Nutritionists and Dietitians in Ambler, PA

Photo of Kirsten Puskar - Spring House Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, LDN
Spring House Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, LDN
Ambler, PA 19002
Our lives are complex enough, so I make nutrition easy and convenient. I am credentialed to accept payment direct from most health plans. I can help with menu item selection, 10 minute recipes and I look at your whole lifestyle not just food. Scales and calories are misleading - I have better ways to improve your health! Why not call me today?
Our lives are complex enough, so I make nutrition easy and convenient. I am credentialed to accept payment direct from most health plans. I can help with menu item selection, 10 minute recipes and I look at your whole lifestyle not just food. Scales and calories are misleading - I have better ways to improve your health! Why not call me today?
(215) 717-8581 View (215) 717-8581
Photo of Rachel Dodson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, MS
Rachel Dodson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, MS
Ambler, PA 19002
Rachel graduated from West Chester University, Honors College XVI with a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics in 2018. She completed her dietetic internship at Immaculata University and graduated with her Master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from Immaculata in May 2022. Rachel is a non-diet dietitian who believes in intuitive eating and is a HAES health at every size provider. She is passionate about walking alongside her clients as they seek to heal their relationship with food and their bodies, and re-discover the joy of eating!
Rachel graduated from West Chester University, Honors College XVI with a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics in 2018. She completed her dietetic internship at Immaculata University and graduated with her Master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from Immaculata in May 2022. Rachel is a non-diet dietitian who believes in intuitive eating and is a HAES health at every size provider. She is passionate about walking alongside her clients as they seek to heal their relationship with food and their bodies, and re-discover the joy of eating!
(267) 323-4595 View (267) 323-4595
Photo of Beth Chiodo - Beth Chiodo, MS, RD, LDN, CWC, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CWC, CLT
Beth Chiodo, MS, RD, LDN, CWC, CLT
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CWC, CLT
Ambler, PA 19002
As a Certified Gastrointestinal Nutritionist with over 12 years of experience, I can help you improve digestion, reduce symptoms of gas, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation, and help you feel your best. As a fellow Crohn's disease sufferer, I work with IBD, IBS, Celiac, SIBO, Gluten Intolerance and Food Sensitivities, Intestinal Permeability (AKA Leaky Gut), and more. I can empathize with the social and emotional struggles that accompany these disorders, and I provide a supportive, gentle approach to help you gain control and take your life back. Healing your gut can help may other health issues too!
As a Certified Gastrointestinal Nutritionist with over 12 years of experience, I can help you improve digestion, reduce symptoms of gas, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation, and help you feel your best. As a fellow Crohn's disease sufferer, I work with IBD, IBS, Celiac, SIBO, Gluten Intolerance and Food Sensitivities, Intestinal Permeability (AKA Leaky Gut), and more. I can empathize with the social and emotional struggles that accompany these disorders, and I provide a supportive, gentle approach to help you gain control and take your life back. Healing your gut can help may other health issues too!
(484) 494-2928 View (484) 494-2928
Photo of Meghan Anderson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Meghan Anderson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If your thoughts about food or your body feel constant, overwhelming, or hard to quiet—you’re not alone. Working with individuals and athletes, I support you in healing your relationship with food and fueling your body with balance and intention—so you can build trust with your body, feel confident in how you care for it, and reconnect with your strongest, healthiest, and happiest self. I specialize in eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, chronic dieting, sports nutrition and performance fueling, and managing a range of health conditions—all through a weight-inclusive, non-diet approach.
If your thoughts about food or your body feel constant, overwhelming, or hard to quiet—you’re not alone. Working with individuals and athletes, I support you in healing your relationship with food and fueling your body with balance and intention—so you can build trust with your body, feel confident in how you care for it, and reconnect with your strongest, healthiest, and happiest self. I specialize in eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, chronic dieting, sports nutrition and performance fueling, and managing a range of health conditions—all through a weight-inclusive, non-diet approach.
(610) 638-6150 View (610) 638-6150

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Emily Pollard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Emily Pollard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
After years of struggling with my own digestive and skin issues, I am passionate about helping women solve their gut issues such as IBS, bloat, irregular bowels, abdominal pain, and clear their skin through a root cause, natural approach. I leverage functional labs, your symptoms and history, diet, and lifestyle to create a unique action plan that allows you to get back to enjoying food again and living without the stress of unwanted symptoms. I offer a high tough one on one program that allows us to dig into your root causes, create a personalized plan for healing and set the foundation for on-going wellness.
After years of struggling with my own digestive and skin issues, I am passionate about helping women solve their gut issues such as IBS, bloat, irregular bowels, abdominal pain, and clear their skin through a root cause, natural approach. I leverage functional labs, your symptoms and history, diet, and lifestyle to create a unique action plan that allows you to get back to enjoying food again and living without the stress of unwanted symptoms. I offer a high tough one on one program that allows us to dig into your root causes, create a personalized plan for healing and set the foundation for on-going wellness.
(646) 770-3054 View (646) 770-3054
Photo of Leah Frazee, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Leah Frazee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Newtown, PA 18940
I am Nutrition Therapist specializing in, behavioral eating patterns, eating disorders, diabetes, PCOS/PMOS and overall wellness. I also work with a variety of other medical conditions. I have a refreshing approach to help clients, whether its breaking away from diet culture or needing to makes real sustainable changes to improve your health. I can help implement a non-diet, all food fits, Health at Every Size approach in a non-judgmental, compassionate environment. I will help you establish a healthier relationship with food, body and overall self. I will help you achieve your goals and maintain success throughout your life.
I am Nutrition Therapist specializing in, behavioral eating patterns, eating disorders, diabetes, PCOS/PMOS and overall wellness. I also work with a variety of other medical conditions. I have a refreshing approach to help clients, whether its breaking away from diet culture or needing to makes real sustainable changes to improve your health. I can help implement a non-diet, all food fits, Health at Every Size approach in a non-judgmental, compassionate environment. I will help you establish a healthier relationship with food, body and overall self. I will help you achieve your goals and maintain success throughout your life.
(609) 642-1442 View (609) 642-1442
Photo of Laura Ascenzi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CPT
Laura Ascenzi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CPT
Online Only
Do you feel overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice? There’s a flood of misinformation when it comes to health and wellness — and the truth is, nutrition is not one size fits all. That’s because real, lasting change doesn’t come from a one-time diet or quick fix. It comes from addressing the root causes of imbalance in your body and your life. I take a holistic, root-cause approach to wellness by looking at the whole person, not just the symptoms. Together, we explore how your nutrition, sleep, stress, movement, environment, and mindset are interconnected — and how they impact your ability to heal and thrive.
Do you feel overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice? There’s a flood of misinformation when it comes to health and wellness — and the truth is, nutrition is not one size fits all. That’s because real, lasting change doesn’t come from a one-time diet or quick fix. It comes from addressing the root causes of imbalance in your body and your life. I take a holistic, root-cause approach to wellness by looking at the whole person, not just the symptoms. Together, we explore how your nutrition, sleep, stress, movement, environment, and mindset are interconnected — and how they impact your ability to heal and thrive.
(570) 665-6087 View (570) 665-6087
Photo of Katie Clark, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Katie Clark
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Hey, I’m Kate! Eating shouldn’t feel this hard—but if it does, you’re not alone. I’m a registered dietitian specializing in ARFID, emetophobia (fear of vomiting), OCD-related food fears, and neurodivergent eating challenges. Whether you’re avoiding food due to fear of choking or gagging, struggling with sensory aversions, or simply lacking interest in eating, I help make food feel safer and less stressful. I work with kids (ages 0+), adults, and families to build confidence around eating—without pressure or judgment.
Hey, I’m Kate! Eating shouldn’t feel this hard—but if it does, you’re not alone. I’m a registered dietitian specializing in ARFID, emetophobia (fear of vomiting), OCD-related food fears, and neurodivergent eating challenges. Whether you’re avoiding food due to fear of choking or gagging, struggling with sensory aversions, or simply lacking interest in eating, I help make food feel safer and less stressful. I work with kids (ages 0+), adults, and families to build confidence around eating—without pressure or judgment.
(267) 485-5365 View (267) 485-5365
Photo of Emily Paeth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Emily Paeth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Emily practices out of Health Loft and specializes in working with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Plant Based Diets, Digestive Issues, Body Image Concerns and other conditions. She strongly believes that all foods fit and strives to help clients in their food freedom journey. Using a weight neutral and non-judgemental approach, Emily believes that health is multifactorial and will work to see you as a person, rather than a diagnosis. Emily has spent the majority of her career in higher levels of care for eating disorder treatment (RES, PHP, IOP) treating various eating disorders diagnoses.
Emily practices out of Health Loft and specializes in working with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Plant Based Diets, Digestive Issues, Body Image Concerns and other conditions. She strongly believes that all foods fit and strives to help clients in their food freedom journey. Using a weight neutral and non-judgemental approach, Emily believes that health is multifactorial and will work to see you as a person, rather than a diagnosis. Emily has spent the majority of her career in higher levels of care for eating disorder treatment (RES, PHP, IOP) treating various eating disorders diagnoses.
(754) 325-3311 View (754) 325-3311
Photo of Dana A Wells, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD, LDN, LPC, CPT
Dana A Wells
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD, LDN, LPC, CPT
Doylestown, PA 18901
Dana specializes in individual holistic client care by supporting clients, not only through learning how to eat healthier, but also dealing with one's psychological relationship with food. Dana is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in Weight Management, Eating Disorders and Sports Nutrition. She works with clients on an interpersonal level in order to provide quality care that goes beyond just basic nutrition services. Her philosophy is that, in order to help one achieve optimal wellness, it is important to get know each client as an individual and explore their associations with food.
Dana specializes in individual holistic client care by supporting clients, not only through learning how to eat healthier, but also dealing with one's psychological relationship with food. Dana is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in Weight Management, Eating Disorders and Sports Nutrition. She works with clients on an interpersonal level in order to provide quality care that goes beyond just basic nutrition services. Her philosophy is that, in order to help one achieve optimal wellness, it is important to get know each client as an individual and explore their associations with food.
(267) 352-4528 View (267) 352-4528
Photo of Anna Velazquez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Anna Velazquez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
(561) 709-2317 View (561) 709-2317
Photo of Evan Kaminsky - The Diabetes Dietitian, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
The Diabetes Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Doylestown, PA 18901
Tired of high blood sugar, confusing advice, or diets that don't work? I help adults with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, & anyone on GLP-1s improve blood sugar, lose weight, & feel confident eating again. Most patients pay $0 out of pocket - thanks to insurance benefits you already have! My ideal client is someone who has struggled with their weight and/or blood sugar and is ready to make meaningful, lasting changes. Whether you're newly diagnosed, have been living with diabetes for years, or simply feel stuck, my goal is to help you build confidence in your food choices.
Tired of high blood sugar, confusing advice, or diets that don't work? I help adults with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, & anyone on GLP-1s improve blood sugar, lose weight, & feel confident eating again. Most patients pay $0 out of pocket - thanks to insurance benefits you already have! My ideal client is someone who has struggled with their weight and/or blood sugar and is ready to make meaningful, lasting changes. Whether you're newly diagnosed, have been living with diabetes for years, or simply feel stuck, my goal is to help you build confidence in your food choices.
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Photo of Jen Kuscin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Jen Kuscin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi there! I'm Jen, a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping others reclaim the joy in food through Intuitive Eating. Too many of us, particularly women, have been ambushed with messaging about "ideal" body types, hacks to speed metabolism, and tips for weight loss. This messaging can be even more prevalent for people with conditions like PMOS (formerly known as PCOS), as doctors dispense the ever-present advice to "just lose weight" in order to manage symptoms. My goal is to strip away the stigma about weight and to teach you how to have fun with food again!
Hi there! I'm Jen, a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping others reclaim the joy in food through Intuitive Eating. Too many of us, particularly women, have been ambushed with messaging about "ideal" body types, hacks to speed metabolism, and tips for weight loss. This messaging can be even more prevalent for people with conditions like PMOS (formerly known as PCOS), as doctors dispense the ever-present advice to "just lose weight" in order to manage symptoms. My goal is to strip away the stigma about weight and to teach you how to have fun with food again!
(267) 619-7248 View (267) 619-7248
Photo of Kristen Braconnier, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Kristen Braconnier
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Do you feel completely overwhelmed by the vast amount of nutrition information on the internet? Do you feel frustrated that all of your hardwork isn't revealing the results you want? Have you hit a plateau with your progress? That's exactly how most of my clients feel before we meet! We work together to create a customized plan based on your schedule, lifestyle and goals so you feel that you are reaching your goals week by week! I specialize in sports nutrition, disordered eating, gastrointestinal issues, bariatric surgery, weight management, autoimmune disorders, pediatric nutrition and other medical nutrition therapies.
Do you feel completely overwhelmed by the vast amount of nutrition information on the internet? Do you feel frustrated that all of your hardwork isn't revealing the results you want? Have you hit a plateau with your progress? That's exactly how most of my clients feel before we meet! We work together to create a customized plan based on your schedule, lifestyle and goals so you feel that you are reaching your goals week by week! I specialize in sports nutrition, disordered eating, gastrointestinal issues, bariatric surgery, weight management, autoimmune disorders, pediatric nutrition and other medical nutrition therapies.
(610) 557-3956 View (610) 557-3956
Photo of Tracy Brown - Tracy Brown,RD , Char-Lee Cassel RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Tracy Brown,RD , Char-Lee Cassel RD
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Philadelphia, PA 19135
It is not often we are encouraged to honor our bodies needs. We live in world that teaches us to "watch it" and "have it together", especially around weight and food. Unfortunately, this constant pressure to "be good" can play a role in constant dieting, restricting, binging, purging and an all or nothing attitude around exercise. Fortunately, we can make peace with food and our bodies again. Our approach of trauma informed nutrition counseling and coaching teaches non-diet eating and body wisdom skills to learn to trust and feel safe inside the body and manage chronic issues such as burned and stressed out, PCOS and gut health.
It is not often we are encouraged to honor our bodies needs. We live in world that teaches us to "watch it" and "have it together", especially around weight and food. Unfortunately, this constant pressure to "be good" can play a role in constant dieting, restricting, binging, purging and an all or nothing attitude around exercise. Fortunately, we can make peace with food and our bodies again. Our approach of trauma informed nutrition counseling and coaching teaches non-diet eating and body wisdom skills to learn to trust and feel safe inside the body and manage chronic issues such as burned and stressed out, PCOS and gut health.
(215) 486-0669 View (215) 486-0669
Photo of Nadia Pugh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Nadia Pugh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management. Her holistic approach focuses on individualized nutrition plans that cater to your unique needs and goals. She emphasizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all diet and aims to empower you with healthy eating habits that resonate with your preferences. Whether you’re addressing imbalances, seeking better habits, or enhancing your relationship with food, Nadia is committed to providing personalized support and practical advice for lasting well-being.
Nadia is passionate about women’s health, PCOS, fertility, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, renal health, and diabetes management. Her holistic approach focuses on individualized nutrition plans that cater to your unique needs and goals. She emphasizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all diet and aims to empower you with healthy eating habits that resonate with your preferences. Whether you’re addressing imbalances, seeking better habits, or enhancing your relationship with food, Nadia is committed to providing personalized support and practical advice for lasting well-being.
(904) 567-0490 View (904) 567-0490
Photo of Nicole Andrews, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Nicole Andrews
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're feeling overwhelmed by food, digestive issues, or confusing health advice, you're not alone. Whether you're managing a medical condition, trying to untangle years of diet rules, or want to feel better in your body, I’m here to help. You deserve care that’s rooted in science,but also feels down-to-earth, supportive, and personalized to you.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by food, digestive issues, or confusing health advice, you're not alone. Whether you're managing a medical condition, trying to untangle years of diet rules, or want to feel better in your body, I’m here to help. You deserve care that’s rooted in science,but also feels down-to-earth, supportive, and personalized to you.
(856) 446-5030 View (856) 446-5030
Photo of Pat Dinunzio-Ruth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Pat Dinunzio-Ruth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Lansdale, PA 19446
I am a licensed, registered dietitian with over 25 years of expertise in counseling individuals on nutrition. I enjoy working with clients and helping them make life-long changes in their eating habits, addressing not only what foods to eat, but how to eat, when to eat, and why we eat. I have worked successfully with individuals with many different diagnoses, helping them deal with multiple health issues. I enjoy developing an ongoing working relationship with my clients, showing how nutrition can make a positive difference in their lives, as it has in my own.
I am a licensed, registered dietitian with over 25 years of expertise in counseling individuals on nutrition. I enjoy working with clients and helping them make life-long changes in their eating habits, addressing not only what foods to eat, but how to eat, when to eat, and why we eat. I have worked successfully with individuals with many different diagnoses, helping them deal with multiple health issues. I enjoy developing an ongoing working relationship with my clients, showing how nutrition can make a positive difference in their lives, as it has in my own.
(215) 650-3956 View (215) 650-3956
Photo of Paige Bates, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Paige Bates
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Paige is a Registered Dietitian with over 7 years of experience in several areas of nutrition, including but not limited to clinical nutrition for adults and neonates, pediatrics, public health, and weight management. She realized at an early age that she was passionate about helping people improve their health and well-being through holistic nutrition and lifestyle management. She is particularly passionate about working with women to manage their hormone health, including conditions such as PCOS, infertility, and other similar issues.
Paige is a Registered Dietitian with over 7 years of experience in several areas of nutrition, including but not limited to clinical nutrition for adults and neonates, pediatrics, public health, and weight management. She realized at an early age that she was passionate about helping people improve their health and well-being through holistic nutrition and lifestyle management. She is particularly passionate about working with women to manage their hormone health, including conditions such as PCOS, infertility, and other similar issues.
(817) 904-2629 View (817) 904-2629
Photo of Heather Anderson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Heather Anderson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Registered Dietitian, I help individuals transform their relationship with food, body, and exercise. I specialize in eating disorders and guiding people toward intuitive eating while ditching diets for good. My goal is to foster a peaceful, balanced relationship with food—free from guilt, shame, and restriction. I believe our worth isn’t tied to food, size, or exercise, and how you feel about food is just as important as the food itself. Together, we’ll explore how thoughts and beliefs influence choices, cultivate mindfulness, and build self-compassion while trusting your body’s innate cues.
As a Registered Dietitian, I help individuals transform their relationship with food, body, and exercise. I specialize in eating disorders and guiding people toward intuitive eating while ditching diets for good. My goal is to foster a peaceful, balanced relationship with food—free from guilt, shame, and restriction. I believe our worth isn’t tied to food, size, or exercise, and how you feel about food is just as important as the food itself. Together, we’ll explore how thoughts and beliefs influence choices, cultivate mindfulness, and build self-compassion while trusting your body’s innate cues.
(267) 692-5388 View (267) 692-5388
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Ambler?

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.