, body image concerns, and disordered eating. Prior to private practice, I was a Nutrition Therapist and Regional Nutrition Manager at a leading treatment center for eating disorders.
We will set realistic goals for behavioral changes necessary to support you in your recovery.
I have over 18 years of specialized training and experience working with individuals with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive exercise, body image concerns, and disordered eating. Prior to private practice, I was a Nutrition Therapist and Regional Nutrition Manager at a leading treatment center for eating disorders.
(607) 275-5887 View (607) 275-5887
Photo of Stacy Seslowsky - Heal From Food , Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Heal From Food
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Serves Area
Together, we will implement a personalized nutrition/ behavior modification plan to transform your health.
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
Together, we will implement a personalized nutrition/ behavior modification plan to transform your health.
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
(904) 899-4955 View (904) 899-4955
Photo of Iris Improvement Epstein - Nutrition Improvement Center, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CEDS, CAI
Nutrition Improvement Center
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CEDS, CAI
Pomona, NY 10970
Her approach combines evidence-based nutrition strategies with an understanding of emotional and behavioral factors.
Known for individualized support, the center is committed to long-term well-being. Iris empowers clients to overcome obstacles and thrive. She creates a safe, supportive environment for healing. Her mission is to guide clients toward balanced, fulfilling lives with renewed health and confidence.
Her approach combines evidence-based nutrition strategies with an understanding of emotional and behavioral factors.
Known for individualized support, the center is committed to long-term well-being. Iris empowers clients to overcome obstacles and thrive. She creates a safe, supportive environment for healing. Her mission is to guide clients toward balanced, fulfilling lives with renewed health and confidence.
(845) 262-6677 View (845) 262-6677
Photo of Ashley Walls, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
Ashley Walls
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
With 4 years of experience in behavioral health at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with co-occurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery.
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with cooccurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
With 4 years of experience in behavioral health at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with co-occurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery.
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more. With 3 years of experience at a residential treatment level, Ashley is well versed on the difficulties associated with cooccurring diagnosis and eating disorder recovery. She believes that all foods fit through practice of balance, variety and moderation. Her past experiences as an athlete and personal trainer has prompted a particular interest in sports nutrition.
(312) 262-7112 View (312) 262-7112
Photo of Sunny Bozymski, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
Sunny Bozymski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN
New York, NY 10005
With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
Through one-on-one virtual counseling sessions, Sunny works to identify your unique set of preferences, routines, struggles, and desires. Together, you will create a wellness plan that is personalized to your lifestyle and sensitive to any health concerns.
With an extensive background in clinical nutrition, behavioral health, and wellness counseling, Sunny is devoted to helping her patients feel their best.
Through one-on-one virtual counseling sessions, Sunny works to identify your unique set of preferences, routines, struggles, and desires. Together, you will create a wellness plan that is personalized to your lifestyle and sensitive to any health concerns.
(347) 745-8333 View (347) 745-8333
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 Xyomara Beltran, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MA, MBA, CHES
Xyomara Beltran
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MA, MBA, CHES
Serves Area
Xyomara’s private sessions will help clients experience an increased awareness of behavioral patterns that get in the way of their health goals.
Xyomara Beltran, RDN, MA, CHES, LDN, MBA, CPC is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 21 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Professional Coach. She received a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Human Nutrition, Food and Exercise from Virginia Tech and completed her Dietetic Internship at New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. Additionally, she completed a Master of Arts in Health Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and her Healthcare Executive Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) at the University of Miami.
Xyomara’s private sessions will help clients experience an increased awareness of behavioral patterns that get in the way of their health goals.
Xyomara Beltran, RDN, MA, CHES, LDN, MBA, CPC is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 21 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Professional Coach. She received a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Human Nutrition, Food and Exercise from Virginia Tech and completed her Dietetic Internship at New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. Additionally, she completed a Master of Arts in Health Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and her Healthcare Executive Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) at the University of Miami.
(630) 216-7749 View (630) 216-7749
Photo of Nutrition In Motion - Nutrition in Motion, P.C., Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, CDN, CEDS-S
Nutrition in Motion, P.C.
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, CDN, CEDS-S
Online Only
We believe in the use of behavior modification in conjunction with nutrition counseling, rather than attempting to follow an unsustainable diet.
The group of providers at Nutrition in Motion, Cristina Rivera MS, RD, CSSD, CDN, CEDS-C, Ashley Vadasz RDN, CDN and Melissa Vasikauskas RDN, CDN, offer individualized, one-on-one nutrition counseling to clients of all ages for Sports Performance Nutrition, Eating Disorder Treatment, Weight Management, Pediatric Nutrition and Medical Nutrition Therapy.
We believe in the use of behavior modification in conjunction with nutrition counseling, rather than attempting to follow an unsustainable diet.
The group of providers at Nutrition in Motion, Cristina Rivera MS, RD, CSSD, CDN, CEDS-C, Ashley Vadasz RDN, CDN and Melissa Vasikauskas RDN, CDN, offer individualized, one-on-one nutrition counseling to clients of all ages for Sports Performance Nutrition, Eating Disorder Treatment, Weight Management, Pediatric Nutrition and Medical Nutrition Therapy.
(631) 528-2139 View (631) 528-2139
Photo of Linda Arpino, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, FAND
Linda Arpino
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, FAND
Rye Brook, NY 10573
In your first session we will do a complete assessment of your medical history and goals to desight a plan of action that achieves postive behavioral results.
The Life Focus Nutrition Centers are a comprehensive nutrition practice specializing in individual adults, children a family nutrition. Specializations include weight management, diabetes, cholesterol and cardiac management, cancer prevention, gastrointestinal diseases (food sensitivities,IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Reflux), diabetes, sports nutrition, pregnancy related issues & oncology. Additional for adolescent and pediatric nutrition (autism, failure to thrive, picky eaters, food allergies). Our focus is to educate diverse cultures to incorporate greater plant-based, sustainable food choices for you and your planet to be healthy!
In your first session we will do a complete assessment of your medical history and goals to desight a plan of action that achieves postive behavioral results.
The Life Focus Nutrition Centers are a comprehensive nutrition practice specializing in individual adults, children a family nutrition. Specializations include weight management, diabetes, cholesterol and cardiac management, cancer prevention, gastrointestinal diseases (food sensitivities,IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Reflux), diabetes, sports nutrition, pregnancy related issues & oncology. Additional for adolescent and pediatric nutrition (autism, failure to thrive, picky eaters, food allergies). Our focus is to educate diverse cultures to incorporate greater plant-based, sustainable food choices for you and your planet to be healthy!
(914) 758-0789 View (914) 758-0789
Photo of Stefanie Wiener - Pure Wellness and Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
Pure Wellness and Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
Online Only
I have extensive experience in clinical nutrition, behavioral modification and holistic wellness counseling, guiding and empowering my clients to reach their optimal nutrition and wellness.
Through a holistic approach, I help my clients develop a healthy relationship with food and understand how their specific food choices and eating behaviors are correlated with their health outcomes. I work with clients on improving their relationship with food and body, sustainable weight loss, GI issues, PCOS and improving labs/metabolic health.
I have extensive experience in clinical nutrition, behavioral modification and holistic wellness counseling, guiding and empowering my clients to reach their optimal nutrition and wellness.
Through a holistic approach, I help my clients develop a healthy relationship with food and understand how their specific food choices and eating behaviors are correlated with their health outcomes. I work with clients on improving their relationship with food and body, sustainable weight loss, GI issues, PCOS and improving labs/metabolic health.
View
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Melissa's specialties include eating disorders, disordered eating, HAES, intuitive eating, mindful eating, habituation, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Melissa's specialties include eating disorders, disordered eating, HAES, intuitive eating, mindful eating, habituation, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
(469) 436-4959 View (469) 436-4959
Photo of Laura Silver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Laura Silver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I also draw from principles of mindfulness, self-compassion, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help you reach your goals.
Can you relate to the following? You’re preoccupied with thinking about what you’ve eaten and what you’ll eat later. You obsess over what you can and can’t let yourself have. You don’t keep sweets or chips at home because you fear you’ll eat them all. You’re frustrated with feeling uncomfortable in your body and always feel that you are fighting against it. You’re tired of dieting, but don’t know how else to eat... I know what you’re going through. I’ve been there myself and I have worked with hundreds of people to help them develop healthy relationships with food and their bodies.
I also draw from principles of mindfulness, self-compassion, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help you reach your goals.
Can you relate to the following? You’re preoccupied with thinking about what you’ve eaten and what you’ll eat later. You obsess over what you can and can’t let yourself have. You don’t keep sweets or chips at home because you fear you’ll eat them all. You’re frustrated with feeling uncomfortable in your body and always feel that you are fighting against it. You’re tired of dieting, but don’t know how else to eat... I know what you’re going through. I’ve been there myself and I have worked with hundreds of people to help them develop healthy relationships with food and their bodies.
(347) 697-4895 View (347) 697-4895
Photo of Laura Cordella, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Laura Cordella
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Focus areas include treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, where Laura has specialized training, intuitive eating, ADHD / anxiety / depression and other mental health conditions, behavior modification, and more.
Laura is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a background in psychology that focuses on helping clients cultivate a safe and nourishing relationship with food and eating while supporting their mental health. She believes health is so much more than what we eat, so she has a special focus at the intersection of nutrition and psychological wellbeing. Laura has won numerous awards for her holistic approach to care, including Dietitian of the Year at New York Presbyterian Hospital - one of the largest health systems in NYC.
Focus areas include treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, where Laura has specialized training, intuitive eating, ADHD / anxiety / depression and other mental health conditions, behavior modification, and more.
Laura is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a background in psychology that focuses on helping clients cultivate a safe and nourishing relationship with food and eating while supporting their mental health. She believes health is so much more than what we eat, so she has a special focus at the intersection of nutrition and psychological wellbeing. Laura has won numerous awards for her holistic approach to care, including Dietitian of the Year at New York Presbyterian Hospital - one of the largest health systems in NYC.
(914) 690-7909 View (914) 690-7909
Photo of Lauren Bartell Weiss - Lauren Weiss Ph.D.- La Jolla Nutritional Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, MEd, CNS-S, CKNS, MHP
Lauren Weiss Ph.D.- La Jolla Nutritional Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, MEd, CNS-S, CKNS, MHP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My personalized programs are comprised of education, behavior modification, and daily on-going support and encouragement.
I have a Ph.D. in Behavioral Nutrition from Columbia University and I hold certifications as a Certified Nutrition Specialist-Scholar (CNS-S), Certified Ketogenic Nutrition Specialist (CKNS), and Metabolic Health Practitioner (MHP). I help my clients understand how to make the right food choices as well as how to control their behaviors toward food.
My personalized programs are comprised of education, behavior modification, and daily on-going support and encouragement.
I have a Ph.D. in Behavioral Nutrition from Columbia University and I hold certifications as a Certified Nutrition Specialist-Scholar (CNS-S), Certified Ketogenic Nutrition Specialist (CKNS), and Metabolic Health Practitioner (MHP). I help my clients understand how to make the right food choices as well as how to control their behaviors toward food.
(858) 260-2421 View (858) 260-2421
Photo of Alyssa Glasser, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CPT
Alyssa Glasser
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CPT
Online Only
I work with adults who have ADHD and feel overwhelmed by managing emotions, energy levels, and daily tasks. They struggle with consistency in both nutrition and life routines. They’re looking for holistic support that addresses both their physical and emotional needs—whether it’s building sustainable nutrition habits, improving focus, or creating routines that actually stick. Their goal is to feel more balanced, confident, and in control of their health and life, without being overwhelmed or feeling like they’re constantly behind. They want personalized guidance that fits their unique brain and body, so they can thrive.
I work with adults who have ADHD and feel overwhelmed by managing emotions, energy levels, and daily tasks. They struggle with consistency in both nutrition and life routines. They’re looking for holistic support that addresses both their physical and emotional needs—whether it’s building sustainable nutrition habits, improving focus, or creating routines that actually stick. Their goal is to feel more balanced, confident, and in control of their health and life, without being overwhelmed or feeling like they’re constantly behind. They want personalized guidance that fits their unique brain and body, so they can thrive.
(862) 415-0502 View (862) 415-0502
Photo of Patricia Pauyo - Pathway Nutrition LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Pathway Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Valley Cottage, NY 10989
Hi, I’m Patricia, registered dietitian nutritionist, and I help Haitian and other Caribbean people manage their blood sugars levels, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight by modifying their diet while still including the cultural foods that they enjoy, and identifying lifestyle changes they need to make.
Hi, I’m Patricia, registered dietitian nutritionist, and I help Haitian and other Caribbean people manage their blood sugars levels, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight by modifying their diet while still including the cultural foods that they enjoy, and identifying lifestyle changes they need to make.
(845) 683-5894 View (845) 683-5894
Behavior Modification Nutritionists and Dietitians

What is behavioral modification?

Behavioral modification in diet and nutrition involves using targeted strategies to change food, weight, and exercise behaviors, rather than relying on invasive options like surgery or medications for weight loss. This approach recognizes that behaviors leading to conditions such as obesity are often influenced by one's environment. Therefore, a key component of behavioral modification is creating an environment that supports weight management goals. For example, planning meals for the week and making a grocery list of healthy ingredients can help set oneself up for success. This reduces the temptation to rely on fast food or quick, less healthy options, ensuring healthier choices are more accessible and convenient.

Who is behavioral modification for?

Behavioral modification is an accessible and affordable approach to weight management and is thus a great option for many individuals looking to make lifestyle changes. Because behavioral modification is less invasive than other weight loss options, it is often the first line of treatment for individuals who are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight. If behavioral modifications alone are not sufficient to help achieve weight loss goals, then additional strategies, such as medication, may be pursued.

How long does it take to see results from behavior modification?

The length of time it takes to see results from behavior modification can vary significantly depending on the type and success of the behavior modifications made. Experts estimate that it takes about 2 months for behaviors to become habitual or automatic, so weight loss results from behavior modifications often take time and prolonged commitment to ensure results. While a behavioral change such as a drastic reduction in calorie consumption may promote weight loss within weeks instead of months, if an individual cannot sustain the dietary changes, then they will often not obtain lasting lifestyle changes. Therefore, many nutrition experts recommend that individuals start slowly with behavior modifications in order to ensure that the changes that they are making are sustainable, even if this means that it will take longer to see results in weight reduction.

Can a dietitian help with behavior modification for weight loss?

Dietitians can be a great resource for clients pursuing behavioral modifications for weight loss, as they help individuals stay accountable to their goals. Accountability is a key component of behavioral modification, often involving tracking food intake or exercise routines. Dietitians can review these journals, suggest changes, and offer strategies to help clients adhere to their behavioral modifications. Dietitians can also be particularly helpful to clients who have struggled to make successful changes on their own. The added accountability of working with a dietitian can be a valuable resource before considering more invasive weight loss options, such as surgery or medication.